Born and raised in Negril, Westmoreland, Steve Thelwell knows how important the party scene is to commerce in the tourist town.

Being managing director of Happy World Car Rental, Thelwell’s establishment is one of two venues for the Rich Tropical Island (RTI) parties which take place July 29-August 1 in Negril.

Thelwell started ‘Happy World’ 15 years ago, around the same period the ATI/RTI parties were conceived. This year is the first he will be a host.

“The business sell off every year; RTI and the other parties bring in a lot of business. It’s a good look for us at this time of year,” he said.

Thelwell adds that ‘Happy World’ is a popular hangout for entertainers during RTI. Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Kiprich and Sean Paul are regulars.

Negril is one of Jamaica’s major tourist spots. Foreigners are drawn to its landmarks, which include the seven-mile beach and Rick’s Cafe. Thelwell believes more Jamaican events like the annual Dream Weekend parties are needed.

“They’re fun, bring in revenue and promote togetherness. Foreigners come to see Jamaican things so they can mix and mingle,” he said.

Happy World Car Rental hosts Pretty In Pink on July 30 and Heatwave on closing day.

The other RTI events, to be held at nearby Woodstock, are Quiet On The Sand on opening day and Beach Bums on July 31.

RTI — which returns after a one-year break — features the Rebel T and Fire Links sound systems and selector Matterhorn.

— Howard Campbell