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Thanks to a strong commitment to the Caribbean by one of the world’s largest lodging companies the twin messages of branding and social media will be featured at the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) which opens in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands (USVI) this week.

Jose Salvador Icaza, director of emerging markets and Caribbean franchise development, and Leon Thomas, a senior trainer, both of Choice Hotels International, will deliver a one-two punch at the action-packed 20th edition of CMEx in the US territory from December 1 to 5 at Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort.

On Friday, December 1, Icaza will brief journalists, industry and tourism officials about new options in hotel franchising and what Choice Hotels International is doing to draw guests to the region. A key to ensuring memorable stays is giving guests options to try local restaurants, lounges, nightlife and shopping.

Thomas, a highly sought-after speaker of the Choice Hotels Choice University program, who spends more than 250 nights a year on the road training hoteliers, will conduct a social media workshop on Sunday, December 4 to stress the differences between communicating on personal social media networks and using social media for business.

“We are once again pleased that two of our industry experts are available to share their experiences and expertise to such an important group of stakeholders,” said Brian Parker, vice-president of emerging markets and new business development for Choice Hotels.

Both Icaza and Thomas were in the US territory in September for the annual Small Hotels Conference, produced by the USVI Department of Tourism.

Parker thanked the leadership of the USVI Department of Tourism for being such gracious hosts of Choice Hotels International, and reiterated the company’s commitment to continue working with the territory and to supporting CMEx as it recognizes 10 years of service to the Caribbean. “Choice is pleased with its association with CMEx over the years, and we wish attendees a successful, inspiring and educational conference,” said Parker.