Jamaica - My Paradise
Hello Canada,
I meet many people everyday and I am always asked a few standard questions; here they are: What is your favourite Sandals Resort, where do you go to on your own personal vacation and what is your favourite Caribbean island. Now here is what I want to open up for discussion: My favourite island in the Caribbean is JAMAICA!! Now I wonder how many people reading this can see why I love this island and how many people are surprised with my statement?!
I often wonder why I always get such a negative reaction from people; I personally think the island of Jamaica has it all from fabulous beaches, lush greenery, great attractions, delicious food, incredible sunsets, and the best of all - the most hospitable people in the Caribbean, and in my opinion it is PARADISE!! So, why does Jamaica get such a bad rap?
Many people say it has to do with safety and it’s not safe to leave the resort. I travel to Jamaica often and I have yet to see anything that has made me feel uncomfortable, and yes I do leave the resort and venture off on my own. I really think anywhere you go, even in your own city, you must be cautious and aware of your surroundings but it just really has to do with common sense; I wouldn’t venture off in some back alley in Toronto so why would I do that anywhere else?
I do hope to hear from you as I am very interested in what you have to say on this subject.
Wishing you all a positive week,
Gina
Quote of the week:
“They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” – Andy Warhol
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Great blog! I agree with you 100%. When I try to sell my clients the destination of Jamaica they shy away from it but I don't understand why. I would be more up to going to Jamaica than any other Caribbean island because of what it offers and it is also easy to get to.
Over the years, I too have heard people shy away from a holiday to Jamaica because of its bad reputation. I admit, back in the mid-eighties, they had some political unrest and things were touch and go for a period of time... but that over twenty years ago now and things on the island have changed. Sure...you're always going to have your "ghetto" areas which would be deemed unsafe, but as in our own cities... you stay away from places known for danger or trouble.
Jamaician culture is my favorite! The people, the music and the overall vibe is something I look forward to each and every time I go to the island! I really hope everyone who has visited Jamaica can do their due diligence in assuring people that Jamaica is a SAFE place to travel and " Once you go.... you know!" :-)
I have a real love for Jamaica and I do have a hard time selling the destination because of Jamaica's reputation. I do overcome many objections that I get and I actually sell many packages to the island but I find the people who have cruised and stopped on the island are the hardest to convince but they can't judge an island by the port. They don't know what they are missing.
There is just something special about Jamaica and its rich culture. The people are warm & friendly, the food & music are amazing and the island is absolutely beautiful.
Like you said Gina, its using your common sense. If you are uncomfortable somewhere, don't go there!
I am always shocked at the fact people will continue to travel back to destinations that have media reports of deaths right inside the resorts! Why would you put yourself into that danger!
I'm excited for my next Jamaica visit in 17 days!
(by the way---beautiful pictures of Rio Chico)
Deborah Jensen
Me, it's been 3 years and 1/2 that I am in travel. A lot of people was telling me that Jamaica has not nice beach exept
Negril and a lot of them was always saiying that is dangerous to go alone. But I think we should never judge a contry until we didn't see it by our own.
I just came back from a Fam Trip with Sandals and Beaches, all the time I was there, I feel completely safe. I think people
judge to fast when they don't know something.
Anyway, my next vacation is on may and guest what....I'm going in JAMAICA!!!!!
All I have to say is that Jamaica is amazing! Once you go, you know!
BTW...Love your blogs!
the beauty of the island and the beaches I wouldn't keep going back. The Jamaican people are by the
nicest people I have ever met.
I have travelled with my son to other destinations and when I ask him where he wants to go on vacation
he will always say Jamaica!!!