There's a certain spot on Jamaica's West End Road with a super sweet tide pool. As waves crash heavily against the coral, they then lazily splash on the pool's occupants, treating them to an amazing sensory experience. As the waves replenish the pool, they also replenish your soul. It's a spot of reflection... and of rejuvenation.
I was thinking of some of the special spots I've been introduced to in Jamaica over the years- wondering, and hoping, they are still there. Did all the structures survive? Did anyone get through undamaged? How flooded was Bob Marley's personal swimming hole? Did Little Bay survive? Is the yoga cabana next to the cove still there?
The thoughts are never-ending, as are the prayers.
Jamaicans are a special kind of people. Although it's always hot, actually can be sweltering most of the year, they take things in stride. They embrace a natural, unspoiled lifestyle filled with sun- and they are the Royalty of Chill. Truly.
There aren't a lot of available resources on the island. There aren't lumber stores or hardware stores in most places. Housing is always pretty basic as a result. Many have lost everything, and recovery for them may literally be four walls and a roof again. But folks make do until they can do more, and now is no different. Jamaicans are resourceful.
The trees and flowers are always so lush. The cannabis grows magnificent. I wonder if all the weed was still there, or if it had been stripped off the plants. I think about the rastafarians and hope they have enough stashed away while waiting for new crops to be ready. Of all the shortages, the blessed crop may not be at the pinnacle of relief giver's minds.
If there is one thing I know from my travels to Jamaica, it's this: through it all, maybe in spite of it all, Jamaicans will shine.
Jamaicans are not only survivors, they are thrivers. They'll pick up the pieces, re-plant their crops, and mend their roofs. Trees will fill back in. Jamaica will return to her glorious self, and will once again impress us all with her beauty, culture, and heart.
As a travel professional, I see the inquiries by people not knowing to go on their trips to Jamaica or stay home. If you are wanting to go: go with love and with a helping heart. Take extra baggage, and fill it with essentials. You will want to use old luggage that can stay in Jamaica. It'll save return baggage fees, and it'll give the people on the ground an easier way to transport your gifts. Jamaica runs on tourism, and tourists will help them return to normal.
As a travel planner, I'll make calls to people I know in Jamaica, so I can give you accurate information with which to make your decisions to go, cancel, rebook later, or whatever. I also have alternatives that you will absolutely enjoy.
Please keep Jamaica in your minds and hearts. Consider helping via a GoFundMe hosted by someone you know or an organization that passes 100% on to the people who need it. Also, keep Jamaica in your mind for near future travel, because there's one thing that Jamaicans NEVER lose: it's their ability to make everything all-right!
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