Diaspora Conference Attendees Urged to Register Early for Discounted Montego Bay Hotel Stays

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, is urging Jamaicans living overseas who intend to travel home for the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference to complete registration and secure rooms as soon as possible, in order to access reduced hotel prices.

The conference will run from June 14 to 18 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James.

Addressing a JIS Think Tank on Thursday, May 7, Senator Johnson Smith said the Government arranged favourable accommodation deals with several leading hotels in Montego Bay.

“We have negotiated great early-bird rates with Half Moon, S Hotel, Ocean Coral Spring, Ocean Eden Bay and Iberostar,” said Senator Johnson Smith, adding that participating properties are fully prepared to welcome guests following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

She also encouraged persons planning to attend to check the conference website, bjdc.mfaft.gov.jm, for full details.

“Go to that website, click on accommodation so you can see the rates. You have to register in order to get the code that will allow you to get the rate. But we encourage you, therefore, to register – register early, and lock in your rate,” said Senator Johnson Smith.

The minister stressed that Jamaica now sees strong tourism demand throughout the year, making the conference discounts especially important for participants.

“Tourism in Jamaica is no longer seasonal… . People want to come to Jamaica, and they want to come throughout the year. The rates that we have secured, we had to fight hard for them and they won’t stay forever. So, we are encouraging you, register early, book early,” said Senator Johnson Smith.

She further advised overseas delegates to arrive through Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, noting that this gives easier access to the conference venue and related transport connections.

“When you’re ready to go see the whole of the country and to go visit your family in St. Catherine or St. Thomas, do that after. But fly into Sangster so that your transportation and links with the conference centre will be easy and right at hand,” she added.