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MIAMI, April 6, 2023 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) announced that after an illustrious tenure at the helm of Celebrity Cruises, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will transition to Vice Chair, External Affairs for Royal Caribbean Group, effective May 1. In her new role, Lutoff-Perlo will continue reporting to Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty. Laura Hodges Bethge, currently executive vice president, shared services operations, will become the next brand president of Celebrity Cruises.

“Lisa has been instrumental in transforming the Celebrity Cruises brand to what it is today,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “From helping us introduce the revolutionary Edge Series of ships to advancing the role of women in maritime careers, Lisa has had an incredible career during her time leading Celebrity Cruises, and multiple parts of our Royal Caribbean International brand. I have had the pleasure of working with Lisa for almost 18 years, and I know her expertise will be invaluable as she transitions to serve as my Vice Chair, External Affairs.”

“It has always been difficult for me to imagine leaving the incredible Celebrity brand, but the time is right for me to start an exciting new chapter and turn the helm over to a new leader,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. “It has been my great honor to lead this brand and work alongside the phenomenal Celebrity shoreside team and crew. Together, our accomplishments have been extraordinary. I’m excited to now work closely with Jason on broader initiatives as we sail toward an even brighter future.”

Lutoff-Perlo’s remarkable career with Royal Caribbean Group began in 1985 with her first role as a district sales manager and she went on to trailblaze a legacy of firsts. Along the way, she also led Celebrity Cruises to record growth, revenue, and profit, and she championed the brand’s evolution into the incredible cruise line it is today. Under her leadership, Celebrity Cruises welcomed four new award-winning ships, and underwent the Celebrity Revolution, one of the largest fleet revitalization projects in the industry.

In 2005, Lutoff-Perlo became Celebrity’s first female senior vice president of hotel operations. In 2012, she was named executive vice president of operations for Royal Caribbean International, the first woman in the industry to oversee both hotel and marine operations. Two short years later, she was the first woman appointed to president and CEO of one of Royal Caribbean Group’s brands.

“I would also like to congratulate Laura for her appointment as the next brand president of Celebrity Cruises,” Liberty added. “With her operational experience, business acumen and deep understanding of our company and the cruise industry, I know Laura is the right person to lead Celebrity Cruises to its next phases of growth.”

Most recently serving as executive vice president, shared services operations, Laura Hodges Bethge has been with the company more than 23 years and has held senior positions in many different areas including product development, hotel and marine operations, sales, marketing, product innovation, market development and investor relations.

Hodges Bethge is an exemplary leader with a long history of success at the company. Previously, she was senior vice president of product development for Royal Caribbean International, and led the teams conceptualizing their groundbreaking ships, private island destinations, and new experiences introduced throughout the award-winning fleet, including the first island in Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Island Collection – Perfect Day at CocoCay.

“Now 15 ships strong, this is an exciting time for Celebrity Cruises,” said Laura Hodges Bethge. “This year alone, we’ll be welcoming Celebrity Ascent, and reaching key construction milestones in the yet-to-be-named fifth ship in the revolutionary Edge Series. I look forward to building on the incredible achievements of Lisa and this world class team, as we continue to break boundaries and chart new courses in the industry.”

For more information on Royal Caribbean Group’s executive leadership, please visit https://www.royalcaribbeangroup.com/about/.

About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is one of the leading cruise companies in the world with a global fleet of 64 ships traveling to approximately 1,000 destinations around the world. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three award-winning cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, and it is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, the brands have an additional 10 ships on order as of December 31, 2022. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

About Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of a fleet of 15 relaxed luxury resorts at sea taking guests to the world’s best places on the world’s best places. Celebrity revolutionized the industry with its cool, contemporary design and accommodation; dining, spa, and entertainment experiences for modern tastes; and culturally rich and diverse destination experiences, all complemented by warm, personalized service. Driven by wanderlust and a passion for opening the world, Celebrity journeys to all seven continents, visiting nearly 300 destinations in more than 70 countries. Celebrity Cruises is one of five cruise brands owned by global cruise company Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL). For more information about Celebrity Cruises, please visit www.celebrity.com.

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MIAMI, Feb. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) named Palle Laursen as executive vice president, head of marine, effective May 1, 2023. Laursen will report to Royal Caribbean Group’s President and CEO Jason Liberty and will join the company’s Executive Committee.

With this newly created position, the company will centralize its global and brand marine operations functions under Laursen. He will oversee all marine operations for the company’s entire fleet, as well as strategic oversight of marine operations of its TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, of which it’s a 50% joint-venture owner.

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome Palle Laursen to the Royal Caribbean Group,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Palle has had a long and distinguished career with Maersk and is a recognized leader in the maritime industry. With more than 25 years of experience, his direct technical and operational knowledge will serve our company well, especially as we continually work to decarbonize our business.”

Most recently, Laursen served as chief fleet and technical officer at A.P. Moller – Maersk and was responsible for its entire fleet of more than 750 container vessels, 400 chartered vessels and 350 owned vessels as well as chartering, technical management, crew management, safety and compliance, newbuilding activities and engineering services. He also led Maersk’s effort to have the entire fleet operating fully carbon neutral by 2040.

Having joined the Maersk Group in early 1998, Laursen has spent his entire professional career at the Danish shipping company. Previously, he was vice president and head of Ship Management and also held several other roles with increasing responsibilities, including head of technical services, ship engineering and technical vessel operations.

“This is an exciting time for the Royal Caribbean Group, and I very much look forward to helping the company deliver the best vacations in the world, responsibly,” said Palle Laursen. “I look forward to joining the most innovative team in the industry at Royal Caribbean Group and lead the marine team alongside a team committed to operational excellence, and environmental stewardship.”

Laursen graduated from the Svendborg International Maritime Academy in Denmark as a marine engineer and has since completed several executive and leadership development programs.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is one of the leading cruise companies in the world with a global fleet of 64 ships traveling to approximately 1,000 destinations around the world. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three award winning cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises and it is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, the brands have an additional 10 ships on order as of December 31, 2022. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

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CARIBPR WIRE, TORONTO, Oct. 12, 2022: Following the vibrant success of the Royalton CHIC Resorts concept in Cancun and Punta Cana, Blue Diamond Resorts is proud to announce the opening of Royalton CHIC Antigua in late 2023 on the idyllic Dickenson Bay Beach, Antigua.

This new 227 room five-star beachfront resort will bring a unique adults-only social vacation experience to this Caribbean region where singles, couples, friends and groups can party their way. Conveniently located only eighteen minutes from V. C. Bird International Airport, this completely renovated resort will be full of vivacious offerings making it the ultimate destination for adult getaways.

“Whether for relaxation or a lively luxury beach getaway, the Party Your Way concept that Royalton CHIC Antigua will bring to this region is unique within the All-Inclusive segment,” says Jordi Pelfort, President of Hotels and Resorts at Sunwing Travel Group. “We have been committed in delivering groundbreaking experiences to our guests and Royalton CHIC Antigua will be no exception. We are thrilled about what this new property will mean for Antigua, as well as the Caribbean region.”

Discerning travelers can expect day-to-night activities available such as themed pool parties and DJ sets, as well as a range of gourmet dining experiences including five fascinating bars with mixology and six reservation-free dining restaurants. Should guests choose to experience peak relaxation instead, Royalton CHIC Antigua will present multiple opportunities to satisfy that craving, including lounging beneath the sun, sipping handcrafted cocktails beside the serene beachfront pool, or getting pampered at Royalton CHIC’s world-class spa.

A distinct feature of this property will be an overwater themed restaurant, exclusive to Royalton CHIC Antigua. This restaurant will be constructed over the sea, providing guests with a diningtainment concept, a mix between entertainment and dining.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 45 properties, exceeding 18,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury^® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity™, DreamBed™, and the Sports Event Guarantee™. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you’re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing time with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star™ with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while Planet Hollywood Adult Scene will turn your adults-only vacation into the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com/

About Royalton CHIC Resorts

Royalton CHIC Resorts offers adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive experiences to Party Your Way and revel in the unexpected. Located in popular Caribbean destinations such as Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Cancun, Mexico, this new adults-only generation of all-inclusive concept delivers unprecedented experiences in which luxury and fun meet in each idyllic location. Choose between relaxing and treating yourself or partying and having fun, party your way.

