Minister of Tourism Hails the South Coast as a Beacon of Resilience

• Following an official tour of Jamaica’s South Coast, Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, noted that stakeholders collaborated urgently to restore operations, protect local livelihoods, and reopen the region following Hurricane Melissa. Restoration efforts were swift, allowing destinations like Treasure Beach, YS Falls, and the Black River Safari to reopen alongside planned enhancements to the local infrastructure.
• The Ministry indicated that, concurrent with the rebuilding, further work will be done to upgrade and reimagine the area's overall tourism offerings.
• Specific sites such as the Appleton Estate, Pelican Bar, Lashings, and Jakes Hotel are operating following safety and infrastructure checks, supported by coordination between the Jamaica Tourist Board and local stakeholders.
• The resumption of operations in the South Coast supports Jamaica’s broader tourism diversification strategy and provides direct financial relief to local communities that were hit by Hurricane Melissa.
• The Director of Tourism, Donovan White, confirmed to global partners that the region's recovery demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and that the area is fully open for business. Travelers are now able to access the South Coast as well as other resort areas across the island, including Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril.

(Source: Jamaica Tourist Board)