Latest news with #I.ChesterCooper
Business Upturn
03-07-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Caribbean Journal announces third annual Bahamas Travel & Sustainability Awards
Nassau, The Bahamas, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caribbean Journal , the leading publication covering Caribbean travel and tourism, has opened public voting for the third annual Bahamas Travel & Sustainability Awards, developed to spotlight those driving positive, forward-looking change across The Bahamas' tourism sector. Supported by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA), the awards continue to honour Bahamian achievements through a regional lens. Now in its third year, the awards honour individuals, businesses and experiences that exemplify innovation, environmental stewardship, and community impact. Voting is open from 2 July through 2 September via an online ballot hosted by Caribbean Journal , with one entry permitted per email address. Winners will be announced during an official ceremony in Nassau this September. 'Sustainability is at the core of our tourism product, and we are proud to honour those setting new standards for environmental stewardship in The Bahamas,' said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, The Hon. I. Chester Cooper. 'These awards are more than just recognition—they reflect our national commitment to building a resilient and responsible tourism sector.' Spanning 24 categories, the awards highlight the best in Bahamian travel and tourism, including Destination of the Year, Best Boutique Hotel, Best All-Inclusive Resort, Best Chef, Best Cocktail, Sustainable Destination of the Year, and many others. Finalists were selected by Caribbean Journal 's editorial team, with winners determined by popular vote. 'CJ has chronicled The Bahamas' evolution for more than a decade,' said Alexander Britell, Editor and Publisher of Caribbean Journal . 'Partnering on these awards allows us to showcase the destination and the changemakers shaping its future—while engaging our global audience in celebrating the best of Bahamian tourism.' Latia Duncombe, Director General, BMOTIA, added, 'These awards provide a valuable platform to spotlight the individuals and organisations advancing sustainable tourism across The Bahamas,' said Latia Duncombe, Director General, BMOTIA. 'We're grateful to Caribbean Journal for creating this opportunity to celebrate authentic leadership, local excellence, and the evolving spirit of Bahamian hospitality.' Anchored in the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, The Bahamas continues to invest in a tourism model that safeguards biodiversity, protects coastal and marine ecosystems, and fosters inclusive growth across communities. The awards reflect this broader shift—celebrating not only excellence, but leadership in sustainability and innovation. To cast your vote in the 2025 Bahamas Travel & Sustainability Awards, visit About The Bahamas The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, including 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for international travellers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram. About Caribbean Journal Founded in 2011, Caribbean Journal is the leading publication covering Caribbean travel and tourism, reaching millions of readers with daily news, destination features and insight on regional hospitality trends. Attachment Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
A Lifetime of Islands: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Brings News of its Distinct, Unforgettable Experiences to Florida Market
Nassau, The Bahamas, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation will launch a series of regional sales and marketing missions targeting one of its most lucrative and closely connected markets, Florida. A delegation led by the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, will host events on 10 and 11 June, along with Director General Latia Duncombe and other senior officials. With the Miami–Ft. Lauderdale DMA recording the highest number of U.S. arrivals in January and February 2025, and year-over-year growth continuing from key cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa and Boca Raton, officials are determined to harness this momentum to secure long-term growth, deepen trade partnerships, and showcase the latest tourism innovations and development plans. 'Our mission to Florida is vital because it strengthens connections with a market that drives significant revenue into the Bahamian economy. By refreshing these ties and targeting key niche travelers we ensure that more bookings flow directly to Bahamian businesses and communities. This collaboration strengthens the bond between our two destinations, unlocking new opportunities and driving multi-destination travel that amplifies tourism's positive impact throughout The Bahamas. We are forging a future where tourism fuels sustainable growth,' said DPM Cooper. Following the launch of its latest advertising campaign, It's not one island, it's a lifetime of them, the Ministry and destination stakeholders will emphasize that The Bahamas offers far more than a single getaway, inviting travelers to return repeatedly to discover the country's rich diversity. The team will engage with a broad range of tourism industry professionals including wholesalers, travel specialists, journalists, potential investors, airlines, and