Ya’Mon! Jamaican Culture & Trip Recap
Sunset Cove at Grand Palladium Resort & Spa, Lucea, Jamaica. Photo by Ryan Harrison
Jamaican Culture
Last week, I returned from a beautiful family vacation in Jamaica. We stayed at the Grand Palladium in Lucea (about 45 minutes west from Montego Bay on the way towards Negril). From my travels, I always make it a point to get to know the people of that specific destination. In doing so, I have the opportunity to get to know their culture. And getting to know the people and their culture provides me a new level of gratitude for what we have on this planet.
Everything’s Gonna Be Alright
Here are a few fun facts about Jamaica:
Jamaica was the first country to produce and commercialize rum. Their “Welcome” Drink at resorts is called Rum Punch, and they will make sure you try it upon arrival!
Jamaica has the most churches per square mile, and also the most rum bars per square mile. Our driver said “Where there is a church, there is a bar!”
The 1988 Bobsled Team was the 1st Caribbean country to enter the Winter Olympics.
1 US Dollar = 119 Jamaican Dollars.
Jamaica is among the top 5 vacation destination spots in the world.
Jamaica produces more twins or triplets than any other country in the world.
One Love
As I mentioned in my travels, I take the time out to get to know the people and their culture. Here are a few of my observations:
Everything Irie. Jamaican people embody a different level of relaxation and optimism. From bartenders, to waiters, to hosts, to front desk, everyone had a smile on their face. And everyone was constantly spreading joy. It was infectious! They are of the most laid-back people I have ever met. “Everything irie” is a saying they have there. It is a certain vibe, a feeling, a state of tranquility and peace. Complete contentment.
They love their music & they love to dance. At the pool, at the beach, at the lounge, at dinner – music and dancing. Founded in Jamaica, Reggae music streamed through every corner of the resort. And each day, their staff had dance lessons (multiple times I must add). You could tell the two were a huge part of their culture and lives.
Spice it up a bit! One of their most famous foods is jerk chicken, and they knew how to pack a punch in it with their spices! I personally do not love spicy food, but the Jamaican flavor was incredible. Some other popular Jamaican dishes are: curry goat, ackee & saltfish, and oxtail, all washed down with a Red Stripe beer.
Recap of Trip
As I said earlier, I stayed at the Grand Palladium in Jamaica. I stayed at the same resort that I did in January with my cousin. You may ask me why I would go back to the same resort, same place, same country. It was because of the people, because of the culture! Their style of living is relaxed and optimistic, two very important qualities for a vacation. The people are so welcoming and caring; I met many people and made many friends, and they remembered me when I came back. They have probably seen thousands of people since January, but it just goes to show the type of people they are to remember me from that long ago. I have traveled to many places so far in my life, and a few I have returned to multiple times. I do believe that there is so much out there to see in the world in such a short amount of time. But I also believe that a place, vacation or destination, is only as good as the people you are with and the people you meet. That is what I will truly remember from my travels.