by Brian Major
Last updated: 2:00 PM ET, Wed January 28, 2026
Eric Fandek, senior director of product development at Delta
Vacations, has visited Jamaica multiple times since Hurricane Melissa leveled
the island in October, leading a team of Delta Vacations personnel to assess
resort reopenings and the on-island guest experience. As a result, he can
advise travel advisors and their clients on what to expect right now.
Fandeck estimates that roughly 75% of Delta Vacations’ hotel
partners are now reopened, with more returning each week. He said resort
properties are offering a broad selection of last-minute deals as they work to
stimulate demand.
Finally, Fandeck said Delta Vacations is setting “clear
expectations” for consumers and retailers around safety and the on-island
experience as recovery continues.
TravelPulse spoke with Fandeck to learn more about his impression
of Jamaica’s comeback.
TP: How quickly do you anticipate it will take for
the remaining 25% of hotel partners to resume operations?
E.F: We have seen some hotel partners with properties still
closed shift their reopening timelines into the second half of 2026. That said,
we expect the remaining hotels to reopen over the summer and fall and to be
fully back on the shelf by the fourth quarter.
TP: What types of last-minute deals are resorts offering
to support Jamaica travel?
E.F.: Jamaica is offering exceptional value right now,
making it an ideal time to book. Key resorts are featuring last-minute deals
that include discounts of more than 50%, instant savings of up to $250,
guaranteed upgrades and promotions such as up to two children staying and
eating free.
TP; How is Delta Vacations advising clients regarding
safety and the on-island experience?
E.F: Delta Vacations continues to ensure a
high-quality customer experience in Jamaica. This is accomplished by
having our product team in [the] destination regularly to monitor key hotels
and by working closely with both our hotel partners and our destination
management company, TrafiTours, to provide weekly updates and information. We
also continue to provide excellent in-destination service, with easy access to destination
experts through our e-travel guide to assist with any needs while in Jamaica..
TP: What specific steps has Delta Vacations taken to
support local communities impacted by the storm?
E.F.:Our long‑standing relationships across Jamaica have
made this effort deeply personal for our team. Within Delta Vacations, we came
together to identify meaningful ways to support recovery — from coordinating
weekly deliveries of essential supplies to providing satellite internet in
several hard‑hit communities to help restore vital connectivity. In the coming
months, we also plan to deploy multiple employees to assist directly in local
schools affected by the storm, reinforcing our commitment to standing with the
Jamaican community.
TP: What is your general impression of Jamaica’s
readiness as spring break approaches?
E.F.: Jamaica is ready now, offering exceptional value and
limited‑time deals that may not be available next year.
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