Émilie Giguère joins Jamaica Tourist Board as BDM for Eastern Canada

Jamaica has appointed a new tourism ambassador for Eastern Canada, recruiting Émilie Giguère as a business development manager, PAX has learned.

A well-known figure in the industry, Ms. Giguère previously represented Hurtigruten, and before that, she was the face of French Polynesia, Princess Cruises and Transat .

From Jamaica, where she is currently training, Giguère told PAX that she is delighted to join the JTB.

“I am very happy to represent this magnificent destination to Quebecers and Canadians in the Eastern part of the country. I've been in Jamaica for a few days and, truly, I'm falling in love,” she said. “Jamaica has so much to offer, for all tastes and interests! It’s a destination with a very rich history and that’s something that appeals to me personally. Just like Jamaica's ecotourism initiatives.”

Giguère said she has been to Jamaica regularly since her first visit in 2007.

“The first time, I came alone to tour the SuperClubs, Gran Lido and Hedonism hotels. I found the people cool, open, smiling...and not stressed by the little worries of everyday life. I was thought it was a little reckless of me to walk alone from Trelawny to Falmouth (my favourite town). But in fact, I met lots of wonderful people — people with whom I have kept in touch with to this day!” she said.

A diligent presence with advisors

Even before the Jamaica Tourism Board confirmed her appointment as BDM, Giguère began promoting the destination on her social media, making good use of the hashtag #VisitJamaica.

She said she is looking forward to visiting travel agencies.

In the meantime, she first complete her training (which involves visiting other areas of Jamaican).

“I intend to be very present with the advisors. I can't wait to meet them. I'm going to make sure they know that Jamaica is there for them — because I want them to always think of Jamaica when they suggest sun destinations to their clients,” she said.

Giguère reminded the trade that every last Thursday of the month, “Jamaica University” offers webinars (two in English and one in French) on Jamaica’s different destinations, as well as hotels, attractions, excursions and more.

The new BDM reiterates that she could not be more enthusiastic about the challenges ahead.

“I feel at home here, like a new family. My colleagues at the JTB gave me an extraordinary welcome. For me, their trust represents all the gold in the world!”

Émilie Giguère can be reached at egiguere@visitjamaica.com or at 514.231.1968.

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