As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, the island’s tourism industry is intensifying its preparations to ensure the safety of staff, guests, and infrastructure. Stakeholders across the sector are implementing robust safety protocols and collaborating closely with local authorities to mitigate potential risks. Lowell Spence, owner of Smokeez Seafood Restaurant in Rose Hall, St James, emphasized the importance of reinforcing staff training and briefing guests on emergency procedures. Similarly, Sanju Chatani, Senior Director of Taj Mahal Plaza in Ocho Rios, highlighted the need for clear and timely communication with both patrons and employees. Marc Melville, CEO of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, stressed the value of readiness and collaboration with government agencies to protect visitors during the storm. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has urged all industry players to prioritize safety, describing preparedness as the cornerstone of recovery. He revealed that the Tourism Emergency Operations Centre has been activated at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston to coordinate a unified response. The centre will facilitate communication between the Ministry of Tourism, emergency agencies, and industry partners, ensuring a cohesive approach as updates from the Meteorological Service are received. Bartlett also underscored Jamaica’s history of rapid crisis response as a testament to the destination’s resilience. He called for calm, vigilance, and unity, reiterating the mantra: ‘Preparation, not panic.’
#EyeOnMelissa: Tourism stakeholders reinforce safety as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches
