by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:15 AM ET, Tue November 25, 2025
Royalton Hotels & Resorts has detailed a broad relief and recovery effort in Jamaica following the impact of Hurricane Melissa, outlining support for staff, nearby communities, and the wider tourism sector as its properties undergo extended restoration.
In the days after the storm, the company says it mobilized resources to address urgent needs. Clean water from its Reverse Osmosis Plants was distributed to affected communities, temporary lodging was provided to employees whose homes were damaged, and staff who experienced major losses received monetary assistance. Grocery care packages were distributed across all impacted resorts.
Royalton Negril (Photo Credit: Royalton/Facebook)
Royalton says these steps were part of a wider focus on “dignity, stability, and reassurance” for employees. The company also rolled out additional financial support and benefits meant to help staff navigate the immediate aftermath of the storm.
The response extended beyond Jamaica. Sister properties across the Caribbean coordinated donation drives, volunteer efforts, and other community initiatives, which the company says were designed to reach areas most affected by the storm.
RELATED: Jamaica Working Toward Recovery After Hurricane Melissa
A team of more than 200 employees will remain on property in Jamaica during the restoration phase to oversee maintenance and preservation work. Meanwhile, managers and key staff are being deployed to Task Force roles at other Royalton resorts in the region—an effort the company says will maintain employment and provide training until operations resume in Jamaica.
“As we move through this period, our priority is ensuring that our hotels remain safe places for both guests and staff,” said Daniel Lozano, SVP of Operations at Royalton Hotels & Resorts.
“At the same time, this does not lessen our commitment to our teams and communities in Jamaica. The island’s spirit of hospitality has always inspired us, and we remain focused on supporting our people and working together toward a strong recovery.”
Royalton has also released updated reopening timelines.
Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril, and Grand Lido Negril are slated to reopen on August 25, 2026, while Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters are expected to reopen on September 15, 2026.
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The company says the dates reflect a “safety-first approach,” ensuring conditions are stable and secure for staff before normal operations resume.
Guests with existing bookings will be offered flexible options, including penalty-free cancellations, rebooking, or relocation to another Royalton property.
Royalton says it remains committed to Jamaica’s long-term recovery and to returning with stronger, better-prepared teams once the resorts reopen.
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