Claudia Stella Beltrn Turriago, economic consultant, interviewing fishers at Northern Fishermens Cooperative in Belize City, Belize (Photo: CRFM)

BELIZE CITY, Belize,Friday February 24, 2017 A landmark study to look at the impacts of rising cost factors on fishing operations in the Caribbean has been concluded.

And theCaribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), in collaboration with FAO, will convene a validation workshop at the United Nations House in Barbados next Monday and Tuesday to review the findings and chart the necessary course of action.

At that meeting, CRFM Executive Director Milton Haughton will present a general overview of the project and explain what the workshop is expected to achieve. The background, findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study will be presented by Claudia Stella Beltrn Turriago, economic consultant, for final refinement.

The study, carried out in select CRFM member states, focused on factors such as capital, labour, maintenance and energy costs.

Participants at next weeks meeting will review and finalize the formal report on the findings of the study, as well as propose workable policy options and strategies to improve efficiency, productivity and sustainability in the fisheries sector. The broader aim is to improve competitiveness and profitability at the local, regional and international levels.

The initiative will also inform strategies to protect against future economic shocks, reduce barriers to market access, and compensate for price fluctuations for fisheries produce by building on the value-added dimension of the industry.

Last May, the CRFM convened a meeting of fisheries experts in Barbados to create a roadmap, including the best methodology for the study. They also selected the beneficiary countries targeted for fieldwork and remote surveys, which entailed surveys of small-scale and industrial fishers, suppliers, traders and exporters.

Later that same month, the consultant commenced field visits to Belize, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. She also conducted remote surveys for Guyana, Grenada, Colombia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

All 17 states which are members of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism, as well as countries covered by a UN/FAO project on the Sustainable Management of Bycatch in Trawl Fishing in Latin America and the Caribbean (the REBYC-II LAC), funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), are expected to benefit from the broader application of the studys findings.

The CRFM will prepare a policy brief for action by Caribbean leaders, to highlight the major findings and recommendations, including policy options and strategies to increase efficiency, productivity and sustainability of the fisheries and aquaculture sector, while reducing economic risks.

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ROSEAU, Dominica, FridayFebruary 24, 2017 Organization of Eastern Caribbean (OECS) member states have been urged to prepare for more extreme weather conditions and natural disasters as a result of climate change.

The warning came from Crispin dAuvergne, St. Lucias chief sustainable development officer as he contributed to a panel discussion at an OECS climate change forum in Dominica, part of the Vini Koz (Lets Chat) Series that engages citizens in discussion and debate on development opportunities and challenges facing the region.

According to dAuvergne, a 2008 environmental study showed that while St Lucia sees an average of one to two Category 4 or Category 5 hurricanes per year, it is likely to increase to four or five hurricanes of that magnitude each year.

Citing another study, he said rainfall in the Caribbean is expected to increase by 25 to 50 percent in the next five decades. These extreme weather patterns will become the new normal, he said, adding that because the frequency and intensity of extreme weather conditions is likely to increase, the Caribbean should plan accordingly, preparing for more severe natural disasters like droughts, hurricanes and floods.

After Dominica was devastated by Tropical Storm Erica in August 2015, the Minister for Health and Environment, Dr. Kenneth Darroux, said Dominica had never seen a disaster of such proportions in terms of damage to infrastructure and the loss of life. Infrastructural damage was estimated at $1.4 billion. Minister Darroux said the storm caused the government to revisit its land use, policies, and regulations.

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Caribbean Warned To Prepare For More Severe Storms - Caribbean360.com (subscription)

(February 24, 2017) As dawn broke on Day 5 of the RORC Caribbean 600, crews who had finished the race were beginning to arrive back in Antigua. Every boat, regardless of where they were moored, was met by the RORC Caribbean 600 volunteers, armed with a celebration banner and cold beer. The restaurants and coffee shops around Falmouth Harbour were filling up with sailors, hungry for a square meal full of stories about their RORC Caribbean 600.

Class40 winner by just 33 minutes, Peter Hardings Ph-orty RORC/Ted Martin

As the sun rose the leading Class40s were approaching the finish. Throughout the race, the battle in the class had been intense, with three yachts taking the lead at various points along the course. Peter Hardings Ph-orty was leading at Redonda, just ahead of Catherine Pourres Erendil and Halvard Mabires Campagne de France was in third. All three yachts started the beat to finish with a chance of victory.

However, Erendils main halyard broke as the team hardened up for the beat and they were forced to reef and re-hoist. Ph-orty extended on the beat to take the gun and the class win by just 33 minutes. With Erendil under-powered, Campagne de France closed the gap and overtook them, just before the finish line, to snatch second place by just under two minutes.

In IRC One, Antiguas Bernie Evan Wong was tired but overjoyed to win the class racing his Antiguan RP37, Taz. Bernie has competed in all nine editions of the race and is proud to represent Antigua & Barbuda.

An emotional win in IRC One for Antiguas Bernie Evan Wong and his crew on the RP37, Taz RORC/Ted Martin

Unbelievable, just amazing, smiled Bernie, full of emotion. The team worked so hard, but was also a really happy bunch. I remember trying to take a rest but I couldnt sleep because there was so much laughter on the boat. We are the smallest boat in the race and to beat all of the big boats in our class is like a dream come true.

James Healds British Swan 45, Nemesis, racing doublehanded with Ben Harris is the runner up in IRC Two, a monumental effort for the short-handed team. Giles Redpaths British Lombard 46, Pata Negra is third.

In IRC Two, Ed Fishwicks J/122 Redshift on El Ocaso is the winner.

Ed Fishwicks J/122 Redshift on El Ocaso secure overall win in IRC Two. Crew for the RORC Caribbean 600: Nick Cherry, Robert Hillier, James Holmes, Ed Males, Luke Patience, Alan Roberts, Nick Bubb and Tom Whicher RORC

We have competed in this race with classic trade wind conditions, but this year we had a massive variety in weather on the course from big breeze in squalls, to fickle light winds. The guys did a fantastic job and we all agreed that this was the best 600 we have ever done. The whole crew was sensational, commented skipper, Ed Fishwick.

I couldnt have picked a better offshore race than the RORC Caribbean 600. It was a really cool experience, a great bunch of guys and my first offshore race, exclaimed Olympic 470 Silver medallist, Luke Patience.

