After Hurricane Melissa’s recent impact on Jamaica, many travelers found themselves in precarious situations. A group of 10 women celebrating a friend’s 50th birthday in Montego Bay encountered significant challenges, highlighting the essential role of travel advisors in navigating emergencies.
Timeline of Events
October 27: Pre-Storm Preparations
With Hurricane Melissa strengthening offshore, crucial preparations were initiated for the group. The resort they were staying at, the Riu Montego Bay, took immediate action. Guests were relocated from ground-floor accommodations to safer, higher-floor rooms, ensuring their safety as the storm approached.
October 28-29: Navigating the Hurricane’s Fury
As Hurricane Melissa made landfall, guests were instructed to stay in their rooms. Resort staff demonstrated remarkable commitment, ensuring the women were safe and well-fed despite the adverse conditions.
October 30-31: Airport Closures and Limited Options
With Kingston’s airport reopening for emergency flights but Montego Bay still closed, the women faced uncertainty. On October 31, a one-way Caribbean Airlines flight from Kingston to Miami was discovered, allowing one traveler to return home with a complimentary rebooking from United Airlines to Newark.
November 1-2: Attempting to Depart
The Montego Bay airport finally reopened, yet ongoing flight cancellations presented further obstacles. Three women opted for alternative routes from Kingston to Miami, continuing their journey back to Newark.
November 3-4: Creative Solutions to Get Home
After two flights were canceled for two participants, alternative arrangements were made. Flights were secured from Kingston to the Dominican Republic, where they faced an overnight stay but successfully completed their journey to Newark via an Amtrak train from Norfolk, Virginia.
The final four members of the group managed to leave Montego Bay on November 4, heading towards Orlando before making their way to Newark, concluding their emotional journey.
The Importance of Travel Insurance
All travelers possessed travel insurance, a pivotal detail that alleviated some of the financial strain. Experienced advisors understand the necessity of discussing travel protection with clients, as emergencies can arise unexpectedly. Although they opted for basic coverage, savvy advisors emphasize the value of even modest protection.
Nonetheless, some travelers incurred out-of-pocket expenses for additional accommodations and emergency flights. They were advised to keep all receipts and relevant documentation to facilitate reimbursement claims with their insurance providers.
Revising Pre-Departure Checklists
This incident prompted a reassessment of a pre-departure checklist. Previously focused on logistical details such as packing and airport arrival times, the new checklist will include crucial emergency protocols. This includes printing travel insurance policies, carrying enough cash for emergencies, and having credit cards with sufficient available credit.
The Role of Travel Advisors
This experience underscores the multifaceted role of travel advisors. Beyond planning itineraries, advisors are crisis managers, problem solvers, and invaluable advocates for their clients. When crises occur, timely, reliable information and unwavering support are paramount in assisting travelers to return home safely.
Travel agencies and advisors are encouraged to share their own practices and precautions taken during similar emergencies. Insights can help enhance industry resilience, ensuring travelers are equipped for any unforeseen events.
