The BOIPB has been in vital communications with member properties. The Board is also keenly aware of the needs of the wider community, and will do everything that is feasibly possible to help our member properties contribute to the restoration of the economies of the affected southern islands. The Bahamas was fortunate that not all of the islands were impacted by the storm. The affected islands, however, need their small local hotels and lodges to reopen to enable them to support wider recovery efforts. As more people travel to the southern islands to help with the restoration they will need places to stay, to eat, and to connect with the stricken communities.

In Acklins, Chester’s Highway Inn suffered major water damage; however, it has already been able to open its doors to accommodate visitors assisting in the relief effort. The hotel, which sits on high ground, is planning to officially reopen in November.

In Crooked Island, Tranquility on the Bay, was battered badly by the category four storm. This was a newly constructed family owned resort in Major’s Cay, rated as the number one bed and breakfast in Crooked Island by Trip Advisor. In the midst of facing the life threatening storm, the Ferguson family also had to grapple with the unthinkable possible loss of their livelihood. Fortunately, the family is binding together with support from partners and is also expected to reopen in November.

In Acklins, Chester’s Bonefish Lodge was fortunate not to have suffered complete demolishment. However they had significant water damage and a utility room was completely detached from their main building. No new opening date has been set as yet, but the owners are working to salvage as much as they can as they regroup.

In the case of Gems at Paradise in Long Island, the owner informed us she has “no idea when” Gems will reopen. Between the extensive roof damage, smashed windows, missing doors, and destruction of the beds and furniture that were entirely soaked through, the road to recovery will be a long one. The same goes for Greenwich Creek Lodge, Long Island, which was also a newly renovated property sustaining “lots of damages”. They have closed until further notice.

Hoteliers are resisting the urge to feel defeated, while at the same time, grappling with hard realities: extensive damage and lack of insurance, in some instances. One hotelier said: “without a miracle I do not know how I will be able to rebuild.” And yet, glimmers of hope are already ever present.

In San Salvador, Riding Rock Resort and Marina has committed to reopening in April 2016. The owners are refusing to let Hurricane Joaquin rob them of celebrating its 31 years in business. Their efforts are being supported by long time visitors to San Salvador and friends of the resort.

The recovery effort requires all hands on deck and the BOPIB in conjunction with industry partners and critical government agencies is committed to a long term plan to restore the southern islands.

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