Day one we saw a water spout, hump back whales; it was all kicking off, just epic! It was wonderful steering a boat at night, sailing by feeling the flow underneath you. The watches just flew by, I really enjoyed the race and it was very inspiring. The difference between offshore and Olympic sailing is that this is relentless, you are at it day and night. Where the two are wildly different is that with offshore sailing you are not in control all the time, you have to give a good handover to the next watch. However both disciplines require that you never take your foot of the gas.

While Redshift on El Ocaso is the provisional winner for IRC Two, a battle is raging for the remaining podium places between three British yachts. Ross Applebeys Oyster 48, Scarlet Oyster is currently estimated to be in second place. Dominic Hurndalls British Grand Soleil 43, Jua Kali in third. Andy Middletons First 47.7, EH01 is in fourth.

Hap Fauths Maxi72, Bella Mente declared overall winner

Hap Fauths American Maxi72, Bella Mente has been declared the overall winner of the RORC Caribbean 600 Trophy. Whilst yachts are still racing, none of the fleet can beat Bella Mentes corrected time under IRC. This is the second time Bella Mente has won the race overall and was a sweet victory after retiring last year with keel problems.

Event details Tracker Notice of Race Entry list

Background: The 9th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 starts from Antigua on Monday February 20, 2017. The 600nm course circumnavigates 11 Caribbean Islands starting from Fort Charlotte, English Harbour, Antigua and heads north as far as St Martin and south to Guadeloupe taking in Barbuda, Nevis, St Kitts, Saba and St Barths.

Source: Royal Ocean Racing Club

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RORC Caribbean 600: Bella Mente Takes Overall Title - Scuttlebutt Sailing News

An untidy committee session of the Upper House yesterday marred what was an otherwise rare sitting of the Senate, where not a single senator opposed the bill to make way for the Caribbean Maritime Institute Act, to now be known as the Caribbean Maritime University Act.

Senator Ruel Reid, who piloted the bill, also deputised for Leader of Government Business Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith, who was absent.

The bill was passed with 26 amendments in front a gallery filled with students and lecturers from the Palisados, Kingston-based institution.

The 10 senators who spoke yesterday gave glowing tributes to Dr Fritz Pinnock, who is slated to become the first president of the university. They were unanimous and generous in their praise of his visionary leadership, the discipline of the students, the economic opportunities the university has brought to the nearby communities, the marketability of the students and the economic benefits the graduates will bring to the Jamaican economy.

Reid praised Pinnock for his trailblazing effort in creating a niche market university while supporting the need for maritime clubs across the island.

Senator Mark Golding praised the effort of Pinnock for creating an institution of international repute, while he used the opportunity to tidy elements of the language of the bill.

Senator Don Webhy said the university should be marketed as a foreign exchange earner, while Senator Wensworth Skeffery said he hoped the way was being paved for individuals from rural Jamaica to study there.

Senator Kavan Gaye said it was significant that it was coming to the Upper House on the 133rd birthday of Sir Alexander Bustamante - a champion for port workers, while Senator Floyd Morris praised the effort of former minister Horace Clarke for planting the seed which has led to the CMU.

Senator Angela Brown-Burke said the university was providing training for women in non-traditional areas, and Senator Lambert Brown went copiously through the bill to make sure that workers' rights were protected.

An untidy session followed when the Senate was dissolved into a committee to consider the clause by clause amendments. Senators were asked to vote on amendments they did not have, as insufficient, correct copies of the amended sections were unavailable.

In one instance, one copy of the amendment was sent to the Opposition benches for the five senators, with Reid intructing them to "share". Reid found himself reading and re-reading amendments, plus making trips to his "technical people" for advice on aspects of the bill, much to the disinterest of government senators, who found other ways to amuse themselves.

Brown's concern that the minister appeared to have a strong hand in the selection of the council members was rejected.

erica.virtue@gleanerjm.com

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Senate gives nod to Caribbean Maritime University - Jamaica Gleaner

Three of the Caribbeans leading film producers will develop pilots for original TV series projects thanks to funding from Cable & Wirelesss Flow and CaribbeanTales Media Group.

With $40,000 funding for each project, production work will begin on Battle Chronicle, a sci-fi/drama animated series created by Alain Bidard; and continue with Heat, a drama series filmed in Barbados from Menelik Shabazz, and Caribbean Girl NYC, a female-driven sitcom from New York-based Guadeloupian filmmaker Mariette Monpierre.

We recognise the significant hurdles that Caribbean producers face in financing and producing their content, and getting it out to audiences, said John Reid, CEO of Cable and Wireless, operator of Flow. We are honoured to help support this programme that is enabling the production and monetisation of this exciting emerging cultural industry.

Production on the pilots will begin in April 2017 and all of them will premiere this year at the 12th annual CaribbeanTales International Film Festival(CTFF)(CTFF), of which Flow is also a sponsor. It will be held in Toronto, Canada, between 6 and 20 September.

Frances-Anne Solomon, CEO of CaribbeanTales, added: We are delighted that, together with Flow, we are able to provide the Caribbeans top filmmakers with funding and a platform to produce top quality, local, content with the capacity to reach audiences across the region and the world.

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Cable & Wireless Flows the Caribbean TV shows' talent - Rapid TV News

Published time: 24 Feb, 2017 15:14Edited time: 24 Feb, 2017 15:24

Washingtons attempts to militarize the South China Sea and tame the Chinese dragon would see Beijing deploying weapons systems in the contested area, a state-run newspaper wrote in an op-ed addressed to the US military brass.

The article comes on the heels of heightened tensions between the two world powers in the South China Sea, a strategic region that houses important maritime routes and rich natural resources.

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Aren't US carrier groups' constant patrols in the South China Sea the most prominent militarization in the waters? Aren't the public statements made by the US military, that all its moves were done to warn China, direct military threats? the Global Times state-run daily wrote.

While saying Washington hopes Beijing would grin and bear it, the newspaper added: the South China Sea is quiet now, mentioning bilateral talks with neighboring Vietnam and the Philippines intended to mend ties.

