November 3, 2025

Happy Independence Day, Dominica!

Happy 47th Independence Day to the people of Dominica.

Celebrated as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica is known for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and world-class hiking trails. The nation continues to champion a model of sustainable growth that protects its natural treasures while creating meaningful opportunities for its citizens.

Independence celebrations honor not only Dominica’s history and resilience but also its vibrant cultural identity. The rhythms of bouyon and traditional music fill the air, showcasing the island’s unique contribution to the Caribbean’s cultural tapestry.

By promoting an unspoiled and authentic Caribbean experience, Dominica continues to stand tall as both a guardian of its natural wonders and a driver of inclusive progress for generations to come.

Rallying ’round Jamaica

The Caribbean and international community are rallying in solidarity with Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa — a Category 5 storm and the strongest ever to make landfall on the island.

The hurricane left widespread destruction across communities, many of which are now in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the region, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts, the Sandals Foundation, has activated its Relief Mission, and is working hand-in-hand with on-the-ground officials to assist those most in need.

Donations can be made at sandalsfoundation.org by selecting “Relief Mission.” No contribution is too small — every dollar helps families and communities rebuild. One hundred percent of every dollar donated will go directly to the Relief Mission.

Established in 2009, the Sandals Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has been a powerful force for good across the Caribbean, focusing on three key pillars: community, education, and the environment.

In another show of regional unity, the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) nonprofit has partnered with the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Sandals Foundation and other groups to raise funds in support of Jamaica’s recovery. Donations can be made at cmexmedia.org/jamaica.

CTO stands with Jamaica on road to recovery

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) stands shoulder to shoulder with Jamaica as the nation begins the road to recovery from Hurricane Melissa. “Jamaica’s pain is our pain, Jamaica’s fight our fight — and together, as One Caribbean, we will rise from the storm, stronger and unbroken,” the organization stated.

CTO is working closely with the Government of Jamaica, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and members of the tourism community to support recovery efforts under the Regional Response Mechanism.

Narendra Ramgulam, CTO’s Deputy Director of Sustainable Tourism, has joined CDEMA’s Rapid Needs Assessment Team on the island to evaluate Hurricane Melissa’s impact.

“As Jamaica rebuilds, we invite everyone to extend a hand of solidarity and love,” CTO stated, urging donors to visit https://supportjamaica.gov.jm.

Cruise industry stands with Jamaica

The cruise industry trade group Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has extended appreciation to its member lines and partners for their extraordinary generosity in response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact.

Carnival Corporation & plc, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation, and Miami HEAT have donated US$1 million to Direct Relief to support Jamaica’s recovery — a powerful act of unity and compassion. 

Royal Caribbean Group pledged over US$1 million through Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) to aid long-term recovery.

The Walt Disney Company committed US$1 million to support relief efforts through partners including UNICEF, World Central Kitchen, and Good360.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. donated US$50,000 to the American Red Cross and will match up to US$50,000 in employee and public donations.

FCCA said its member lines remain united with the people of the Caribbean — “rebuilding together with resilience, love and strength.”

A Caribbean ‘Backative’ for Jamaica

Julian Rogers MBE, Caribbean broadcaster, journalist and media manager

Click HERE to play video

Renowned Caribbean journalist Julian Rogers has joined the regional chorus rallying for Jamaica — a nation he once called home — by launching “Backative for Jamaica”, a new anthem for recovery and a call to mobilize support.

“My heart is in Jamaica, where I lived for six wonderful years as Managing Director of the Jamaica Observer. This is personal for me, as I know it is for so many of you,” he said, explaining that the anthem is built around the powerful, uniquely Caribbean word “Backative”. “It means we have your back. It means support. It means ‘One Love, One Heart, One Family,’” he added.

“This is our song to rally the entire global family — from London to New York, Miami to Toronto, from Trinidad to Belize — to give their ‘Backative’ to the national recovery,” said the award-winning Barbadian communications specialist.

Full tourism recovery aimed for December 15, 2025

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has set a target for the nation’s tourism industry to be fully operational by December 15, 2025. 

To achieve this, the Ministry has launched a high-level Hurricane Melissa Recovery Task Force and a companion Tourism Resilience Coordination Committee (“Tourism Cares”) to align public and private sector recovery efforts.

“Recovery cannot be left to chance. We are aligning marketing, communications, infrastructure repairs, aid, logistics, and every enabling support behind a single objective: full industry operation by December 15,” said Minister Bartlett. “Progress will be tracked through the Ministry of Tourism with regular public updates, so workers, visitors, and partners can plan with confidence,” he added.

“Tourism’s strength lies not just in its product offerings, but in its people and partnerships. The speed and synergy of our response show the industry’s resilience and our unwavering commitment to recovery with empathy, compassion and innovation,” added Minister Bartlett.

