Jamaica Overview

Jamaica is an island of the Greater Antilles just 146 miles long. Although it is not entirely certain whether the Tainos or the Arawak Indians were the first people to grace Jamaica with their presence it does still bear the name the Arawaks gave it. The word Jamaica stems from the Arawak Xaymaca which means: The land of wood and water or Land of Springs

In the Americas only Canada and the United States have more English speaking inhabitants than Jamaica and since gaining independence from Britain on 6 August 1962 it has become internationally known for its Reggae festivals, musical Patois dialect and a couple of James Bond connections. (Ian Flemming lived here – Doctor No was filmed here – and many of his books were set here)

Even though it is quite close to Haiti and Cuba the Constitutional monarchy of Jamaica remains politically peaceful and stable. History abounds throughout the island and with its magical mix of beautiful beaches, magnificent waterfalls, voodoo and other acquired religions this little island nation speaks not only of its Indian heritage but also of the British that colonized it and the slaves who cultivated the sugar plantations.

There is a little bit of beach to match every taste in Jamaica, from the extremely busy north shore harbour of Ocho Rios where all the cruise ships dock, to the laid back rugged beaches on the South shore.

Jamaica does lie within the Atlantic Ocean Hurricane belt (with active hurricanes spotted between June 1 and 30 November) – and have previously experienced significant storm damage.

Don't go home without tasting:

Ackee and Saltfish, Jerk Chicken, Rum and Raisin Chocolate Cake

Reggae music?

From the ubiquitous UB40 and Johnny Nash to the very traditional Bob Marley & the Wailers - Although you might find the best reggae buys in a big city in your home country you will certainly have exposure to more reggae – and there is something very special about bringing home some reggae from Jamaica.

Dreadlocks

The name comes from the Euro centric Jamaican society who called the new hairstyle Dreadful! You can buy a Rasta hat with fake dreadlocks to bring home. Or go the braid-n-sew-it way to really impress the folk at home!

Tie dye Ganzy (Patois for t-shirt)

Rastafarian Wood sculpture made from lignum vitae wood (one of the worlds heaviest and densest wood)

No one is sure where the word originated from but Rum is made from sugar cane and has a long history in Jamaica. The original Captain Morgan resided on this island. Visit Appleton Estate (appleton@infochan.com)  – the oldest remaining sugar estate it continues to produce a number of rums. Jamaica is also the home of the legendary Tia Maria liquour

Cuban cigars – Yes! If smoking is your thing Jamaica is a great place to buy cigars.

 

 

17 May 2008