Jamaica isn’t just a vacation spot to me — it’s woven into my life, my business, and my journey as a travel professional. For several decades, I’ve hosted group events, destination weddings, milestone celebrations, and award-winning travel programs across the island. Many of my proudest moments in this industry happened on Jamaican soil — moments created with the people who make this island feel like home every single time I return.

This year, Jamaica took a heavy hit. The hurricane damaged homes, destroyed communities, and displaced families — especially in the neighborhoods where the workers we depend on live. Today, I want to give you an honest update on the island, highlight two people doing real work on the ground, and share how we can all support Jamaica’s comeback.

This is more than a blog.
This is a mission.
Tone Loves Jamaica — and always will.

My History With Jamaica — Decades of Love, Community & Unforgettable Moments

Jamaica has played a major role in shaping who I am in the travel industry. Over the years:

• I’ve hosted large group events for celebrations, graduations, and special occasions.
• I’ve planned multiple destination weddings on the island’s beaches and cliffs.
• I’ve organized birthday trips, business retreats, couples escapes, and cultural experiences.
• I’ve earned travel industry awards, many of them connected directly to Jamaica travel.
• My business, Vacay On Layaway, grew significantly because of my partnerships and relationships built on the island.

Every milestone, every event, every celebration I’ve planned in Jamaica only deepened my connection to the people and culture that make this destination truly unique.

The Hurricane Impact — What Really Happened

The hurricane did far more than damage resorts — it hit the real Jamaica: the communities where workers, drivers, tour guides, and families live. These are the people who greet us at the airport, care for our rooms, prepare our meals, drive us safely, and bring Jamaican culture to life.

Many lost:

• Homes
• Personal belongings
• Access to electricity and clean water
• Transportation
• Their ability to work

Yet, despite everything, Jamaica’s strength and resilience are unmatched. Communities came together immediately. Neighbors helped neighbors. Leaders stepped forward.

Two of those leaders — people many of my travelers know — are Neville and Andre.

Meet Neville — Community Protector, Tour Guide & Leader

Neville has been supporting my travelers for many years — transporting clients, keeping them safe, showing them the island with love and authenticity. He’s been more than a driver. He’s been a brother to me, a leader in his community, and someone my clients always speak highly of.

When the hurricane hit, Neville didn’t wait on the government.
He went to work.

• Helping families rebuild
• Delivering supplies
• Cleaning debris
• Checking on the elderly
• Using his own vehicle to support neighbors

He’s doing this with limited resources — and NO outside funding.

If you want to support Neville’s community directly:
Zelle: payments@jamxpay.com
Name: Hopsync Technology
Note: “Hurricane donation for Neville”
Send receipt to: Islanddreamtour1@gmail.com

PayPal:https://www.paypal.me/islanddreamtour

Your support goes directly into the hands of families in need.

Meet Andre — A Voice for Jamaica, Featured on CBS Miami

Andre has also worked closely with me for years. Many of you have met him — he’s guided you, protected you, and shown you the real Jamaican parties beyond the resorts.

Andre’s community was heavily damaged, and he has been out every day helping people recover.

He recently appeared on CBS Miami, speaking about the situation on the ground.

Andre’s Official GoFundMe:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/vt88rz-hurricane-melissa-jamaica-relief

Every contribution helps with rebuilding homes, providing food and supplies, and assisting displaced families.

Hotel Reopenings in Jamaica — Latest Official Timeline

The island is actively rebuilding, and many hotels have already reopened or announced confirmed reopening dates. Below is a simplified summary by region so travelers can easily see what’s available. Please note that Port Antonio and Kingston hotels are all open. South Coast is open with the exception of Jakes Hotel (Opening Dec 18th, 2025) & Sandals South Coast (Opening May 30th, 2026)

My Gift to Jamaica Travelers — Promo Code: ToneLovesJamaica

To support Jamaica during its recovery, I am waiving all my service fees for:

⭐ All 2026 & 2027 Travel to Jamaica ⭐

Visit our Request An Agent page, select me and at checkout use promo code:

ToneLovesJamaica

This includes:

• Free one-on-one agent assistance from me
• No service fees
• Flexible payment plan options
• Help selecting resorts once they officially reopen
• Guidance on supporting local businesses and communities

Traveling to Jamaica is one of the strongest ways to support the island’s recovery.

Jamaica Will Rise — And I’ll Be Right There With It

From the weddings I’ve coordinated to the group events I’ve hosted, to the awards I’ve earned — Jamaica has given me some of the greatest memories and opportunities of my life.

Now the island needs us.
And I’m standing with Jamaica just like Jamaica has always stood with me.

If you’re planning a trip in 2026 or 2027, choose Jamaica.
Experience the culture. Support the people. Help rebuild a place that has given so much to all of us.

Tone Loves Jamaica — today, tomorrow, always.

— Antonio “Tone” Barnes
Vacay On Layaway