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In May 2012, I went on my very first trip to Jamaica. The week I went I had just turned 24. Specifically I visited Montego Bay and Margartiaville. It was a tourist trip more than seeing the real life of Jamaica. I someday want to see the real Jamaica. My definition of seeing the real Jamaica is seeing how the ordinary family survives. What are their hopes and dreams? What does it mean to be Jamaican?
What I experienced was being an American fully catered by Jamaicans. Everyone I met showed kindness to me. I had access to 24/7 drinks and a beautiful scenery. I was truly given a taste of paradise but I knew it came with a cost. I knew behind the catering, there was a once colonized state and people still struggling to become more than just a tourist spot with friendly servants.
During my stay, I asked some employees at the resort how they felt about life in Jamaica. They expressed pride for their nation and cultural, but as they got more comfortable talking to me, they started to express their concerns.
One very vocal Jamaican was Sam. He worked the towels at the pool and beach. Truly one of the coolest people I have ever encountered. Sam talked about a woman he loved that left Jamaica for a better education and opportunity to escape poverty.
He was no near stupid. Sam was full of ideas and hope. Something I notice is becoming very rare here in the States and the world.
Sam kept in touch even after I left Jamaica. I week after I left Jamaica…I heard from Sam in an email sent from a BlackBerry. Yes, the BlackBerry is a huge hit in Jamaica.
The Message said:
Hey Briana hope you had a safe trip back home and all is well!! How are you doing and what’s up with you anything interesting??
Let me know what’s up my friend!!
I thought it was cool to read. I instantly thought…Pen Pal! I promised Sam I would write about his thoughts on Jamaica but discussing Jamaica from my personal experience will take me weeks.
Since I got back to the States, I have been researching Jamaica from economic and social prospective.
But back to Sam…
I told Sam I was safe and sound back home. I told him I was struggling to get back in my work routine and I was laughing at my swollen knees from mosquitoes ! Never in my life have I had bad mosquito bites like the ones I got from Jamaica.
I kid you not, I was swollen for like two weeks or more when I came back to the USA. However, I told Sam it happens. I didn’t want him to think I was some little brat from the USA that couldn’t take a few bug bites.
I expressed to him I would eventually write a documentary on Jamaica’s economy.
I asked him the following questions:
Yes, there is great division in every aspect of the country so very much. I want to help you understand in depth so your views won’t be just that of a tourist,and before you start, you must take an open minded approach as there’s a lot that might cause you to be woefully astonished!! Anyways, I am on way home now so I’ll message you when I’m settled! So we’ll speak soon!! Princess Briana.
Nice, that’s what I’m gonna call you!!! ^_^
What I have Been Told By Jamaicans In The States
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