Jamaica Heats Up 2025 with Carnival, Culture and Global Awards

Jamaica is making waves in early 2025 as it firmly cements its status as one of the world’s most vibrant and sought-after travel destinations. With a record-breaking Carnival season, international recognition, and bold tourism strategies, the island is showing the world just how dynamic its cultural appeal truly is.

This year’s Jamaica Carnival proved to be the most successful yet, drawing over 140,000 visitors—a 15 per cent increase from 2024. Celebrations across Kingston, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios lit up the island with electrifying road marches, music-filled fetes, and star-studded concerts. Hotels in Kingston reported a staggering 95 per cent occupancy, while restaurants, transport services, and local shops saw a major boom in business. Strategic digital marketing and international partnerships added to the festival’s massive reach and success.

“In the past few years, Kingston has evolved from being primarily a business and administrative hub to a vibrant centre for leisure and culture-driven tourism,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). “We are seeing a positive shift in how travellers are experiencing Kingston — not just as a gateway, but as a destination in its own right.”

Capitalising on this momentum, Jamaica’s tourism authorities are now rebranding Kingston as a top-tier leisure destination. Long celebrated for its music, art, and culinary scene, the city is embracing a full cultural renaissance—drawing more global attention through a packed calendar of events.

Adding more feathers to its cap, Jamaica earned multiple titles in the Tripadvisor® Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025. The island ranked #13 Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 Best Culinary Destination, and #24 Best Cultural Destination worldwide. Notably, S Hotel Montego Bay emerged as the #1 All-Inclusive in Jamaica, #2 in the Caribbean, and #11 globally, thanks to its modern charm, local flavour, and world-class service.

These milestones not only spotlight Jamaica’s rich heritage but also reflect its unwavering commitment to offering authentic, high-quality travel experiences. With cultural confidence and Caribbean flair, Jamaica continues to lead the way in global tourism.