Ideal for couples, groups, singles or friends, including modern rooms and suites featuring All-In Luxury™, the premium DreamBed™, a variety of culinary offerings, All-In Connectivity™ and exclusivity through the Diamond Club™ category. Guests can choose between relaxing and treating themselves in the spa or enjoy the resort’s unique events and theme parties at signature locations.

For more information about Royalton CHIC Resorts, visit www.royaltonresorts.com

El nuevo Royalton CHIC Resort abrirá en Antigua

CARIBPR WIRE, TORONTO, Oct. 12, 2022: Tras el vibrante éxito del concepto Royalton CHIC Resorts en Cancún y Punta Cana, Blue Diamond Resorts se enorgullece en anunciar la apertura de Royalton CHIC Antigua a finales de 2023 en la agradable playa de Dickenson Bay, Antigua.

Este nuevo resort de cinco estrellas frente a la playa de 227 habitaciones traerá una experiencia única de vacaciones sólo adultos a esta región del Caribe donde solteros, parejas, amigos y grupos pueden festejar a su manera. Convenientemente ubicado a sólo dieciocho minutos del Aeropuerto Internacional V. C. Bird en Antigua, este complejo completamente renovado estará lleno de opciones vibrantes que lo convertirán en el mejor destino para una escapada sólo para adultos.

“Ya sea para relajarse o para vacaciones llenas de energía en la playa, el concepto Party Your Way que Royalton CHIC Antigua traerá a esta región es único dentro del segmento Todo Incluido”, dice Jordi Pelfort, presidente de Hoteles y Resorts de Sunwing Travel Group. “Nos hemos comprometido a brindar experiencias innovadoras a nuestros huéspedes y Royalton CHIC Antigua no será la excepción. Estamos entusiasmados con lo que significará esta nueva propiedad para Antigua, así como para la región del Caribe”.

Los viajeros más exigentes podrán disfrutar actividades disponibles desde el día hasta la noche, como fiestas temáticas en la piscina y sets de DJ, así como una variedad de experiencias gastronómicas gourmet que incluyen cinco bares fascinantes con mixología de autor y seis restaurantes que combinan la mejor gastronomía local e internacional para cenar sin necesidad de hacer reservaciones. En caso de que los huéspedes elijan experimentar la máxima relajación, Royalton CHIC Antigua presentará múltiples oportunidades para satisfacer ese antojo, que incluyen descansar bajo el sol, saborear cócteles cuidadosamente preparados junto a la piscina frente a la playa o dejarse consentir en el spa de clase mundial de Royalton CHIC Resorts.

La característica distintiva de esta propiedad será un restaurante exclusivo de Royalton CHIC Antigua. Este restaurante se construirá sobre el hermoso azul mar caribe, brindando a los huéspedes el concepto de diningtainment, el cual mezcla el entretenimiento y la gastronomía.

Acerca de Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts cuenta con un portafolio de más de 45 propiedades, que superan las 18,000 habitaciones en 8 países ubicados en los destinos vacacionales más populares del Caribe. Sus 9 marcas hoteleras líderes comprenden al galardonado All-In Luxury^® Royalton Luxury Resorts, donde Todos son Familia. Sin importar si son vacaciones entre amigos, padres e hijos, parejas, bodas, retiros corporativos o de incentivos o viajeros solos, todos son familia en estas propiedades que ofrecen servicios personalizados y amenidades exclusivas, tales como All-In Connectivity™, DreamBed™ y Sports Event Guarantee™. Para reenfocarse en relaciones y amistades valiosas, Hideaway at Royalton ofrece una experiencia solo para adultos que incluye una exclusiva gastronomía y alojamiento preferencial para reforzar estar unido bajo el concepto Togetherness entre sus huéspedes. Disfrute a su manera en Royalton CHIC Resorts, una marca todo incluido que bajo su concepto “Party Your Way” brinda una vibrante y efervescente experiencia solo para adultos para deleitarse con lo inesperado. A Millas de lo Ordinario, Mystique by Royalton ofrece a los viajeros la oportunidad de conectarse con su entorno en una moderna colección de resorts estilo boutique que muestran una vibrante belleza infinita. En Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril promete a huéspedes mayores de 21 años, unas vacaciones únicas Completamente al Natural con todo incluido y acceso a una costa exclusiva para máxima privacidad. Memories Resorts & Spa diseña las mejores experiencias para vacaciones familiares, reunión de amigos o simplemente para relajarse en pareja, mientras que Starfish Resorts ofrece un valor increíble, un entorno impresionante y una rica cultura y herencia. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invita a los huéspedes a vacacionar como las estrellas con Vacation Like a Star™, una experiencia atractiva e interactiva con elementos famosos de la cultura pop de películas, música y deportes icónicos, mientras que Planet Hollywood Adult Scene convertirá sus vacaciones solo para adultos en el centro de la fascinación y la atención con glamour y exclusividad.

Para más información acerca de Blue Diamond Resorts, visite www.bluediamondresorts.com

Acerca de Royalton CHIC Resorts

Royalton CHIC Resorts ofrece experiencias vibrantes y efervescentes con todo incluido solo para adultos para festejar a tu manera y deleitarte con lo inesperado. Ubicado en populares destinos del Caribe como Punta Cana, República Dominicana y Cancún, México, esta nueva generación de todo incluido sólo-adultos ofrece experiencias sin precedentes en las que el lujo y la diversión se encuentran en cada lugar idílico. Elija entre relajarse y darse un capricho o salir de fiesta y divertirse, festeje a su manera.
Ideal para parejas, grupos, solteros o amigos, incluyendo las modernas habitaciones y suites All-In Luxury™, la cama premium DreamBed™, una variedad de ofertas culinarias, All-In Connectivity™ y exclusividad a través de la categoría Diamond Club™. Sus huéspedes pueden elegir entre desconectarse por completo y relajarse en el spa o disfrutar de únicos eventos y fiestas temáticas del resort en cada lugar insignia del hotel.

Para más información sobre Royalton CHIC Resorts, visite www.royaltonresorts.com/es

CaribPR Wire, TALLAHASSEE, Fla., July 17, 2020: After a temporary three-month closure, six of Blue Diamond Resorts’ luxurious properties in Mexico and Jamaica are now open. Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and local ministries of health, Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun, Mystique Holbox by Royalton, Royalton Negril Resort & Spa, Hideaway at Royalton Negril and Grand Lido Negril were pleased to welcome back guests on July 15^th.

In order to keep both guests and staff safe, Blue Diamond Resorts implemented an advanced safety program, approved by the Cristal International Safety Standards. The Safety-Assured Vacations protocols* include new physical distancing guidelines, advanced dining safety standards, amplified staff training programs and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), a 360º Clean Approach to sanitizing all resort common areas and Diamond Clean Guest Rooms, where all touchpoints are thoroughly disinfected.

“We are excited to welcome back guests to our award-winning resorts in Cancun, Isla Holbox and Negril. During our temporary closure we worked tirelessly to implement enhanced safety protocols and cleaning measures to prepare our resorts for reopening and assure guests that their health and safety is our number one priority,” commented Jordi Pelfort, President of Hotels and Resorts at Sunwing Travel Group.

To see a video of the first guests arriving at Royalton Riviera Cancun, please click here.

Guests who book an All-In Luxury™ vacation to Royalton Riviera Cancun, Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun, Royalton Negril or Hideaway at Royalton Negril by August 31^st can take advantage of an exclusive Welcome Back Offer with prices starting at $119 per person per night, up to 2 Kids Stay Free deals at family-friendly resorts, a Flexible Booking Policy and more. Travelers looking for a unique vacation can enjoy an elevated experience at Mystique Holbox by Royalton with a Welcome Back Offer starting at $195 per room, per night, 1 Kid Stays Free deals, complimentary 30-minute kayak rentals, $150 in resort credits and more.

