More than a month has passed since Hurricane Dorian made landfall on two northern islands of The Bahamas: Grand Bahama and Great Abaco. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) says Grand Bahama Island is rebounding, with many of its hotels and attractions already reopened and plans for its airport to resume international service soon. On the other hand, the Abacos face a longer road to recovery, the CTO says. The Bahamas is committed to helping the islands rebuild by maintaining a healthy flow of tourism—which accounts for half of the country’s GDP—to the islands that were not affected by the storm.
Open for Business
Nassau and Paradise Island
The pair of islands, which is home to the country’s largest array of resorts, hotels, restaurants and tour operators, were not affected by Hurricane Dorian and are operating normally. With seasonal hotel incentives and increased airlift, it is easier than ever for travelers to visit this year.
The Out Islands
With the exception of the Abacos, the Out Islands are open and operating as usual. Some resorts and lodges take a fall hiatus for annual leave or renewal projects, but there are many options for accommodations. Airports, government ports and marinas are open across the islands.
Grand Bahama Island
Grand Bahama is back to business, welcoming travelers at its cruise port, and it will soon welcome international travelers when the airport reopens next month. Ferries and cruise lines, including Balearia, Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, are already bringing travelers to Freeport to experience a number of excursions and sites that have reopened. The airport is operating domestic flights via temporary facilities and will welcome its first international flight on November 15. Numerous hotels and resorts are already open or expected to re-open within weeks.
Recovering and Rebuilding
The Abacos
Great Abaco has the longest road to recovery with virtually no viable options for leisure tourism in the near future. The current focus is on reopening local government complexes and restoring basic services to facilitate rebuilding.
How to Help
One of the best things people can do to help is to visit. The Bahamas is open for business and still delivering the tropical getaway the country is known for, the CTO says. In addition to planning a trip to The Bahamas, those who wish to contribute can find a list of The Bahamas’ verified partners at www.bahamas.com/relief.
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