Dear Editor,

Some of the finest salesmen in Jamaica’s tourism sector are none other than our local taxi drivers. There is nothing more refreshing and delightful to visitors being driven to or from the airport or on tours and attractions, than to have experienced drivers who are knowledgeable and proud of their country.

I get directly from Sandals’ guests some of the most pleasing remarks and comments about Jamaica Union of Travellers Association drivers, some of which are lengthy and full of praise for the Jamaicans who could tell them so much about the island, the people and popular sights.

It is well known that Sandals was the first major chain to contract with JUTA to provide transport for large numbers of visitors to Jamaica. At the time several questions were asked and comments made about our decision, as the association of independent taxi drivers was thought to be an unreliable, unsafe and unwieldy group that could not maintain a serious business relationship. How wrong these detractors were and what a great decision the Sandals team made to open our doors and embrace the JUTA drivers.

From Negril to Whitehouse and Ocho Rios we have had sterling service with reliable and wonderful treatment of our guests.

As the holidays approach, I would like to take this opportunity to wish the owners and drivers who are associated with JUTA, a happy, merry and quality Christmas and the best for the new year. I encourage them to keep on holding their heads high as they continue to represent Jamaica in the most unique and remarkable way, that typically only they can do.

I leave you with this: taxi drivers know the roads, people, sights and places of interest probably better than most. They deal with passengers in an informal way as the first and last guides on the island. What a phenomenal promotion of our island taking place thousands of times every day! Thi