*Click here for a full list of Safety-Assured Vacation protocols

About Blue Diamond Resorts
Since its inception in 2011, Blue Diamond Resorts has curated an impressive portfolio encompassing 47 properties, exceeding 15,500 rooms in ten countries. Taking a proactive approach to differentiating brands under each market’s demands, the resort management company caters to a range of budgets and interests from adult-only elegant getaways to fun-filled family vacations. Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts offers signature amenities including All-In Connectivity™, modern Sports Event Guarantee™ and in-suite wellness elements. Royalton Luxury Resorts’ adults-only sub-brands include Hideaway at Royalton, an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations, plus the stylish lifestyle resorts, Royalton CHIC, located in the Caribbean’s best beachfront locales. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril provides those over 21 with an upscale and luxurious naturist vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed to impress the entire family, featuring a popular kids club with famous themed characters, Toopy & Binoo™, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value for customers in convenient locations. Planet Hollywood Hotels and Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star™ with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music and sports. Mystique by Royalton, a boutique-style resort collection, offers personalized vacations in strikingly beautiful locals full of endless adventures.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com.

About Royalton Luxury Resorts
Epitomizing modern elegance, award-winning Royalton Luxury Resorts offer All-In Luxury® vacations in some of the world’s most popular tropical destinations including Antigua, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Saint Lucia, Mexico, Cuba and coming soon the spice island of the Caribbean, Grenada. Boasting an array of world-class all-inclusive features including the premium, handcrafted DreamBed™, unlimited reservation-free luxury dining, a Sports Event Guarantee™ and more. Many of the resorts cater equally to families and couples alike, with industry-leading supervised kids and teen activities offered at no additional cost combined with family-friendly accommodation and dining options.

To learn more about Royalton Luxury Resorts, please visit www.royaltonresorts.com/royalton.

About Mystique by Royalton
Mystique by Royalton is a boutique-style resort collection that offers personalized experiences in strikingly beautiful places. Contemporary, luxurious and exquisite, Mystique by Royalton are firmly rooted in some of the world’s most vibrant destinations and positioned to attract luxury travelers seeking to explore their surroundings. With two stunning resorts located on Mexico’s Isla Holbox Island and Saint Lucia’s beautiful Rodney Bay, Mystique Holbox by Royalton and Mystique St. Lucia by Royalton are ideal for both families and couples alike, with their upscale amenities, unparalleled service and unique beachfront settings.

To learn more about Mystique by Royalton, please visit www.mystiqueresorts.com.

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/21c1412b-a5fe-4cb5-ad06-ce8705badf52

CaribPR Wire, TALLAHASSEE, Fla., May 13, 2020: Blue Diamond Resorts prepares to welcome guests back to its resorts with enhanced health, safety and cleanliness programs, brand-wide. The resort management group’s Safety-Assured Vacations protocols will be implemented at each of Blue Diamond’s 47 properties across the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico.

Advanced sanitation measures, new physical distancing guidelines, a 360º Clean Approach and an International Safety Assurance Team are in place to prioritize well-being across every area and touchpoint of Blue Diamond Resorts properties. To help protect both guests and staff members, the new and enhanced Safety-Assured Vacations protocols will adhere to the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as the local and national Ministries of Health.

“As the countries which our resorts call home begin to re-open, we want to ensure our guests feel safe and cared for when choosing to stay at a Blue Diamond property,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Hotels and Resorts at Sunwing Travel Group. “By heightening our industry-leading sanitation practices, we will continue to guarantee luxurious, relaxing and Safety-Assured Vacations for all of our valued guests.”

The Safety-Assured Vacations program includes:

• Safe Vacation Assurance: In accordance with international health standards, including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and local/ national Ministries of Health, a Safety-Assurance Team is in position to ensure the strict adherence of all guidelines and comprehensive implementation of sanitation, physical distancing and cleaning protocols to protect guests and employees alike.
• 360º Clean Approach: All resort common areas including pools, beaches, restaurants, bars, entertainment facilities, lobbies, elevators, hallways and other shared spaces will be cleaned hourly. All high-touch surfaces, including general transportation units like golf carts and luggage trolleys, will continuously be sanitized throughout the day, plus fitness center equipment and spa facilities will be sanitized after each use. Blue Diamond is also increasing the daily frequency of cleaning and disinfection procedures for air-conditioning systems of both common areas and guest rooms.
• Family-First Promise: A superior cleaning and disinfection program for kids and teens club’s facilities and equipment has been implemented, in addition to child-friendly signage and physical distancing measures to ensure a safe environment for little ones, tweens and teens.
• Advanced Dining Safety: All restaurants have reduced capacity and implemented a one-step reservation system to ensure physical distancing guidelines are respected. Further changes include removal of unnecessary items on tables to avoid cross-contamination, elimination of physical menus, the introduction of digital screens to display menu information and physical distancing guidelines at pool bars.
• Diamond Clean Guest Rooms: Each housekeeping team will thoroughly clean guest rooms from the inside out, with advanced-grade disinfection products to eliminate emerging viral pathogens. Each touchpoint in a guests’ room will be deep cleaned including remote controls, doorknobs, hairdryers, closet doors, thermostats, lamps, telephones, water faucets and toilet handles. All non-essential amenities will be removed and new in-room hygiene kits with personal-size hand sanitizers, masks, gloves and other safety essentials will be places in rooms. Room service procedures have been updated to ensure safe and distant delivery, as well as the process to replenish mini-fridges and other guest room items to limit additional entry.
• Physical Distancing and Protection: To provide Safety-Assured Vacations, signage and informative messages will be displayed throughout the common areas and in-room TVs to reinforce the importance of following recommendations. To maintain physical distancing protocols, floor markers will be placed around the resort’s common areas, the furniture will be rearranged in common areas, including restaurants, theaters, pool areas, beaches and lobbies. All indoor guest facilities will reduce the capacity to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for both guests and employees. In addition, hand sanitizer dispensers will be available throughout each resort to encourage guests to sanitize their hands regularly.
• Staff Care, Training and Awareness: Blue Diamond upholds its employees to the highest standards of health and safety. All staff members are trained and empowered to keep safe, take care and be smart while delivering Safety-Assured Vacations. Strict hygiene protocols for resort staff will continue to be enforced, including a thorough cleaning and sanitation process at all staff entrances, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigorous and frequent hand cleaning with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, daily health and temperature checks at the beginning of every shift and the practicing of physical distancing rules.
• Clean Supplier Commitment: To safeguard their promise to guests, Blue Diamond has put into place agreements with various suppliers and partners to ensure they operate in accordance with the new regulations for the products or services which they provide.

For more information on Blue Diamond’s Safety-Assured Vacations, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com/covid-19.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Since its inception in 2011, Blue Diamond Resorts has curated an impressive portfolio encompassing 47 properties, exceeding 15,500 rooms in ten countries. Taking a proactive approach to differentiating brands under each market’s demands, the resort management company caters to a range of budgets and interests from adult-only elegant getaways to fun-filled family vacations. Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts offers signature amenities including All-In Connectivity™, modern Sports Event Guarantee™ and in-suite wellness elements. Royalton Luxury Resorts’ adults-only sub-brands include Hideaway at Royalton, an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations, plus the stylish All Exclusive™ CHIC by Royalton. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril provides those over 21 with an upscale and luxurious naturist vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed to impress the entire family, featuring on-site splash parks and a popular kids club with famous themed characters, Toopy & Binoo™, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value for customers in convenient locations. Planet Hollywood Hotels and Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star™ with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from movies, music and sports. Mystique Resorts, a boutique-style resort collection, offers personalized vacations in strikingly beautiful locals full of endless adventures.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com.

Blue Diamond Resorts implementa nuevos protocolos para unas Vacaciones con Seguridad Garantizada

CaribPR Wire, TALLAHASSEE, Fla., May 13, 2020:  Blue Diamond Resorts se prepara para dar la bienvenida a los huéspedes a sus resorts con nuevos y mejorados programas de salud, seguridad y limpieza en todas sus marcas. Los protocolos para unas Vacaciones con Seguridad Garantizada se implementarán en cada una de las 47 propiedades de Blue Diamond en el Caribe, América Central y México.

