CaribPR Wire

To tweet this story use #PricelessAruba

CaribPR Wire, Oranjestad, Aruba: Mon. August 19, 2013:  In order to provide MasterCard cardholders with priceless experiences in the world’s most exciting destinations, MasterCard has announced the launch of its international Priceless Cities platform in Aruba, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and the Tourism Authority of Aruba. Aruba is the fifth city in the Caribbean that joins MasterCard’s Priceless Cities program, which was launched in 2011 by MasterCard to offer cardholders a special and unique way to enjoy and celebrate their favorite cities.

According to Lorena Holguin, Marketing Vice President for MasterCard in the Caribbean, the Caribbean is an excellent opportunity when it comes to destinations programs such as Priceless Cities, due to the high number of tourism arrivals and international spending volume. “Aruba meets the parameters that characterize the other destinations of the program, as it has everything to please all types of tourists, from the adventurous type, to the beach lover and even the gastronomy aficionado. At MasterCard, we are proud to bring the charms of Aruba closer to our customer’s reach,” concluded Holguin.

Through MasterCard’s innovative Priceless Aruba program, cardholders will receive offers and discounts on products and services in over 40 participating merchants when making a purchase with their MasterCard®. The complete list of offers is available to cardholders through printed guides distributed at high traffic areas like the Aruba airport, shops, restaurants and hotels.

“As one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean, Aruba prides itself on its loyal, happy returners,” said Aruba Tourism Authority CEO Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes. “Our visitors value the quality experiences they receive on island, just as MasterCard holders value the quality service they receive from the credit card provider. This is a natural partnership for us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to showcase the many differentiating features and hidden gems that make Aruba so priceless.”

Otmar E. Oduber, Aruba Minister of Tourism, highlighted “I applaud that the Aruba Tourism Association, in partnership with MasterCard and local merchants, is exploring new initiatives that will enhance the experience of our on-island visitors. I look forward to continually growing the program and having Aruba benefit even more from such an important partner as MasterCard. I encourage our local merchants to participate in new endeavors such as this one.”

According to Holguin, “Priceless Aruba aims to provide cardholders with unique offers and benefits that make every moment in Aruba a Priceless experience. The goal is not only attract tourists, but also to give them a unique experience so that they return”. Holguin highlighted that the program offers benefits designed based on consumers passion points, which are divided into three categories: activities, gastronomy and shopping. Cardholders can take advantage of over 40 offers including receiving a free gift with purchase, or a bottle of wine to add that special touch to a romantic dinner, or even a free diving trip to explore Aruba’s underwater world.

Sebastian Barletta, VP and Territory Head of the Eastern Caribbean for MasterCard, emphasized that “At MasterCard, we understand that the tourism industry is very competitive on a global level, which is why it is necessary for these destinations to differentiate themselves by providing value added service as well as high quality and memorable experiences for visitors “. According to the executive, the tourism industry account for close to 85% of Aruba’s GDP, which is why the company considers it a priority to support the development of this segment in the country. “Our global acceptance and unified structure positions us as the ideal partner for the tourism industry and allows to provide a greater value to all parties associated with this segment. The consumer benefits from the offers and discounts, while merchants increase sales and retention thanks to the promotions associated with the platform, which in turn helps strengthen the local economy that depends on tourism”.

About MasterCard
MasterCard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com, is a global payments and technology company. It operates the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard’s products and solutions make everyday commerce activities – such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances – easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MasterCardNews, join the discussion on the Cashless Conversations Blog and subscribe for the latest news.

Mr. Alphonso Lake

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. – August 16, 2013 – Robert Barrett, chairman and CEO of Elite Island Resorts, proudly announces that Antiguan-born Alphonso Lake has been promoted to Chief Information Officer (CIO). Formerly a systems and operations manager for the company, which is both a sales and marketing leader for the Caribbean travel industry and Antigua’s largest employer, Lake begins his new role effective today.

Lake’s rise to this executive-level position is a testament to his hard work and career-long commitment to the Elite Island Resorts brand. He began his professional journey in the 1990s as a young waiter at the St. James’s Club and Villas and quickly worked up the ranks. After various roles at several of the company’s Antigua resorts, Lake sought higher education in computers and technology. He continued his work at Elite Island Resorts’ corporate office in Deerfield Beach, Florida, while attending Florida Atlantic University where he earned a degree in information technology.

“Alphonso has been and is an integral part of our daily global operations that serve all customers, vendors, suppliers, resorts and employees,” said Elite Island Resorts President Steven Heydt. “He is a valuable asset to our company not only for his creative patchwork fixes but also for his ability to think outside the box to make our systems more efficient. We are fortunate to have him on our executive team and look forward to his contributions in this new leadership role.”

A high-res image of Alphonso Lake is available for download at the following link until August 21, 2013: https://www.hightail.com/download/bWJvTkZzcklqV0JWeHNUQw.

About Elite Island Resorts
Elite Island Resorts represents an impressive collection of unique beachfront properties in the Caribbean. Each Elite Island Resorts property provides something unique to fulfill travelers’ desires, with offerings ranging from destination weddings or romantic escapes to family retreats or eco vacations. Resorts include: St. James’s Club & Villas, The Verandah Resort & Spa, and Galley Bay Resort & Spa all in Antigua; St. James’s Club Morgan Bay, Saint Lucia; Long Bay Beach Club in Tortola; Palm Island Resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and The Club Barbados Resort & Spa and Ocean Hotels in Barbados. For more information visit www.eliteislandresorts.com or call 800-858-4618.

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Media Contacts:
Claire Kunzman / Shannon O’Malley
Cheryl Andrews Marketing Communications
[email protected] / [email protected]
305-444-4033

CaribPR, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. April 2, 2013: Jamaican-born, Caribbean-raised jazz great and Grammy-nominated artist, Monty Alexander, is in high demand this year, with performances that has him globetrotting and city-hopping on the heels of his new album and his 51^st year as a musician.

Alexander, whose 50^th anniversary album, “Harlem-Kingston Express: Live!” was nominated for a Reggae Grammy and won rave reviews from The Wall Street Journal, The London Evening Standard and Jazz Times among dozens of other media houses, is set to take his brand of stirring jazz to the Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland from Tuesday, April 16th to Saturday, April 20^th.

The performance comes as Alexander’s new album release “Uplift 2” on the JLP label, sits at #2 on the Jazz charts.

The stellar musician will then return to the U.S. to share a similar kind of joy with his fans at Boston’s legendary Scullers Jazz Club on April 26^th and New York City’s famous Birdland Club Jazz Club from May 7^th to 11^th.

