Andre Jebbinson, Staff Reporter

The Orange Valley Great House in Trelawny which is being converted into the Outameni Experience. - File

It promises to be unlike any of its kind in Jamaica. The Outameni Experience now under construction in Trelawny will be based on the lives of the Tainos, the island's first settlers.

Tourists and Jamaicans alike will be able to get a sample of what it was like living in that era.

"We are always hearing that there is a paucity of Jamaican attractions. We want to present one that is not just a museum piece, but one that is world-class and different," said Lennie Little-White, executive chairman of the Outameni Experience.

A key component of the park will be a replica of the two Tainos (once referred to as Arawaks) on the Jamaican Coat of Arms.

Orange Grove Great House

The most visible and perhaps the most significant fixture on the property will likely be the Orange Grove Great House, which will serve as a backdrop. The property was acquired by Orange Valley Holdings over 10 years ago.

According to Little-White, he wanted to open a health spa but could not get the support he needed.

"You can physically go into the environment and feel like you are in the air of the Tainos," Little-White said.

He said guests will be invited to participate in activities from the era. The attraction will also feature motion pictures and popular music.

Little-White guaranteed that the filming, scheduled to begin in January, will not done in a haphazard manner but with good quality costumes and Jamaican actors.

Slave ship simulation

Representations of Indian and Chinese ways of life, as well as a slave ship simulation will also be included in the attraction. Little-White said this is designed to give visitors a feel of history.

To cap off the tour, visitors will be able to see what present-day Jamaica is all about. This will include a section on the influence of Rastafarian cultural icons, artistes and athletes.

"We are going to create a buzz that will be heard worldwide," Little-White said.

He also said Jamaica stands to benefit from the attraction as opportunities will be opened for singers, dancers, actors and other job positions.

"We feel that with all the developments in Ochi (Ocho Rios) and Highway 2000, this will be a good thing," Little-White said.

The park will not be opened in time for Cricket World Cup 2007 but Little-White remains optimistic that he well get the needed support when they open in the summer.