Se instaurarán medidas avanzadas de saneamiento, nuevas pautas de distanciamiento social, limpieza con enfoque de 360º y un equipo corporativo internacional que garantizará la seguridad para priorizar el bienestar en todas las áreas y puntos de contacto de las propiedades de Blue Diamond Resorts. Para ayudar a proteger tanto a los huéspedes como a los miembros del personal, los nuevos y mejorados protocolos de Vacaciones con Seguridad Garantizada se adherirán a las pautas de los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades (CDC) y la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), así como a los Ministerios de Salud locales y nacionales.

“A medida que los países a los que nuestros resorts llaman hogar comiencen a reabrir sus fronteras, nos aseguraremos de que nuestros huéspedes se sientan seguros y atendidos al elegir hospedarse en una propiedad de Blue Diamond”, dijo Jordi Pelfort, Presidente de Hoteles y Resorts en Sunwing Travel Group. “Mejorando nuestras prácticas de saneamiento y limpieza seguiremos brindando a todos nuestros apreciados huéspedes unas vacaciones lujosas y relajantes con Seguridad Garantizada”.

Los nuevos procedimientos implementados incluyen las siguientes áreas de acción:

• Vacaciones con seguridad garantizada: Se instauró un equipo especial que se asegurará del estricto cumplimiento de todas las pautas establecidas y la exhaustiva implementación de protocolos de desinfección, distanciamiento social y limpieza para proteger a huéspedes y empleados por igual, conforme a las normas de salud dadas por instituciones internacionales incluyendo los Centros para el Control y Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC), la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) y los Ministerios de Salud locales y nacionales de cada uno de los países en los que Blue Diamond opera.
• Limpieza 360°: Todas las zonas comunes de los resorts, incluyendo piscinas, playas, restaurantes, bares, instalaciones de entretenimiento, vestíbulos, ascensores, pasillos y otros espacios comunes alrededor del complejo se limpiarán cada hora. Todas las superficies de alto contacto incluyendo todas las unidades de transporte general, como carritos de golf y carritos para el transporte de maletas, serán desinfectadas continuamente a lo largo del día. Además, el equipamiento tanto en gimnasios como en el spa será desinfectado tras cada uso. Blue Diamond también ha aumentado la frecuencia diaria de limpieza y desinfección en los sistemas de aire acondicionado, tanto de las áreas comunes como de las habitaciones de los huéspedes.
• Promesa “la familia es lo primero” : Se ha instaurado un programa superior de limpieza y desinfección para las instalaciones y equipamiento de los clubes de niños y adolescentes, además de la inclusión de nueva señalización adaptada a niños, incluyendo medidas de distanciamiento social para garantizar un ambiente limpio y seguro para niños pequeños, preadolescentes y adolescentes
• Seguridad culinaria avanzada: se redujeron los aforos de los lugares de consumos y se implementó un sencillo sistema de reserva para garantizar que las normas de distanciamiento social se respeten adecuadamente. Otros cambios incluyen la eliminación de todos los elementos innecesarios en las mesas para evitar contaminación cruzada, eliminación de menús físicos e introducción de pantallas digitales para mostrar la información del menú y las pautas a seguir de distanciamiento social en los bares de piscina.
• Limpieza Diamond en las habitaciones: Los equipos de ama de llaves limpiarán y desinfectarán cada rincón de las habitaciones, trabajando desde adentro hacia afuera, con productos altamente concentrados en desinfectantes que eliminan agentes patógenos víricos emergentes. Todos los potenciales puntos de contacto en las habitaciones de los clientes serán rigurosamente desinfectados incluyendo controles remotos, pomos de puertas, secadores de pelo, puertas de armarios y cajones, termostatos, lámparas, teléfonos, manijas de descarga de los inodoros y manijas de grifo de agua. Se eliminarán todos los elementos no esenciales de las habitaciones y se incluirán nuevos kits de higiene con gel desinfectante para las manos, mascarillas y guantes entre otros elementos esenciales de seguridad y sanidad. Se han mejorado los procesos de servicio de habitaciones para garantizar seguridad y distancia durante la entrega de productos, así como el proceso de reposición de minibares y otros artículos en las habitaciones para limitar las entradas adicionales a la habitación.
• Distanciamiento social y protección: Con el fin de garantizar unas vacaciones seguras, se colocarán nueva señalética y mensajes informativos en las televisiones de las áreas comunes y habitaciones para reforzar la importancia de seguir las recomendaciones.  Para mantener las pautas de distanciamiento social, se colocarán marcadores en el suelo de los resorts, se reorganizarán los muebles en las zonas comunes, incluyendo restaurantes, teatros, áreas de piscinas, playas y vestíbulos. Las instalaciones interiores tendrán capacidades reducidas para mantener un ambiente seguro y agradable tanto para huéspedes como para empleados. Adicionalmente, se agregarán dispensadores de desinfectante para manos alrededor de los resorts para animar a los huéspedes a que se desinfecten las manos con regularidad.
• Cuidado del personal, educación y conciencia: Los empleados de Blue Diamond mantienen los más altos estándares de salud y seguridad. Todos los miembros del personal están entrenados y capacitados para mantener la seguridad y el cuidado de los huéspedes mientras brindan unas experiencias vacacionales con seguridad garantizada. Se seguirán aplicando estrictos protocolos de higiene para el personal del resort, incluyendo la implementación de procesos de limpieza y saneamiento exhaustivos en la entrada del personal desinfectando desde manos hasta calzado, el uso de equipos de protección personal (EPP) como guantes y máscaras, lavado de manos de forma rigurosa y frecuente con desinfectante a base de alcohol, controles de salud diarios al inicio de cada turno, así como el cumplimiento de las reglas de distanciamiento social.
• Proveedores comprometidos: Para mantener su promesa más allá de sus puertas, Blue Diamond ha establecido acuerdos con sus diversos proveedores y socios, asegurándose que operen siguiendo las nuevas regulaciones en su elaboración de productos o brindando sus servicios.

Para obtener más información sobre las Vacaciones con Seguridad Garantizadas de Blue Diamond, visite www.bluediamondresorts.com/covid-19.

Acerca de Blue Diamond Resorts

Desde su inauguración en 2011, Blue Diamond Resorts ha crecido exitosamente hasta convertirse en la empresa de complejos hoteleros de más rápido crecimiento en el Caribe, con 47 propiedades que sobrepasan las 15 500 habitaciones en 10 países. Con un enfoque innovador para diferenciar marcas según las demandas específicas de cada mercado, la cartera de Blue Diamond Resorts es más impresionante que nunca. Los galardonados resorts de lujo Royalton Luxury Resorts rediseñan la experiencia todo incluido al ofrecer comodidades exclusivas que incluyen All-In Connectivity™, el moderno concepto de Sports Event Guarantee™ y elementos de bienestar en la suite. Las submarcas de Royalton solo para adultos incluyen Hideaway at Royalton, el cual ofrece gastronomía exclusiva y alojamiento preferencial con acceso a todos los servicios y comodidades del cercano Royalton; y el elegante All-Exclusive™ CHIC by Royalton, una experiencia vacacional dinámica y social con comodidades de lujo y opciones gastronómicas de alta calidad. En Jamaica, se restauró el Grand Lido Negril para brindar unas vacaciones naturistas lujosas y elegantes a lo largo de una exclusiva playa y ser un refugio privado único. Memories Resorts & Spa brinda una experiencia que complace a toda la familia, y Starfish Resorts ofrece un valor increíble en ubicaciones exóticas con alojamiento cómodo. Planet Hollywood Hotels and Resorts invita a los huéspedes a Vacation Like A Star ™ con una experiencia atractiva e interactiva, además de artículos famosos de la cultura pop de películas, música y deportes. Mystique Resorts, una colección de resort de estilo boutique, ofrece vacaciones personalizadas en lugares sorprendentemente hermosos llenos de aventuras sin fin.

CaribPR Wire, MIAMI, Oct. 30, 2017 — As a leading investor in innovative hospitality solutions Cable & Wireless Business brought its technological expertise to bear in the recent regional discussions at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), in Grenada. C&W Business showcased its new cutting edge integrated Hospitality Solution aimed at making the Caribbean hospitality sector more globally competitive to meets the demands of the “connected guest.”