Jamaica’s Commander of Distinction and ‘Luminary Award’ 2012 recipient, then returns to the U.S. for performances in Boston and New York City, before heading to the nature isle of Dominica for the first time, where he will headline the increasingly popular, Dominica Jazz ‘n Creole Festival on May 19^th at the Cabrits National Park.

“For many years I have harbored the desire to be able to visit one of the beautiful island if the Caribbean – Dominica,” commented Alexander. “I have had friends of Dominica heritage, including Connie Kay, the great drummer from the great Modern Jazz Quartet.  To be able to bring a musical offering to Dominica makes my visit extra special.”

Dominica’s jazz fans are sure to experience a different kind of jazz from Alexander – the kind that will have them putting on their dancing shoes on and keeping them on.

And his Grammy-nominated band, The Harlem Kingston Express, will add to the experience that combines traditional jazz with the rocking rhythms of Jamaica which results in a sound that is uniquely Alexander’s and The Harlem Kingston Express!

Tickets for his Boston and New York performances are $30 per person. For Scullers, get tickets at http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=3466214&pl=scullers and for Birdland, log on to http://www.birdlandjazz.com/event/243141-monty-alexander-harlem-new-york/

Following his Dominica debut, Alexander, will again join his Harlem Kingston Express to bring his brand of jiving jazz to Washington, D.C.’s popular Blues Alley from June 20th to 23^rd and Pittsburgh, PA on June 28^th at the South Park Band Shell.

He and his band will wrap up the first half of 2013 in Rochester, NY with a scintillating performance at the Rochester International Jazz Festival on June 29th. For more see http://www.rochesterjazz.com/artist_lineup/?artist_id=934.

2013 Performance Dates:

Switzerland – Bern Jazz Festival – April 16-20^th.

Boston, MA – Scullers Jazz Club  – April 26^th.

News York City – Birdland Club Jazz Club- May 7^th to 11^th.

Dominica, W.I. – Dominica Jazz ‘n Creole Festival -  May 19^th.

Washington, D.C. – Blues Alley – June 20^th to 23^rd.

Pittsburgh, PA – South Park Band Shell – June 28^th.

Rochester, NY – Rochester International Jazz Festival – June 29^th.

About Monty Alexander

Over his stellar career, Alexander, whose influence combines that of Oscar Peterson, Gene Harris and Nat “King” Cole, has performed with international stars including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Ray Brown, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Clark Terry, Quincy Jones, Ernest Ranglin, Barbara Hendricks, Bill Cosby, Bobby McFerrin, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare.

In fact, it was Sinatra and his best friend Jilly Rizzo who hired Alexander after he moved to the United States in 1961 at the age of 17.  And it was at Jilly’s famed New York City nightclub that this Jamaican teen caught the ears of Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and Milt “Bags” Jackson.

Bags introduced him to the great bassist Ray Brown, and the rest as they say, is history, including Alexander’s 1976 Montreux (Switzerland) Jazz Festival performance with drummer Jeff Hamilton and bassist John Clayton, which has become one of the most celebrated live recordings in contemporary jazz.

For more on the Caribbean’s greatest jazz pianist and his music visit www.montyalexander.com.

Caribbean’s Next Top Model Emerges With Lifestyle Brands

CARIBEPRWIRE, NEW YORK – MARCH 26, 2013 – Caribbean’s Next Top Model, a new model competition series created in collaboration with CaribeNTM, Inc. emerges across 25 Caribbean countries with partner brands to promote 11 episodes of the most popular and first of its kind reality television.   The show debuted on Monday, February 18, 2013 on free-to-air – various Caribbean local TV stations, CaribVision and One Caribbean Television, WSEE TV in Puerto Rico during primetime.

Mark Rowen, President of Blue Collar Productions said, “We have been able to partner with CaribeNTM, Inc. to custom design and tailor television production content which highlights the unique attributes of the respective host countries.”

This one hour Reality TV program, co-produced by Blue Collar Productions, one of the leading producers of creative content for licensed television shows, provides a comprehensive look at eleven contenders competing individually and in teams for the chance to be Caribbean’s Next Top Model.  Miss Universe ‘98, Wendy Fitzwilliam serves as the celebrity host and judge, along with associate judges Pedro Virgil, International Photographer, Richard Young, Runway Coach and Creative Director of Trinidad and Tobago’s Fashion Week, and other special guest appearances from experts in the fashion industry and related fields.

Mr. Rowen adds, “We are excited to have had the opportunity to work with Caribbean’s Next Top Model television show.  We have plans to continue working together to produce leading international content with a focus on television production, distribution, marketing and syndication.  Our combined companies have the ability to broaden the future scope of entertainment television.”

The partner brands are included in the episodes in ways that range from product placements, credits, mentions in lines of dialogue, to numerous endorsements on the screen.  “If you are watching the show, chances are you aspire to emulate the lifestyle of the CNTM program’s cast,” said Wendy Fitzwilliam.  “So we want to align with those partner brands that add competitive value and reach.”

Brands such as bMobile, SACHA, and CHI were heavily featured to establish the reality of the worlds the girls lived in.  Beverly Morrison, CEO of Caribbean CHI Ltd., and Juliana Fermin, Director of Ansura Wholesalers in Trinidad and Tobago are excited to be official hair sponsors of the first season.

Beverly Morrison says, “We remain committed to the Caribbean aesthetic and we look forward to the refinement of the contestants as the imagination and execution of CaribeNTM, Inc, beauty with CHI Biosilk exceeds expectations.”

Making brand connections that were organic to the characters became the signature for show.  Juliana Fermin said, “We saw Caribbean’s Next Top Model as a vehicle for the enhancement of many industries that span; fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and television…week after week.”

Executives at SACHA Cosmetics have helped to position our footprint from the beginning to predominantly celebrate women.  “As the official cosmetics of the inaugural season and leader in the cosmetics industry in the Caribbean and as we continue on our drive toward global expansion, we recognize that partnerships like these truly complement our journey,” said Kamla Regrello, Marketing and Retail Manager.

KCL Capital Market Brokers Limited, a licensed full service investment firm based in Trinidad became involved to provide authenticity in the television series financing.  As stated by the company’s CEO Kerwyn Valley, “KCL is committed in its support for creative industries across our region.”

Other partners include Caribbean Airlines, The Carlton-Savannah, Lime Trinre, Factor Women, Caribbean Belle, Blue Waters, Kalloo’s, and Micles.

