A Texas woman stranded in Jamaica with her family described what it was like to experience the catastrophic storm while sheltering at a Sandals resort.

Time moves a bit slower in the Caribbean. It’s the perfect place for swimming, finding seashells, and chilling on some of the world’s best beaches. If you’re looking for a laidback family beach vacation, the Caribbean should be at the top of your list.

Hurricane Melissa left at least dozens dead and caused widespread destruction across Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica, where roofless homes, toppled utility poles and water-logged furniture dominated the landscape Wednesday.

New York was spared a direct blow from Hurricane Melissa, but the massive storm still hit home for the millions of residents there who have deep roots in the Caribbean.