The reopening of large resorts is obviously crucial for the full recovery of the local tourism economy. The cruise sector has rebounded remarkably well, but with fewer stayover guests the island’s main source of income will remain down.
However, as stated before, people must remember that these properties are privately owned, so government can hardly dictate their actions. The companies involved take their own decisions based on many considerations, including the extent of physical damage, their insurance coverage and settlement, the outlook for short- as well as long-term profitability, required investments, etc.
One factor is no doubt the state of Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA), which is still in a temporary situation under tents. The project to create provisional facilities inside the terminal building by November is therefore of the utmost importance.
Repairs and/or (re)construction of visitor accommodations will understandably take some longer than others, depending on individual circumstances. Nevertheless, more than 10 months since the passage of Hurricane Irma it would seem reasonable to – in the general interest – know at least what the overall intentions are.
Unfortunately, that’s not yet the case with various resorts such as The Westin, Sapphire Beach Club, Royal Palm and Flamingo, although indications are that the latter two will reopen next year. Perhaps there is some hesitation on the part of management, to avoid making announcements with timetables and deadlines that can’t be met, but it’s important for the destination to have an idea of what to expect and when, also to allow proper planning in terms of, for example, infrastructure and utilities as well as marketing and promotion.
The current “deafening silence” from a few major players in the hospitality industry is both regrettable and undeserved. St. Maarten and its population need clarity.
