This paper describes the application of lessons and processes gleaned from previous crises and disasters to the tourism recovery process for the Maldives following the tsunami of December 26 th , 2004. An assessment of existing literature as well as the physical and financial impact of the tsunami based on primary and secondary sources was used as the basis for developing a tourism recovery strategy. The work was facilitated by the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) during January and February, 2005 at a critical point in the recovery process. Key stakeholders in the Maldives tourism industry, including Government representatives, report operators and private firms were interviewed and recovery strategies were proposed in a workshop and subsequent report to MATI.