Jamaica at a discount

Photo archive
An overview of a complex all-inclusive Montego Bay. The violence was particularly struck this city.

Elisa Cloutier

Monday, 12 February, 2018 00:00

UPDATE
Monday, 12 February, 2018 00:00

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Carriers offer appealing deals to Jamaica, then, that this destination is still the subject of a warning from the canadian government due to a large increase in violent crime.

This is the case, among other Sunwing, which announced a “sales blitz” of 40 % for Jamaica, in the newsletter sent to its customers on Friday. This destination has undergone a “slight decrease” in ridership from travelers, which lowers the price for some packages.

On January 18, the canadian government announced that the Jamaica declared a state of emergency, including Montego Bay, due to the significant increase in the number of violent crimes. “If you stay in a resort in the affected area, limit your movements outside of the security perimeters of the hotel,” can we read.

In the days that followed this warning, several passengers have requested a refund or a change of destination, according to Sabrina’s Side, supervisor sales at Discount Travel. “Some tour operators have agreed to make changes, others do not “, she added.

This ” little crisis “, however, is reabsorbed rapidly, according to carriers and agencies. “People called us to ask questions, but people forget very quickly,” says Maryse Martel, vice-president of sales and marketing at Groupe voyages Québec. “People had questions, but they repeated the safety instructions and, especially, in that resort, there is no need to be concerned,” says Debbie Cabana, a spokeswoman at Transat.

Instructions still in force

The safety note, always valid, however, is not displayed on the websites of the carriers Transat, Sunwing and Travel Discounts when purchasing a travel destination this Caribbean country. They indicate, however, inform the client that communicates with them by phone.

In spite of everything, the carriers are reassuring and say that Jamaica is a popular recreation destination this winter. “No carrier there would be if it was dangerous,” said Ms. Martel.

“Despite the fact that it is highly recommended tourists to be cautious, all the tours continue to be offered and there is no restriction on their movements,” said Marie-Josée Carrière, regional director marketing at Sunwing.

SUN DESTINATIONS ARE MOST POPULAR THIS YEAR :

• Mexico 35%
• Dominican republic 29%
• Cuba 24%
• Jamaica 4%