Earlier in February, the US Navy deployed a strike group of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer to conduct routine operations in the South China Sea.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry described the deployment as threatening and damaging the sovereignty and security of littoral countries under the flag of freedom of navigation and overflight, adding that China always respects the freedom of navigation and overflight all countries enjoy under international law.

Aside from the US deployment, Reuters reported that Indonesia will discuss the prospect of joint maritime patrols in the South China Sea with Australia at a meeting between President Joko Widodo and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull this weekend.

The Global Times editorial specifically mentioned the issue of the US patrols, but it also sent a broader message to the American military commanders; some of their bellicose remarks made earlier this year do not allow hopes to be set very high for US-China reconciliation.

As long as the US does not carry out provocative moves in the waters, the South China Sea will be peaceful, the Global Times stated. If the US military insists on showing that it is capable of taming the China Dragon, they are bound to see all kinds of advanced Chinese weapons as well as other military deployments on the [South China Sea] islands.

The South China Sea is not the Caribbean. It is not a place for the US to behave recklessly. US generals said they are ready to fight when necessary. The People's Liberation Army is also making preparations, it said in conclusion.

China claims sizable parts of the South China Sea, while the area is also disputed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The US and its regional allies accuse Beijing of executing an elaborate land-grabbing plan, particularly by building artificial reefs and dual-use facilities in the South China Sea islands.

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'S. China Sea is not Caribbean': Chinese media slams 'reckless' US behavior in disputed waters - RT

Last year's devastating category-5 hurricane -- Matthew -- may be one of many past examples of a tropical storm fueled by massive rings of warm water that exist in the upper reaches of the Caribbean Sea.

In a study conducted in the region two years prior to when Matthew's trekked across the Caribbean Sea, the research team in the Upper Ocean Dynamics Laboratory at the University of Miami (UM) Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science deployed 55 aircraft ocean instruments from the National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration's WP-3D aircraft. The purpose of the scientific mission was to measure ocean temperature, salinity, and currents to understand the structure of these warm-water eddies.

The science team obtained vital information about the physical characteristics within one large warm-water eddy, which likely originated from the North Brazil Current, and analyzed its potential influence on sub-surface ocean conditions during the passage of tropical cyclones.

When analyzing the data, they found a barrier layer, an upper ocean feature created by the Amazon-Orinoco freshwater river outflow, that makes mixing in the upper ocean waters less efficient during wind events. This feature, and the fact that warm ocean eddies are known to assist in the intensification of hurricanes due to deep warm thermal layers, lead the researchers to theorize that the barrier layer within a warm ocean eddy may result in an even more favorable upper ocean environment for hurricane intensification.

"Our study is important because tropical cyclone intensity forecasts for several past hurricanes over the Caribbean Sea have under-predicted rapid intensification events over warm oceanic features," said Johna Rudzin, a PhD student at the UM Rosenstiel School and lead author of the study.

Tropical storms receive energy from their surrounding ocean waters. As a storm moves across the water, it may interact with rings of warm water known as eddies. As the storm moves forward over these eddies, the warm ocean waters below help fuel the storm's intensity through enhanced and sustained heat and moisture fluxes.

Similar warm ocean eddies exist in the Gulf of Mexico, a result of their separation from the warm-water Loop Current, are also of interest to the research team involved in this study.

Last year, Hurricane Matthew rapidly intensified from a tropical storm to hurricane status as it moved over the Caribbean Sea in the location where a warm ocean eddy exists, and in close proximity to where these measurements were taken for this study two years prior. Matthew continued to intensify to a category-5 storm and into one of the strongest in Atlantic basin history, which made landfall and devastated portions of Haiti, Cuba, and the eastern United States.

According to the researchers, to better understand if Matthew's intensification was aided by the warm-water eddies and the residing barrier layer in the Caribbean Sea's upper ocean, more ambient and in-storm upper ocean observations in this basin are needed to improve forecast models for the region.

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Study targets warm water rings that fuel hurricane intensification in ... - Science Daily

The Conus regius is a sea snail in the Caribbean Sea.

UTAH, USA, Thursday February 23, 2017 The venom of a small snail native to the Caribbean could be used to develop a completely new way of treating chronic pain, according to researchers.

The venom of the Conus regius sea snail, which is normally used to paralyse or kill the snails prey, also contains a compound that seems to offer long-lasting pain relief.

The compound was still working and still blocking pain three days after being administered in experiments with rats.

According to the American research team, the findings meant that it may be possible to create a new pain therapy for patients who had exhausted all other options.

Opioids, which are the medicines most commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain, work by reducing the perception of pain.

They do this by attaching to specific proteins in the brain and organs of the body, called opioid receptors.

But a compound known as Rg1A works in a different way using a new pathway.

Scientists from the University of Utah, writing in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said the compound appeared to have a beneficial effect on parts of the nervous system.

This, in turn, could open the door to new opportunities to treat pain, they said.

The researchers added that drugs that worked in this way could reduce the use of opioids, such as morphine, which are addictive and can cause a number of serious side-effects.

According to J Michael McIntosh, professor of psychiatry at the University of Utah Health Sciences: What is particularly exciting about these results is the aspect of prevention.

Once chronic pain has developed, it is difficult to treat, he explained.

This compound offers a potential new pathway to prevent pain from developing in the first place and offers a new therapy to patients who have run out of options.

In research on rats, scientists found that pain was experienced by those animals treated with a chemotherapy drug that caused them to be hypersensitive to cold and touch. Those also treated with the snail compound did not experience pain and the relief was long lasting, moreover.

We found that the compound was still working 72 hours after the injection, still preventing pain, Professor McIntosh said.

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CAYMAN ISLANDS (Feb. 23, 2017)World boxing champion Manny Pacquiao from the Philippines is partnering with a leading Caribbean hospital and charity to bring free cardiac care to children from his homeland.

Pacquiao, who together with his wife founded the Emmanuel and Jinkees Heart Foundation, has sealed a partnership with Have a Heart Cayman Islands and tertiary care hospital Health City Cayman Islands. The details of the collaboration were disclosed during a recent visit to Grand Cayman, where he toured the hospital.

Emmanuel and Jinkees Heart Foundation in the Philippines is a non-governmental organization that assists the community with medical care as well as educational, shelter and relief needs, and the mandate of Have a Heart Cayman Islands is to partner with local and international organizations to subsidize and provide lifesaving heart surgeries to needy children from the Caribbean and around the world.

