Jamaica was the only English-speaking Caribbean country to be in the top 10 "International Hot Spots-Cities" for next summer, as ranked by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).

"Jamaica's continued presence on travel industry 'hot' lists is a testament to the destination's wide appeal," said Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett. He added:

"In fact, preliminary figures for stopover arrivals this year indicate that Jamaica is 10 per cent ahead of 2007 figures for the period January thru the first two weeks of February."

"This is due in no small part to Jamaica's breathtaking beauty, heart-thumping adventure offerings, laid-back resort atmosphere, and wide variety of special events and attractions that cater to all types of travelers looking for more than a day at the beach," said the Jamaica Observer.

Report by David Wilkening