For those insisting that the Volkswagen Super Bowl commercial where a pasty-white Minnesotan brightens-up the days of his gloom-and-doom co-workers on a Monday morning isn't funny, but is actually racist towards Jamaicans and Jamaica--Jamaica doesn't seem to think so.
Within a few days of the ad running during the Super Bowl the "tourist board launched a "Get Happy in Jamaica" promotion that offers a free night and discounts at 20 participating hotels. Packages must be booked by March 15 for travel April 1 through June 30," according to travelweekly.com.
Jamaica is hoping to use the Volkswagen ad to attract people (maybe even white guys from the Midwest?) to take in the island's people and atmosphere, get away from the cold winter, spend money, boost their economy and "get happy."
"We were thrilled to be able to take advantage of the publicity the VW commercial gave to the island. It's not every day that companies spend millions on a single commercial. They did a fine job, and we're honored they thought of Jamaica when developing the creative concept. We look forward to a working relationship with them in the future, said the director of tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, John Lynch, according to jamicaobserver.com.
To further ruffle the feathers of the over sensitive couldn't-even-laugh-in-a-comedy-club crowd, Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff lent his voice to the ad's version of "The Partridge Family" theme song "Come On, Get Happy."
The ad took YouTube by storm, alluring over 10 million people and counting.
"The ad paid tribute to the popularity of reggae music, and I salute Jimmy Cliff for being a true Jamaican ambassador through his music," said Wykeham McNeill, minister of tourism and entertainment, according to USA Today. "I urge everyone to do what the commercial says, which is to tap into your inner Jamaica and get happy.
Lynch added, "the interest this commercial has generated is incredible and speaks to the power of the Jamaica brand. We hope this sparks an interest in persons who have not yet experienced the destination to come visit; enjoy a memorable Jamaican vacation, our people and most important, Get Happy in Jamaica," reported by jamaicaobserver.com.
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