The CNTM series airs for 11 episodes and is midway through its inaugural season. The show is broadcast in over 25 Caribbean islands on terrestrial and cable television.

For a complete review of CNTM, our broadcast details, to share your thoughts on the show and to become a member fan, like us at www.facebook.com/caribbeansnexttopmodel or log on to: www.caribbeansnexttopmodel.com. Follow us  @CaribeNTM on Twitter.

About Caribbean’s Next Top Model

CARIBBEAN’S NEXT TOP MODEL was founded in July 2011. CNTM’s mission is to unleash island beauties and the enchantment of the Caribbean.  Executive Producers are Wendy Fitzwilliam and Dionyse Fitzwilliam of CaribeNTM, Inc., a production company created in association with AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL under license by CBS International, and Mark Rowen, CEO of Blue Collar Productions (USA).

About America’s Next Top Model

AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment in association with The Tyra Banks Company.  The executive producers are Ken Mok (“Making the Band”), Tyra Banks and Laura Fuest Silva. The series was created by Tyra Banks and developed by Mok and Kenya Barris. Tyra Banks also hosts the series, which will soon begin airing its 20^th cycle in the United States. Currently, AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL is under license in over 100 markets around the world and has 20 international versions in production.  AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL and the AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL format are licensed internationally by CBS Studios International.

About Blue Collar Productions

Blue Collar Productions, is one of the leading producers of creative content for studio released motion picture films and licensed television shows, amassing a high caliber library that includes the production of Caribbean’s Next Top Model.

Li Ruogu of the Export-Import Bank of China finances a resort in the Bahamas ((AP Photo/Tim Aylen)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. March 22, 2013: Chinese businesses looking at investment opportunities in the Caribbean are coming to the Avalon Partners Invest Caribbean Now power forum in New York City this June, set for the Radisson Martinique Hotel.

Digital media solutions company, Hard Beat Communications, which presents the annual forum in association with the Caribbean Tourism Organization, is this year also teaming up with the Chinese American Business Development Center to put the spotlight on Chinese foreign direct investment in the region. According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, investments in the Caribbean by China totaled nearly $7 billion in 2009, a more than 300 percent increase from the 2004 foreign direct investment of $1.7 billion.

In commenting on the partnership, Peter Zhang, President of the Chinese American Business Development Center, said: “We are very happy to be a partner of Invest Caribbean Now 2013, and although it’s the first year of our collaboration, we look forward to many years together and to providing a great platform for Chinese investors to understand and learn more about investment opportunities in the Caribbean.”

“In recent years, the Chinese have quickly expanded their business activities in the Caribbean region,” he added. “As those countries continue to develop, China will undoubtedly play a significant role in their business progress and advancement. We are confident this event would be a great opportunity for China and Caribbean governments and enterprises as well as U.S. investors, to communicate and achieve a win-win solution.”

Felicia Persaud, founder of Invest Caribbean Now, welcomed the partnership, noting that with growing Chinese investments in the region, and with millions of Chinese traveling abroad annually, the Chinese American Business Development Center’s involvement in ICN 2013 will only help to boost more interest and investment in the economically viable Caribbean region.

The Chinese American Business Development Center will bring together businesses from China interested in doing business in the Caribbean to be a part of the forum. Additionally, China’s Economic Counsel is expected to address delegates, who will include Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing of the Turks & Caicos Islands, as well as over a dozen ministers of government from the Caribbean, on why this region is such an attractive investment destination.

Invest Caribbean Now 2013, which will be more expansive and longer this year, with a broader focus from panels on the Caribbean and investment opportunities there, will be held on June 5^th from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in New York City. A private VIP reception will be held on June 4^th at The Yale Club.

More information on the event is available on ICN’s brand new website, which was launched this week at InvestCaribbeanNow.com.

Media partners for ICN 2013 are: One Caribbean Television, The PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, News Americas Now, Caribbean Lifestyle Communications of Trinidad, WINN FM of St. Kitts, South Florida Caribbean, Caribseek, Antigua Tribune, Bahamas Spectator, Barbados Gazette, British Caribbean News, Caribbean ET Roundup, Caribbean Financials, Cuba Chronicle,Dominica Gazette,Dominican Republic Post, Dutch Caribbean News, French Caribbean News, Grenada Chronicle, Guyana Inquirer, Haiti Gazette, Jamaica Inquirer, Puerto Rico Tribune, St. Kitts Gazette, St. Lucia Chronicle, St. Vincent Tribune, Trinidad Tribune, The Bajan Reporter and The Bahamas Weekly.

Limited partnership and speaker/panellist opportunities are currently still available. For more information email Joe Bernstein at [email protected]

Limited tickets for the June 5^th forum are available. Register today at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=7phqhyn6&oeidk=a07e6oz57kp0f880fbe

Supplementary information on the event can be found on the event’s pages on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/invest.caribbean and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/InvestingCarib

Hard Rock International Opens Enrollment for New Global Loyalty Program

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ – Hard Rock International – with locations from London to New York, Singapore and Dubai – today announced the launch of its new global loyalty program, Hard Rock Rewards™, a unified guest affinity program developed to recognize and reward Hard Rock’s dedicated fans with exclusive privileges, when they stay and play at participating Cafes, Rock Shops, Hotels and Casinos worldwide. With two levels of participation available, Hard Rock fans have the choice of joining Hard Rock Rewards for free, or upgrading to the VIP level of membership for exclusive perks and benefits fit for a rock-star. All new members have the chance to win one of a kind experiences that rock, such as an all-expense paid trip to Hard Rock Hotel Orlando – to enjoy the Hotel California-inspired vibe and VIP access to Universal Studios theme park.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120405/CL82910LOGO)

“Hard Rock Rewards is the answer to the cry of our raving fans,” said John Galloway, chief marketing officer of Hard Rock International. “As a company that provides more than 79 million guest experiences each year across a rapidly growing network of venues in 60 countries, we’re thrilled to implement a program that allows us to truly support Hard Rock’s loyal fans on their journey around the world.”

Global customers can join Hard Rock Rewards by registering at a participating location or online at hardrockrewards.com – where fans choose between a free or paid level of membership. Once enrolled, all participants gain access to rockin’ program benefits, including monthly offers from participating Hard Rock Cafes, Rock Shops, Hotels and Casinos around the world, dedicated check-in lines, late check-outs and complimentary welcome amenities at participating Hotels – as well as a dedicated space on hardrockrewards.com to easily manage account details, track rewards and view Hard Rock locations visited on a personalized property map.

