Nigerians are set to enjoy direct flight operations to the Jamaica. This follows the success of the historic inaugural charter flight from Lagos to Montego Bay, Jamaica last December. Talks between the two countries are well advanced with plans for a second charter that will operate from May 24 – June 1, 2021. The flight will set the stage for a more sustained schedule that will facilitate greater air connectivity, between Africa and the Caribbean.
The upcoming charter flight is being managed within the framework of the Nai-Jamaica Project; the fusion of Naija and Jamaica and the celebration of both countries’ common history and culture. The flight will originate in Lagos and proceed to Montego Bay, Jamaica.
An inbound leg is also being organised from Jamaica to Nigeria, during the period of May 25-31, 2021. This will allow Jamaicans and others nationals from the Caribbean to experience the diverse culture and tourism opportunities within Nigeria. They will also be able to discover their roots and visit heritage sites in various states including; Lagos, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, and others.
Elizabeth Agboola, CEO, Nigerians Travel Too, and coordinator, Nai-Jamaica Project, is delighted to once again assume responsibility for the charter operations. “I was happy to be at the forefront of the initial charter and my team and I are committed to working with all stakeholders, to ensure the success of the next charter in May and all subsequent flight rotations”, Agboola assured.
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According to Agboola, Air Peace Limited, Nigeria’s leading national carrier, will continue to partner with the Nai-Jamaica Project in transporting passengers to and from the Caribbean. The flights will be conducted with state-of-the-art, wide-bodied aircraft, that will enable the journey to be completed in style and comfort, in just over 11 hours. The Air Peace crew will continue to offer outstanding in-flight service across first, business and economy class cabins on each flight.
Ticket-only prices start from US$2300 (return) in economy class. Tour packages (including accommodation at three, four and five star all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay and other areas inside Jamaica’s resilient corridor) are also available from US$2,850. COVID-19 travel insurance, underwritten by Leadway Assurance Company, is automatically included as part of the tour packages.
In Jamaica, visitors will be able to enjoy a range of experiences and attractions. There will be opportunities to sample the world famous Jamaican Rum, Jerk Chicken, Ackee and Saltfish and Devon House Ice Cream. In addition, there will be scope to visit the Bob Marley Museum, go rafting on the Martha Brae River, chase picturesque waterfalls, catch the breathtaking rays of sunset in Negril and experience the Luminous Lagoon, among other things.
For those with a passion for heritage and history, the Institute of Jamaica will afford a deep insight into Jamaica’s evolution as a nation and its ancestral connection to Africa. Other possible places of interest include Abeokuta (named after the capital of Ogun State) Accompong, other Maroon villages (built by runaway slaves), and Green Grotto.
Esmond Reid, Jamaica’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, warmly welcomes the prospect of more sustained flights between Africa and the Caribbean. “Jamaica is pleased to be part of this dynamic initiative between Africa and the Caribbean. We look forward to diverse partnerships and business opportunities in tourism and related areas being established, as a result of this timely development”.
Flight bookings and other pertinent information can be found at www.nai-jamaica.com and tour packages are available at www.nigerianstraveltoo.com. Prospective passengers are encouraged to book early, as reservations will close on May 15, to ensure timely visa processing and other formalities.
