Tourism

The Hurricane Ivan experience taught everyone the importance of building to withstand storms and planning for business recovery. Cayman's tourism industry found that those businesses that sustained the least damage and that were most adaptable were those that were up and running again the fastest.

In spite of hurricane Ivan's battering, cruise ships were able to return seven weeks after the storm and stay-over tourists were welcomed back on 1 December.

Tips for Hotel Operators

• Without creating panic, hoteliers should alert guests to the situation on an on-going basis once relevant bulletins are being received. Keep guests posted of developments and apprised of your establishment's disaster plans. To be added to the storm advisory distribution list, contact GIS@gov.ky.
• If the situation deteriorates, consider suggesting that guests depart and assist those who wish to evacuate.
• Anyone staying should be briefed on shelter locations and procedures and provided with basic essentials (non-perishable food, hygiene articles, water, bedding).
• Encourage your guests to take responsibility for their own luggage and advise them of the dangers they may encounter during and after a hazard event like a flood, storm, earthquake, etc.,
• Discuss with your insurance agent the extent of your coverage and ensure it fits your requirements.
• Encourage your staff to understand the risk and the methods of preparedness and recovery available to them.
• Arrange training for your staff in First Aid and other disaster preparedness through the Cayman Islands Red Cross or other local organizations. Encourage them to have a disaster kit available at home and train them in your business' preparation and recovery plans.
• Purchase materials early as stocks run low in the advent of a hazard.
• Ensure that all electronic documents are suitably backed up and disks stored safely.
• Familiarise yourselves with the disaster plan of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism.

Useful Contacts:

Director of Tourism, Mr Shomari Scott (acting). Tel: 345-244-1259.

Cayman Airways www.caymanairways.com

Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA)www.cita.ky

Chamber of Commerce www.caymanchamber.ky

Department of Tourism www.caymanislands.ky