Caribbean Resorts Recovering
All hotels in Jamaica are projected to be fully operational by December 2026 after Hurricane Melissa [https://jamaicaobserver.com/2026/03/09/hotels-expected-fully-reopen-december-2026]. Travel insurance purchases are also up in Barbados and the Bahamas.
Jamaica's tourism sector is showing resilience, with officials reporting that they met their goal of restoring operations by mid-December after Hurricane Melissa. Approximately 300,000 visitors, including stopover and cruise arrivals, have been welcomed since the storm. Major resort areas like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril are open to visitors. The rise in travel insurance purchases in Barbados and the Bahamas suggests travelers are seeking protection against unforeseen events. This includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and property damage, particularly relevant for Caribbean destinations prone to seasonal storms. Some policies even offer "Cancel For Any Reason" coverage, providing greater flexibility. The Caribbean insurance market is projected to reach USD 33 billion in gross written premiums by 2025, driven by demand for health, property, and life policies tailored for island getaways. This focus on protection is expected to bolster tourism resilience and encourage longer stays, contributing to sustained growth in the region. Governments are also promoting travel insurance to strengthen tourism against climate and health threats.
