The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) executives are embarking on the "Bringing The Bahamas to You" Global Missions initiative on June 14-15 in California. Their purpose is to present the latest tourism offerings and developments of the 16-island destination, highlight The Bahamas' rich film legacy, and commemorate the momentous 50th Anniversary of Independence.
Led by the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, the Global Missions in California will feature Latia Duncombe, Director General of BMOTIA, and other senior executives from the ministry. During their visit, the delegation will engage with influential industry leaders, partners, media professionals, and travel agents.
The primary objective of the Global Missions is to enhance awareness of The Islands of The Bahamas brand in crucial markets and stimulate tourism to the destination. The California Mission aligns with BMOTIA's recent announcement on June 6th, revealing the launch of JetBlue's inaugural non-stop service from Los Angeles to Nassau starting November 4th.
"We are delighted that, starting in November, residents of California, the most populous state in the U.S. and renowned for its diversity, will have the opportunity to board a JetBlue flight at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and travel non-stop to Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) in Nassau," expressed Deputy Prime Minister Cooper.
He further added, "Californians are no strangers to sun, sand, and sea, but they are increasingly drawn to our shores for the unparalleled sights, experiences, and vibrant culture. Stopover arrivals from California have surged by 52% from January to April 2023 compared to the same period last year."
"Over the past nine months, the Ministry has maintained constant communication with key international aviation stakeholders to expand airlift capacity and meet the growing demand for travel to our destination," he explained. "The introduction of JetBlue's new non-stop service marks a new era and will substantially enhance accessibility to The Islands of The Bahamas."
The "Bringing The Bahamas to You" Global Tour will bring a taste of The Bahamas to Costa Mesa and Los Angeles, representing the primary tourism market for the West Coast.
The Bahamas and Hollywood share a longstanding relationship that dates back over a century when the world's first underwater film, "Terrors of the Deep," was shot in Nassau. This connection has persisted through modern films like the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves as a crucial international hub, conveniently connecting travelers in the region to The Bahamas through major airports in cities such as Chicago, Houston, and Miami.
After California, the "Bringing The Bahamas to You" Global Tour will return in late summer and fall 2023, making stops in Atlanta, Georgia, and the United Kingdom.
Travelers who book their 2023 Bahamas vacation can anticipate a year-long celebration filled with events and festivities, as the destination commemorates the golden jubilee milestone of 50 years of independence. Some highlights from the upcoming 50th independence celebrations include the Jubilee on the Sea at Montagu Beach, the 50th on Bay concert series, the 50th Independence People's Rush, and much more.