Pacquiao, the current reigning World Boxing Organization welterweight champion, was noticeably captivated by the beauty of the Cayman Islands and the warmth of its people. He announced that the first two children requiring heart surgery will travel from Cebu, Philippines, to Health City Cayman Islands this year. And more will follow, he assures.

Pacquiao, who is a senator in the Philippines, said, I may be a world class champion in the ring, but with all the help and kind support of Have a Heart Cayman Islands, hand in hand, we will all be champions of these childrens hearts.

The award-winning champion was also impressed with the commitment of the medical staff at Health City. He commented, I met the doctors, and I am so happy and rejoiced after they explained to me what they did. They spend so much time here at the hospital and hardly go home as they help people from all over the world. I am so happy to be part of this movement.

It is an honor to partner with a living legend to bring life to many future legends across the world, said Harry Chandi, chairman of Have a Heart Cayman Islands. Partnerships like these are not only a blessing to children, but they keep us motivated to raise resources that help deliver world-class medical care to people who need it the most.

Dr. Chandy Abraham, CEO and head of Medical Services at Health City, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to deepen Health Citys partnership with Have a Heart Cayman Islands and to begin a new relationship with a champion athlete. We are in the business of giving hope to childrenhope for long and healthy lives. Through this alliance, we can do more to support our mission of high quality, affordable care for all.

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Manny Pacquiao partners with Caribbean hospital - Amsterdam News

Grace Bay in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos topped the list of best Caribbean beach in the world but lost the top spot of worlds best beach to Brazils Baia do Sancho this year.

By NAN Travel Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Feb. 24, 2017: Seven Caribbean beaches have made the Worlds Top 25 Beaches List For 2017 according to TripAdvisor. Here are the Caribbeans world famous beaches for this year:

1: Grace Bay

Grace Bay in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos topped the list of best Caribbean beach in the world but lost the top spot of worlds best beach to Brazils Baia do Sancho this year and had to settle for number 2 on the global Top 25 list. Grace Bay is famous for its clear, clean water with hundreds of shades of blues and greens and white sugar sand beaches.

2: Eagle Beach

Coming in at number two on the Top Caribbean list and third globally is Palm Eagle Beach in Aruba which is described as unbelievably private, quiet and serene.

3: Playa Paraiso

Taking the third spot on our top 7 list, and coming in at fourth on the global 25 list, is Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo, Cuba. It is popular with visitors for its blue water.

4: Seven Mile Beach, CI

In the fourth spot on our top 7 list of best Caribbean beaches is Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, in the Cayman Islands. The beach ranked 12th globally, out of 25.

5: Flamenco BeachSelect Files

The Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico ranked as the fifth best Caribbean beach and 13th on the global Top 25 list. Visitors rave about its clear and blue waters and the mountains in the background.

6: Bavaro Beach

Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic ranked 14th on the global list and 6th on the best Caribbean beach list. Visitors love its soft sand, clear waters and its snorkeling.

7: Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica

Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica rounded out the top 7 best Caribbean beaches and took the 15th spot globally out of 25. Visitors rave about the beautiful sand on Seven Mile, Negril.

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7 Caribbean Beaches Named In World's Top 25 For 2017 - News Americas Now Caribbean And Latin America Daily News

Feb. 23, 2017, 9:50 a.m.

Rihanna is on fire.

On Wednesday, the international superstar achieved a status earned only bythe Beatles and Madonna landing 30 songs in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

That same day, she also was named Humanitarian of the Year by Harvard University, shedding light on a lesser-known side of her stardom.

Rihanna has charitably built a state-of- the-art center for oncology and nuclear medicine to diagnose and treat breast cancer at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown, Barbados, S. Allen Counter, the Harvard Foundations director, said in a statement.

Bursting onto the scene with 2005s Pon de Replay,the 29-year-old singerhas gone on tosell 60 million albums and more than 200 million digital tracks throughout her career. Known for her catchy pop anthems, edgy style and sass, the Barbadianalso is involved with philanthropy.

In addition to promoting health, Rihannais also passionate about education initiatives.She created the Clara and Lionel Foundation Scholarship Program , which supports students attending college in the U.S. from Caribbean countries. The musician also supports the Global Partnership for Education and Global Citizen Project, which gives girls in developing countries access to education.

Joining the ranks of previous recipients such as actor James Earl Jones, former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan and gender rights advocate MalalaYousafzai,Rihanna will accept the Peter J. Gomes Humanitarian Award in aFeb. 28 ceremony on Harvards campus.

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Today in Entertainment: 'The Get Down' to return to Netflix; Rihanna named Harvard Humanitarian of the Year - Los Angeles Times

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is changing the way that it assigns value to the tour conductor (TC) credit earned by travel agents for certain group bookings, starting in 2018.

TCs are a bonus earned when agents book a minimum number of berths into a group, typically 16 full-fare guests in eight staterooms.

The current value of a TC is based on the value of the predominant cabin category in the booking. For example, if there are more oceanview staterooms than suites, the TC would be valued as an extra oceanview fare.

Under Royal Caribbean's new formula, the value will be a blend of all of the cabin categories in the booking.

The new policy will apply to RCCL's three U.S. brands -- Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. RCCL said it will enhance its group systems and reporting capabilities in June 2017 to support the new TC policy.

Agents have the option to use TCs as an extra berth for themselves, as additional profit, or to apply the value to lower the overall price to the group. The enhanced TC value would ultimately make RCCL's groups more attractive to consumers.

In a statement, RCCL said the new policy was influenced by feedback it received from travel partners.

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Royal Caribbean gives agents more ways to use TC credits - Travel Weekly

Bradenton Herald

AP PHOTOS: Editor selections from Latin America, Caribbean Bradenton Herald In this Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017 photo, a woman cries near the coffin containing the body of a relative who died at the country's largest prison in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Relatives wailed in grief or stared stoically as flowers were placed on 20 caskets ... and more »

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AP PHOTOS: Editor selections from Latin America, Caribbean - Bradenton Herald

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Feb 21, CMC Regional tourism officials Tuesday applauded Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders for taking the lead in recognising the critical contribution of the sector to regional economies and a commitment to advancing a regional tourism agenda.

The Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) the regions tourism development agency, and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the umbrella private sector organization, said they firmly believe that tourism is a key driver of socio-economic progress, helping destinations and countries to quickly create jobs and businesses, generate tax revenues and support infrastructure improvements to the benefit of residents and visitor.

It is a proven tool to lower unemployment, stimulate indigenous entrepreneurial activity, increase foreign exchange earnings, and grow tax revenues for our treasuries.

However, it is a fiercely competitive business, and we are facing the stark reality that we must find ways of maximizing the collective strength of the Caribbean, if any and all of us are to truly succeed, the two organisations noted.

CTO Secretary General Hugh Riley last week made a presentation to the regional leaders last week that was also prepared in collaboration with the CHTA,.

The communique issued following the summit noted that that the leaders welcomed proposals from the two organisations for advancing a regional tourism agenda, particularly through public/private Sector Partnerships.

Heads of Government acknowledged the importance of transportation and facilitation of travel, human resource development, the creative industries and marketing as well as competitiveness and financing for the sustainability of Tourism.

Heads of Government agreed that public-private sector partnerships, guiding the development and marketing of tourism for the Caribbean, needed to be more effective and requested that the marketing of tourism encompass, in particular, the eco-tourism product of mainland Member States Belize, Guyana and Suriname.

Regarding travel, the regional leaders called for an urgent meeting of the Council for Trade and Development (COTED)-Transportation to address air transport issues in particular, including those related to the tourism sector.

The leaders said they also supported the establishment of an Interim Tourism Working Group comprising representation from the CARICOM Secretariat, CTO and the CHTA with the mandate to coordinate with regional public and private sector stakeholder groups, the development of specific solutions to be presented to the next summit in Grenada.

The CTO and CHTA said the support of the leaders is a progressive and positive move and a welcomed commitment towards furthering the development of our people, so that they can take full advantage of the employment, career and entrepreneurial opportunities available through the regions largest industry.

We wish to thank the leaders for placing tourism on their agenda. We are particularly appreciative to Prime Minister Perry Christie of the Bahamas, who has responsibility for tourism in the CARICOM quasi-Cabinet, Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell for advancing the proposed initiative at the meeting, the regional tourism bodies said.

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Regional tourism bodies welcome Caribbean leaders acknowledgement - Montserrat Reporter

(February 22, 2017) While the multihull race record was not broken this year, Phaedo3 and Maserati had an incredible 600 mile high-speed duel. Lloyd Thornburgs MOD70, Phaedo3 finished the 2017 RORC Caribbean 600 on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at 21 hrs 20 mins 46 secs AST, taking Multihull Line Honors.

Phaedo3 held on to win the battle of the trimarans, just 12 minutes ahead of Giovanni Soldinis Italian MOD70, Maserati. The high-speed battle saw the lead change hands at least four times during the race. The winning crew is Lloyd Thornburg (Skipper), Brian Thompson (Co-skipper), Paul Allen, Peter Cumming, Michel Desjoyeaux, Robert Greenhalgh, Damian Foxall and Miles Seddon.

The experimental semi-foiling Maserati showed incredible speed on a reach and it took a momentous effort from Phaedo3s well-established team to hold off the challenge. There was high drama at Guadeloupe with vicious squalls and heroics from Maseratis crew diving into the water to free the boat from a fish trap.

Once back on the dock in Antigua, Lloyd Thornburg, skipper of the American boat Phaedo3, summed up the race, Maserati gave us a heck of a run and it was really tough to stay ahead of a foiling boat. They kept coming at us with more pressure and they definitely have more speed at certain angles. The run down to Redonda was a real nail-biter and we knew that after that, the beat home would be in our favor and to cross the line ahead was just awesome.

Every year, I get reminded how insane a race this is and after this race, our navigator Miles Seddon said to me that we have turned the insanity up again this year. You never get used to this race hanging on reaching at 36 knots, it is just incredible. All of our team had to dig so deep and we love Antigua and had an amazing reception.

This years RORC Caribbean 600 proved to be a MOD70 match race around the 600 mile course for Giovanni Soldinis MOD70, Maserati (ITA) and Lloyd Thornburgs Phaedo3 (USA)

Brian Thompson, Co-Skipper of Phaedo3, commented on the unusual wind direction that had been predicted before the start, We had a lot more wind speed for the race, which was a surprise. Off Guadeloupe we had huge rainsqualls that are really quite dangerous in a MOD70 and we had 30 knots of wind from nowhere and shifting 50 degrees in seconds, with Maserati pushing us all the way. The big gennaker stayed up and we had to put in a few big bear-away maneuvers to avoid capsize.

With the strange wind direction, we had to really think on our feet. It was an amazing race with Maserati though, and we got away several times, but they always caught us up. Right near the start they went blasting past us flying through the air, hooting and hollering and waving at us. That is what they had come for and they have learnt a lot about foiling a MOD.

Lloyd Thornburgs MOD70 Phaedo3

Maserati skipper, Giovanni Soldini was full of praise for both his Maserati team and their rivals Phaedo3. The Italian MOD70 has an experimental foil enabling them to literally fly when the boat is on starboard, but not when they are on port, enabling them to give Phaedo3 a really close fight.

Phaedo are a very, very good team. They have known the boat for many years, whereas we are just beginning to get to know ours. We really flew a few times and we were able to play with Phaedo and I am really pleased with my crew, as they were fantastic. At the start of the last leg, we were just a minute behind. We have learnt a lot by racing with Phaedo and so we are improving our performance. Our dream was to make a MOD70 fly and in a couple of months we will have foils on both sides and life will be much more simple, Soldini said.

Maseratis race was not without incident. When we were past La Desirade we caught a buoy on the rudder but we didnt realize until near Barbuda, explains Soldini. Carlos Hernadez heroically jumped into the water when it was blowing 20 knots and the boat would not stop, so he had to swim very fast!

Looking good for Monohull Line Honors: George Davids Rambler 88

George Davids American Maxi Rambler 88 is expected to take Monohull Line Honors for the 2017 RORC Caribbean 600 at midday today local time (1600 UTC). At dawn on Day Three of the RORC Caribbean 600, Hap Fauths Bella Mente was winning the battle of the Maxi72s approaching Barbuda. Bella Mente holds a two mile lead from 2016 RORC Caribbean Trophy holder, George Sakellaris Proteus, and is estimated to be top of the leader board overall under IRC.

