Hurricane Melissa may have struck a sharp blow to Jamaica in October 2025, but the outlook is decidedly optimistic for 2026, according to Edmund Bartlett, the nation’s minister of tourism.
“Jamaica has made remarkable progress in its recovery following Hurricane Melissa, a testament to the island’s status as a global leader in tourism resilience and the hard work of the Jamaican people,” he said. “Through private and public sector collaboration, we met our target of restoring tourism operations by Dec. 15, 2025, just six weeks after the storm and in time for our winter travel season.”
That positive momentum is evident in Jamaica’s biggest tourism regions. Hotel properties including The Tryall Club and Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach have reopened, while Sandals resumed full operations at multiple resorts in early December. Other Sandals properties remain on a longer improvement timeline, reflecting a measured approach to infrastructure upgrades alongside reopening efforts.
Island Routes, meanwhile, confirmed that many of its signature Jamaica experiences are once again welcoming guests, with additional tours returning incrementally.
Beyond reopening hotels and attractions, recovery initiatives have extended into communities and provided visitors with opportunities to help. The Sandals Foundation activated a comprehensive relief mission in partnership with government agencies, NGOs and local organizations, for example, while the S for Shelters initiative from S Hotels Jamaica allows guests to help construct shelters for families affected by Hurricane Melissa.
The travel agency community has also been visible during the island’s recovery period. Nearly 400 travel advisors and partners headed to the island in December 2025 for a Back to Jamaica immersion event.
The Sandals Foundation activated a comprehensive relief mission in partnership with government agencies, NGOs and local organizations.
Credit: 2026 SandalsNow, as Jamaica moves further into the new year, the outlook for tourism is increasingly optimistic. Bartlett shared insight with us about what’s in store for Jamaica’s tourism industry.
What’s the latest info you can provide about your nation’s recovery?
All three international airports are open and fully operational, with expanded airlift planned for the winter; 71% of the island’s hotel inventory has already been restored, with 80% expected to return by the end of January and additional properties coming back online throughout 2026. Attractions across the island are also open and welcoming visitors, offering access to Jamaica’s culture, music, cuisine and hospitality as our rebound continues.
What do you think 2026 has in store for Jamaica’s tourism industry?
We are well-positioned for a strong 2026 and remain optimistic that visitor arrivals will reach 95 to 98% of pre-storm levels by the end of the year. That momentum is already evident: In the first seven days of the winter season alone, Jamaica welcomed more than 70,000 visitors, a clear signal of sustained confidence in the destination.
We are fully prepared to welcome millions of visitors in 2026, supported by expanded airlift throughout the winter and spring seasons. Additional growth is expected from key markets around the world, including Canada, Europe and Latin America. On the ground, Jamaica’s hotel inventory is ready to meet demand, as mentioned, with a majority already restored.
Are there any specific segments or niches that have recovered especially quickly?
Jamaica continues to offer a diverse range of experiences that appeal to travelers across segments, and that breadth is reflected in the visitors who have already returned to the island. Since the storm, more than 445,000 have visited Jamaica by air and cruise ship, including leisure travelers, families and meetings and incentives groups. As progress continues, we are encouraged by this momentum and remain focused on welcoming millions of visitors in 2026 in a way that supports jobs, communities and the wider economy.
Some hotel properties, such as The Tryall Club, have reopened reflecting positive momentum.
Credit: 2026 The Tryall ClubWhat should travel advisors keep in mind when communicating with clients about travel to Jamaica?
We encourage travel advisors and visitors to consider that the most meaningful way to support Jamaica is by choosing to visit. We have been deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and concern from around the world, and many have asked how they can support us. With tourism accounting for 35% of Jamaica’s GDP, choosing our island for a vacation is one of the most direct ways to give back. Every trip supports local livelihoods, from farmers and fishermen to tour guides, taxi drivers and artisans, ensuring that the benefits of travel are felt across communities throughout the island. We are ready and eager to welcome you.
How has the Jamaica Tourist Board's strategy evolved in recent months?
Our focus continues to be on building tourism in a way that is resilient and sustainable, not measured solely by arrival numbers but by the meaningful benefits tourism delivers for our workers, communities and the wider economy. Since Hurricane Melissa, the tourism sector has already generated $475 million in earnings, underscoring the strength of the recovery and setting the foundation for what we expect to be a strong year ahead.
What does Jamaica’s event schedule look like this year?
2026 will be a meaningful year of celebration in Jamaica, marked by an expanded calendar of events as festivals postponed during Hurricane Melissa return in spring 2026. Signature beloved experiences throughout the year will include Reggae Month, which lasts all of February; Carnival from April 8-14; and Reggae Sumfest from July 12-18. Adding to the excitement, travelers can look forward to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival on March 1, the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival from March 5-8 and Jamaica’s first-ever Kingston Pirates Week from March 11-15, the latter both highly anticipated events rescheduled from fall 2025.
How does your organization work with travel advisors?
In 2026, Jamaica will continue to strengthen its engagement with the travel advisors who play an important role in guiding visitors to the island. Through the Jamaica Travel Specialist Program, advisors are supported with structured training and certification that deepens their understanding of Jamaica’s regions, culture and experiences. The program provides ongoing destination education, helping advisors align travelers with experiences that reflect the island’s diversity. This approach supports a tourism sector that is informed, sustainable and beneficial to communities across Jamaica.
