Saturday, March 22, 2025
The Jamaica Tourist Board took center stage at the 2025 Philly Bike Expo, positioning Jamaica as a premier global cycling destination. Held annually in Philadelphia, PA, this event draws cycling enthusiasts for a weekend filled with exhibitions, seminars, and community-building activities. This year, the JTB made a strong impact, hosting a series of exciting events on March 7 and 8, showcasing the island’s rich cycling culture.
On Friday evening, the JTB invited attendees to indulge in the flavors and rhythms of Jamaica at VeloJawn, a local bike shop and event space. Guests were treated to authentic Jamaican food and live music, offering a taste of the island’s vibrant culture. The following day, in collaboration with cycling apparel brand Pinebury, the JTB organized a memorable group bike ride led by Carlton Simmonds, Jamaica’s National Cycling Coach. The ride, which began at the iconic Philadelphia Art Museum, took participants to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, where they enjoyed refreshing Blue Mountain Coffee and savory Jamaican patties.
Later that afternoon, the JTB, alongside Coach Simmonds, led an insightful seminar titled “Jamaica: Pedaling Through Reggae Paradise,” where they delved into the island’s diverse cycling offerings, further cementing Jamaica’s place as a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts.
“Jamaica’s stunning and varied natural landscapes make it an excellent destination for cyclists looking for an unforgettable adventure,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “The global cycling market continues to grow year after year, and we are well equipped to accommodate demand – whether it’s mountain biking in the breathtaking Blue Mountains, competing in an annual race like Jakes Off-Road Triathlon or finding community in local groups like the Simmonds Cycling Club, we offer a riding experience for all types of cyclists.”
Each year, countless cyclists explore Jamaica’s breathtaking bike routes, such as the Kingston-Holywell, Kingston-Port Royal, and Ocho Rios-Montego Bay trails, which weave through the island’s vibrant rainforests and along its stunning coastline. For those looking for a guided experience, Discover Jamaica by Bike, the island’s premier bike tour operator, is offering the 6 Day Ultimate Experience from May 1-7, 2025. This exciting journey includes a three-day, expert-guided ride through Jamaica’s lush rainforests, serene beaches, and picturesque villages, providing participants with an unforgettable way to discover the island’s natural beauty.
“Thanks to our premiere local partners, cyclists visiting Jamaica will enjoy an array of incredible cycling-friendly adventures, experiences and accommodations,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica. “Our island offers the unique opportunity to combine bike adventures with immersive cultural, culinary, wellness experiences. Visitors can embark on a reggae tour of Kingston, refuel at iconic restaurants like Rick’s Café and enjoy restorative treatments at our many resort spas.”