Members choosing to participate in the VIP Program enjoy additional benefits for an annual fee of $24.95, including faster point accrual on qualified purchases, a Collector’s Club membership with access to Hard Rock’s global pin catalog containing more than 44,000 iconic items, unlimited priority seating at participating Cafes, complimentary upgrades at participating Hotels, a VIP welcome gift with limited edition pin and designated membership to the Casino Players Club. VIP members also have the opportunity to receive Milestone Rewards – an exclusive feature of the program, created to celebrate and recognize visits made to unique Hard Rock locations around the globe. All VIP members have the ability to earn commemorative Hard Rock collectibles in honor of each milestone reached, which can be easily tracked online through their personalized property map.

For more information on Hard Rock Rewards, please visit www.hardrockrewards.com.

About Hard Rock International
With a total of 181 venues in 58 countries, including 142 cafes, 18 hotels and 8 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the companies’ two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida, as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include Melaka and San Jose. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

NIEUWPOORT, Curacao, Dec. 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Santa Barbara Hospitality, N.V., a hotel investment group, today announced that the former Hyatt Regency Curacao Golf Resort, Spa and Marina is under new management and will operate under a new name.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121215/DA29769)

The owner terminated its management agreement with Hyatt Corporation and Hyatt Curacao, N.V. (”Hyatt”) on November 21, 2012, and today installed Benchmark Hospitality International (”Benchmark”) to operate the luxury Curacao resort. The resort has been renamed as the Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao.

According to the owner, owner representatives assumed control of the resort at approximately 12 midnight local time – in order to avoid any inconvenience to guests or employees. The owner informed Hyatt of its plans, and assumed operational and financial control of the 350-room property.

Employees were notified of the change in management. Benchmark plans to offer employment to most current hotel staff members, who will maintain their current rate of pay, original start date and accrued vacation. All current reservations and event bookings will be honored without change. Guests may call + 5999-8401234 from any international location, 1-855-590-2266 from the U.S., or 8401234 locally regarding existing or new reservations. Visit santabarbararesortcuracao.com.

“This is an exciting development for the resort, its employees, and the thousands of international guests we soon expect to welcome,” says David Maxfield, a representative of Santa Barbara Hospitality, N.V., owner of the hotel. “We believe this property is now poised to become one of the world’s premier luxury destinations.”

The owner announced that it terminated Hyatt amid allegations that the hotel management company violated the terms of a management agreement, dated March 16, 2005. According to correspondence sent from the owner to Hyatt, dated December 15, 2012, “… via letter, dated November 21, 2012, Owner terminated the Management Agreement and asked Hyatt to contact Owner to immediately discuss interim management and other transition-related matters, to ensure a smooth handover of Resort operations. Hyatt has not complied with Owner’s request.”

“The owner believes that Hyatt failed in discharging its responsibilities to the owner of this resort,” says William A. Brewer III, partner at Bickel & Brewer and counsel for Santa Barbara Hospitality, N.V. “Owner, therefore, exercised its right to terminate Hyatt and install new management. This has been an orderly and peaceable management transition – designed to ease any disruption to employees or guests.”

The owner claims that under Hyatt’s management, the resort missed revenue projections by almost $12 million in 2011, and occupancy rates that year were approximately 22 percent lower than expected. Both revenue and occupancy are also lower than projected in 2012, according to the owner. The owner alleges that Hyatt failed in its duties and responsibilities with regard to the service, training and supervision of the resort’s personnel, budgeting and forecasting, and sales and marketing of the resort.

“This property is committed to serving the needs of customers across the globe and making every guest experience memorable,” says Tom Garcia, interim manager of the resort. “We look forward to working with the local community and delivering a level of service that is beyond comparison anywhere in the Caribbean.”

The Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao is a luxurious beachfront resort located in the Santa Barbara Plantation area of Curacao. The resort offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, three pools, a private spa, tennis courts, two marinas, and an 18-hole Pete Dye championship golf course. It is a unique luxury resort destination on Curacao, an island in the southern Caribbean Sea situated off the Venezuelan Coast. The island is recognized as one of the “best kept secrets in the Caribbean,” featuring acclaimed diving, outdoor activities, fine dining, and many cultural attractions.

About Benchmark Hospitality International:
Benchmark Hospitality International is a leader in the management and marketing of resorts, conference centers, hotels, and Personal Luxury Resorts & Hotels^SM. The independent company, launched in 1980, is a worldwide organization operating properties in major metropolitan and resort destinations. Benchmark’s international headquarters is located in The Woodlands, Texas, near Houston. Benchmark Hospitality is also a founding member of the International Association of Conference Centers. The company’s eastern regional office is in New Jersey, western regional office is in Washington, with international offices in Tokyo, Japan, and Santiago, Chile. Visit benchmarkhospitality.com.

About Bickel & Brewer:
Founded in 1984, Bickel & Brewer has earned a reputation as one of the most successful law firms in the United States practicing exclusively in the field of complex commercial litigation and dispute resolution. With offices in New York and Dallas, Bickel & Brewer represents a wide spectrum of industry leaders – from entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 corporations – facing the most challenging of legal issues. Visit Bickel & Brewer at bickelbrewer.com.

Daily Nonstops Begin December 8

SAINT CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands, Oct. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Seaborne Airlines, the regional carrier based in St. Croix, USVI, and the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board in collaboration with the BVI Airport Authority today announced daily round-trip flights between San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport and Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport, serving the British Virgin Islands. The new service will operate with 17-seat Dehavilland Twin Otters with twenty four (24) flight segments per week starting December 8, 2012. Starting in February, the market will be operated with 34-seat Saab turboprop equipment with two pilots, flight attendant, in-flight service and a lavatory.  By April 2013 Seaborne plans to operate 49 weekly round-trip flights with over 3,300 weekly seats into and out of the market.  Service is scheduled to begin December 8.

Additionally, on December 8, Seaborne plans to operate new service from San Juan non-stop to Virgin Gorda, with twelve (12) flight segments weekly with 17-seat Twin Otter service. Seaborne also plans to introduce special promotional fares for BVI residents traveling to San Juan and beyond.

“We’re pleased to introduce the first scheduled Saab service to The British Virgin Islands from our connecting complex in San Juan, Puerto Rico,” said Gary Foss, president, Seaborne Airlines.  “This schedule will allow customers from throughout the United States and Canada easy connections to the beautiful and upscale British Virgin Islands, renowned for their powdery white-sand beaches, lush green mountains and sheltered yacht filled harbors.  We are especially eager to provide nonstop service directly from San Juan to Virgin Gorda, home of Little Dix Bay, the Bitter End Yacht Club, Biras Creek, other upscale resorts, villas and small locally owned properties.  And of course, there are The Baths, a national park where granite boulders create mysterious grottos in the sea”.

