Above: a British relief flight
By the Caribbean Journal staff
Anguilla was devastated by Hurricane Irma, but the island is beginning recovery and relief efforts.
Anguilla’s Governor and Chief Minister are continuing to assess the damage, they said in a statement, with aid from the UK already beginning to arrive on the island as Anguilla begins what will be a massive cleanup campaign.
The airport is now open and receiving charter and relief flights.
And what about the island’s vital tourism sector?
Some properties have offered updates, which you can find below:
Carimar Beach Club
Management and staff are fine and Carimar is standing strong. The garden looks worst and a few doors and windows. The team has started the clean-up process and will advise of their reopening date, now that Hurricane Jose has passed.
CeBlue Villas & Beach Resort
CeBlue’s staff is safe and the resort had no guests as it was already closed for the season. The villas and resort buildings held up strongly against the hurricane and they are all structurally sound. The resort has begun the clean up process as the damages sustained are repairable and they look forward to welcoming guests for the season.
Fountain Anguilla
The Fountain buildings and grounds are structurally intact. A few of the units suffered some damage from debris hitting the windows and they are currently assessing the clean-up and repair. They anticipate being open for the season.
CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and The Reef by CuisinArt
This property was significantly affected, and their engineers are presently assessing the full extent of the damage. The ownership and management are steadfastly committed to restoring, rebuilding and reopening, as well as doing everything possible to help and support their employees through this most difficult time. They look forward to welcoming back all their guests as soon as possible, and greatly appreciate the extraordinary outpouring of encouragement and support during this difficult time. Additional information will be posted on their website and social media networks as soon as it is available.
Malliouhana, an Auberge Resort
Upon preliminary review there appears to be no major structural damage to the resort. The team is now assessing the extent of the clean up required in greater detail and once this is completed they will advise on their proposed reopening date.
Quintessence Boutique Resort
The property sustained a fair amount of damage, but nothing that can’t be repaired; however the proposed November 1 opening will be delayed.
Zemi Beach House
Zemi Beach had closed to guests in advance of the hurricane. The property held strong during the storm so they will be able to welcome guests back before long, although the timing is still uncertain, as they are still assessing the situation. The owners, management and staff of Zemi Beach House would like to thank everyone for their kind words and concerns during this heart-rending period for Anguilla and Zemi Beach House. For any further inquiries, please contact Frank Pierce Director of Sales & Marketing at frank.pierce@zemibeach.com.
