Jamaica Is Open for Business as Its Villa Community Enters a New Chapter Nearly One Year After Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica's tourism industry is welcoming travelers as hotels, villas and local businesses continue to move forward

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly one year after Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is welcoming travelers as its tourism industry continues to gain momentum . Jamaica Villas and local businesses across the island are serving visitors while communities continue to strengthen the destination for the future. 

While Hurricane Melissa affected tourism properties across parts of Jamaica, the destination has made significant strides in its recovery. Jamaica reported in September that approximately 70% of the tourism room stock affected by the hurricane had recovered, with more than 11,000 additional rooms expected to return between 2026 and 2027. 

The progress can also be seen across Jamaica's villa community. Privately owned villas are supported by local teams, including chefs, housekeepers, butlers, drivers and other hospitality professionals who help create the personalized experiences travelers seek. For Jamaica Villas, the return of guests is providing a closer look at how the destination is moving forward. 

"Jamaica is not waiting for travelers to come back; they are already returning," said Nicky Farquharson, guest arrival concierge manager for Jamaica Villas. "What we are seeing across our villa portfolio is a destination that is moving forward. Villa owners and local teams are welcoming guests, investing in their properties and continuing to build on the experiences that make Jamaica such a special place to visit." 

A Look Inside Jamaica's Villa Community 

Jamaica Villas portfolio includes properties across some of the island's most sought-after destinations, giving travelers a range of options for experiencing Jamaica while supporting the local communities surrounding each villa. 

In Montego Bay, Windsong offers a private hillside retreat with sweeping ocean views and tropical gardens. Buttonwood Reef in Ocho Rios sits directly on the water, providing a spacious setting for families and larger groups. In Runaway Bay, Breakaway Villa combines a private beachfront setting with amenities designed for families and groups, while Fortlands Point on the Beach in Discovery Bay offers a dramatic peninsula setting surrounded by Caribbean waters. 

Together, these properties reflect the variety of experiences available to travelers returning to Jamaica. From secluded hillside retreats and beachfront escapes to larger private villas designed for families and groups. 

The return of travelers is also supporting the people and businesses that make the villa experience possible. As properties welcome guests, local hospitality professionals and service providers are once again playing an important role in the visitor experience and the broader tourism economy. 

Jamaica's villa sector is welcoming travelers back as the destination continues to move forward. 

Travelers interested in booking a luxury villa can contact their travel advisor, visit JamaicaVillas.com, or call 301-229-4300. 

About Jamaica Villas 
Founded in 1985, Jamaica Villas is synonymous with luxury villa rentals. What began as a project to renovate a home-away-from-home is now the leader in Jamaica villa vacations. Offering world-class fully staffed villas throughout Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Discovery Bay, and beyond, Jamaica Villas is known for creating premier, authentic, and immersive experiences for a wide range of guests. Moreover, Jamaica Villas sets a standard of excellence for Jamaica villa vacations, going above and beyond industry norms. From hands-on training with villa staff to impeccable locations, décor, and concierge services, Jamaica Villas gives guests the opportunity to live the island life and experience Jamaica. JamaicaVillas.com 

Media Contact: 
Lakecia Gayle 
Public Relations Specialist

Jamaica Villas
[email protected] 
617-587-6751 

SOURCE Jamaica Villas