BVI travelers will also have access to Seaborne’s premium lounge at San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. The lounge offers comfortable seating, work areas, charging stations, light refreshments, WIFI access, and Direct TV. Additionally, Seaborne customers have access to FasTrak SJU security access, which allows travelers to go to the head of the TSA line.

Here is the schedule December 8 – February 1 (all times local):

San Juan to Tortola

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

11:45     12:35    Daily. Except

4546              a.m.      p.m.         Wed

7:00      7:50    Daily, Except

4602              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

Tortola to San Juan

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

6:10      7:00    Daily, Except

4503              a.m.      a.m.        Thur.

1:00      1:50    Daily, Except

4557              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

San Juan to Virgin Gorda

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

1:00      1:55    Daily, Except

4556              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

Virgin Gorda to San Juan

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

2:30      3:25    Daily, Except

4569              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines – named Best Small Air Transport serving the U.S. Virgin Islands every year since 2007 – operates 337 weekly departures to San Juan and Vieques in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas and St. Croix in the USVI.  Operating for 17-years in the Caribbean, Seaborne has carried more than 2 million customers.  With both Seaplane and Airport operations, all aircraft operate with two pilots.  Flights can be reserved via the internet: www.seaborneairlines.com or calling 866-359-8784.

SAINT JOHN PARISH, Nevis, Oct. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ – Cancer Cleared Clinics, a Nevis LLC, announced today that it is waiting for approval to operate it’s Breast Cancer Clinics in thirty countries. Cancer Cleared Clinics has a unique and tested combination of therapies that are more effective and less harmful to the body than the current methods of cancer treatment used in the United States. This treatment is not available in the United States.

Eugene Steele, cancer historian, said, “I have a personal war against cancer and those that prevent better treatments. The Standard American Diet is the major cause for the two largest killers: heart disease and cancer. Every person has cancer created in their bodies everyday. Our bodies are equipped with an immune system which attacks and destroys these cancer cells. When we eat a Standard American Diet we weaken the immune system and it cannot destroy the cancer cells. This can all be reversed and has been available for over 100 years.”

The Cancer Cleared Clinics’ method is to remove the protection the breast cancer cells have, and let the body destroy these cancer cells in seven days. Cancer Cleared Clinics offers a money back guarantee and a fixed fee of $3500. No other clinics in the world will make this offer. “There have been many developers of cancer therapies that have been blocked or ignored,” stated Mr. Steele. “The United States lags behind many other countries in delivery of ground-breaking advances in quality medical care.”

Steele adds, “There are more effective treatments for cancer, but because of the politics and restrictive laws in the United States, doctors can only make quiet suggestions to their patients because these doctors do not want to incur the wrath of the FDA and the medical establishment, and jeopardize their license to practice medicine.”

Cancer Cleared Clinics is in the last phase of financing. Each Clinic costs $200,000 to establish. They have a new concept of cancer medical tourism. Each clinic will be located in a resort making the treatment a vacation. The treatment only requires 45 minutes a day for seven consecutive days. The rest of the day the client is free to enjoy their vacation with their family. There is no chemotherapy, surgery or radiation.

www.cancercleared.com

NASSAU, Bahamas, Sept. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — As Albany nears its second anniversary, the luxury resort community is expanding by starting construction on its first phase of Marina Residences.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-a )

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-b )

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-c )

The groundbreaking of the first three buildings occurred earlier today with all three buildings slated for completion throughout 2014.

“This important second phase of construction at Albany is a terrific vote of confidence for the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,” said Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie. “The sales success that Albany has experienced is also a resilient validation of The Bahamas and its international appeal.”

Twenty-four of the 35 residences have already been sold through Albany’s preconstruction sales program that launched during the first quarter of this year. The three six-story towers, totaling 275,000 square feet, were designed by leading architects Morris Adjmi Architects, Gwathmey Siegel Kaufman & Associates Architects and HKS Architects.

Albany’s Marina Residences combine the best in waterfront living with unparalleled luxury and extraordinary views across Albany’s marina and out to sea.

Offering both modern and classic profiles, the floor plans range from two to six bedrooms with movie theaters to large penthouses with private swimming pools. Two of the three marina buildings will offer ground floor office space.

“We are very excited to begin construction of this important phase of development at Albany, and we are gratified at how well-received the Marina Residences have been,” said Christopher Anand, Albany’s managing partner.

The Marina Residences at Albany overlook one of the finest marinas in the Caribbean with 71 slips and state-of-the-art floating concrete docks that can accommodate boats from 50 feet in length up to 300 foot mega-yachts. Each slip offers electric, cable and internet connectivity, while marina attendants are available seven days a week to provide docking assistance to vessels. Albany marked the sale of its 40th marina slip this quarter.

“Albany Marina is one of the finest deep-water marinas in the world and has been designed for the most demanding yacht owners,” said Todd Turrell, principal of marine, environmental and coastal engineering firm Turrell, Hall & Associates. “The Marina Residences at Albany are a wonderful complement to this already majestic harbor.”

Jointly owned by Tavistock Group, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els, Albany is becoming recognized as the ultimate yachtsman’s retreat highlighted by a modern mega-yacht marina, Ernie Els championship golf course, a luxury boutique hotel, a fitness center and spa, an adult pool and bar, a family water park, a kids’ clubhouse and casual and fine dining restaurants.

Albany Marina enjoys a prime location amidst The Bahamas’ 700 islands. Pristine beaches, world-class fishing destinations and an international airport lie minutes from Albany Marina.

ABOUT ALBANY – THE BAHAMAS
Albany, located in The Bahamas, is a luxury resort community jointly owned by Tavistock Group, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els. Opened in 2010, Albany is nestled along approximately 600 oceanfront acres on the southwestern end of New Providence and conveniently located seven minutes and five miles from Nassau’s international airport. Albany features an array of residential offerings and amenities for all members of the family, including a well-appointed boutique hotel, a 71-slip mega-yacht marina, an Ernie Els-designed golf course, a fitness center and spa, an adult pool and bar, a family water park, a kids’ clubhouse and casual and fine dining restaurants. Albany’s deep-water marina is being designed and built to aesthetically rival the great resort ports of the world. For more information, visit www.albanybahamas.com.

