NEW DELHI, 07May 2025: Jamaica continues to strengthen its position as a premier global destination, with a series of major achievements in early 2025 that underscore its cultural vibrancy, hospitality excellence, and global appeal. The island recently hosted its most successful Carnival yet, welcoming over 140,000 visitors during the peak period—a 15% increase over 2024. The surge in arrivals is a powerful signal of Jamaica’s status as a hub for cultural tourism.

Events across Kingston, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios brought together road marches, fetes, and concerts that captivated thousands of visitors from across the globe. The hotels of Kingston reached 95% occupancy, and supporting sectors like transportation, dining, and retail saw heightened demand. Social media campaigns and strategic partnerships also played a key role in the global reach and impact of the event.

The Jamaican tourism industry is focusing on positioning Kingston as a premier leisure tourism destination, with a strong calendar of cultural and entertainment events reshaping the city’s image and global appeal. The capital city, known for its rich music, art, and culinary heritage, is now gaining renewed recognition for its growing role in the island’s dynamic tourism landscape.

“In the past few years, Kingston has evolved from being primarily a business and administrative hub to a vibrant centre for leisure and culture-driven tourism,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). “We are seeing a positive shift in how travellers are experiencing Kingston — not just as a gateway, but as a destination in its own right.”

Further solidifying Jamaica’s reputation, the destination received multiple honours in the Tripadvisor® Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025. Jamaica ranked #13 for Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 for Best Culinary Destination, and #24 for Best Cultural Destination in the world. In another milestone, S Hotel Montego Bay was named the #1 All-Inclusive in Jamaica, #2 in the Caribbean, and #11 in the world by Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Awards.

These accolades reflect consistent traveller satisfaction and the island’s commitment to providing enriching experiences. The recognition—based solely on traveller reviews—celebrates the hotel’s modern design, personalized service, and deep cultural roots. These accomplishments collectively highlight the island’s resilience, innovation, and unmatched charm.

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About Jamaica Tourist Board

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, New Delhi, Tokyo and Paris.

Jamaica is home to some of the world's best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition. In 2025, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #13 Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 Best Culinary Destination, and #24 Best Cultural Destination in the World. In 2024, Jamaica was declared 'World's Leading Cruise Destination' and 'World's Leading Family Destination' for the fifth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named the JTB the 'Caribbean's Leading Tourist Board' for the 17th consecutive year.

Jamaica earned six Travvy Awards, including gold for 'Best Travel Agent Academy Program' and silver for 'Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean' and 'Best Tourism Board – Caribbean'. The destination also received bronze recognition for 'Best Destination – Caribbean', 'Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean', and 'Best Honeymoon Destination – Caribbean'. Additionally, Jamaica received a TravelAge West WAVE award for 'International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support' for a record-setting 12th time.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB's Website at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, X, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at www.visitjamaica.com/blog/.