Jamaica Takes Manhattan with a Surprise Reggae Flash Mob in Union Square

NEW YORK, May 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of New Yorkers and visitors alike were able to experience the rhythm of Jamaica yesterday, Monday, May 9, when the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) partnered with Flash Mob America for a destination flash mob. This week marks the 30th Anniversary of the passing of Jamaica's music legend Bob Marley. In honor of the occasion, Jamaican reggae star Ziggy Marley, Bob Marley's eldest son, showed his support by creating an exclusive version of a track from his upcoming album, Wild and Free, into an island-themed remix titled "Jamaica In My Head" for the event.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jamaica-takes-manhattan-with-a-surprise-reggae-flash-mob-in-union-square-121595759.html

Over 200 reggae enthusiasts performed to a choreographed routine, which included Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt's signature "Bolt to the World" dance move. The crowd also witnessed surprise appearances by notable Jamaicans, including Devon Harris, a member of the first Jamaican bobsled team, which inspired the movie Cool Runnings, members of the Jamaican national women's basketball team, Jamaican chess master Maurice Ashley, among others, who walked down a Jamaica-branded runway.

"We want everyone to know that Jamaica is the ultimate destination in which to relax and celebrate our 'One Love' motto," said John Lynch, Director of Tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board. "We've utilized various digital media platforms to showcase Jamaica's entertaining vibes; not only in New York City, but around the world."  

The event took place in New York City's Union Square on the south side at 14th Street. While there, people were able to scan human barcodes with their Smartphone to sign-up for the chance to win prizes and an exclusive free download of "Jamaica In My Head."  In addition, visitors were provided with information highlighting the destination's world-class attractions, resorts, beaches and cuisine. 

Jamaica, easily accessible via non-stop flights from many major gateway cities, is 146 miles long with mountainous peaks soaring to 7,402 feet (2,256 meters). The island features more than 120 rivers, stunning waterfalls and white sand beaches. Jamaica's accommodations range from luxury resorts to charming cottages and inns, all focusing on top-notch service. The destination includes restaurants to fit any taste and price point. A year-round vacation destination, some of Jamaica's diverse activities include hiking the Blue Mountains, bird-watching, championship golf, award-winning festivals, caving in the Cockpit Country, zip-lining, horseback riding, cliff diving, rainforest bobsledding, deep sea fishing, bicycle tours, dog-sledding, dolphin and shark encounters and more.

To view the Jamaica Flash Mob, click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBbakBmefes. For more information or to book a vacation to Jamaica, visit www.visitjamaica.com or speak to your local travel specialist.

ABOUT THE JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean's Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2010. Also in 2010, Jamaica earned the WTA's vote for the World's Leading Cruise Destination, Caribbean's Leading Destination and Caribbean's Leading Cruise Destination for the fourth consecutive year. Additionally, Montego Bay was named the World's Leading Beach Destination, Ocho Rios was named the Caribbean's Leading Cruise Port and Sangster International Airport was voted the Caribbean's Leading Airport.

JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Dusseldorf, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam and Tokyo.  

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB's Web site at www.visitjamaica.com, or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook at www.facebook.com/visitjamaica, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/visitjamaicanow or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/aboutjamaicajtb.

Contact:
Michelle Horn / Lauren Eisele
Ruder Finn, Inc.
(212) 593-6400
[email protected] / [email protected]

SOURCE Jamaica Tourist Board