Walking into the grand ballroom of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel on April 24th, there is a palpable sense of evolution. Two years ago, the Go Jamaica Travel Expo stunned the industry by drawing over 1,000 attendees on its opening day. This year, the energy is even more focused. Under the ambitious leadership of Dave Chin Tung, owner of Go Jamaica, the 2026 Expo will be a master display in showcasing the full spectrum of the Jamaican spirit.
A Strategy of Synergy
The first day of the event serves as a high-stakes hub for the travel trade. With 50 exhibitors on the floor and a specialized audience of 300 invited guests—including travel agents flown in from the USA courtesy of the Jamaica Tourist Board—the Friday session is where the “on the ground” magic happens.
While the digital age has seen Go Jamaica invest heavily in a website featuring a million global listings, Chin Tung has noticed a surprising trend: people want to talk to people. “Anyone can Google a city and hotel,” Chin Tung explains, “but it is not the same as getting it firsthand from someone who has been there. They want info which is not on Google.” This human-to-human interaction is the cornerstone of the 2026 strategy, turning an online booking into a trusted recommendation.
Shining a Light on the “Hidden Gems”
Perhaps the most significant shift this year is the intentional “Small Hotel Spotlight.” In an industry often dominated by massive all-inclusive marketing budgets, Chin Tung has engineered the floor plan to force a discovery of the boutique.
“The exhibitor floor plan mixes the small and large properties,” says Chin Tung. “If persons visit a large hotel’s table, there will be a small property beside them. You can’t help but find out about them.”
This thrust into 2026 and 2027 is specifically designed to support properties that lack big-brand visibility. This year, the spotlight shines brightest on Negril, with an influx of smaller hotels from the capital of casual taking center stage. From the historic charm of Jamaica Inn to the intimate vibes of Ocean Cliff Hotel, the expo proves that luxury comes in all sizes.
Tourism Beyond the Bedroom
The 2026 participant list reads like a “Who’s Who” of Jamaican excellence. It is about where you sleep, you taste, touch, and experience. Local artisans, craftsmen, and iconic brands like Pure Chocolate, Castleblack Rum, and Vineyard Town Ice Cream are positioned alongside major carriers like Copa Airlines and Caribbean Airlines.
“Tourism isn’t just about persons going to a hotel,” Chin Tung asserts. “Visitors want culture, food, and craft.” By bringing in ground transport giants like Knutsford Express and attractions like Chukka Outpost, the expo provides a 360-degree view of the “Made in Jamaica” brand.
Free Entry and Secret Giveaways
Saturday, April 25th, is when the doors swing wide for the public. Expecting a crowd of at least 1,600, Go Jamaica has kept the second day free to encourage the growing “staycation” trend. As the island continues to recover and recalibrate after Hurricane Melissa, the message is clear: our hidden gems are only a few hours away from home.
And then, there are the prizes. While the exact number of giveaways is being kept a closely guarded secret, the “win-big” energy is higher than ever. In a modern twist, attendees no longer have to be physically onsite at the moment of the drawing to win. “Hotels have told us as soon as we have a date for the next expo, they are on board,” Chin Tung notes. “This is like a standing order.”
A Sustainable Future
In an incredible show of commitment to the industry, the entire expo is sponsored by Go Jamaica Travel, with zero participation fees charged to exhibitors. It is a bold investment in the belief that Jamaica’s hospitality workers, artisans, and culinary experts are the best in the world.
As the 2026 Expo unfolds at the Pegasus, it serves as a powerful reminder to buy local, explore further, and remember that the most incredible travel experiences aren’t found in a search engine—they are found right here at home.
Watch the latest Kareem’s Quest Adventure videos on YouTube, click the link below
Video of the Week
Follow Kareem’s Quest
Useful Information about Jamaica
Click to check Jamaica’s Foreign Exchange Rate.
What is the weather like in Jamaica
The climate in Jamaica is very warm, with an annual average of 32 degrees/ 89.6°F. It is usually warm to hot all year round.
What is the time zone in Jamaica
Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)
Immigration/ Custom Form
Every visitor is required to fill out a C5 form before entering Jamaica