Simon & Nancy De Pietro racing C.n.b. Briand 76, Lilla are approaching Guadeloupe and are estimated to be leading IRC One by a slender margin from Theodore Kane, Jrs Swan 66 Bounty. Three yachts are in a close battle for victory in IRC Two. Dominic Hurndalls Grand Soleil 43, Jua Kali has taken the normal route on the downwind leg to Guadeloupe.

However, Ross Applebeys Scarlet Oyster and Ed Fishwicks Redshift on El Ocaso passed Montserrat to port. After IRC time correction, there are just seconds separating the three yachts after 330 miles of racing. In IRC Three, Jonty Layfields Swan 48 Sleeper X is enjoying a comfortable lead after IRC time correction and by 22 miles on the water from Andy Schell & Mia Karlssons swan 48, Isbjorn. Peter Hobbs Sigma 38, Sam is approaching the halfway stage in the race and is estimated to be in third in class.

A close battle is raging in the Class40 Division as the three leaders approach the wind shadow of Guadeloupe with barely a mile separating them. Catherine Pourres Erendil is just ahead of Peter Hardings Phor-ty and both team have chosen to take a line close into Guadeloupe. Halvard Mabire and Miranda Merrons Campagne de France has chosen to go offshore by approximately 8 miles.

In the battle of the schooners, the 182ft Adela, skippered by Greg Perkins is rounding Iles des Saintes with 220 miles to go. The 162ft schooner Eleonora, skippered by Brendan McCoy is 44 miles behind Adela on the water.

Event details Tracker Notice of Race Entry list

Background: The 9th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 starts from Antigua on Monday February 20, 2017. The 600nm course circumnavigates 11 Caribbean Islands starting from Fort Charlotte, English Harbour, Antigua and heads north as far as St Martin and south to Guadeloupe taking in Barbuda, Nevis, St Kitts, Saba and St Barths.

Source: Royal Ocean Racing Club

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RORC Caribbean 600: Phaedo3 Takes Multihull Line Honors - Scuttlebutt Sailing News

Carnival is about over-the-top, shed-your-inhibitions fun. Like Mardi Gras, its traditionally a last chance for excess before the solemn season of Lent for Catholics.

The annual bash is practically synonymous with Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans. But its also a big deal in the Caribbean, which, despite popular belief, isnt one homogeneous destination. Each Caribbean island has its own history, cuisine, culture and its own take on Carnival.

On some islands, the event is tied to Catholic traditions. On others, it commemorates slave emancipation or the harvest.

Celebrations on Curaao and Trinidad are held this time of year, but you can still catch the festivities on St. Lucia and Barbados, held in summer. One thing they all have in common: the chance to party like a local.

The pounding beat of African tumba music fills the air at a Carnival thats lively but not as risqu as the bashes on other islands. This is a Carnival youd be comfortable taking the kids to.

The parades, taking place today and Tuesday, are a big deal. Sixty marching groups stream down the streets of Willemstad, a capital city so picture-perfect youll think youve landed on the movie set for a quaint Caribbean island.

Two good spots to enjoy the festivities are the Carnival Dome near the beginning of the parade route and the Carnival Tribune, near the end. Both have seating, music, food and drink.

Curaao prides itself on making sure everyone can enjoy the party. Considered one of the Caribbeans most gay-friendly destinations, it has hotels catering to gay tourists and an annual gay pride parade. Our melting pot history has led to a progressive live and let live philosophy that has long welcomed the LGBT community, says Andre Rojer of the Curaao Tourist Board.

Pictured: Performers pose during festivities in Curaao.

WHERE TO STAY Sitting on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kura Hulanda Village (kurahulanda.com) features 18th- and 19th-century buildings restored to their original splendor. Cobblestone paths meander through lush gardens filled with art and inviting pools. An on-site museum details how Curaao was once the epicenter of the slave trade in the Caribbean. Rates start at $180 a night during Carnival.

INSIDER TIP When its time to eat, head to the food stalls of Plasa Bieu, also known as the Old Market. Sample the popular goat stew or traditional tutu, a dish of ground-up beans with sugar and other goodies.

INFO curacaocarnival.info

Pictured: The colorful Dutch houses at the Sint Annabaai in Willemstad, Curaao.

Trinidad is the mecca for Carnival in the Caribbean. The riotous, multicultural spectacle starts with the pre-dawn Jouvert (daybreak in French Creole) on Carnival Monday, Feb. 27, when people throw paint on one another. It culminates with Parade of the Bands, where several thousand scantily clad costumed revelers dance to pulsating soca.

Birthplace of the steel pan, Trinidad is an oil-rich country whose ports have long been flooded with empty oil drums. Resourceful locals turned them into instruments. Panorama, the worlds largest steel pan competition, is held over several days in January and February leading up to the big final competition in Queens Park Savannah in Port of Spain. Many of the preliminary competitions are held in Port of Spains pan yards, where tourists are welcome to hear steel pan bands practice throughout the year.

Tour companies such as Banwari Experience (banwaricaribbean.com) will help you play mas with a Carnival band, which means you don a costume and march in the parade. They also can set you up to be part of ftes, Carnival-themed parties held all over the island that include your food and drink.

WHERE TO STAY Downtown Port of Spains traffic is at its worst during Carnival, so consider the Hilton Trinidad (hiltoncaribbean.com/destinations/trinidad.html), within walking distance of Queens Park Savannah, where many events are held. Carnival rates begin at $500 a night.

INSIDER TIP If someone asks if you want a wine, theyre not wondering if youd like a chardonnay. Theyre asking if you want to wind as in wind your hips or gyrate, presumably in tandem with the person asking.

INFO ncctt.org/new

Pictured: The Junior Queen of the Carnival competition is part of the festivities in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

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Known for its towering Piton mountains, breathtaking beaches and a world-class jazz festival, St. Lucia used to hold its Carnival before Lent. The country changed the festival date in 1999 to eliminate competition with Carnival titan Trinidad and Tobago and to attract more tourists to its lush playground in the summer.