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9025254d-2db9-44d6-9576-11b905dec519

Regional Sales Director at C&W Business, Juan Bailey said, “We are proud supporters of the Caribbean Tourism sector who are catering to the exacting standards of the next generation of “explorers” who have a strong focus on staying connected no matter where they are. Now more than ever, today’s ‘connected guests’ expect no less than world-class technology experiences during their stays. So we have partnered with the Caribbean Tourism Organization and SOTIC in the ongoing dialogue across the region to deliver the necessary technological solutions to enable property owners of all sizes to compete and win.” Click here to view video clip: Juan Bailey discussing new cell tower infrastructure designed to withstand Category 5 Hurricane winds with CTO, Secretary General Hugh Riley at SOTIC 2017.

C&W Business, who were also gold sponsors of the event also used the opportunity to speak about supporting the region during the hurricane season.  In the “Re-build & Recover” panel discussion at the Conference, Bailey highlighted the resilience of the company’s network which was put to the test during the most recent Category 5 Hurricanes. Our networks proved very resilient during the passage of the storm, and at times we were the only network operating in some of the impacted territories.  In the panel discussion on “Spicing up the Caribbean Brand”, Regional Communications Manager, Sheldon Keens-Douglas identified “three key areas that must form a part of any brand re-vitalization discussion – “Differentiation, Innovation and Creation”. Keens-Douglas who has also held Regional Marketing and Brand positions within Cable & Wireless and was part of the team responsible for rolling out the Company’s new consumer brand – Flow – across the region in 2016 which involved the complex task of retiring our legacy brands while simultaneously introducing a newly refreshed brand that represented the combined corporate entities across 14 markets.

The 2017 SOTIC was held under the theme Super-charging the Brand: Meeting the Needs of the New Explorers, and is the preeminent educational forum for Caribbean hospitality and tourism professionals.

C&W Business is a Gold Sponsor of SOTIC and hosted the Ministerial Luncheon.

About C&W Communications

C&W is a full service communications and entertainment provider and delivers market-leading video, broadband, telephony and mobile services to consumers in 18 countries. Through its business division, C&W provides data center hosting, domestic and international managed network services, and customized IT service solutions, utilizing cloud technology to serve business and government customers. C&W also operates a state-of-the-art submarine fiber network – the most extensive in the region.

Learn more at www.cwc.com, or follow C&W on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

About Liberty Global
Liberty Global is the world’s largest international TV and broadband company, with operations in more than 30 countries across Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Liberty Global invests in the infrastructure that empowers its customers to make the most of the digital revolution. Liberty Global’s scale and commitment to innovation enables it to develop market-leading products delivered through next-generation networks that connect its 25 million customers who subscribe to 51 million television, broadband internet and telephony services. Liberty Global also serves over 10 million mobile subscribers and offers WiFi service across 10 million access points.

Liberty Global’s businesses are comprised of two stocks: the Liberty Global Group (NASDAQ:LBTYA) (NASDAQ:LBTYB) and (NASDAQ:LBTYK) for its European operations, and the LiLAC Group (NASDAQ:LILA) and (NASDAQ:LILAK) (OTC Link:LILAB), which consists of its operations in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Liberty Global Group operates in 12 European countries under the consumer brands Virgin Media, Ziggo, Unitymedia, Telenet and UPC. The Liberty Global Group also owns 50% of VodafoneZiggo, a Dutch joint venture, which has 4 million customers, 10 million fixed-line subscribers and 5 million mobile subscribers. The LiLAC Group operates in over 20 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean under the consumer brands VTR, Flow, Liberty, Mas Movil and BTC. In addition, the LiLAC Group operates a subsea fiber network throughout the region in over 40 markets.

For more information, please visit www.libertyglobal.com

TORONTO, May 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – This September, Caribbean Pride 2017 will take over CHIC Punta Cana from September 16 to 23, for a week-long celebration of pride, diversity and community. With Punta Cana’s sexiest and most luxurious all-inclusive resort as the venue, this event will be filled with fun activities, tons of entertainment including international DJs and drag performances, and sets the standard for future Caribbean Pride Weeks all through the tropics.

“We are proud to join in the annual pride celebrations that take place all around the world,” said Jordi Pelfort, Managing Director. “It’s the perfect time for us to show the global LGBT community we’re standing alongside them, and we want to give everyone a welcoming and inclusive experience.”

Caribbean Pride 2017 is the first of its kind from resort management company, Blue Diamond Resorts. The vision of the event is to create a welcome experience for members of the LGBT community, complete with luxurious first-class accommodations, premium drinks and gourmet dining. CHIC Punta Cana is the ideal venue for an inaugural celebration with such fearless high energy, as a resort that captures the poolside atmosphere and luxury offerings of famed hot spots such as Vegas and South Beach.

“We can’t think of a better way to show we’re proud than throwing a seven-day celebration!” said Christine Jamieson, Corporate Director of Marketing. “We’re planning a lively event with plenty of special guests from around the world including legendary drag queens, days full of campy fun, exclusive excursions and light-hearted celebration from sunup to sundown.”

Visit CaribbeanPride.com to book your fun, sexy, fearless and PROUD vacation today!

About Blue Diamond Resorts
Since inception in 2011, Blue Diamond Resorts has risen to become the Caribbean’s fastest growing resort company with 32 properties exceeding 13,500 rooms in six countries. Taking an innovative approach to differentiating brands under each market’s demands, Blue Diamond Resorts’ ever-expanding portfolio is more impressive than ever.  Award-winning All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts offer signature amenities including All-In Connectivity™, modern Sports Event Guarantee™ and in-suite wellness elements such as the exclusive handcrafted DreamBed™.  Royalton Luxury Resorts’ adults-only sub-brands include Hideaway at Royalton, an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations with access to the services and facilities at a nearby Royalton Luxury Resort, plus the stylish All Exclusive™ CHIC by Royalton, a social vacation experience with around-the-clock luxury amenities. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril has been revived to provide those over 21 an upscale and elegant naturist vacation along an exclusive shore for the ultimate in privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa is an experience designed to impress the entire family featuring on-site splash parks, a popular kids club with famous themed characters Toopy & Binoo™, and an innovative teen’s lounge. Adults-only concepts from Memories Resorts include Sanctuary inside of Grand Memories and Memories Caribe, a beachfront paradise in Cayo Coco. Starfish Resorts are solely found in Cuba and offer amazing value for customers with convenient locations and comfortable accommodations.

GREENSBORO, N.C., June 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ – On June 27^th 2015 Dynamic International Airways will be celebrating its first anniversary since entering Guyana market.

http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnvar/20140618/119429

After our initial bumpy start, Dynamic International Airways was been able to accomplish its goal in establishing itself as the preferred carrier of Guyanese. We have proven sustainability of air service between United States and Guyana as well as progressively increased our customer service levels.

Since inauguration, Dynamic International Airways has been able to expand its non-stop service between New York, NY and Georgetown, Guyana. Service started initially two times per week and expanded to five times per week this coming high season while still keeping its pricing low and affordable for Guyanese and members of Guyanese ethnic in New York.

“Our goal in the first year of service was to establish ourselves as the preferred carrier of Guyanese.  We achieved this by maintaining the highest safety records, delivering the most desirable schedule, and reached highest on time performance standards as well as exemplary customer service. Our goal for the immediate future is to build upon that momentum and expand our non-stop JFK to GEO service by operating daily frequency.  Most importantly continue raising the bar in our safety, reliability, and customer service standards,” said Bill Grey CSO of the company.

“We believe that our coming daily service from Georgetown to New York combined with non-stop service from Georgetown to Toronto, which we intend to start in October of this year, will allow us to provide Guyanese with safe, reliable and affordable service into two of their favorite international destinations. As you probably already know we have directly and indirectly created over 150 new jobs in Guyana with our service to New York by hiring Guyanese based Flight Attendants, local ground handlers, catering providers and we expect a similar positive impact with the launch of our new service to Toronto. Dynamic has proven its intent and dedication to stay, improve and grow international travel to and from Guyana. Expect some amazing surprises for loyal passengers and exciting announcements from Dynamic in coming days.”

