The Puerto Rico Tourism Company, a public corporation that promotes the island’s tourism industry, is putting out the word that, despite the challenges being faced, the process of the travel industry’s recovery from Hurricane Maria is under way.
“We’re glad to report that the preparedness measures put into place have allowed for what we’re seeing will be a quick recovery for our tourism industry,” said PRTC executive director José Izquierdo. Sixteen percent of Puerto Rico currently has power.
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“We expect to welcome visitors to the Island in the weeks ahead, especially those looking to travel with a purpose as we’re working to finalize compelling voluntourism activities for those who want to head out beyond San Juan and help the communities in greater need.”
Though significant hurdles remain, not the least of which is President Trump’s threat to cut the FEMA presence on Puerto Rico, the PRTC notes that several main components of the island’s travel infrastructure are at least partially operational.
According to PRTC’s website, San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is up and running, with scheduled domestic and international flights coming in. Five other airports on the island are also open, though on a limited basis.
San Juan Harbor resumed homeport operations this past weekend with the departure of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Adventure of the Seas. Attractions on the island that are open to visitors include the Puerto Rico Museum of Art in Santurce and the Ponce Museum of Art.
But tourists planning a trip on the Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Fascination will have to put off their plans. Though the company recently announced that it would resume the Fascination’s San Juan cruises, all departures from October 15 through January 28 have been canceled. While the liner will still head to Puerto Rico, it will be traveling as an exclusive charter for FEMA to assist with housing personnel involved in relief efforts.
“The support received from our industry partners to date has been remarkable and we continue to welcome relief efforts from partners who are interested in helping the people of Puerto Rico as we focus on rebuilding our island,” said Izquierdo.
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