KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s hospitality sector has achieved remarkable recognition in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, with three of its hotels securing top 10 positions in the Caribbean and Central America category. The Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios claimed the #4 spot, while the S Hotel Montego Bay and S Hotel Kingston ranked #5 and #7, respectively. This accolade underscores Jamaica’s growing reputation as a premier destination for luxury and cultural tourism. Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, hailed the achievement as a reflection of the island’s exceptional hospitality, service excellence, and diverse tourism offerings. He emphasized that these hotels represent the pinnacle of Jamaica’s tourism industry, from the timeless elegance of Ocho Rios to the vibrant boutique experience in Montego Bay and the sophisticated urban retreat in Kingston. Kyle Mais, General Manager of Jamaica Inn, expressed gratitude for the recognition, attributing it to the team’s dedication to preserving luxury and authentic Jamaican hospitality. Established in 1950, the Jamaica Inn has long been celebrated for its discreet service and understated charm, attracting iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe and Katharine Hepburn. Christopher Issa, CEO of S Hotels Jamaica, highlighted the significance of S Hotel Kingston’s inclusion, noting it as a testament to Kingston’s resurgence as a cultural and tourist hub. Meanwhile, S Hotel Montego Bay continues to build on its legacy of accolades from renowned platforms such as USA Today and TripAdvisor. This recognition not only celebrates Jamaica’s hospitality excellence but also reinforces its position as a leading destination in the Caribbean.
分类： entertainment
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Music producer Marlon Wright promoting ‘substance’ over ‘hype’
For 17 years, Marlon Wright has been a driving force in music production, focusing on artists often labeled as underground. This has never been a concern for him, as these artists align with his vision of creating meaningful music. Wright, an air traffic controller by profession, founded Cyber Leaf Entertainment in 2008. His current projects include collaborations with veteran poet Richie Innocent and emerging singer Jahdeed Rawbawn. Born in Kingston and raised in Westmoreland, Wright co-produced Richie Innocent’s latest track, *The Passover*, and is shaping Jahdeed Rawbawn’s debut EP, set for release in early 2026. Wright emphasizes, ‘We seek artists who bring not just talent but also messages that resonate and uplift communities. At Cyber Leaf, we prioritize substance over fame.’ Over the years, he has worked with roots artists like Iya Ingi and Derajah, and more recently, with Richie Innocent, a New York-based poet with three decades of experience. *The Passover*, released in August, marks their most ambitious collaboration yet. Wright’s mentorship of Jahdeed Rawbawn, a fellow St. Elizabeth native, further underscores his commitment to nurturing talent. Reflecting on his journey, Wright shared, ‘Working with Richie for over a decade and now mentoring Jahdeed reminds me that this work transcends individual success. The real reward lies in inspiring lives and creating legacies that endure.’
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Johnny Live Comedy Bar Special back Oct 19
The highly anticipated Johnny Live Comedy Bar Special is making a triumphant comeback to the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College on Sunday, October 19. This event, designed to deliver an evening of side-splitting humor, will showcase some of Jamaica’s most celebrated comedians, including Dahlia Harris, Leighton Smith, and Fancy Cat. Known for their sharp wit, insightful social commentary, and captivating storytelling, this dynamic trio is poised to leave the audience in stitches.
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Rashid Walker’s “Great and Mighty” under consideration for a Grammy
Antiguan gospel artist Rashid Walker has once again captured the attention of the Grammy Awards, with his latest single ‘Great and Mighty’ being submitted for consideration in two prestigious categories: Best Global Performance and Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals. The announcement was made by Walker himself in a heartfelt Facebook post, where he expressed his gratitude to the Recording Academy and the Grammy voting members. ‘I am deeply humbled and honoured for another opportunity to share my music with you,’ he wrote. Inspired by Revelation 7:9, ‘Great and Mighty’ delves into the unique Caribbean perspective of praise and worship music. Walker emphasized the importance of representation in God’s Kingdom, stating that the song was crafted as a response to this spiritual inquiry. He also acknowledged the contributions of his collaborators, including producer Mahli Benjamin and steelpan musician Amarni Gomes, both of whom are also credited for Grammy consideration in the arrangement category. This nomination further highlights the growing recognition of Caribbean gospel artistry on the global stage.
