Voyaging in the Caribbean after Hurricane Melissa: Is it safe?

Since Hurricane Melissa, classified as a Category 5 during its impact in Jamaica, questions are swirling: can we still consider a trip to the Caribbean? If you are planning a trip to the region, you should know that several major islands like Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas are still facing the consequences of the storm. However, not all indicators are red. This article helps you see clearly about the situation in 2025 and guides you to adjust your travel plans without stress.

In brief:

• Jamaica: 25,000 visitors present during the hurricane, all safe, and the main airports are gradually reopening.
• Accommodation: most hotels, especially those managed by Sandals Resorts and Karibea Hotels, are actively managing the resumption of activity.
• Transportation: companies such as Air Caraïbes, Corsair, or Club Med have implemented flexible policies in response to disruptions.
• Relief: emergency infrastructures and local authorities, assisted by international actors, are keeping the situation under control.
• Areas to avoid: visits discouraged in severely affected areas to not hinder relief operations.

The real current conditions in the Caribbean after Melissa

Jamaica experienced an unprecedented shock with Melissa. The hurricane hit the island last Tuesday with winds exceeding 250 km/h. On-site, the Ministry of Tourism has already secured all present visitors, including clients of Sandals Resorts. The hotels, often equipped with generators, have maintained a minimum level of comfort despite the outages.

Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston reopened its runways for humanitarian flights on Wednesday, and the resumption of commercial flights is expected very soon. Montego Bay, on the other hand, is still under post-cyclone inspection.

Nearby, Cuba, Haiti, and the Bahamas are facing a similar situation, with damage to infrastructures but enormous efforts to restore essential services. Some airports, notably in Nassau, remain open but caution is still advised.

Why you should choose your stays carefully

Going to the Caribbean right now is not just a classic trip. Reservations are limited in certain resorts to ensure safety, particularly those affiliated with Accor and Karibea Hotels. Here are the keys to a successful stay:

• Choose an open and validated accommodation: prefer confirmed operational hotels with backup facilities.
• Follow local recommendations: stay informed via authorities and avoid areas still under repair.
• Flexibility in transportation: use adapted policies from companies like Jet Tours and MSC Cruises to change your dates.
• Prepare your insurance: check coverage for cancellations or unforeseen events related to weather and infrastructures.
• Follow health and safety guidelines: the relief efforts require strict adherence to avoid slowing down operations.

The concrete steps to organize your trip smoothly

Making the right decision today requires preparation step by step. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Check the latest updates on the official tourism and weather websites for each targeted island.
2. Contact your travel agent or partners like Expedia to learn about postponement or cancellation options.
3. Check flight availability with carriers Air Caraïbes and Corsair who adjust schedules in real time.
4. Get emergency contacts, especially with embassies if you are traveling to Jamaica or Haiti.
5. Establish a plan B including alternative stays in less affected islands or organized stays by Club Med.

Alternatives and limits: when is it better to postpone your trip?

If you are considering a stay in the coming days, it is better to think about postponement if:

• You are planning to visit areas still damaged by landslides or floods.
• The airport and accommodation infrastructures are not fully operational.
• You do not have travel insurance covering risks related to natural disasters.
• Flights to your destination are either canceled or have strong uncertainty regarding schedules.

However, other areas of the region continue to welcome tourists under good conditions. Considering these alternatives is often safer and more enjoyable.

The passage of Hurricane Melissa has shaken the travel dynamics in the Antilles, but the situation is evolving quickly. To not sacrifice your stay and ensure your safety, prioritize up-to-date information, flexibility, and compliance with local guidelines. Tourism players such as Sandals Resorts or Karibea Hotels, along with major airlines like Air Caraïbes and Corsair, are doing their utmost for a gradual return to normal. To delve deeper into how this impacts tourism in Jamaica and Haiti, consult this complete article.