ABOUT TAVISTOCK GROUP
Tavistock Group is an international private investment organization founded by Joe Lewis. With investments in more than 200 companies across 15 countries, Tavistock Group’s investment portfolio includes: life sciences, sports teams and sporting events, manufacturing and distribution, oil, gas and energy, financial services, restaurants, commercial properties, private luxury residential properties, resort properties and master-planned real estate developments. For more information, visit www.tavistock.com.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., July 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Anguilla’s Hotel & Tourism Association signed an agreement with Regatta Travel Solutions to launch www.BookAnguilla.com, a new website which will allow consumers to book hotels and villas in Anguilla.  The project is the first in Anguilla that gives the hoteliers their own online distribution channel.  The booking engine is now live and has already generated bookings for participating hotels. Customers will also be able to access the new booking engine from the AHTA website, by visiting anguillahta.com.

"We are thrilled about adding Anguilla to our portfolio of Caribbean destinations," said Ashwin Kamlani, President of Regatta Travel Solutions.  "They really do have a unique product and we are looking forward to learning how use BookAnguilla.com to fill their rooms together with the hoteliers."

"After hearing from other destinations in the Caribbean about the success they have had with Regatta, we invited Mr. Kamlani to Anguilla to meet with us and our hotels," said Gilda Gumbs-Samuel, Executive Director of the Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association.  "The model is so simple, and makes perfect sense.  We love that it puts the control back in the hands of the hoteliers and produces real, measurable results.  We already have a few hotels that are live on the site and the others will certainly want to take advantage of this valuable tool."

About the Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association
First established in 1981 as a small organization representing the interest of a few of the island’s accommodation properties, the Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association AHTA is today recognized as Anguilla’s largest and oldest trade association with a growing membership representing all facets of Anguilla’s tourism industry.

About Regatta Travel Solutions Inc.
Regatta Travel Solutions provides specialized online booking technology and marketing tactics for DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations).  DMOs that use Regatta to book travel on their sites can increase demand for their destination, lower the cost paid by suppliers per booking, and increase membership and participation for their organizations.

Visit www.regattatravelsolutions.com for more details.  Regatta Travel Solutions is an Alliance Partner of DMAI.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., July 23, 2012¬ /PRNewswire/ — Cartan, one of the global leaders in sports travel, has announced the signing of BackJoy as an official sponsor of its hospitality house, Casa Cartan, in London. Casa Cartan is a facility for corporate clients to entertain their guests and affiliates, providing the opportunity to showcase their products and services while interacting with Athletes, their families and fellow worldwide visitors. Casa Cartan provides an intimate setting where sponsors get key interaction time with over 20,000 guests throughout the games.

BackJoy will be providing Posture+™ seat enhancements in the colors of client countries, and Relief™ units for Casa Cartan clients looking to give their backs a break during the games and on their travels home. Casa Cartan clients will be able to decorate their BackJoy products with an exclusive country flag Joybitz™ to show their patriotic spirit. Back Joy CEO, Bing Howenstein stated, "BackJoy is proud to provide Casa Cartan’s clients with the best and most posture perfect seats while in London. BackJoy products simply and mechanically tell the body to do the right thing; and Casa Cartan clients not only will use BackJoy in and around London, but they will have first class comfort when flying home after their trip." "We’re excited to have BackJoy as a partner for Casa Cartan. We’re delighted to offer our clients such an innovative product with so many benefits," says Cartan Vice President of Business Development, Daniel Gamba.

About Cartan:
Founded in 1899, Cartan is a travel company specializing in global sports marketing, sports travel, corporate hospitality and on-site event management. Cartan is the authorized ticket reseller in 40 countries for the London 2012 Olympics. Casa Cartan is Cartan’s official hospitality house for its National Olympic Committees, located at the Novotel City South Hotel in London from July 27th 2012 -August 12th 2012. Cartan is an authorized sub-agent of SportsMark in the USA for the sale of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Official Hospitality Programme. SportsMark is appointed as exclusive sales agent of Match Hospitality for the sale of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Official Hospitality Programme. Cartan is the exclusive agent in Honduras, El Salvador, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and the authorized agent in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay for the sale of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ Hospitality Programme. For more information on Cartan and Casa Cartan please visit www.cartanglobal.com

About BackJoy Orthotics, LLC:
Headquartered in Boulder, Colo., BackJoy’s mission is to change the way the world sits, stands and sleeps. Leveraging what experts (and moms) across the globe have known for years – that better posture prevents back pain – the company creates and distributes innovative solutions that enhance posture to relieve and prevent back pain in ways that produce positive, life-changing results so consumers can get back to the joy of living. For more information on BackJoy, visit www.backjoy.com.

For More Information please contact:
Cartan                               BackJoy
Dario Soto                           Trip Stern
[email protected]                    [email protected]
310-546-9662                         314-629-6600 or 303-747-3980

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Last week, Stephon Scott, of the On Deck Pub at the Tradewinds Hotel in Trinidad & Tobago, was announced as the 2012 DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Global Final held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120718/FL42274)

"We were truly impressed by Stephon’s performance in Brazil. He is the perfect embodiment of the passion, flare and zest that represents Trinidad & Tobago so well, and we are delighted to call him the 2012 DIAGEO RESERVE WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year for our region," said Randy Millian, President, DIAGEO Latin America and the Caribbean. "As Latin Americans continue to embrace the cocktail culture, DIAGEO remains committed to growing local talent like Stephon and further establishing bartending as a serious profession."

15,000 bartenders from 50 countries have shaken, stirred and poured their way through national heats, until only the most talented remained to compete over the final four days of WORLD CLASS challenges. Throughout the Global Final, competitors used the luxury spirits from the DIAGEO RESERVE portfolio – KETEL ONE®, CIROC®, TANQUERAY® No.TEN™, DON JULIO®, ZACAPA®, JOHNNIE WALKER® Gold Label™ and JOHNNIE WALKER® Blue Label™ – in WORLD CLASS challenges, testing their ingenuity, skill and knowledge.

This year’s finale featured eight distinct challenges – Tropical Journey, Hollywood-Bollywood-Hong Kong, Cocktail Mastery, Retro Chic, Food Matching, Rio Street Market, Cocktails Against the Clock, and Signature Specials – which were judged by eight internationally renowned bartending experts and industry gurus, including: Arturo Savage, Aristolis Papadopoulos, Steve Olsen, Salvatore Calabrese, Peter Dorelli, Gary Regan, Hidetsugu Ueno and Daniel Estremadoyro.

