Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Sir Edmund Bartlett, is actively encouraging Canadians to not only visit the picturesque Caribbean island but to also consider making it a more permanent home. During a recent tour of the Ocean Coral Spring resort in Falmouth, Bartlett emphasized, "We want the snowbirds to start looking at more permanent arrangements in Jamaica because the opportunities for sand, sea, and sun are plentiful, now complemented by safety and security."
Recovery from Hurricane Melissa
In light of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation on October 28, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, the minister assured that the island would be prepared to welcome tourists by December 15, coinciding with the start of the winter travel season. “We chose this date to signal to the industry and the public that Jamaica is ready to host you,” said Bartlett.
He highlighted that over 300,000 visitors have already arrived in the past month, reflecting strong confidence in the recovery process. Bartlett stated that approximately 80% of Jamaica’s tourism assets, including popular attractions and accommodations, have bounced back. Additionally, all five cruise ports are operational, and international airports are fully functional.
Engaging with Travel Advisors
This week, Jamaica is hosting media representatives and travel advisors to showcase its recovery efforts. Tourists arriving at Montego Bay Airport can enjoy a personalized VIP meet-and-greet service that expedites the immigration and customs process.
Jamaica recently hosted a "Back to Jamaica" gathering at Sandals Dunn’s River, which focused on reconnecting with travel advisors, media, and industry partners. Since the event, many attractions and hotels that were undergoing repairs have reopened for business.
Exploring Jamaica’s Attractions
Travelers participating in the trip have experienced several attractions, including a visit to the Falmouth cruise port, a dining experience at the Mystic Flava restaurant, and lagoon tours. Noteworthy visits include the Blue Water Beach Club and the Ocean Coral Spring resort. All these experiences emphasize the island’s vibrant tourism landscape post-recovery.
To help travelers plan their visits, Jamaica’s official website features a useful travel alerts page that provides updates on hotel, tour, and attraction reopenings.
Looking Ahead: Future Promotions
Jamaica’s tourism team continues its promotional efforts, having recently toured Canada and Florida, with upcoming visits planned for New York and London. The overarching message, as articulated by Bartlett, is that Jamaica is not just open for business but recovering at an impressive pace, exceeding expectations for a nation affected by a severe hurricane.
Bartlett concluded, “Our big push is to remind the markets that have historically supported Jamaica that we are ready and have made significant progress in our recovery journey.”
Jamaica stands out not only for its beautiful landscapes but also for its resilience and commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Plan Your Visit
For more information on attractions, accommodations, and travel requirements, visit the official Jamaica tourism website.
By highlighting both the thriving tourism opportunities and the island’s swift post-disaster recovery, Jamaica is set to welcome travelers with open arms, ready to explore its enchanting beauty and rich culture.
