What Jamaica Wants After Deadly Hurricane? Visit Us, Island Says.

Jamaica's tourism industry, which accounts for nearly a third of the nation's economy, is working to recover after Hurricane Melissa devastated the island in October. The Category 5 storm killed at least 45 people and damaged approximately 150,000 buildings, significantly impacting the tourism sector. With the crucial winter travel season approaching, Jamaican authorities are aiming to reopen about 70 percent of the country's 35,000 hotel rooms by mid-December. Tourism officials and hotel operators are encouraging tourists to visit, emphasizing that their support is vital for the recovery of the island's economy and the livelihoods of many Jamaicans. The reopening goal is ambitious, and some hotels may not meet the deadline due to extensive damage and ongoing utility issues.

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