Mandeville, Jamaica — May 5, 2026
Jamaica stands at a powerful moment in the evolution of its tourism sector—one that calls for deeper recognition of the models that have already proven successful in delivering inclusive, sustainable, and globally respected experiences.
For decades, Mandeville has been recognized locally and internationally as the home of Community Tourism—a model that prioritizes community participation, cultural authenticity, and sustainable economic empowerment.
Community Tourism in Jamaica was formally created and branded in 1978 by the late Desmond Henry and Diana McIntyre-Pike, with the intentional selection of Mandeville and Treasure Beach as the first model communities and marketed internationally by the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) Founder Dr. Louis D’Amore in the early 80s, branding ‘Jamaica as the Home of Community Tourism’. This pioneering work laid the foundation for a globally respected tourism approach rooted in local ownership and cultural preservation.
Today, Community Tourism continues to offer Jamaica a powerful framework for expanding into over 30 diverse niche markets, including for example:
• Cultural & Heritage Tourism – immersive experiences rooted in Jamaican traditions, storytelling, and history
• Wellness & Healing Tourism – retreats, natural therapies, and holistic experiences aligned with global wellness trends
• Culinary Tourism – farm-to-table experiences, local cuisine, and community-based food journeys
• Eco & Sustainable Tourism – nature-based experiences that preserve the environment and empower rural communities
• Creative & Arts Tourism – music, dub poetry, craft, and cultural expression as living experiences
• Educational Tourism – authentic learning experiences grounded in real communities and lived culture
• Spiritual Tourism – sharing with visitors the importance of spiritual development in communities
These niches are not separate from Community Tourism—they are expressions of it as Community tourism is community development.
“We stand here in recognition that Community Tourism is Jamaica’s most authentic pathway to sustainable tourism development,” said Diana McIntyre-Pike. “It is a model that naturally integrates culture, education, wellness, and economic empowerment within the communities themselves.”
As global travellers increasingly seek meaningful, immersive, and responsible experiences, Jamaica is uniquely positioned to lead by strengthening and expanding its Community Tourism framework across the island.
This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but ensures that tourism development remains inclusive, community-driven, and economically empowering for local people.
Photo Caption: Celebration of Women’s Month and Launch of Mama Fyah Kitchen at Temple of Inner Peace, Negril, Jamaica
Photo Op: Pictured Left to Right: are Rebecca Dayes (Nyabinghi Leader); Denise Isis Miller (Roots FM Radio Host); Carlotta Madelaine (Reggae Entertainer); Sharon Oshun Parris-Chambers (Co-Founder Temple of Inner Peace) and Friend.
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About Diana McIntyre-Pike
Diana McIntyre-Pike is a pioneer of Community Tourism in Jamaica and the Caribbean, internationally recognized for her contributions to sustainable tourism and community development.
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Media Contact:
Oshun Parris-Chambers
Caribnewsroom