About Dynamic

Dynamic International Airways is a US Certificated FAR PART 121 AIR CARRIER. The Airline changed ownership and management in 2013 with the goal of providing high quality, affordable, long haul, point-to-point air service. Dynamic Airways, which is headquartered in Greensboro, NC, offers service from airports in New York, Guyana, Florida, Hong Kong, Palau with its fleet of B767 wide body aircrafts. Recently company has added International in its official name as reflection of its transition into long haul carrier.

For reservations & information, visit www.airdynamic.com, www.facebook.com/airdynamic, www.twitter.com/flyairdynamic, contact your favourite travel agent or call (336) 790-8176.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140618/119429

CONTACT: Rosa Avelar, 336-686-0028

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. October 29, 2014: My Haiti Travels, a New York-based boutique concierge firm that produces high-quality travel experiences for leisure and business purposes, has announced its third annual “Impact Week” signature expedition to Haiti. The all-inclusive tour package provides the perfect blend of civic and social interaction during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend of January 15-19, 2015.  As a new feature, travelers will have the opportunity to extend their “Impact Week” experience with two add-on package deals that explore the historic city of Cap-Haitien and the International Jazz Festival of Port-au-Prince.

The “Impact Week” tour offers a unique journey through cultural landmarks and vibrant destinations. With a fresh itinerary for the third edition, “Impact Week” travelers will immerse themselves in an action-packed voyage led by professional guides that includes dining at top restaurants, evening entertainment, artistic attractions, epic excursions and more. Guests will also enjoy deluxe hotel and beach resort stays at two sought-after properties that are new to the “Impact Week” itinerary – the elegant Royal Oasis located in the heart of Petion-Ville, a prestigious suburb of the nation’s capital Port-au-Prince, and the scenic Club Indigo Beach (formerly Haiti’s Club Med) on the Arcadins Coast, a popular Caribbean beach destination.

For the first time, travelers will be able to extend their “Impact Week” stay in Haiti with the debut of two add-on tour package deals offered by My Haiti Travels. The first option is presented with partnering tour operator Belle Vue Tours and provides discovery of Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s second largest city located in the north. This package includes a tour of the iconic mountaintop Citadelle, the largest fortress in the Americas and one of the most historic Caribbean wonders of the world. The second add-on tour package features the eighth edition of the International Jazz Festival of Port-au-Prince, a not-to-be-missed cultural and touristic event featuring renowned foreign artists. Both tours are scheduled on January 19-22, 2015.

The My Haiti Travels agency was founded by Haitian-born Dina Simon shortly following the devastating earthquake of January 2010 to support the resurgence of tourism and investment in Haiti, and to promote the patronage of local businesses, hotel/resort establishments and restaurants. My Haiti Travels staff continues to build relationships and work diligently with local professionals and experts across Haiti’s hospitality and tourism sector to provide safe, meaningful and fun experiences.

“Seeing Haiti through our eyes is a cultural movement with a social impact,” said Dina Simon, founder and managing director, My Haiti Travels.  ”By listening to our repeat customers who asked to see more of Haiti, we have an even more robust Impact Week tour planned for 2015.  My Haiti Travels will continue to explore new and exciting destinations with quality in service and treasured moments.”

To commemorate the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday celebrated in the U.S., “Impact Week” will feature Project Day for the third consecutive year to provide volunteer services to students of PRODEV’s (Progress and Development through the Youth of Haiti) Ecole Nouvelle Zoranje in the Village de La Renaissance.  Established in 1995 to empower the youth of Haiti through education, PRODEV is a Haitian-led non-profit, non-political foundation officially recognized by the government of Haiti.

Since its inaugural group trip in 2013, My Haiti Travels has hosted over 100 travelers through its “Impact Week” tour, “Jacmel Getaway” voyage and other custom expeditions. Ranging in age from teenagers to baby boomers, the diverse groups represent a multicultural mix of tourists seeking to explore Haiti’s dynamic Taino, African, Latin and French ancestry.

For more information on the 2015 “Impact Week,” to register and take advantage of discounted early-bird registration rates, please contact My Haiti Travels at [email protected] or visit www.ImpactWeekHaiti.com.

###

About My Haiti Travels

My Haiti Travels (MHT) is a New York-based boutique concierge firm that coordinates and produces high-quality travel experiences with a social impact for groups seeking to explore Haiti for leisure and business purposes.  Each January My Haiti Travels presents the IMPACT WEEK tour (www.ImpactWeekHaiti.com) during the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend.  The JACMEL GETAWAY vacation package (www.JacmelGetaway.com) is presented by My Haiti Travels during the Memorial Day Weekend holiday.  My Haiti Travels also promotes a positive image of Haiti through its “See Haiti Through Our Eyes” campaign and publishes a newsletter that features guest blogs, compelling video clips and travel stories.  Follow My Haiti Travels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr and YouTube.

Media Contact

Daphne Leroy

DML Media Group, LLC

[email protected]

646-389-1365

www.DMLmediagroup.com

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla., Aug. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — The 2014 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show, the largest cruise and tourism conference and trade show in the Caribbean, will let delegates and exhibitors target about 1,000 cruise tourism stakeholders and 100 FCCA Member Line presidents, CEOs and executives from multiple sectors, including operations, purchasing, marketing, shore excursions and government relations.

“The FCCA Conference and Trade Show is a great opportunity to network with and learn from the FCCA Member Lines’ key players,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line CEO and FCCA chairman. “Attendees have ample opportunities to promote products, develop working relationships and discuss trends with the industry’s most important executives.”

Attendees and executives will congregate in St. Maarten from October 6-10 for a four-day series of meetings, workshops, networking functions and the trade show. The Conference’s business functions will include preset one-on-one meetings that offer a chance to promote a product to or receive individualized input from cruise executives selected by attendees; workshops on current issues with panels of knowledgeable industry professionals and cruise executives, along with the presidents and CEOs heading a roundtable discussion; and social functions that foster networking in a comfortable, engaging atmosphere.

The Trade Show will guarantee exposure from this influential audience through numerous events hosted at the Trade Show, many of which feature cruise executives, and traffic driven by its location, with all attendees entering and passing through to access the Conference’s business sessions and registration. Booths will put an exhibitor’s product, company or destination on the mind of those who decide where ships call and what is sold onboard, and specialized pavilions are available to increase attention and allow a destination or large company to showcase their numerous offerings.

This is one of the best opportunities to increase cruise tourism’s impact by better understanding the industry and promoting products to and forging working relationships with some of the cruise industry’s most important decision makers.

Registration for and more information about the FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show are available here: https://www.regonline.com/fccastmaarten.

CONTACT: Omari Breakenridge, 954 441 8881, [email protected]

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.

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Tuesday June 5, 2012: More than a dozen ministers of government, including a premier and a chief minister from the Caribbean, will gather in New York City tomorrow for the second annual Invest Caribbean Now Power Forum.

The investment breakfast, a partnership between digital media company, Hard Beat Communications and the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the regional tourism arm, is set for the Marriott Marquis in Times Square New York City on June 6th from 7:30 to 10 a.m.