"It has been an honor to participate in this event and to be judged by some of the most recognized names in the industry," said Scott. "I can’t wait to take home some of the flavors, skills and trends I have seen over the past week in Brazil and introduce them to my fellow bartenders and clientele."

For Scott, bartending is a passion which he has pursued from the time he first entered the industry in 2006. Since that time, he has made his way up the bartending ranks, with the hopes of one day owning his own cocktail lounge and being an inspiration to others in the field.

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla., June 28, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show will take place in Curacao, October 1-5, 2012, where cruise executives from the FCCA Member Lines will gather to share ideas and discuss industry trends. Executives from the FCCA Member Lines will participate in a series of round table discussions along with the CEO’s who will offer an overview of their lines’ present and future.

The FCCA will pre-set meetings with select cruise executives on a one-on-one basis for pre-registered delegates registered and paid before August 31, offering a unique opportunity to meet with and promote your destination, tour, venue, product, etc. to the decision makers in the cruise industry.

Highlighted attention on the trade show floor will provide a steady flow of attendees to gain the attention of the cruise executives and industry partners. With expanded number of booths and special destination pavilion options, this will be the perfect way to showcase destinations as a team – from vendors who want to sell their products to the lines to tour and port operators, it gives a chance to showcase a destination that wants to display its entire product and make the greatest impact at the FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show.

The annual golf tournament has become an important resource for meeting top executives in an exclusive casual atmosphere, allowing attendees to play in a foursome hosted by a Cruise Executive and contribute to a worthy cause, the FCCA Foundation.

For more information on the FCCA Conference & Trade Show, please contact Terri Cannici at (954) 441-8881 or tcannici (at) f-cca.com.

About the FCCA

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) is a not-for-profit trade organization composed of 14 Member Lines: AIDA Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Seabourn. It was created in 1972 by the Member Lines operating more than 100 vessels in Florida, Caribbean and Latin American waters, in order to discuss and exchange views on issues relating to: tourism development, ports, safety, security and other cruise industry issues. For more information, visit www.f-cca.com, the FCCA on Facebook, and @FCCAupdates on Twitter.

Service between St. Croix and Vieques returns on July 1, 2012

HYANNIS, Mass., June 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Cape Air’s Caribbean presence has expanded with the start of service between St. Croix, USVI and Vieques, Puerto Rico. Cape Air will operate daily service between the destinations. Fares for flights start at $70 each way.

Schedule Effective July 1, 2012

Dep. STX Arr. VQS Freq. Dep. VQS Arr. STX Frequency
——– ——– —– ——– ——– ———
9:40 am  10:03 am Daily 10:25 am 10:48 am           Daily
——-  ——– —– ——– ——–           —–
Originally, the service, which ran from December 11, 2011 through May 7, 2012, was slated to be seasonal only. The decision to connect these two islands with daily flight service on a year-round basis was made after consideration of customer feedback, as well as requests from government and tourism leaders on St. Croix and Vieques. Cape Air’s Vice President of Planning, Andrew Bonney, said, “As both Vieques and St. Croix continue to grow as not only tourist destinations, but also commerce centers, we realized that providing inter-island service would benefit travelers and locals alike. It is important for us to be able to listen to the suggestions of our passengers, and respond quickly to meet those needs.”

Senator Alicia “Chucky” Hansen, a Member of the 29th Legislature of the US Virgin Islands, was instrumental by offering encouragement for the return of the daily service. Senator Hansen adds, “Cape Air showed their respect for the people of the Virgin Islands and Vieques with their quick response to my request to continue flights between St. Croix and Vieques.  We are proud to have Cape Air as a good corporate partner to the Virgin Islands Government and the people of the Virgin Islands.”

About Cape Air:

Now in its 23rd year, Cape Air is one of the largest independent regional airlines in the United States annually flying over 650,000 passengers to destinations around the world including New England, New York, the Caribbean, Florida, the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest and Micronesia. With a fleet of seventy Cessna 402s and two ATR-42s, the employee-owned company operates up to 600 flights per day. Based in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Cape Air also operates flights under the Nantucket Airlines brand.  Cape Air is a codeshare partner with United Airlines in the Caribbean and American Airlines in the Midwest.  In Micronesia Cape Air operates as United Express.  In addition, Cape Air has ticket and baggage agreements with most major airlines.  Cape Air’s unique brand of customer service, MOCHA HAGoTDI,* has earned the airline accolades as ‘Best Airline’ on Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and in the United States Virgin Islands. The airline has been recognized for outstanding philanthropy in the communities it serves and Cape Air Founder and CEO Dan Wolf was recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year™ Award.

* Make our Customers Happy and Have a Good Time Doing It

Reservations for travel between St. Croix and Vieques can be made by calling:
866-CAPE-AIR or by booking online at www.capeair.com .

KINGSTON, Jamaica, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Balbour & Pino Realtors Ltd. officially launches operations as of May 1, 2012. Balbour & Pino Realtors Ltd., a closely held company specializing in brokerage, advisory, marketing, and relocation services, launched on the island of Jamaica.

Mr. Richard Pino, Chief Financial Officer and Real Estate Broker in New York City, saw an opportunity to extend his international client base by forming Balbour & Pino Realtors, Ltd., and assuming the role of Managing Director. Mr. Pino’s international client base emanates from Brazil, China, Croatia, Italy, New York, and Switzerland.

His commitment to ethics and customer service has always been the core of his business philosophy. With the formation of Balbour & Pino, Mr. Pino brings the same business professionalism to Jamaica.

Balbour & Pino Realtors currently has offices in Kingston and New York City.

Balbour & Pino Realtors, Ltd. is registered with the Real Estate Board of Jamaica and the Realtors Association of Jamaica.

About Balbour & Pino Realtors, Ltd.

Balbour & Pino Realtors, Ltd. is a full-service real estate firm providing brokerage, advisory, marketing, and relocation services on the island of Jamaica. Headquartered in Kingston, Balbour & Pino Realtors is a boutique firm with international reach. Balbour & Pino offers comprehensive real estate services to its clients across the island and from aboard for its international investors.

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, May 4, 2012: The momentum is building to the most talked about Caribbean investment forum that brings together ministers of government with investors in New York City, the investment capital of the world.

Invest Caribbean Now 2012, which will honour world renowned business leader, Sir Richard Branson, is now just 33 days away and tickets are in going fast for the June 6, 2012 emerging market meeting, set for 7:30 to 10 a.m. at the Marquis Ballroom of the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square, organizers say.

