JAMAICA LEADS THE CARIBBEAN CATEGORY IN TRAVEL + LEISURE’S “WORLD’S BEST” READERS’ SURVEY

With six hotels named in The Top 25 Hotels: The Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas category, Jamaica was the most popular Caribbean island in Travel + Leisure magazine’s 12^th annual World’s Best Awards readers’ survey.

Topping the list was the elegant Jamaica Inn, located in Ocho Rios, which was ranked number 49 overall in The Top 100 Hotels category.  Jamaica Inn was one of only three Caribbean properties in the top 50 overall, and the third of six total Caribbean properties in The Top 100 Hotels category.

The Jamaican properties listed in The Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean were: Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios (3); Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios (11); Royal Plantation Spa & Golf Resort in Ocho Rios (16); Round Hill Hotel & Villas in Montego Bay (17); Grand Lido Braco Resort & Spa in Runaway Bay (20); and Rockhouse Hotel in Negril (24).

Survey results for the World’s Best Awards 2007 appear in the magazine’s August 2007 edition and at www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest. A complete methodology of the awards also appears on the Web site.

“Jamaica is honored to have the most properties voted as best in the Caribbean by Travel + Leisure readers, who are some of the world’s most sophisticated and discerning of travelers,” said Basil Smith, Director of Tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board.

“The diversity and vibrancy of Jamaica is apparent in the variety of fine accommodations across the island, suiting every type of traveler seeking an authentic experience and the best in accommodations, service and cuisine,” continued Mr. Smith.

Jamaica has traditionally been the Caribbean island of choice among readers participating in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best survey.  In 2006, the destination held four spots in The Top 25 Hotels: The Caribbean, Bermuda & the Bahamas category.