Jamaica Tourist Board Flash Mob Dance Contest Open to Agents

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is inviting U.S.-based travel agents to grab their dancing shoes for the first-ever "Jamaica in My Head" Travel Agent Facebook dance contest. The JTB announced the contest following a surprise flash mob during the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX), where travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers, suppliers and buyers were gathered to discuss the latest Jamaican products.

To participate in the contest, agents can log on to Jamaica’s Facebook page to learn the choreographed dance routine performed during Jamaica’s original New York City Flash Mob, which took place last spring, from a step-by-step instructional video. Travel agents can then upload their versions of the dance as an individual application or as an office team, which can include their clients, for a chance to win a grand prize trip to Jamaica along with 2nd and 3rd place prizes.

In May, the Jamaica Tourist Board surprised New Yorkers with a destination flash mob in Union Square, in honor of the 30th Anniversary of the passing of Jamaica’s music legend Bob Marley. Jamaican reggae star Ziggy Marley, Bob Marley’s eldest son, created an exclusive island-themed remix titled "Jamaica In My Head" for the event.

"The Jamaica sales and marketing team is always thinking of new ways to connect with the travel agent community to enthuse them on Jamaica," said Donnie Dawson, Jamaica’s deputy director of tourism of the Americas. "Jamaica wouldn’t have visitors without all of the agents working tirelessly to keep the island top of mind with their clients. They’re such a vibrant bunch that we thought, what’s better than to get them dancing!"

Travel agents and their dance-savvy teams will have until November 21 to upload their videos. A panel of judges will choose ten finalists. From the top ten, Jamaica’s enthusiastic Facebook fan community will then choose the grand prize winner or winning team, as well as 2nd and 3rd place winners. The winners will be announced on Facebook and their video will be featured on the JTB’s website and YouTube page. Prizes include roundtrip air and luxurious accommodations for a 4-day/3-night vacation to Jamaica.

Agents can begin honing their dance skills by practicing the Jamaica Flash Mob instructional video viewable here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBbakBmefes

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Web site at www.visitjamaica.com

Follow the JTB on Facebook at www.facebook.com/visitjamaica

On Twitter at www.twitter.com/visitjamaicanow

On YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBbakBmefes