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JTB’s “Irie Hour” to focus on Jamaica's post-Melissa recovery. Register now
Michael Pihach
Michael Pihach is an award-winning journalist with a keen interest in digital storytelling. In addition to PAX, Michael has also written for CBC Life, Ryerson University Magazine, IN Magazine, and DailyXtra.ca. Michael joins PAX after years of working at popular Canadian television shows, such as Steven and Chris, The Goods and The Marilyn Denis Show.
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has announced a new edition of its “Irie Hour" web series for travel advisors focusing on the island’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.
Starting December 2, the online meet-up, called "Road to Recovery," will involve the JTB’s team on the ground in Jamaica, as well as local suppliers. It will take place every Tuesday afternoon over Zoom from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. EST.
“Following the passage of hurricane Melissa, we know that you, our much valued travel advisors, are interested in knowing about the pace of recovery and would appreciate timely updates on our tourism product,” writes the JTB in an e-flyer. “That’s exactly what this Irie Hour ‘Road to Recovery’ weekly Zoom event is about.”
The JTB says it will provide timely updates, take questions, listen to concerns and provide agents with the assistance they or their clients may need.
“You are our partners in this recovery and together, we will restore our beautiful destination and welcome your clients once again!” writes the JTB.
The featured guests for the first session will include representatives from S Hotel Montego Bay and Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, and Rose Hall Montego Bay, who will share vital updates on their properties.
Travel advisors can register to attend on the trade website here.
The road to recovery
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett is urging travellers not to give up on the island as it works to recover from Hurricane Melissa, the Category 5 storm that swept through on October 28.
“Jamaica needs our partners now more than ever and the best way to support our tourism sector and economy is to visit us,” said Minister Bartlett in a statement issued Wednesday (Nov. 5).
Post-hurricane recovery and restoration efforts are underway in Jamaica, which is targeting a full tourism restart on December 15.
Many major hotel brands have reopened – or are planning to reopen – by that date. However, some have adjusted their timelines.
Royalton Hotels & Resorts, for one, recently shared that its Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril and Grand Lido Negril properties will reopen on August 25, 2026.
Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters are scheduled to reopen on September 15, 2026.
The company said the adjusted dates follow post-storm evaluations covering guest areas, structural integrity and back-of-house functions.
Minister Bartlett recently announced a $1 billion fund to assist tourism workers impacted by Hurricane Melissa, with the government contributing $600 million and the private sector adding $400 million.
The Jamaica Tourist Board’s web-based Irie Hour – (Irie, a Jamaican word for something that is nice, good, or pleasing) – first launched during the pandemic as a way to keep travel advisors in the loop with on-the-ground destination updates.
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