Among the high powered attendees of this year’s event include Dr. Daniel Orlando Smith, OBE, Premier and minister of finance and tourism of the British Virgin Islands; Chief Minister Government of Anguilla, Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Investment, Commerce & Tourism, Hubert Hughes; Minister of Business Development and Tourism of Bermuda, Wayne Furbert; Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Minister of Tourism, & International Transport of St. Kitts/Nevis, Ricky  Skerritt; Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation of The Bahamas, Obe Wilchcombe; Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture of St. Vincent & Grenadines, Cecil Mckie; Minister of Tourism of St. Maarten, Romeo Pantophlet; Minister of Ministry of State of Jamaica, Damion Crawford; Minister of Tourism, Heritage, Culture and Creative Industries of St. Lucia, Lorne Theophilus; Minister of Tourism of Trinidad and Tobago, Rupert Theophilus Griffith; Minister of Tourism of Haiti, Stephanie Balmir-Villedrouin;  Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation of Grenada, Dr. George Vincent; acting Minister of Tourism of Guyana, Irfaan Ali; Luis Gerardo Rivera Marin, current Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company and Alain Richardson, President of the Collectivity of St. Martin.
Invest Caribbean Now 2012 panellists are Jonathan S. Blue, Chairman & Managing Director, Blue Equity, LLC. and CEO of Cool Petroleum; Jay Yeo, President, Solamon Energy Corp.; Lisa Lake, Chief Development Director, Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship – Caribbean; Jean Arnell, vice president of the French Saint Martin Chamber of Commerce and Hon. Minister of St. Kitts and CTO Chairman, Ricky Skerrit.
Organizers of Invest Caribbean Now 2012 will also honour world renowned business leader, Sir Richard Branson with the 2012 Leadership Award for his commitment to the Caribbean via the launch of his Branson Center of Entrepreneurship – Caribbean.

The forum comes as Chinese investment in the Caribbean continues to boom in this free trade emerging market economy that is politically stable and boosts 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 the economies of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and similar to those of East Asia.

Invest Caribbean Now 2012 sponsors are The French Saint Martin Chamber of Commerce, (CCISM), One Caribbean Television and Teamsters Local 237, a union of 24,000 New York City employees who work in government agencies and several municipalities on Long Island, while supporting sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, News Americas Now and Damoola Inc.

Supplementary 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.

Registration for this event is now closed.

W. Dave Dowrich, VP of Investment at Goldman Sachs, 2nd from r., with Chairman of the CTO, Ricky Skerritt, l; Minister Minors of Bermuda, 2.d from l., and Brian Lilly, r., CEO of Lilly Broadcasting and owner of WSEE TV and One Caribbean Weather, premier sponsors of the event. (Sharon Bennett image)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 10, 2011: The Caribbean is being urged to compete for the global “wallet share” and step up the promotion of “its investment story.”

That’s the advice from W. Dave Dowrich, vice president of investment at Goldman Sachs and the keynote speaker at the inaugural Invest Caribbean Power Forum, convened by digital media solutions company, Hard Beat Communications and the Caribbean Tourism Organization in New York City on Thursday, June 9, 2011.

Dowrich, addressing a packed room at the New York Marriot Marquis Hotel in Times Square, insisted that the Caribbean’s investment “product” stacks up against most other regions of the world, including the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India and China) on several fronts, such as political stability, accessibility and ease of doing business.

But “where we fall down is in selling and telling our investment story, i.e. the ‘Promotion – P’ of the principles of marketing,” he said of the CARICOM region, whose combined Gross Domestic Product is put at US$90 billion.

Comparing the Caribbean to private companies going public and the need to ensure that their story continues being told to their existing and future investor base, Dowrich said the Caribbean and its leaders must see investment in a similar vein.

“We therefore need to be sure that at every opportunity, our story is told on a consistent basis and told by credible and trust worthy folks such as our senior ministers, and then reinforced by our teams on the ground, who can ‘talk the talk’ of those that need to hear it,” he said.

Dowrich was one of four speakers who addressed the event yesterday. Others included Minister of Business Development & Tourism of Bermuda, Patrice Kimberly Minors; Martin Mohabeer, the Guyana-born Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital and David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group.

Minors for her part insisted that Bermuda remains open to doing business while Brillembourg advised that attention be turned to Latin American pension funds as potential investors in the Caribbean region.

Mohabeer announced the SEAF Caribbean Growth Fund, insisting that the Caribbean small business market is “tremendously underserved.”

“With this fund we hope to change that,” said Mohabeer, while adding that the fund will make investments in small to middle enterprise firms specializing in IT, media and technology and construction among other sectors.

Among the over 120 attendees at the event were several money managers from the New York’s investment community as well as top tourism officials from the Caribbean including the Hon. Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Minister of Tourism and International Travel for St. Kitts/Nevis, Ricky Skerritt; Hon. Richard Sealy, Minister of Tourism, Barbados; Hon. Ed Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica; Commissioner of Tourism of St. Eustacius, Clyde Van Putten; Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Hugh Riley; Sylma Brown Bramble, director of CTO North America; Alec Sanguinetti, Director General of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, Josef Forstmayr, President, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, and other top CTO officials as well as  Caribbean directors of tourism.

“This event surpassed our expectation,” said Felicia Persaud, CEO of Hard Beat Communications, which conceptualized and co-presented the event with the CTO. “We look forward to making this an annual part of Caribbean Week in New York.”

“The Caribbean Tourism Organization was proud to team up with Hard Beat to present this event, since in these tough economic times, investment in the Caribbean is critical and the CTO believes strongly in continuing to boost the tourism sector of this vibrant region by presenting investment opportunities for its members,” commented Brown-Bramble.

The Bermuda Department of Tourism and the Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, were the official sponsors of the ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast.’

Additional sponsors included the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, News Americas Now and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

ABOUT HARD BEAT COMMUNICATIONS

Hard Beat Communications brands itself as a Digital Media Solutions Company. The company does this through its Digital Content Creation and Dissemination and syndicated digital newswire – New Americas Now, formerly CaribWorldNews, its CaribPR wire release dissemination section, part of the PR Newswire; its Media Buying and Event Promotions arm and its New Media Solutions department.

ABOUT THE CTO

The Caribbean Tourism Organization exists to increase significantly the inclusion of the Caribbean region in the set of destinations being considered by travelers. The CTO, with headquarters in Barbados, comprises 32 member countries, including English, French, Spanish and Dutch countries and territories, as well as private sector allied members. Every year, the CTO presents “Caribbean Week In New York,” which Caribbean Week in New York is a celebration of the sights, sounds, colors, culture and unique vacation attributes of the Caribbean.

Martin Mohabeer, Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital is among the panelists.

Carib PR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, May 20, 2011: They are collectively responsible for managing billions in assets daily and on June 9, 2011, a trio of U.S.-based investors and money managers will share their expertise and discuss opportunities they’ll consider for investment, at the inaugural Invest Caribbean 2011 Power Breakfast.

The Investing In Paradise event, presented by digital media company, Hard Beat Communications and the Caribbean Tourism Organization in Caribbean Week, is set for set for June 9^th from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

The forum will feature Martin Mohabeer, the Guyana-born Managing Director of Spackman Group and CEO of Spackman Capital, who currently helps manage $1.3 billion in assets under management by the Hong Kong-based, privately-held investment conglomerate; W. Dave Dowrich, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, which has over 900 billion under its management; and David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group, who has founded two successful companies, executed over 30 M&A transactions and has raised nearly $150 million over the past decade from private and institutional investors.

Additionally, the event is also slated to feature New York City comptroller John Liu, who helps manage $646 million in pension funds for New York City.

Mario Gonzalez, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company; Brian Lilly, CEO of Lilly Broadcasting and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and St. Kitts/Nevis minister of tourism, Ricky Skerritt will also address participants while several Caribbean tourism ministers of government, commissioners and directors of tourism as well as officials of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, including Secretary General Hugh Riley and others from the business, travel and investment community will be in attendance.

The Hard Beat/CTO forum will be moderated by Professor Temisan Agbeyegbe, professor of Economics at Hunter College and Graduate Center, City University of New York and a research associate with The Caribbean Center for Monetary Studies, The University of The West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

“This is no talk shop but its where real capital meets investment opportunities,” said Felicia Persaud, CEO of Hard Beat Communications.  “Entrepreneurs, lenders, developers, hotel chain/management company executives, investment bankers, vacation ownership executives, financial advisors, real estate and financial intermediaries, builders, consultants, lawyers, architects and designers or anyone seeking to do business in the Caribbean, learn about investment opportunities there, raise capital to grow or expand your business or network with top investors and ministers of government should all make it a date to attend this event.”

“The Caribbean is a perfect destination for investment, given its stable governments, its tax incentives, its close proximity to the U.S. and it’s very high literary workforce and its superb beauty and climate,” added Sylma Brown Bramble, director of CTO North America.

The Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, are the official sponsors of the ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast.’

