Over the last two
years, the Caribbean has been battered and bruised by hurricanes and
particularly Irma as well as Maria. Many business owners in the Caribbean have
released their findings on the reduction in
tourism in the area and are now fighting to get the message out that the
tropical islands are back in business. However, it could still be a while
before tourism in the area recovers completely.
How Were Tourist
Destinations Impacted?
The extent of the
impact differed from region to region in the Caribbean. In the British Virgin
Islands, there were a massive flood before both hurricanes
Irma and Maria. According to reports, the island lost about 90% of tourism
accommodations and attractions. That’s crucial since the tourism makes about
sixty percent of the island’s overall income.
Other areas like
Anguilla were less affected by the hurricane. While the region was still hit,
the island was back to minimal operating levels by the festive season. In the
first half of 2018, the island had almost completely recovered with 90-95
percent of restaurants reopening.
Similarly, St.Barts
was lucky too with locals helping on the cleanup effort. The island was hit
badly, but due to the fact that most structures were concrete the damage level
was minimum and kept mainly to the beachside.
For Puerto Rico,
Maria caused the most damage. However, a sense of community has helped restore
the island and recovery is occurring quickly.
How Have The Regions
Recovered?
Thanks to efforts run
by businesses owners like Kirk
Chewning, the Virgin Islands has seen a tremendous level of recovery. According
to recent reports, the rebuild has been described as a phoenix emerging from
ashes. Many of the hotels are expected to reopen by the final months of 2019.
In St. Martin the
airport was hit hard but is now operating based on a temporary set up, and 50%
of flights into the region have been restored. As well as this, nearly
three-quarters of flights will be available by the high holiday season.
In total only 10 out
of 33 of the more popular islands were impacted by the hurricane.
What Has Happened To
Tourism Interest?
Ultimately, many
consumers seem to believe that every island was affected and impacted by the
hurricanes. Tourism, in general, is down with the sales in January 18% lower
than usual. While experts hoped the situation would improve by April, sales
were down 34%.
Now bosses are
looking for ways to help the levels of demand grow once more. They are pushing
travel agents to let tourists know that the Caribbean is open and that the best
hotels are operating once more. Tourist attractions are back up too. Ninety
percent of the hotels across the areas have now reopened. However, six
destinations are still recovering.
Experts do believe
the demand will recover. However, it could still be months before the levels
get back to their original point. But with the help of holiday agents,
businesses believe demand will grow at a more rapid rate, even while the
recovery efforts continue.
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