"The extent to which the damages were done range from extreme in one instance - in only one instance - to moderate and in a much lighter way. SIMON: May I ask about some areas specifically that are familiar to tourists, such as Montego Bay and Negril? BARTLETT: Montego Bay was more severely hit than all the other destinations in Jamaica."
"Tourism is 30% of our GDP, but its implications are deeper and wider. In addition to knowing that tourism provides more than 55% of the foreign exchange that we generate, also employs 20% of the labor force in the country. So it's hugely important to the economy of Jamaica. SIMON: What needs to be done to receive tourists in a few weeks? BARTLETT: Right. So the good news all around is that our airports are working."
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica's western quadrant and affected roughly 60% of tourism assets, with damage ranging from one extreme case to moderate and light impacts elsewhere. Montego Bay experienced the most severe damage, while Negril remained relatively intact, Port Antonio was untouched, and Kingston and parts of the South Coast were in good condition. Tourism accounts for 30% of GDP, supplies over 55% of foreign exchange, and employs about 20% of the labor force. Airports are operational. A timeline targets full reopening of the destination by December 15, and several hotels are reopening or scheduling openings.
Read at www.npr.org
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