As travel advisors were discovering for themselves at the Jamaica Tourist Board’s annual ‘One Love Affair’ event, the island’s tourism minister declared that Jamaica had met its target of restoring tourism operations by Dec. 15, marking an impressive turnaround just over six weeks after the island was ravaged by Hurricane Melissa.
“Our recovery has exceeded expectations,” said Edmund Bartlett, who noted that 300,000 visitors have returned to the island since the Category 5 storm in late October.
“Jamaica is not just back – we are stronger, more resilient, and more committed than ever to delivering the authentic Jamaican experience our visitors know and love. The dedication of our tourism workers, many of whom were personally affected by the hurricane, exemplifies the true spirit of Jamaica.”
The JTB reports that cruise ships have returned and that major resort areas are fully operational with key tourism resorts including Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, and Kingston now open for business. By the end of the month approximately 71% of hotels will be reopened, with projections indicating that number will rise significantly through early 2026.
All major airports, including Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, and Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios, have resumed normal operations. Major airlines have also resumed and maintain regular flight schedules.
Popular attractions throughout the island are also fully operational.
“This has truly been a collaborative effort,” said Bartlett. “Hotels, attractions, transportation providers, and government agencies have worked around the clock to ensure that Jamaica is ready to welcome our guests. Every visitor who chooses Jamaica during this time directly supports the rebuilding of communities and the restoration of livelihoods.”
“The best way to support Jamaica is to visit Jamaica,” added Donovan White, Director of Tourism. “We are ready to deliver unforgettable experiences while showcasing the incredible strength and hospitality of the Jamaican people.”
Fundraising success
- Last week’s fundraising concert in Toronto, Harmonies of Hope, supported by the JTB, raised more than CAD$2.3 million in relief and recovery support for communities across Jamaica impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
- Following its Giving Tuesday commitment, Air Canada Vacations reports raising $86,752 for the Sandals Foundation Hurricane Relief Mission. This contribution was made possible by pledging $10 per paying passenger for every new package booking to any destination made on Dec. 2 and 3, 2025, in support of communities in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa.
- S Hotels Jamaica has unveiled S for Shelters, a new stay-and-support humanitarian initiative inviting guests to play an active role in Jamaica’s post-Hurricane Melissa recovery while enjoying an unforgettable island escape. The program builds on S Hotel’s ongoing effort to construct 60 one-bedroom shelters for families in western Jamaica who lost their homes during the storm, with the goal of completing all 60 units through February.
Guests staying seven nights or more will have a shelter donated in their name to a family in need. Short-stay guests can participate by donating US$1,000 to fund the materials and construction of a shelter unit. The hotel will match this contribution two-for-one to help build and deliver the shelters.
Participants may also choose to help build or paint the shelters on the hotel grounds or accompany the delivery team as their shelter is transported to a family, primarily across Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth. Go to shotelsjamaica.com.
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