HFTP Conference Addresses Important Caribbean Issues

For the third year, hospitality professionals gathered to discuss essential Caribbean hospitality issues at Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals' (HFTP(R)) Caribbean Finance and Technology Professionals Conference.

The conference focused on hot finance and technology topics in the Caribbean region. The conference was held December 7-9, 2008 at the luxurious Rose Hall Resort & Spa, a Hilton Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

"During these rough times in the economy and our industry it is important to focus on education," said Jules Sieburgh, CHTP, president of HFTP and consultant with O'Neal Consultants. "Regional conferences like this offer a wealth of knowledge and networking as attendees share their challenges and insight with each other."

Aligning with the interests of Caribbean hospitality industry professionals, the education program addressed timely topics that covered Caribbean travel and tourism trends, how to maximize existing technology and upgrades, operation internal controls and more. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica's minister of tourism, welcomed attendees to the conference and Jamaica during the Welcome Reception. He expressed appreciation towards hospitality professionals and their importance to Jamaica's tourism infrastructure.

Along with the education sessions, attendees visited with exhibitors at tabletop displays and networked with colleagues. "The Caribbean Conference was a great opportunity to meet individuals specifically involved in Caribbean hospitality industry," said Bob Thye, consultant with RPT Consulting Group and conference attendee.

For more information about the conference, contact the Meetings & Special Events Department at [email protected] or +1 (512) 249-5333 x31.

About HFTP | HFTP, Austin, Texas, USA and Maastricht, The Netherlands, founded in 1952, is the global professional association for financial and technology personnel working in hotels, clubs and other hospitality-related businesses. HFTP provides first class educational opportunities, research and publications to more than 4,800 members globally, including the premiere hospitality technology conference HITEC, founded in 1972. HFTP also awards the only hospitality specific certifications for accounting and technology - the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) designations. HFTP was founded in the USA as the National Association of Hotel Accountants. For more information, visit .