A
real dynamo in the world of Jamaican tourism, Diana McIintyre-Pike, founder
of the company, has helped focus the attention of the tourism world on Mandeville
and the South Coast – not an easy task in competition with the flashy
destinations along the North Coast. We recently stayed with Diana and talked
with her about her tourism goals.Q. What is the goal of Countrystyle Community Experience?
A. We are focusing not just on foreign visitors, but also on Jamaicans who do not know their own country. Our company offers community experiences of all kinds – cultural, historic, farm. Nothing is impossible for us. We are also an information network. We want tourism to enhance the lives of the people, not change it. It is about making friends, and that’s what keeps people coming back.
Q. What would you tell people about getting out and seeing Jamaica?
A. There is a definite perception that Jamaica is not safe and that can make people shy away from our programs. I’ve been doing this for 20 years and have never had one incident. We never take people to places we are not familiar with, and visitors should keep in mind that they are visiting an entire community. Jamaicans are very hospitable.
Jamaica is so diverse. Everywhere is so different. Kingston has the best nightlife on the island, but visitors shouldn’t go on their own; they should go with the community.
Q. Why should people come to Mandeville?
A. Mandeville is the best place to base yourself as you discover the country because every place but Port Antonio is within a day’s drive. You can’t come to Montego Bay or Mandeville alone and say you’ve seen Jamaica.
