Fostering Resilience by Empowering Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses in Local Communities in Post-Disaster ScenariosThe Case for Community-Based Tourism in Puerto Rico After Hurricane Maria

Abstract

In September 2017, Hurricane Maria caused widespread devastation in Puerto Rico. In its aftermath, Puerto Ricans envisioned destruction as an opportunity to renovate and innovate. In this context, community-based tourism has become a key factor to foster economic recovery and build resilience in local communities. This chapter aims at analyzing some of the recovery efforts in the field of community-based tourism in the island after Hurricane Maria. Whereas on the one hand, tourism and the visitor economy occupy a prominent position in the governmental “Disaster Recovery Plan,” on the other hand various non-profit organizations are working hand in hand with local communities to tackle untapped economic opportunities. In this chapter, the authors will analyze the efforts of the Foundation for Puerto to help communities around the island transition from relief to recovery. The lessons extracted from this case could be useful for destinations that are exposed to natural disasters, or those who wish to retain population by creating tourism-related business and employment opportunities, among others.