The power forum, a partnership between the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the regional tourism arm and digital media company, Hard Beat Communications, will see panellists addressing the question: “Is The Caribbean, The Next China, India Or Brazil?”

Invest Caribbean Now comes as Chinese investment in the Caribbean continues to boom in this free trade region that is politically stable and boosts attractive tax incentives, a highly literate work force and an established tourism market, and which the International Monetary Fund and World Bank forecast will see a 3.5 percent growth into 2013, higher than those of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and similar to those of East Asia.

“If you are  a private equity investor, investment banker, financier, real estate developer, hotel chain executive, lawyers, architect or entrepreneur, looking to grow your money and do business in an emerging market that is on the up and up, then this is a can’t miss event,” said Felicia Persaud, co-convener of Invest Caribbean Now and CEO of Hard Beat. “To book last minute seats to the event log on now to InvestCaribbeanNow.com.”

Panellists for the annual power forum this June include feature Chairman of Blue Equity, Jonathan Blue; President and co-founder of Solamon Energy Corp, Jay Yeo and Lisa Lake, the chief development director of the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship – Caribbean; Hon. Ricky Skerritt, chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Minister of Tourism & International Transport of St. Kitts & Nevis and an official of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration.

Blue, who already invests in the Caribbean, commented: “Our initial entry in the Caribbean market has led us to more progressive and larger scale opportunities in which we are investing or are continuing to evaluate.  We look forward to expanding our Caribbean presence in the very near future.”

“The Caribbean region is rich in entrepreneurial spirit and in opportunities to grow the economy. Tourism has sustained this region for many years. We now need to develop and add diversity to the market by investing in the skills of entrepreneurs in the Caribbean and to help them scale their businesses and employ people while to competing in a global market,”    Lake added.

The forum will also include an interactive question and answer segment as well as a one hour match making/networking session to allow for attendees to do business.

For exhibitor and additional sponsorship opportunities email Joe Bernstein at [email protected].

Invest Caribbean Now 2012 sponsors include La Chambre Consulaire Interprofessionnelle de Saint-Martin, (CCISM) and One Caribbean Television while supporting sponsors are the PR Newswire, WSEE TV, CaribPR Wire, News Americas Now, Damoola Inc., The Museum of American Finance and The Affiliated Lawyers of the Americas.

Additional information on the event can be found at InvestCaribbeanNow.com, the event’s pages on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Invest-Caribbean/100002110419705 and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/InvestingCarib. When tweeting about this event, use #InvestCarib.

BANGALORE, India, May 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — It is a grandeur occasion for the Caribbean Hotel Tourism Association (CHTA) as it will mark its 50 glorious years in May 2012. The golden jubilee milestone in this region is being complimented by a extending a cloud based Hospitality Solution “Hotelogix” to CHTA members by HMS Infotech and Carbo TTC. They will be able to offer a “member to member” discount to the 700 + hotels, which are a member of CHTA to pave its way to the glorious 50. Carbo TTC is the business partner of Hotelogix in the Caribbean.

“On this golden occasion Hotelogix wants to extend CHTA its world class cloud based Hotel Platform. I believe this can significantly help CHTA members to see the positive impacts of cloud system in hospitality business. With this Hotelogix aims to help CHTA member hotels in fostering excellence in hotel operations, and at same time help hotels increase revenues by providing online connectivity and global exposure, Hotelogix has extended CHTA members a free full system trial for two weeks and a discounted subscription,” says Deepak Chauhan, Director Products, Hotelogix.

Hotelogix, is the leading cloud-based SAAS (Software as a Service) offering for the small and mid-sized hospitality industry, it is easy-to-adapt and very cost efficient solution.

Hotelogix is a solution to help manage their operations in a simplified way, giving world class services. Offering customers a unified approach for their business needs like Reservations, Front-desk Operations, Housekeeping, Restaurants etc., the system further offers modules that let you extend your global reach and generate higher revenues from the online channels and stay integrated with the external stakeholders of their hospitality business.

About Carbo TTC:

Carbo Trust Trade Consultancy Ltd. is a multidisciplinary and result oriented advisory service dealing with strategy, marketing, business organization, interim management, and change project management in the hospitality industry. Carbo TTC, represent Hotelogix in Caribbean region and till date has successfully implemented solution in many properties.

About Hotelogix:

HMS Infotech was incorporated in 2008, and is headquartered at New Delhi NCR, India. Hotelogix (Hotelogix.com), by HMS Infotech, is an end-to-end cloud solution for small and mid-size hotel properties worldwide.

For offer details, visit: (CarboTTC) http://www.hotelogix.com/lpage/carbos.html

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Mar. 27, 2012: Caribbean nationals are being sought for one-on-one telephone interviews on medical tourism. The Caribbean nationals can either be resident in North America or the Caribbean and will be paid for their participation if selected.

Caribbean nationals in North America who may have traveled home to the Caribbean or Caribbean nationals who may have travelled to North America for cosmetic dentistry, plastic surgery, weight loss - gastric bypass/stomach stapling/LAP- band surgery, cataracts/refractive surgery/LASIK or joint replacement surgery or may be contemplating doing so, are being invited to be a part of the survey.

To qualify, you must be 18 years or older and have spent or be willing to spend $3,000 for the eye-related procedures and over US$5,000 on any of the other above mentioned procedures.  All information provided for the research will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Participants must have Internet access.

 Interested persons are asked to email [email protected].

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., March 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ –  In a joint effort, the Tobago Hotel & Tourism Association and the Tobago Tourism Board have both signed agreements with Regatta Travel Solutions.  Regatta’s booking engine solution coupled with online marketing strategy will attract online bookings to the tourism industry at a lower commission making each booking more profitable and allowing more revenue to stay in the destination.

“Tobago is an undiscovered paradise,” said Ashwin Kamlani, President of Regatta Travel Solutions.  “But it is a destination that should not be underestimated.  There is huge potential in Tobago and we are proud to be working with them to make their goals a reality.”

“We looked at all of our options,” said Duane Kenny, Chairman of Tobago’s Marketing Committee.  “Nobody brings the simplicity, experience, and level of knowledge that Regatta does.  Their business model is based on performance alone and that speaks volumes.”

About Regatta Travel Solutions Inc.

Regatta Travel Solutions provides specialized online booking technology and marketing tactics for DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations).  DMOs that use Regatta to book travel on their sites can increase demand for their destination, lower the cost paid by suppliers per booking, and increase membership and participation for their organizations. Visit www.regattatravelsolutions.com for more details.  Regatta Travel Solutions is an Alliance Partner of DMAI.