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Dominican art takes center stage in upcoming solo exhibitions at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel (updated)
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo exhibitions by renowned Dominican artists, showcasing their dedication to fostering local culture and artistic expression. At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his latest exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The collection explores themes of identity, heritage, and the deep connection between people and place, offering a profoundly personal visual narrative. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the exhibition invites both locals and visitors to experience Dominica’s essence through Francis’ unique artistic perspective. Simultaneously, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 20, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates the island’s traditions and cultural resilience, aiming to preserve and share the island’s rich heritage. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to Dominica’s cultural identity. Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, emphasized that these exhibitions highlight Dominica’s contemporary artistic talent while aligning with the resorts’ mission to promote the island’s vibrant culture. Both exhibitions are open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Dominican art in iconic settings. Secret Bay, a Relais & Châteaux property, is celebrated for its luxurious, eco-friendly villas and breathtaking Caribbean Sea views, while Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, located in Roseau, provides guests with immersive cultural and natural experiences. For more information, visit www.secretbay.dm or contact Fort Young Hotel at 767-448-5000.
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Solo exhibitions of Dominican art to take center stage at Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel
Dominica’s leading hospitality destinations, Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, are set to host solo art exhibitions that highlight the island’s cultural richness and contemporary artistic prowess. These events aim to showcase the works of two renowned Dominican artists, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s heritage and creative spirit.
At Secret Bay’s Bwa Denn gallery, internationally acclaimed artist Heston Francis will present his exhibition, *Roots: My Story to Tell*, from October 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026. The exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intrinsic bond between individuals and their environment. Francis’s unique artistic perspective weaves personal narratives with national pride, creating a compelling visual journey. The gallery welcomes the public daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, Fort Young Hotel’s Old Oven Art Gallery will feature *Salt and Soul*, a solo exhibition by Marica Honeychurch, running from October 8, 2025, to January 26, 2026. Honeychurch’s work celebrates Dominica’s enduring traditions and cultural legacy, emphasizing the importance of preserving and sharing the island’s unique identity. The exhibition is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Aaron Hamilton, Curator of the Art Galleries, remarked, ‘These exhibitions not only honor two of Dominica’s most talented contemporary artists but also align with our mission to spotlight the island’s vibrant culture and creativity.’ Both exhibitions are accessible to hotel guests and the general public, providing an immersive experience in two of Dominica’s most iconic settings.
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Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles to receive Kompa Recognition Award at 2026 Haitian Music Awards
Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles, Dominica’s Cultural Ambassador and a staunch advocate for Creole heritage, has been selected as a Recognition Award Recipient at the 10th Annual Haitian Music Awards (PHMA). The prestigious event is set to take place on January 10, 2026, at the Lipman Performing Arts Theater in North Miami Beach, Florida. Charles will receive the Kompa Recognition Award, a testament to his over four decades of dedication to cultural exchange and the promotion of Creole traditions. His efforts have significantly strengthened the cultural ties between Dominica and the Haitian kompa community, fostering a shared appreciation for Creole rhythms and heritage. ‘I am elated and deeply honored to receive this recognition,’ Charles expressed. ‘This award symbolizes a journey of unity, connecting Dominica and Haiti through music, language, and our shared cultural identity.’ The PHMA is a premier event that celebrates excellence in Haitian music and culture, honoring artists and cultural leaders who have made substantial contributions to the global promotion of Haitian music, particularly the kompa genre. Charles joins an esteemed group of honorees, including Robel Shalu of Top Vice, Cubano of Scat, DP Express, Jacot Serge Rochelle of Schlesler, Tat Lacoll, and other kompa legends. Throughout his career, Charles has been a pivotal figure in bridging Dominica and the Haitian community. He has served as the Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Haitian Association, promoted Haitian Flag Day in Dominica, and spearheaded initiatives that celebrate Creole language, music, and identity across the Caribbean and its diaspora. His work with Creole Heartbeat, the World Creole Music Festival, and various cultural collaborations has amplified Creole culture on a global scale. ‘I extend my heartfelt thanks to Kirby Lavier and the PHMA Committee, the City of North Miami Beach, committee members, cultural leaders, Francisole and Wanikoli, WCMF, DBS Radio, and the Creole family in Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe who have walked this journey with me,’ Charles added. As he prepares to accept this accolade, Charles remains steadfast in his mission to unite Creole communities through music, language, and cultural pride. The PHMA, founded to honor excellence in Haitian music, has become a cornerstone of cultural celebration for Haitian communities across the Americas and beyond.