St. Lucian Carnival is a more intimate affair that remains on the smaller side, with roughly eight bands participating in the festivities. It culminates in the three-mile-long Parade of the Bands through the capital city of Castries.

WHERE TO STAY Main events are on the north end of the island. The oceanfront St. Jamess Club Morgan Bay (morganbayresort.com) is a good choice in that area. Rates start at $291 a night for two people, including all food and drink.

INSIDER TIP Youll hear the locals talk about liming. Simply put, to lime is to party or to hang out. It refers to the art of doing nothing while sharing food, drink and laughter with friends. And no matter what season you visit, the fishing village of Gros Islet hosts a lively street party on Friday nights, full of barbecue, drinks and dancing.

INFO stlucia.org/events/carnival

Pictured:Carnival performers dance inCastries, Saint Lucia.

Barbados could give Trinidad a run for the title of top party island just dont call Barbados event Carnival. Its Crop Over, pictured, and its so important to this former British colony that its a national holiday. As the name suggests, Crop Over celebrates the end of the harvest, on an island that was once among the worlds largest sugar producers.

Soca music competitions, the coronation of the Crop Over king and queen, parties, boat rides and parades nearly two months of nonstop festivities lead up to the main event, Kadooment Day, the first Monday in August, when revelers parade through the streets in barely-there bikinis loaded with sequins and feathered finery. You might even see pop star Rihanna, who often returns to her native island for the festivities.

WHERE TO STAY Many events take place in the bustling capital, Bridgetown. To be in the heart of the party, try the beachfront Hilton Barbados. The concierge will assist with tickets to events and ftes (hiltonbarbadosresort.com). Rates start at $199.

INSIDER TIP Bring a bathing suit along on Kadooment Day. After parading and partying in the streets of Bridgetown, revelers head to the outskirts for a swim at Brandons Beach.

INFO visitbarbados.org/things-to-do

Pictured: Seafront at St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados.

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Caribbean islands offer Carnival travel choices: St. Lucia, Barbados and more - Newsday

Bill Clegg, Chairperson of CHTAs Membership Committee who also serves as CHIEFs Program Chair.

FLORIDA, United States, Tuesday February 21, 2017 Two of the Caribbeans premier tourism events will be staged concurrently in June in Miami during Caribbean-American Heritage Month.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) announced that the Caribbean Hotel Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), usually held in the fall, will now take place during the first week of June alongside the popular Taste of the Caribbean educational experience, cultural showcase and culinary competition.

CHIEF will be held fromJune 2 to 4, 2017, while Taste of the Caribbean is slated forJune 2 to 6. Both events will be held at the Hyatt Regency Miami.

CHIEF brings together the right information, the right people at the right time and by producing this event in Miami we expect many more Caribbean stakeholders to benefit from the educational sessions and invaluable peer-to-peer exchange, said Bill Clegg, Chairperson of CHTAs Membership Committee who also serves as CHIEFs Program Chair.

Clegg, Regional Vice President of Product Development for Choice Hotels International, explained that CHIEF, previously held on two occasions in Puerto Rico, would now be more accessible to Caribbean hoteliers and industry partners who can benefit from wider flight selection and more affordable air options into Miami.

CHIEF incorporates a variety of educational tracks led by experts from many travel, tourism and hospitality industry segments, and features roundtable panels with one-on-one discussions on environmental sustainability, operations, sales and marketing, and technology.

Taste of the Caribbean, the regions premier culinary competition and cultural showcase, also provides a forum for gathering practical information, developing skills, sampling, purchasing, strengthening supplier relationships and meeting new vendors. One goal of the popular event is to help attendees build food and beverage business and yield bottom line benefits.

The 2017 edition of Taste of the Caribbean will also bring innovative educational sessions for food and beverage professionals that promise to enhance individual skills, and will feature a major consumer component soon to be unveiled.

There are so many workshops that you can learn from, says Maureen Bowers, former Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year (2010) from Antigua and Barbuda, speaking on the value of Taste of the Caribbean. Social networking is also good for professionals. You can even learn from the competitions as well the practical, physical work of what (other chefs) do.

Since 1993, the best chefs and culinary teams unite to learn, demonstrate their skills and provide the general public a scintillating exhibition of the most savory and delectable treats of the Caribbean.

For additional information about CHIEF and Taste of the Caribbean, including pre-registration, visitwww.caribbeanhotelandtourism.comor call+1 305 443-3040. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Matt Cooper atmatt@caribbeanhotelandtourism.comor+1 786 476-8620.

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CHIEF and Taste Of The Caribbean To Be Held In Miami In June ... - Caribbean360.com (subscription)

(February 21, 2017) After a champagne start to the ninth edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 yesterday, there was a huge change in weather conditions by the end of the first day. The low pressure system emanating from the north arrived earlier than anticipated, extinguishing the trade winds to provide a windless night for many competitors.

However, in the early hours today a highly unusual northwesterly wind was effecting the majority of the fleet rounding St.Kitts and Nevis. The arrival of the wind was accompanied by torrential rain more Argyll & Bute (Scotland) than Antigua & Barbuda! By dawn today, the majority of the monohull fleet were beating to Saba Island to turn downwind towards St. Barth.

In the MOCRA Multihull Class, the two duelling MOD70s are now a distant memory from the rest of the fleet. Giovanni Soldinis Maserati rounded the Barbuda mark less than a minute ahead of Lloyd Thornburgs American Phaedo3 and the two yachts set off on a broad reach to Nevis, hitting 25 knots of boat speed.

However, on port gybe without a foil, Maserati was unable to shake off the attentions of Phaedo3. Turning upwind at Nevis, the advantage turned towards Phaedo3 who passed Saba Island 22 seconds ahead of Maserati. Phaedo3 continued to pull away from Maserati through the chicane at the top of the course to lead by nearly 10 minutes as they passed Tintamarre Island around Midnight.

Both MOD70s experienced light winds for the first part of the leg to Guadeloupe, but once through the windless zone, the two combatants were back to full speed as they both rounded Montserrat to Port. At dawn on the second day of the race, Phaedo3 and Maserati were close together, about to enter the wind shadow of Guadeloupe.

