From already “open for business” to “closed indefinitely,” there is no one-size-fits-all template for hotel re-openings in Jamaica as the island recovers from the effects of devastating Hurricane Melissa. It is clear, however, that much of the island, and many of its resorts, are ready, willing and able to receive guests again after the late October storm.
Jamaican tourism minister Edmund Bartlett offered a recent statement on the island’s state of recovery, noting that nearly three dozen hotels are now open.
(Ed note: For the most recent updates, visit https://www.visitjamaica.com/travel-alerts/hotel-reopenings/).
Said Bartlett:
“We understand how challenging this situation has been for locals and visitors alike, as the island seeks to protect lives and build back in the areas that have been affected from the passage of the hurricane. The government remains committed to working tirelessly to get our sectors in the country back to normal as soon as possible.
“As it relates to tourism, it is important to note that all three international airports are open and that means Jamaica is open to welcome visitors. While some damage was sustained to the western parts of Jamaica, including some hotels in that region, we want to assure you that there are other resort areas across the island that remain open for business.
“In fact, I can report that 33 hotels are open for business. We have completed our clean-up, conducted structural and safety assessments, accounted for and provided for our teams, and are now ready to welcome back visitors. Almost all properties remain committed to meeting my previously announced reopening date of Dec. 15. In addition to the 33 hotels that are open to receiving guests today, more than 50 hotels are open to receiving your bookings for future stays.
“Currently, through the Norman Manley International Airport, visitors will still be able to
enjoy the sights, sounds and culture of Kingston while navigating to Ocho Rios and Portland.
Hotels in Ocho Rios, St. Mary, Portland, and Kingston are running at almost full capacity. Additionally, some of our hotel partners in Montego Bay, Negril and the South Coast are open and ready to welcome visitors.
“Jamaica needs our partners now more than ever and the best way to support our tourism sector and economy is to visit us. We’re committed to working with you all to support our island’s recovery and to reassure visitors that their dream vacations to Jamaica can continue safely. Together, we can help our communities rebuild while keeping the heart of Jamaican tourism beating strong.”
Sandals Resorts
Meanwhile, Sandals Resorts International (SRI) recently announced plans to begin welcoming guests back to Jamaica on Saturday, Dec. 6, at its resorts in Ocho Rios and Negril.
This milestone follows a comprehensive post-storm assessment and repair work at each of the company’s eight resorts across the island, Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Negril, and Beaches Negril will reopen with all facilities and amenities available to guests.
The company’s three other remaining resorts in Jamaica – Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast – will have a more extended timeline for improvements and will open May 30, 2026.
“Jamaica is a large and diverse island, and each region has experienced the storm differently,” said Sandals chairman Adam Stewart. “In Ocho Rios, which is in the parish of St. Ann, our resorts were largely unaffected by the most severe impacts. We have meticulously surveyed each resort, and all systems and amenities will be fully operational, to welcome guests with confidence once again.”
Stewart, who was recently appointed to serve on the country’s Hurricane Melissa Recovery Task Force, and who also serves as a special investment envoy for tourism, emphasized the importance of returning visitors to Jamaica’s recovery.
“Tourism is a vital part of Jamaica’s national recovery, and guests can feel confident that the best way to support the region is by visiting and returning to the island they love,” said Stewart. “And if there’s one thing I can tell you: at Sandals, when we come back, we always come back bigger, stronger and better than before.”
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, is helping relief efforts to support affected communities across Jamaica. To donate to the Foundation in Canada and receive a tax receipt:
Option 1 – Credit Card: To process payment, contact aallen@uvisandals.ca
Option 2 – By Cheque: Make payable to ‘Sandals Foundation Canada’ and send to: Sandals Foundation Canada c/o Unique Vacations (Canada) Inc., 4211 Yonge St., Suite 320, Toronto, ON M2P 2A9
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