The discussion about increasing and sustaining economic growth in Jamaica must recognize that tourism will be the engine of economic growth in both the short and medium terms. The number of Chinese travellers and the value of their expenditure have been growing rapidly in recent years.

 

In honor of Earth Day, Eco Serendib Villa and Spa, an eco-friendly, luxury retreat on St. John, announces more than $15,000 in funding to Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park. Funding comes from money the villa sets aside from reservations.

Aracari Travel, an award-winning travel agency based in Lima, Peru, has announced a range of new family-friendly tour itineraries for summer 2013. The itineraries include a broad range of adventure activities, educational visits and opportunities to meet and interact with local people and communities. Interest in family travel to Peru has grown rapidly in recent years with Aracari Travel.

Tour operators report few, if any, cancellations from individual or group travelers from the U.S. or other countries. "There has been no issue with cancellations," said Matt Grayson, executive director of Receptive Services Association of America, a trade group that brings together tour operators and travel suppliers.