ARLENES Garcia, director of sales and marketing for Latin America, says the annual Sandals Latin America Travel Advisors Golf Tournament offers a unique opportunity for travel professionals to immerse themselves in the Sandals brand and experience the beauty of Jamaica first-hand, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination.

The 2024 Sandals Latin America Travel Advisors Golf Tournament is in full swing. Hosted by the stunning Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Ochi resorts, this year’s event has brought together 50 travel advisors from 11 countries for a two-day golfing extravaganza. The tournament, held at the scenic Sandals Golf and Country Club in Upton Estate, will culminate today, crowning the champion of this exciting competition.

The countries participating are Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Mexico.

Garcia said the experience allows travel advisors to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with potential clients, encouraging them to visit Jamaica and experience the beauty, security, and diverse offerings of the Sandals resorts.

“This year we have golfers that have been attending the previous events and I think that they have gained experience, not only for the island but also playing golf. This is the opportunity to also go back home and speak about the experience of golfing, bring groups to play golf, be able to speak about our products and also the island — which I think is important,” Garcia told the Jamaica Observer.

“I mean, when we speak about Jamaica we have to talk about the security of being in Jamaica and having a vacation in Jamaica. When you come to the resorts and you can play golf, and at the same time enjoy the spa or the different dining options — it’s all different to those that haven’t been [here] before.”

Garcia said that this year’s tournament marks a significant milestone, showcasing the growth and popularity of the event over the past 10 years.

“This golf tournament is in its 10th edition and so we are very happy to be celebrating the 10th annual anniversary of this event,” she said.

“We are thrilled to be here with travel advisors from different countries reunited here at this event. They are enjoying their time here in Jamaica, which we see as their home away from home. So to be here and able to interact with agents from other from other countries, with our sales team from Latin America, also be able to experience the Sandals brand at Sandals Dunn’s river, who is actually this year our host resort, it’s amazing.

“The agents are very happy with what they can see and experience so far. And to be able to play golf? I mean, they are actually wearing uniforms with their colours of their flags and countries, and it is such a great experience to see them all around… enjoying the weather and the Caribbean itself.”