Duelling MOD70s at the start of the RORC Caribbean 600 RORC/Tim Wright

For yachts racing under the IRC Rating Rule, George Davids American maxi Rambler 88 was leading on the water by 48 minutes at Tintamarre Island, six miles ahead of Mike Slades British Maxi, Leopard 3. Lionel Peans French Volvo70, SFS II was third on the water, but leading IRC Canting Keel Class after time correction.

At dawn on the second day, the two Maxi72s were enjoying an intense battle at the top of the overall leader board for IRC. Hap Fauths Bella Mente and George Sakellaris Proteus were rounding St.Barth for the second time on the long leg to Guadeloupe. The two yachts had been no more than seven minutes apart in 240 miles of racing.

Approaching the halfway stage in the race, Proteus was estimated to be leading by less than one minute on corrected time. Dixon 100, Danneskjold, sailed by Simon Hill is estimated to be third in IRC Zero, just ahead of Stefan Jentzschs Carkeek 47, Black Pearl, after time correction.

Photographer, Cory Silken is on board the Dixon 100, Danneskjold

IRC One Marc Lepesqueux & Philippe Paturels Class40, Saint Pierre & Miquelon is estimated to be leading the class from C.n.b. Briand 76, Lilla, sailed by Simon & Nancy De Pietro. Giles Redpaths Lombard 46, Pata Negra is third. With all of the 18 yachts in the class on the leg between Saba and St. Barth at dawn on the second day, there is close racing right through the division.

IRC Two Ed Fishwicks J/122, Redshift on El Ocaso is estimated to have a slender lead on class champion Scarlet Oyster, skippered by Ross Applebey. At dawn on the second day, Redshift on El Ocaso rounded Saba Island 13 minutes ahead of Scarlet Oyster. Dominic Hurndalls Grand Soleil 43, Jua Kali, was estimated to be third after IRC time correction.

Scarlet Oyster at Barbuda Mark RORC/Tim Wright

IRC Three Jonty Layfields Swan 48, Sleeper X leads the class on the water and after IRC time correction. Sleeper X is estimated to have a handsome three hour lead in the class from Andy Schell & Mia Karlssons Swan 48, Isbjorn. Peter Hobbs Sigma 38 Sam, is estimated to be in third position.

Class40 Halvard Mabire and Miranda Merrons Class40, Campagne de France is locked into a close battle for the class with Peter Hardings Ph-orty. The two teams are approaching St. Barth, barely a mile apart, with Campagne de France just in front. Catherine Pourres Erendil was leading the class during the first night but is now lying in third position.

A battle is developing between the two magnificent schooners racing in the RORC Caribbean 600. The 182ft twin-masted Adela, skippered by Greg Perkins is 14 miles ahead of its rival the elegant 162ft Eleonora, skippered by Brendan McCoy. However Adela enjoys additional waterline length and sail area, and after IRC time correction Eleonora holds an estimated lead of just 14 seconds.

Sail changes and manoeuvres on board will have been both numerous and exhausting among the classic yachts racing. As testified by Mathew Barker, owner of The Blue Peter. A lot of tacking during the night with boats all around us which adds an element to the physicality. A great chilli meal on board, which was very welcome with the foul weather, all good on board.

Infiniti 46, Maverick, skippered by Oliver Cotterell has retired from the race having reported a hand injury to a crew member. The Maverick team are safely ashore at Nevis.

Event details Tracker Notice of Race Entry list

Background: The 9th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 starts from Antigua on Monday February 20, 2017. The 600nm course circumnavigates 11 Caribbean Islands starting from Fort Charlotte, English Harbour, Antigua and heads north as far as St Martin and south to Guadeloupe taking in Barbuda, Nevis, St Kitts, Saba and St Barths.

Source: Royal Ocean Racing Club

Original post:

RORC Caribbean 600: It's Never Like This >> Scuttlebutt Sailing News - Scuttlebutt Sailing News

WASHINGTON

US President Donald Trump has expanded the nations immigration rules requiring expanded deportation of undocumented Caribbean and other immigrants.

In a revised executive order, captioned Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements, Trump said US federal immigration law both imposes the responsibility and provides the means for the federal government, in cooperation with the states, to secure the nations borders. He said the purpose of the order is to direct executive departments and agencies to deploy all lawful means to secure the nations southern border with Mexico to prevent further illegal immigration into the United States, and to repatriate illegal aliens swiftly, consistently and humanely. Trump said the order includes returning Caribbean and other immigrants to their respective countries, pending formal proceedings. The order also directs the US Secretary of Homeland Security to hire an additional 5,000 border agents and to empower state and local law enforcement to support federal enforcement of immigration law, to the maximum extent permitted by law, and to ensure that prosecution guidelines place a high priority on crimes. Last Friday, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency released a list detailing the offences of 680 immigrants who were recently detained and slated for deportation, adding 75 per cent had criminal convictions. Reduction in travel to Caribbean

In the largely Caribbean community in Brooklyn, New York, rumours of immigration sweeps at a popular department store and a sprawling hospital frequented by Caribbean nationals spread like wildfire last week, prompting the intervention of a Caribbean American legislator. New York City Council Member Jumaane D Williams, the son of Grenadian immigrants, told the Caribbean Media Corporation he and his staffers have been following up on the many rumours, as we can. Williams has been among the Caribbean communitys most vocal critics of the Trumps administration immigration policies. Caribbean-American Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke had warned the Trump travel ban would extend to the Caribbean. Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, represents the Ninth Congressional District in Brooklyn. Last weekend, Caribbean Community leaders expressed concern Trumps immigration policies could result in a reduction of travel to the Caribbean. We must obviously be concerned with the recent issue related to immigration, and the impact it will have on our citizens and on tourism, said Grenada Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell. CMC

Excerpt from:

More Caribbean illegals in line for deportation - Trinidad & Tobago Express

Royal Caribbean Blog (blog)

Navigator of the Seas Live Blog - Day 5 - Curacao Royal Caribbean Blog (blog) Today kicked off the bulk of our Southern Caribbean cruise, with our port stop in Curacao. I have never been here before and I was excited to see what this island has to offer. We set the alarm for 7am and got the family prepped and fed prior to ...

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Navigator of the Seas Live Blog - Day 5 - Curacao - Royal Caribbean Blog (blog)