Jamaica, Your Way

There’s no better way to get to know Jamaica than meet her people. Many travelers never move beyond their hotel and the beach, but beyond the resort areas lies a whole society of Jamaicans with all types of interests. Jamaicans are known for their directness and humor. Not everyone is trying to sell you ganja or braid your hair; many people just enjoy the interaction with travelers. If you would like to meet local residents with similar interests to yours, several programs have been established that introduce travelers to local families with similar interests.

As experienced Jamaica travelers, we also encourage people to get out and visit the small communities that really form the backbone of Jamaica. These places have been little changed by tourism (hassling is almost never seen) and life rolls along at a slow pace. Small towns offer travelers a glimpse at the island’s rich history.

MEET THE PEOPLE PROGRAM
www.visitjamaica.com

Operated since 1967 by the Jamaican Tourist Board (JTB), this free program links visitors and residents with similar interests. “We find that very often visitors see touristy things but don’t meet Jamaicans,” said Hyacinth Forde, Meet the People coordinator based in Montego Bay. This free program utilizes the services of 500 volunteers from different walks of life. “Many people feel this is the best part of their vacation because people aren’t being paid to be nice to them.”

Meet the People participants call the JTB offices and list their interests. Through the years, stamp collectors, birders, private pilots and travelers with many other special interests have been matched with locals who share a common interest.

COUNTRYSTYLE COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE
www.countrystylecommunitytourism.com

These personalized tours offer cultural excursions throughout the island and specialize in community visits. You can set your own itinerary to visit those establishments you’re particularly interested in – whether that means local churches, hospitals, roadside bars, discos, gardens, schools, farms or private homes. Along with tours, CountryStyle also offers packages with accommodations in small hotels, guest houses and even private homes.