cayman/cozumel hurricane history

[starrtent]

Think at least a year to get back to the effortless dive experience we would like to remember. Cayman had lots of money to spend on repair but no way to get labor and materials to the island. Cozumel may fair better being closer to supplies and labor. The restoration of power will be faster on Cozumel only if all the resources do not go to Cancun. Money talks.
The boats are a big issue. Outboards are underwater. Gas cannot be pumped. Compressors cannot pump air.
The residents are resilient and will want visitors back as soon as possible but not to be in their way while getting basic life support back and running. Cayman lost their tourist base and it is still not back to the level of a year ago. Many establishments will not bother to reopen due to lack of insurance, supplies and customers.
The reefs and visibility recover faster than the infrastructure. The diving is good with no way to get there.
I found the biggest resitance to returning to Cayman was in my own mind. Why spend alot of money and not enjoy the experience. I want to return to Cozumel and help the only way I know how...spend money. I cannot give money away but sure do want to support the residents and dive trade by returning as soon as they will have me.

 

[Divedoggie]

Agreed!
Under best case scenario, if a lot of money and material go to repairing and rebuilding hotels and businesses very quickly, the local people who provide the employee base, will still need to rebuild their homes and personal infrastructures, as well as the tourist oriented facilities. That stretches the workforce really thin, and makes for a long process.
Local people will prioritize their own safety first. Sure, the tourist dollar is key, but shelter, food, and water are paramount.