KINGSTON, Jamaica—Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism and Linkages Andrea Purkiss has welcomed the decision by the United States Department of State to upgrade Jamaica’s travel advisory from Level 3 to Level 2, describing it as an important boost to the country’s tourism recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

Purkiss, in a media release on Tuesday, said the adjustment comes at a critical moment for Jamaica’s tourism industry, particularly for workers and communities along the north coast and in western parishes that were severely affected by the hurricane.

“This change signals renewed confidence in Jamaica as a destination and provides much-needed support for an industry that has been working to rebuild after significant disruption,” Purkiss said. “For thousands of tourism workers who have faced displacement, reduced hours, or job losses in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, this decision can help accelerate the return of visitors and income.”

She noted that tourism remains one of Jamaica’s most important economic pillars, contributing significantly to GDP and supporting hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the island.

“A Level 2 advisory is far less restrictive for travellers and tour operators, and that matters,” Purkiss added. “It encourages bookings, supports airline traffic, and helps hotels and attractions move closer to full operation, which in turn puts people back to work and stabilises communities that depend on tourism.”

Purkiss also emphasised that while the advisory downgrade is welcome, sustained recovery will require continued focus on safety, infrastructure resilience, and support for tourism workers as Jamaica rebuilds stronger.

“The road to full recovery is ongoing, but this development is a positive step forward,” she said. “Jamaica remains open, resilient, and ready to welcome visitors as we continue rebuilding lives and livelihoods after Hurricane Melissa.”