In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaica has shown once again why it is considered one of the most resilient tourism destinations in the world. Heavy rains and localized flooding affected some communities, but the island’s spirit, infrastructure, and tourism industry have remained firmly intact. In a widely viewed FOX News interview, Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett delivered a clear and powerful message to global travellers:
“The best way to support us is to visit us.”
His statement captures the essence of Jamaica’s recovery philosophy: tourism is not just an economic sector—it is the lifeline of thousands of families and a beacon of national pride.
A Nation Built on Resilience
Minister Bartlett explained that although Tropical Storm Melissa caused interruptions in isolated areas, the key tourism corridors—Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Port Antonio, Treasure Beach, and Kingston—remained fully operational. Hotels, airports, cruise ports, attractions, and transportation networks quickly resumed normal operations.
“Jamaica is built on resilience,” he said firmly during the interview. “Our people, our systems, our preparedness—they all work together. We bounce back quickly, and we bounce back stronger.”
He reiterated that recovery is not new to Jamaica. The island has weathered hurricanes, global crises, economic downturns, and pandemics—and each time, tourism has returned even stronger.
Tourism Is Not Slowing Down — It’s Surging
Jamaica’s visitor arrivals in recent years have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, and Minister Bartlett emphasized that the upward trend continues despite the storm.
“We are seeing robust forward bookings,” he shared. “Jamaica remains one of the most desirable travel destinations in the world.”
The numbers reflect this confidence:
• Increased airlift from North America and Europe
• A surge in cruise arrivals
• Record-breaking hotel investments
• Expansion of luxury brands and boutique properties
Jamaica is on track to welcome millions more visitors over the next two years, supporting jobs, small businesses, and national growth.
Island Attractions Remain World-Class and Fully Open
During his FOX News commentary, Minister Bartlett stress-tested the perception that Jamaica might be compromised by recent weather events. In reality, Jamaica’s leading attractions remain unaffected and fully operational:
• Dunn’s River Falls — A global icon visited by millions
• Negril’s Seven Mile Beach — One of the top beaches in the Caribbean
• Blue Hole (Ocho Rios) — A turquoise natural pool embraced by rainforest
• Rick’s Café — Home of cliff-diving and the world’s best sunsets
• Mystic Mountain — Bobsled rides, ziplines and panoramic views
• YS Falls — Tiered waterfalls for nature lovers
• The Blue Mountains — Home to world-famous Blue Mountain Coffee
• Bob Marley Museum — Jamaica’s cultural heartbeat
“These attractions are not just sites—they are living experiences,” Bartlett explained. “When visitors come, they support a chain of livelihoods: farmers, craft vendors, chefs, drivers, entertainers, and countless workers who make Jamaica what it is.”
The Human Impact — And Why Tourism Matters Now More Than Ever
Tropical Storm Melissa reminded the world that Caribbean islands remain vulnerable to climate shifts. But Jamaica’s response showed unity, efficiency, and preparedness. Relief efforts mobilized quickly to assist families affected by the flooding, and Bartlett emphasized that tourism is a crucial part of fueling recovery.
“Every visitor who chooses Jamaica helps our people,” he said. “Tourism drives job security, economic stability, and community confidence.”
According to Bartlett, tourism supports:
• Over 170,000 direct workers
• Thousands of small businesses
• A significant portion of the national GDP
• Community development, education, and cultural preservation
It is the single biggest driver of prosperity for the island’s future.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett
Global Leadership in Tourism Resilience
Bartlett also referenced the role of Jamaica’s Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, headquartered in Kingston. The center has become a global authority in helping countries recover from crises—from climate disruptions to pandemics—and has elevated Jamaica’s influence in the international tourism arena. We wrote about how Bartlett outlined his vision for the tourism sector in this article.
“We lead by example,” he said. “Our resilience models are helping nations around the world develop stronger, more sustainable tourism frameworks.”
A Reassuring Message to Travelers: Jamaica Is Ready
Tropical Storm Melissa may have brought challenges, but its effects were temporary. Jamaica has not only recovered — it is thriving.
“Jamaica is safe, Jamaica is strong, and Jamaica is open,” Bartlett concluded. “The best way to support us is to be here with us.”
From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural heritage and world-famous hospitality, Jamaica remains one of the most iconic and beloved destinations on Earth. And today, the island stands more prepared, more resilient, and more welcoming than ever.
In 2025, Jamaica reaffirmed its status as the Caribbean’s premier tourism powerhouse with an impressive sweep at the World Travel Awards. The island claimed several top honours, including Caribbean’s Leading Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Family Travel Destination, and Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board, underscoring its unwavering excellence in hospitality, innovation and visitor experience. Iconic hotspots such as Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios were celebrated for their world-class allure, while Jamaica’s hotels, resorts and attractions earned accolades for outstanding service and authentic cultural immersion. These wins not only highlight the island’s enduring global appeal but also signal a powerful comeback year, proving once again that Jamaica remains one of the most beloved and resilient destinations in the world.
And really, what better way to help Jamaica than by simply visiting Jamaica
By Sid Thaker