Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer
Visitors hang out at Jakes in St. Elizabeth. - PHOTO BY HAILE CLACKEN
As we welcome 2006, it's natural to reflect on the past year. In 2005, the island was affected by many disasters. From the numerous hurricanes that led to disastrous flooding, numerous fires that left countless families homeless and, of course, the spiralling murder rate. But Jamaica is more than disasters. With 1,669 murders in 2005, we still have to be proud of and celebrate our little island paradise. We are still a gentle, friendly, generous people. Young persons still give up their seats on the bus to older folk and we look out for each other whether we are related or not. This week's Lifestyle looks at the view first-time visitors have of our country despite what they have heard in the media. And we reflect on the disasters that befell us in 2005.
- Nashauna Drummond
WITH THE murder rate spiralling out of control in 2005, and the increase of abductions and hold-up in upscale communities, many Jamaicans once again opted to migrate. However, while Jamaicans leave our shores, visitors continue to arrive in large numbers to either get their groove back or experience a piece of paradise.
Velma Woodley, a New Yorker who visited Jamaica in December, said that she is Antiguan by birth, American by choice and Jamaican by association. As far as news and rumours of violence in the island are concerned, everyone told her to be careful, but she was not worried. While in Jamaica, she stayed in a small St. Thomas community and experienced local life. "I had a great time and I would return," she said.
There are many Jamaican associates like Miss Woodley, whether here for vacationing purposes or to assist in the development of the country.
Take Mike Taylor of Atlanta, for example, who attended last year's Upliftment Jamaica gala in St. Thomas - he told Lifestyle that Jamaicans need to be empowered. "Everything about Jamaica is beautiful, but those in charge need to spend more time thinking of ways to make tomorrow better for the people. The more we empower ourselves, the more we will advance with confidence and the assurance that violence is not the way. I don't pay attention to warnings against the country because all countries have problems."
Amy Flynn and Brian Baxter of California, stayed at Couples Negril for six nights. Ms. Flynn noted that the country and the resort are beautiful and fantastic, and that Jamaicans are nothing but friendly. But, on her way to the resort from the airport, she noticed that the country was 'pretty impoverished'.
She, too, has heard about the country's murder rate as friends have told her that Jamaica is great for relaxation, but the drawback is not to stray too far from the resort.
HERE FOR THE FUN
Yet, Ms. Flynn and her beau said that they were here for fun. They want to enjoy the beaches and go parasailing. "Everybody is extremely friendly and the pictures we saw of the resort didn't do it justice to how it's beautiful here," said Ms. Flynn.
Rei Walsh, from London, England vacationed at Beaches Boscobel Resort and Golf Club in Oraccabessa, St. Mary in mid-December. She enjoyed her stay at the resort, and beamed about her snorkelling and kayaking days.
Ms. Walsh heard about Jamaica from friends who had been to the island and that made her eager to visit the country. Ms. Walsh was not disappointed. She had a wonderful stay enjoying the sunshine that she would not have felt in December if she were in London. On the drive from the airport to the hotel, she observed the scenery. "The drive and the scenery were nice. Everything was green, just like the trees," she said.
When told about the 1,669 violent murders that had occurred in 2005, she was dumbstruck. She said that with the beautiful place and warm people she would not have expected that to happen. "I wouldn't believe it that so many persons have been murdered, because I have not seen that side of things. Everyone is friendly, always talkative and the resort is lovely," said Ms. Walsh.
Nevertheless, now knowing Jamaica's murder rate, Ms. Walsh still beamed that the island is spectacular. "I will definitely encourage my friends to come," she concluded.
