July 2nd 2025.
Jamaica is embarking on an exciting new venture that aims to revolutionize the Caribbean's flourishing tourism industry. The country has set its sights on developing the tallest hotel in the region and creating a Tourism Innovation Township, a first of its kind in the world.
According to the Jamaica-Gleaner, the plans for this ambitious project were unveiled on June 28, with the construction of the 33-story Moon Palace tower in Rose Hall, St. James. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett proudly spoke about the historic significance of this development, highlighting its innovative approach, grand scale, and inclusivity.
During the 64th Annual General Meeting of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, Bartlett stated, "This is a game-changer for tourism in the region. It will be the first tourism innovation township in the Caribbean, and arguably in the world." The township will be home to renowned mega-resorts such as Unico, Hard Rock, Moon Palace, and Iberostar, making it the largest cluster of hotel rooms in the Caribbean, with over 5,000 rooms all within walking distance. Bartlett also emphasized the township's circular economic model, where hotels will provide utilities to the nearby community, and residents will supply goods and services to support the resorts.
The main objective of this project is to revitalize the area and create a self-sustaining community. In addition to the luxurious resorts, the township will also include a STEM school, upgraded healthcare facilities, improved local schools, supermarkets, and support for light manufacturing and cottage industries. Bartlett explained, "We are building a model where backyard farming, production of condiments, sheets, pillowcases, and other essentials will be done right there in the community, feeding directly into the hotel supply chain. This model involves the local people and does not leave them behind. It is a future where tourism not only creates jobs but also builds communities."
By 2030, Jamaica plans to add 10,000 new hotel rooms through expansions at various resorts, including Harmony Cove, Palladium, Bahia Principe, Unico, Hard Rock, and Moon Palace. Additionally, two new Sandals properties are also in the works, one in Runaway Bay and the newly announced AC Marriott in Montego Bay. Along with the township near Barrett Town, the Rollins lands across from Dreams Rose Hall Resort and Spa will also see commercial development, with plans for service stations and retail outlets.
Bartlett declared, "Montego Bay is on the verge of an unprecedented tourism renaissance. This is a level of coordinated, large-scale investment that we have never seen before, not just in Jamaica, but in the Caribbean." This project will not only bring in more tourists and boost the economy but also create opportunities for the local community to thrive. It is a visionary approach to tourism that sets a new standard for the entire region.
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