This paper attempts to answer the question “Can a small EP hotel survive in a landscape dominated by large all-inclusive hotels?”. The paper begins by briefly describing the current landscape of the Jamaican hotel market, highlighting the fact that the majority of hotels are actually small properties with less than 50 rooms. The paper continues by describing and explaining the popularity of the all-inclusive and large chain hotels and the challenges faced by small hotels in the current marketplace.

Section three of the paper attempts to answer the question posed in two ways. Firstly, it describes the current trends in the marketplace paying attention to changes in consumer tastes and demographics and the implications of these changes for hotels. Secondly, it highlights local and international examples of small hotels that have not only survived but have thrived in the current landscape. The paper concludes with specific policy recommendations for three groups – state agencies concerned with tourism policy and marketing, hotel associations and individual hoteliers.