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Dominican Republic showcases culture and carnival at 2025 Hispanic Parade in Madrid
Madrid witnessed a spectacular celebration of Dominican culture during the 2025 Hispanic Parade, as a delegation of 140 participants marched from Plaza de España to Cibeles. The event showcased the vibrant traditions of the Dominican Carnival, featuring iconic characters such as Los Diablos Cojuelos, Guloyas, Roba la Gallina, Calife, and Lechón de Santiago. The parade was a vivid display of the nation’s cultural identity, blending historical elements with contemporary artistry.
A towering nine-meter float, illuminated with lights and adorned with Caribbean palm trees, served as the centerpiece of the procession. The Dominican Ballet in Europe captivated audiences with energetic performances of merengue and bachata, dressed in a mix of traditional and modern attire. Other artistic highlights included the Faceless Dolls, Monumental Waves symbolizing the Caribbean Sea, and vibrant folkloric groups, all contributing to the rich tapestry of Dominican heritage.
The event also paid homage to Daniel Tejeda, honored as the parade’s King, and Bernarda Jiménez (In Memoriam), represented by her daughter as the Honorary Queen. Dominican Ambassador to Spain Tony Raful emphasized the parade’s significance in strengthening the historical and cultural bonds between the Dominican Republic and Spain. Héctor Farías, director of the Dominican Carnival in Madrid, announced plans for the inaugural Dominican Parade in Madrid in 2026, reflecting the diaspora’s dedication to preserving and promoting their culture in Europe. The event was organized with the support of the Dominican Embassy, Consulate General, and INDEX Spain.
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Santo Domingo Book Fair 2025 sets record with over RD$75 million in sales
The Santo Domingo International Book Fair 2025 (FILSD 2025) wrapped up with unprecedented achievements, marking a historic milestone in the Caribbean’s literary landscape. The event generated over RD$75 million in book sales, reflecting a remarkable 30% surge compared to the previous year. With a record-breaking 650 cultural and literary activities, the fair solidified its reputation as the region’s premier literary gathering, drawing massive crowds and fostering a vibrant cultural exchange.
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Nesbeth stirs up social controversy with new single lauding ‘sidechicks’
Reggae artist Nesbeth has once again captured the spotlight with his latest single, ‘Sidechick Save Nuff Relationship,’ a track that has ignited widespread debate among listeners. Released three months ago, the song has grown in popularity, with its provocative lyrics celebrating the role of ‘sidechicks’ in relationships. While some critics argue that the track undermines the value of faithful wives, others commend Nesbeth for acknowledging the often-overlooked contributions of these ‘sneaky links.’
Nesbeth, who describes himself as a realist, explained that the song was inspired by real-life observations. ‘As an artist, I sing about what people live, whisper, and argue about. This one just happens to be a hot-button topic,’ he said. The artist, a faithful husband and now fiancé, clarified that the song is not a reflection of his personal experiences but rather a commentary on societal dynamics. ‘My music isn’t limited to personal experience — it’s about perspective. I sing about life in all its forms,’ he added.
The track has elicited mixed reactions, with some listeners laughing, agreeing, or challenging its message. Nesbeth views this diversity of responses as a sign of success. ‘The song is doing what it should — sparking dialogue,’ he said. Surprisingly, he has received more support from wives than backlash, with some using the song to highlight their own roles in their marriages. ‘If everyone agreed, the song would be ordinary,’ Nesbeth noted.
Regarding his fiancée’s reaction, Nesbeth shared that she is unfazed by the controversy. ‘She does not take the song personally,’ he said. ‘My spouse is always supportive of my music and understands my role as an artist.’
As Nesbeth prepares to release the visuals for the track, he aims to close out 2025 on a high note, promoting other songs that balance social commentary with lighter themes. ‘The visuals will match the energy of the track and keep people talking,’ he said. ‘My catalogue always balances the serious with the light-hearted.’