Yet another blow has hit the island of Grand Bahama as the U.S. has advised its citizens that Grand Bahama is still suffering from post-hurricane conditions.
The new advisory warns of conditions on Grand Bahama, large sections of the which have been badly damaged by Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne.
The new advisory says: “Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport suffered wind and water damage during the storm. The airport re-opened for limited daylight operations under visual flight rules conditions on September 27, 2004.
“US citizens planning to travel to Freeport by air should check with their air carrier to determine flight schedules and operations.
“The majority of Grand Bahama remains without power or phone service and there is a shortage of drinking water. recovery operations from Hurricane Jeanne continue and public services remain minimal or non-existent in many places throughout the island..”
US embassy spokesman, Mike Taylor said, “This public announcement is designed to let American citizens know that Freeport and areas of Grand Bahama are still recovering from the recent hurricanes.
“Private American citizens are free to travel as they see fit. We just want to make sure they have all the information.”
Hotels have been forced to close following the storms and on Monday the Viva Wyndham Fortuna beach in Lucaya announced it was to close and lay off 117 of its workers until december due to major roof and landscape damage.
The resort’s general manager, Renzo Chiapello, expects the resortto re-open by December 18.
Other hotels in Grand Bahama – Our Lucaya and Royal Oasis as well as the Sheraton and Westin at Our Lucaya resorts – are still closed for reconstruction, which has left thousands of people without jobs.
Despite these reports, a release from the Ministry of Tourism noted hotels, attractions and activities that are currently available on Grand Bahama. Best Western Castaways, The Royal Islander Hotel, Pelican Bay Hotel and Suites at Lucaya, Port Lucaya Resort and Yacht Club, Island palms and The Royal palms are currently open.
Terrance Roberts, director of business development in the Ministry of Tourism Grand Bahama stated that the island is “quickly restoring its tourism product”.
Tiffany Grant, The Tribune