Caribbean set for spotlight as WTM London opens tomorrow

The stage is set for World Travel Market (WTM) London, taking place November 4-6 at ExCeL, where the Caribbean will once again stand alongside global tourism leaders. As the show opens tomorrow, the region enters with strong momentum, highlighting both its legacy as a premier travel destination and its forward-looking strategies to enhance competitiveness, connectivity and sustainability.

For the Caribbean, WTM holds special significance as the United Kingdom and the wider EMEA markets remain vital sources of visitors, investment and partnerships. Strengthening connections with European tour operators, UK-based travel advisors, Middle Eastern investors, and African partners positions the Caribbean to diversify its visitor base, broaden its appeal, and secure long-term growth.

Caribbean tourism departments, destinations and private-sector partners will use the platform to deepen relationships, secure new business, and showcase the region’s diverse offerings to an international audience. This year’s focus is on collaboration and innovation, underscoring the #TravelPower of a united Caribbean.

Photo Flashback: WTM London in 2023

At World Travel Market London 2023, Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper was at the forefront of promoting the region’s diverse offerings and opportunities. Her presence underscored the Caribbean’s commitment to maintaining a strong voice on the global tourism stage.

As WTM 2025 prepares to open, Regis-Prosper continues to lead the Caribbean tourism sector with determination, driving collaboration across governments, private-sector partners, and international markets to ensure the region remains competitive, resilient and united.

CMEx Laureate Spotlight: Loreto Duffy-Mayers

The spotlight on the 2025 CMEx laureates continues, with celebrations set for Sunday, December 7, at Loews Coral Gables Hotel in Miami. Loreto Duffy-Mayers is a seasoned environmental and sustainable tourism expert with over 30 years of experience in the Caribbean and Latin America.  She has led regional initiatives on energy efficiency, climate resilience, and renewable energy, helping hotels and governments transition to greener practices.  As Project Lead for the UN Caribbean Cooling Initiative, the Caribbean Hotel Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy program, and the tourism aspect of the EU COSME program, Duffy-Mayers has championed climate-friendly solutions across the region. Her work has earned multiple awards and recognition for advancing sustainable development in tourism, energy and environmental management.  Duffy-Mayers is also a respected trainer, author and conference speaker, dedicated to promoting environmentally responsible and sustainable tourism, as well as energy and water solutions. The CMEx Leadership Awards is powered by Platinum Sponsor Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation. Other sponsors include Barbara Pyle Foundation; Calabash Cove Resort & Spa (St. Lucia); Carnival Corporation & plc; Chukka Caribbean Adventures; Coco Palm (St. Lucia); Comfort Suites Paradise Island (Bahamas); Grenada Tourism Authority; Jade Mountain (St. Lucia); Ladera Resort (St. Lucia); Marketplace Excellence Corporation; Mount Cinnamon Beach Resort (Grenada); Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board (Bahamas); Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour (St. Kitts); Rodman Marketing Guru; Round Hill Hotel and Villas (Jamaica); The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission; The Decker/Royal Agency; Tortuga Rum Company; Tropical Attractions; Tropical Shipping; Unique Vacations Inc. (the worldwide representative of Sandals & Beaches Resorts); and Vanessa James Media. Proceeds will support educational initiatives that empower Caribbean youth and tourism professionals. For tickets and details, visit cmexmedia.org.

Quotable Caribbean

“True sustainability is not just about protecting our environment. It’s about a holistic vision that weaves together cultural preservation, economic inclusion and mindful consumption. It’s about redefining stewardship so it benefits everyone.” – Beverly Nicholson Doty, CEO, Figment Design

Tink Bout It

“Speaking a language allows you to translate words. Cultural competency allows you to understand people. It’s about making guests feel seen so that they become your most passionate brand advocates. A single misstep can ruin a vacation, but a genuine connection can secure a customer for life. This is the foundation of loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.” – Ambra Attus, Director of Impact, Growth and Development, Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence

Medical Moment

World Malaria Day is observed on November 6.

Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted through the bite of female mosquitoes, with symptoms including fever and severe muscle aches. The disease requires urgent medical attention as it can be fatal, and while treatments exist, there is currently no widely available vaccine for infection.

Since the 1990s, an estimated 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths have been prevented worldwide. However, after years of steady decline, progress has stalled. 

The World Health Organization reported 263 million new cases and 597,000 deaths from malaria in 2023, with the Americas ranking among the hardest-hit regions after Africa and Asia. 

In the Caribbean, most nations are certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization’s Global Malaria Programme, though the disease remains endemic in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

This year’s campaign, “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” calls for renewed commitment, from global policy to community action, to accelerate the path toward malaria elimination.

Marketplace Excellence Corporation (MPE) is a global public relations, marketing and media company.