ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett says the establishment of a multi-destination framework will be the key to unlocking more tourism opportunities in the Caribbean.

Speaking at the 42nd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Montego Bay, St James last week, Bartlett implored delegates to look at a multi-destination arrangement that would increase the value proposition of the Caribbean.

“The Caribbean is filled with so many unique experiences and rich heritage that a multi-destination arrangement would allow visitors to book one trip and stop over at different Caribbean destinations. This would give the region a strong value proposition to visitors who will get more out of their vacation,” said Minister Bartlett.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace is the largest tourism marketing event that affords tourism suppliers the opportunity to meet face-to-face with wholesalers from around the world selling Caribbean vacation travel over two days of business meetings.

“With a population of over 44 million people, the Caribbean is ripe for more inter-regional travel that would boost our arrival numbers, especially with the creation of a special visa regime that will allow for more ease of access. Add to this the multi-destination framework and we will be able to also attract more international arrivals,” Minister Bartlett said.

The two-day event consisted of pre-scheduled appointments between suppliers and buyers. Caribbean Travel Marketplace is not a typical trade show, as the main objective was for suppliers and buyers to conduct negotiations that benefit the region.