Just spent nearly a week in Jamaica with hubby for our 22nd wedding anniversary!
It is VERY easy to become absorbed into their culture. It is so in-tune with the things that I believe in. "No Worries!" "No problem, mon!" It's all good, no matter what it is. I did not see a single Jamaican soul who was harried, out-of-sorts, frazzled, or excited. They just take absolutely everything in stride!
It is a very diversified country, rich in history and heritage. They are a proud and beautiful people. They live in the moment and from their soul. It was just a very warmly enveloping place to relax and unwind and it happened VERY quickly. From the moment you hit the door, you've got your beverage in hand and you literally have 'no worries, mon'.
We enjoyed a private island for lunch and dinner on our Anniversary. We went kayaking, bob-sledding, zip-lining, sky-tramming, and did tons of exploring, walking, and photographing. We waded through local craftspeople trying to sell their wares, some of which were VERY interesting! We climbed Dunns River Falls - a highly recommended activity should you be in the area. I haven't laughed that hard, while working so vigorously, in the midst of being so inspired by natural beauty! It was absolutely fantastic!
We made some fabulous and friendly connections and I'd go back tomorrow if I could!
If anyone is planning a trip, consider Jamaica! It is well worth the coin. We stayed at the Sandals Royal Caribbean! Delicious for body and soul!
So glad u had an awesome time in Jamaica. We just went there about 3 weeks ago, climbed Dunns River Falls which everyone has to do, but did not feel like I would like to ever come back. My husband actually helped an elderly woman for a Jamaican put an art piece in her hands & was trying to force her to give him money. She was all upset, tears in her eyes, didn't want the piece & thank goodness Keith was there to step in, took the piece from the lady handed it back to the Jamaican & told him to go away & leave the lady alone.
ReplyDeleteAnother person took a photo of a man dressed up as a plant, looked cool, but this plant man demanded money for taking his picture & the person gave money to escape the plant man, for he was being chased down. It was ridiculous!
Our 18 year old daughter was scared to death of how we, (a group of 7), were being heckled to buy something at every turn. There was no escaping the locals in Jamaicans. We couldn't wait to get back on the cruise ship.
I assume that the resort where you went was much better than getting off at a port via cruise ship. I have been to Jamaica two times in 14 years via cruise ship & I would NOT do it again. Kinda scared! Dianna
Dianna, I'm so sorry you feel that way. You cannot blame the Jamaicans for their actions. This is truly the only way they earn a living. It is an incredibly poor country and most folks are just trying to survive.
DeleteI think, if I were you, I'd be more mad at your cruise ship folks than at the natives. We were told at both our incredibly beautiful resort and on the tour bus (which was not affiliated with the resort) to steer clear of the natives. They specifically told us to NEVER accept anything, even if offered as a gift, and to simply say "Thanks, but no thanks." and walk away. It's all they know. If you were not advised of this prior to your excursion, that would be the fault of the cruise ship, not the poor Jamaican folk who are simply trying to eat.
As for Destinie, had she been made away of the people and their plight, I'm sure she would have been much less afraid and much more at ease with how to simply move beyond the hustling. They know nothing else. They live via the tourists. It's a little sad, but they do beautiful things.
I'd be mad at the cruise ship for them not telling you about the safety measures for your party and your monies. I hope you give it one more shot. Try a resort next time and relax mon! xoxo
My sister loves Jamaica. I have never been there but sounds like time there can teach us much to relax and enjoy life. The poverty would remind me to be content and thankful. It would be very hard not to give to the poor, since the Almighty Father says to give to the poor. Happy belated Anniversary!!! 22 years---what a wonderful way to celebrate!
ReplyDeleteYour sister is a smart person, as are you! Yeah Mon!
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