Hey, it's
Angella Bennett!
Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board
How have you been coping during the last few months and how have you been keeping busy?
The past six months have been an incredibly difficult period for all of us. At times it has been tough to grasp what has happened to our industry and the world at large.
Prioritizing my relationships and staying engaged with my work and my amazing team at the Jamaica Tourist Board has carried me through this challenging time. Every day, I dedicate time to check in with our retail agents and travel partners on a personal and professional level, which keeps me feeling positive and inspires me to look forward to the road ahead. And while I miss face-to-face interactions, I appreciate all the new technology that allows us to stay close and connected on a daily basis.
I’ve also been trying my best to take care of my own mental health. I make a point to get outside as much as I can to go for a walk or work in my garden. Taking a break from the screen and getting out in nature to enjoy the fresh air is so important and helps me to decompress.
“We have gone through a terrible time over the last few months, but I want travel agents to know that we are in this together. Even though there is so much uncertainty right now, we know how resilient this industry is and the JTB will always be here for you in good times and in bad. We remain very loyal to our Canadian travel partners and our Jamaica team is doing everything we can to support you through this – I know we will come out of this stronger.”
Angella Bennett
Jamaica Tourist Board
What do you miss most about travelling?
The thing I miss the most about travelling is the novelty and excitement of being somewhere new – whether it’s exploring a foreign city, enjoying a warmer climate or meeting new people. Travelling has always been such a big part of my life; I love the thrill that a change of scenery gives me and the freedom of movement to explore somewhere new with a fresh set of eyes. The ability to hop on a plane for a getaway is something I’ll never take for granted again.
Where’s the first place you want to go and why?
Of course, the first place I have to go is my homeland of Jamaica; I haven’t had a chance to visit since March and I am missing it so much. Jamaica is where I go when I need to renew my soul and to feel rejuvenated and relaxed. I have a lovely home in Trelawny close to the Royalton White Sands Resort. My balcony has a gorgeous view of the Falmouth Pier and I love to sit outside with my coffee and watch the ships pass along the water.
Is there anything you want to share with travel agents?
We have gone through a terrible time over the last few months, but I want travel agents to know that we are in this together. Even though there is so much uncertainty right now, we know how resilient this industry is and the JTB will always be here for you in good times and in bad. We remain very loyal to our Canadian travel partners and our Jamaica team is doing everything we can to support you through this – I know we will come out of this stronger.
For those who aren’t familiar with the JTB’s many travel agent programs, I encourage you to reach out to our local sales team and learn more about our many engagement initiatives and educational programs. Our team shares daily updates about the destination in our dedicated Travel Agent Facebook Group, hosts fun ‘chill and chat’ style information sessions during our weekly Irie Hour event, and we provide professional development training through our Jamaica University program. You’ll find all sorts of information and resources at www.visitjamaica.com/canada.
I also want to say a special thank you to those agents who have travelled to the island in recent weeks, even with the quarantine measures still in place. These amazing agents have shown their love of Jamaica is so strong; they are truly our super star brand ambassadors.
What’s something no one should leave Jamaica without seeing, doing or tasting?
No visit in Jamaica is complete without a trip to the beach. Our beaches are truly the most beautiful in the world and there’s no better place to watch the sunset. Once of my favourite beaches on the island is Bloody Bay – a sandy stretch with calm crystal blue water on the western side of Negril. The beach is an extension of Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach but is a little less busy. It’s an idyllic and peaceful spot to go for a long walk and take in the beauty of the island.
And it goes without saying, everyone MUST try some authentic island jerk when in Jamaica! You’ll find roadside jerk stands all over the island but Scotchies is one of the best.
What’s something not a lot of people know about Jamaica?
Jamaica is a place you can visit time and time again; each part of the destination is unique in its own way and there are so many hidden treasures that even the locals haven’t discovered. The island is full of traditional little towns, secluded beaches and secret waterfalls. You can go back 10 times and have a different experience on every trip.
There’s been a lot of talk about the industry coming out better on the other side of COVID-19. What are your hopes?
My biggest hope is that we can resume travel again soon in a safe and healthy way. The Jamaican government and our tourism industry have put so much time and effort into developing and implementing the health and safety protocols that are in place on the island right now. These measures are working to protect our visitors, tourism worker and locals and we can only hope that the travelling community continues to respect the guidelines so that we can get back on track as quickly as possible.