Additional sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, News Americas Now and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

Tickets are going fast so register today at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=7phqhyn6&oeidk=a07e3p448ple41d4ad3. Or for more information log on http://investcaribbeannow.com/.

Carib PR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, May 13, 2011: Meteorologist Joey Stevens and his parrot have become the most famous weather forecasters in the Caribbean on OneCaribbeanWeather.com and WSEE TV, the CBS affiliate of the Caribbean region.

It is little wonder then why the Caribbean’s most famous weather channel, with some four million viewers daily in over 25 countries – from Antigua to Puerto Rico, has joined forces with the organizers of Invest Caribbean 2011, to present the inaugural investment power forum.

The Pennsylvania-based WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com, both part of Lilly Broadcasting Corporation, is an official sponsor of the Hard Beat Communications and Caribbean Tourism Organization’s ‘Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast,’ set for June 9^th from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

Lilly Broadcasting operates a number of enterprises worldwide including 24-hour weather broadcasting in the Caribbean.

The event is being billed as a high powered networking event and not a talk shop and will include Vice President at Goldman Sachs, W. Dave Dowrich, David Brillembourg, CEO of the Brilla Group and several Caribbean ministers of government.

“The Caribbean Tourism Organization is proud to team up with Hard Beat and the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry and Commerce to present this event since in these tough economic times, investment in the Caribbean and Latin America is critical and the CTO believes strongly in continuing to boost the tourism sector of this vibrant region by presenting investment opportunities for its members,” said Sylma Brown Bramble, director of CTO-USA Inc.

“We’re very proud to team up with a company that’s already investing in the Caribbean and sees the bright future the region holds,” said Hard Beat Communications CEO, Felicia Persaud of the WSEE TV and the One Caribbean Weather partnership. “Anyone serious about doing business in this region or networking with potential investors should book one of a few spots today.”

Additional sponsors include the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, and News Americas Now.

For additional sponsorship opportunities log on to: http://investcaribbeannow.com/ or for individual tickets register at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=7phqhyn6&oeidk=a07e3p448ple41d4ad3

David Brillembourg

CaribPR Newswire, NEW YORK, NY, May 2, 2011: “

The Caribbean is, now more than ever, a unique investment opportunity!”

That’s the assessment of one top investor, who insists he lives and breathes the Caribbean. David Brillembourg, founder, chairman & chief executive officer of private equity real estate firm, Brilla Group, is adamant that the region is ripe for investment.

Brillembourg will bring this outlook to the 2011 Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast, presented by Hard Beat Communications and The Caribbean Tourism Organization, in collaboration with the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry & Commerce, and set for June 9, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

 Brillembourg is among the top speakers, who include Vice President at Goldman Sachs, W. Dave Dowrich and will feature top Caribbean ministers of government, investors and entrepreneurs and key sponsors including WSEE TV and OneCaribbean Weather.

 Brilla’s investments are focused primarily on luxury beachfront hotels and resorts in the Caribbean even as foreign direct investment in the Caribbean and Latin American region grew strongly last year, jumping from US$5.5 billion in the first semester of 2009 to US$20.8 billion in the same period of 2010 according to The Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLAC).

 China’s Ministry of Commerce alone reported that foreign direct investment in Caribbean countries by Chinese firms totaled nearly $7 billion in 2009, a more than 300 percent increase from the 2004 foreign direct investment of $1.7 billion.

 Brillembourg sees the opportunity. “The Caribbean is a unique and long-lasting investment,” he added, insisting that anyone serious about investment should get on board.

 He reiterated that the region looks solid throughout with lots of opportunities out there.

 “For example, Turks and Caicos is coming out of the crisis well. But there is more than one location to look out for; all are maturing and diversifying. This is a wonderful time to be in the Caribbean,” said the seasoned entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience in investing also in South Florida, Mexico, Central America and Colombia. “As a result of the global financial crisis and dislocation of real estate markets, the hotel sector was seriously affected due to the lack of funds and financing available for this sector. This macroeconomic situation caused the expected supply for new luxury coastal properties in the Caribbean, which were at different development or building stages, to rapidly drop (approximately 72%).”

Sponsors of Invest Caribbean 2011 include silver sponsor, WSEE TV and OneCaribbeanWeather.com; the PR Newswire, CaribPR Wire, The Bahamas Weekly, and News Americas Now.

For additional sponsorship opportunities and breakfast tickets log on to: http://investcaribbeannow.com/ or call 646-820-5694.

Comfort Inn Hotel Will Be First Global Hotel Brand for Haiti in More Than a Decade; Island will Also Be Home to Ascend Collection Member Hotel

 SILVER SPRING, Md., Jan. 6 /PRNewswire/ — While hotel development across the globe has slowed, leading lodging company Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is pleased to announce the future addition of two new Caribbean hotels to its portfolio of more than 6,000 franchised properties worldwide. The new Comfort Inn hotel and Ascend Collection member hotel mark the first-ever Choice-brand properties for the island of Haiti, further expanding the great Choice Hotels lodging options for travelers across the Caribbean. The Comfort Inn hotel which will open in 2010 will mark the first global hotel brand that the island of Haiti has hosted in more than a decade.

“Choice is extremely proud to take a leadership position in revitalizing Haiti’s tourism product,” said Brian Parker, vice president of emerging markets and new business development for Choice Hotels. “We are equally excited to work with a company the caliber of SIMACT to bring two of our brands to the island.”  

 Both hotels will be located in Haiti’s historic township of Jacmel, known as the island’s cultural center thanks to its popular carnival festivities and arts, music and film festivals. The Comfort Inn hotel will feature 32 guest rooms with breathtaking views of the shores of the Caribbean Sea, featuring all the amenities travelers can expect from Comfort Inn hotels, including free breakfast and free high-speed Internet access.

 The newly-built luxury Ascend Collection member hotel will offer 120 elegantly-appointment guestrooms and is planned as part of the area’s new Belle Rive development project, which will also include a residential community, retail, dining, entertainment, recreational and marina facilities. This Ascend Collection member hotel will be the second Caribbean location for the membership program after its first location in the region — Le Consulat hotel of San Juan, Puerto Rico — opened in late 2008.

 ”Our Ascend Collection program is an excellent membership opportunity for upscale independent hotels and we are thrilled that the Caribbean is at the forefront of our international expansion,” said Kevin Lewis, brand president of upscale and extended stay for Choice Hotels.

 ”The new collaborative relationship between Choice Hotels and SIMACT will have a significantly positive impact on the burgeoning tourism industry of the southeastern coast of Haiti,” said Lesly Kernisant, president of SIMACT, owner of the new Comfort Inn hotel and Ascend Collection member hotel.

 Choice Hotels currently boasts 9 Caribbean properties, a total of 815 guestrooms, in the Bahamas, Cayman Island, Curacao, Puerto Rico, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Ascend Collection is an elite network of Historic, Unique and Boutique member hotels that made its debut at the end of 2008 and now has more than 30 hotels throughout the United States, Canada and now, the Caribbean. For more information on Choice Hotels, visit choicehotels.com.

About SIMACT

SIMACT, Inc. is a New York-based company with a range of investment interests that are focused upon the Republic of Haiti. SIMACT (Societe Immobiliere d’Agriculture, de Commerce, et de Tourisme) was founded in 1996 by a group of Haitian professionals, initially focusing upon real estate development opportunities. The company, which began with six investors, now has 51 shareholders. It has expanded the original vision of the founders and now encompasses investment and ownership in several key areas of enterprise – tourism, mining, financial services, and agriculture. With a capitalization investment in excess of $5,000,000, the company is now poised to take full advantage of its position as one of the most dynamic and progressive American companies engaged in business undertakings in Haiti. SIMACT is currently engaged in several exciting new initiatives in the areas of tourism, mining, and financial services that are based upon the platform of development and success that the company has experienced to date.

 About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 485,000 rooms in the United States and more than 35 other countries and territories. As of September 30, 2009, more than 700 hotels are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 59,000 rooms, and more than 100 hotels, representing approximately 9,400 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

 Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

 Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.

(C) 2009 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.