corporate partners. These strategic meetings will offer valuable opportunities to build connections with product specialists, participate in in-depth discussions during Q&A sessions, explore new product developments, and experience authentic Bahamian culture firsthand—complete with local culinary delights, rhythmic music, refreshing cocktails, and a lively Junkanoo rush-out. DG Duncombe added, 'Florida is a key market and an essential part of our growth strategy. These missions reinforce our most strategic partnerships and showcase the depth and diversity of product offerings across our 16 island destinations. Every engagement drives booking potential, unlocks new trade opportunities, and strengthens tourism's contribution to national development. That is the true spirit of a lifetime of islands.' For more information on The Bahamas, log on to ### About The BahamasThe Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travelers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram. CONTACT: Anita Johnson Patty The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism ajohnson@ Bahamas USA FINN Bahamas Bahamasusa@
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bahamas Signs Landmark Aviation Agreement with Middle Tennessee State University
New partnership creates academic pipeline for Bahamian students to access world-class aerospace training and professional development opportunities at MTSU DPM Cooper signs MOU The Bahamas Delegation MURFREESBORO, Tennessee, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has taken a significant step to advance the country's aviation sector through a new partnership between Middle Tennessee State University's (MTSU) Department of Aerospace and The Bahamas Department of Aviation. The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed on Friday, May 30, by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, and MTSU President Dr. Sidney A. McPhee, formalizes collaboration that will create educational and professional opportunities tailored for Bahamian students and aviation professionals. This agreement enables Bahamian students to enroll in MTSU's aerospace training programs, participate in summer immersion experiences on campus, access fast-track options designed for working professionals, and access online courses designed specifically for Bahamian students and professionals. Minister Cooper said, 'This partnership is a monumental step in developing our aviation industry and education landscape. By equipping our emerging and existing aviation professionals with world-class skills and international experience, we are building a foundation for sustainable growth and competitiveness that positions The Bahamas as a global leader in aviation.' Joining him, Dr. McPhee expressed his honor in welcoming the delegation, stating, 'I am honored today to welcome our friends from the Commonwealth of the Bahamas for the signing of this significant agreement. MTSU has been the choice of many students from the Bahamas seeking higher education opportunities. The ties between the commonwealth and our university are strong and constant, and, indeed, students from this nation represent a significant percentage of our international enrollment.' MTSU Department of Aerospace is one of the largest and most respected collegiate aviation programs in the US. The Training opportunities under the MOU centers around seven areas of concentration, including: Professional Pilots, Aerospace Management, Aerospace Maintenance, Aerospace Technology, Flight Dispatch, Unmanned Aerial Aircraft Systems Operations (Drone), and Unmanned Air Systems Controls and Technology. Additionally, the agreement leverages Innovative partnerships with Delta Airlines and Southwest Airlines to produce professionals in the industry. The Bahamas delegation included Director of Aviation and Deputy Director General of Tourism, Dr. Kenneth Romer; Deputy Director of Aviation, Mr. Milo Butler III; Executives from The University of The Bahamas and representatives from The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism's Atlanta Office. Attachments DPM Cooper signs MOU The Bahamas Delegation CONTACT: Anita Johnson Patty The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism ajohnson@ Bahamas USA FINN Bahamas Bahamasusa@ in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
17-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Avelo Airlines Adds New Nassau to Raleigh-Durham Route
NASSAU, Bahamas, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new route with new visitors begins this summer when nonstop service between Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) takes flight on 11 June. The announcement of the new nonstop service was made Tuesday, 11 March by Avelo Airlines, an American ultralow-cost airline. Avelo Airlines will fly twice weekly between NAS and RDU on Wednesdays and Saturdays. 'We are excited to welcome this new service from Avelo Airlines,' said the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. 'As a tourism and aviation destination leader, this service further affirms The Bahamas Government's commitment to working closely with airline partners and industry stakeholders to aggressively grow air stopover arrivals throughout The Islands of The Bahamas.' Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism added, 'Expanding airlift remains a top priority for The Bahamas, and this new route strengthens our access from North Carolina—an important market for our destination. Avelo Airlines offers new non-stop service, making it even easier for travelers from Raleigh-Durham to experience our vibrant culture, world-class hospitality, and breathtaking islands. We look forward to welcoming more visitors and creating unforgettable Bahamian experiences.' Avelo Airlines, headquartered in Houston, Texas began servicing RDU in 2022 with expansion into the Caribbean this past February. For the past two years, travelers in the RDU area have relied on Bahamasair's nonstop service to Freeport, Grand Bahama, which then continued to Nassau, playing a key role in strengthening travel demand from the region. Avelo's new Nassau route builds on that foundation, offering even greater access to The Islands of The Bahamas and reinforcing the destination's appeal to North Carolina travelers. Since its inception in April 2021, Avelo has flown more than 6.3 million customers on nearly 50,000 flights and The Bahamas will be the newest addition to its international routes. About The Bahamas The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travellers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram. Media Contact: Anita Johnson-Patty Bahamas USA FINN Bahamas
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Street View Project for Google Maps is Set to Sharpen Focus on The Bahamas
World in Travel in 360 in partnership with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation to Capture High-Quality 360° Imagery Across the Islands Bahamas Google Maps Street View Project Nassau, The Bahamas, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Bahamas is set to gain comprehensive digital exposure through an extensive Google Street View Coverage Project, spearheaded by World Travel in 360, a leading specialist in 360-degree tourism promotion, in collaboration with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. The project will see several street view-equipped vehicles with mounted camera systems roaming roadways throughout the islands to capture more than 2,000,000 geolocated 360-degree images for showcasing the country on Google Maps. 'We are excited to collaborate with World Travel in 360 and smooth a path for Google Street View to immortalise our islands with 360-degree imagery on Google Maps,' said the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. 'Access and engagement are bedrock principles of tourism success. This project will make it easy for travelers from around the world to size up the beauty and wonders of The Bahamas from wherever they are.' The Bahamas Street View Coverage for Google Maps is proposed to capture imagery of more than 3,729 miles (6,000 kilometres) of key tourist areas throughout the country's more than 700 islands, including 16 major islands whose towns, beaches and other attractions are visited by millions of in-coming travelers. With the imagery capture, The Bahamas will join more than 100 countries and territories currently featured, in whole or in part, on the Street View function of Google Maps, which enables users to explore settings around the world via 360-degree images. The function is among the most popular features of applications on Google Maps, enabling users to effortlessly plan visits, observe attractions, pinpoint restaurants and hotels, and more using the convenience of technologies including mobile devices, tablets, and computers. Among a host of popular tourist areas proposed to be photographed through the Street View Project are Downtown Nassau and Montagu Beach in Nassau; Port Lucaya Marketplace and Peterson Cay National Park in Grand Bahama; and Marsh Harbour, Green Turtle Cay and Cherokee Sound in The Abacos. Street View is not for vacation planning alone, but benefits of imagery captured ranges from support for urban planning and emergency response, to historical preservation and environmental conservation. Special considerations are also being made to increase public awareness of the Street View Project locally in The Bahamas, as well as for the mapping of sensitive areas and special restrictions and permission for capturing images in public areas. "In today's digital landscape, immersive experiences are key to attracting travelers,' said Latia Duncombe, Director General, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. 'This Google Street View initiative is a game-changer for Bahamian tourism. By bringing our islands to life on Google Maps, we're not just showcasing our beauty, we're making The Bahamas more accessible than ever before. 'Potential visitors can explore our diverse offerings virtually in the palm of their hands, igniting their desire to visit and experience the authentic wonder of our islands firsthand. This initiative also presents a tremendous opportunity for local businesses—restaurants, hotels, and attractions—by increasing their visibility to a global audience and making it easier for travelers to discover and support them before they even arrive.' For more information on recent BMOTIA tourism efforts, please visit ### About The Bahamas The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travellers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram. Attachment Bahamas Google Maps Street View Project CONTACT: Anita Johnson Patty The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism ajohnson@ Bahamas USA FINN Bahamas Bahamasusa@ in to access your portfolio
