June 17
“After living away from the Caribbean for many years, I realised the Caribbean was known simply as a tourism destination, and those away from the region lacked the appreciation of how we lived, what we ate and how we played. The sophisticated side of the Caribbean was a well hidden secret and I wanted to expose that and launched MACO in 1999. After that, in 2003, I launched my second magazine Destinations, in Jamaica, and thus I feel an affinity to the island and its people. I am honoured to be the recipient of this prestigious (Marcella Martinez) award.” – Neysha Soodeen, Managing Director, Toute Bagai Publishing
“After a discussion and explanation on its importance, Senator (Ronald) Wyden agreed to sponsor an amendment to the immigration bill currently before Congress that would grant special visa waivers to residents of the 15 countries in the Caribbean Community for trips to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The waivers would be specifically for individuals who are traveling for sporting events, medical services and general tourism. We fully believe that such a change would broaden our reach into neighboring Caribbean markets. The territory’s sporting events are growing in popularity and prestige, especially for competitions in volleyball, track, tennis, swimming and sailing. An amendment to the immigration bill would allow for easier travel for athletes, as well as for individuals seeking top-notch medical care or just looking for a great place for a vacation, that is close to home.” – John P. de Jongh, Jr., Governor, U.S. Virgin Islands
“I offer my warmest congratulations to Ambassador John W. Ashe on his election as President of the 68th Session of the General Assembly. We have worked together on a number of important issues over the years. He shares my passion for sustainable development – and my concern about the problem of climate change. Representing Antigua and Barbuda, he can help the Assembly make an important contribution to next year’s International Conference on Small Island Developing States. Ambassador Ashe has more than impressive experience and educational credentials. Above all, our new General Assembly President is a trusted partner with personal integrity. This is essential in the world of diplomacy, where one’s word is the most valuable currency.” – Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General, United Nations
“This enterprise calls for a range of technical, financial and negotiating skills, exceptional leadership, great courage and, above all else, faith in God and man, all of which have so far been demonstrated by LIAT’s personnel. The journey has begun, but there is still a far way to go. I can assure you, however, that LIAT, as usual, is in this business for the long term.” – Jean Holder, Chairman, LIAT
“No longer can we or any destination sit back and wait for tourists to come here, simply because we have a beautiful beach of friendly people. Tourists are looking for destinations that make the vacation or trip decision easy for them by offering world-class service, facilities and a world-class experience. They want to be engaged with things to do, places to see and experiences to be had. In short, they want more. Now, more than ever, we must give our visitors ‘So Much More’. We will continue to highlight our existing strengths – our proximity, our beauty, our people – as well as focusing on our own distinctive cultural heritage and our tourism hubs.” – Shawn Crockwell, Minister of Tourism and Transport, Bermuda (The Royal Gazette)
“Be focused, grasp all the educational expertise you can about what you are going to do, and try and develop something that has legs.” – Ralph Taylor, Award-winning Caribbean Hotelier (Barbados Nation)
“Much of the stress you feel doesn’t come from having too much to do; it comes from not finishing what you started! Let’s get it done!” – Bishop Dale C. Bronner, Founder/Senior Pastor, Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral