Jamaica: Traveling as a Local

The first time I visited the sweet island of Jamaica, was to the city of Montego Bay. This was a girl’s trip – sistah time was overdue and we all were in much need of some serious R&R. We took a chance on traveling during hurricane season and the weather turned out to be beyond perfect. I really need that Caribbean Sea kinda breeze in my life on a daily basis. Note to Self: Begin strategizing a plan to relocate to a Caribbean island!

I had a chance to do some inner soul searching, strengthen friendships and make new memories. There’s no doubt that I had a good time, the only “issue” was that we barely left the resort! No sweat though, I’m an island gal at heart and I knew that I’d be back again in the very near future. I made a promise to myself that when I did return, I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore more of this beautiful island. No more lack of exploration mishaps for me! I have since adopted this philosophy for all my travels. No matter where I am traveling, whether it be domestic or abroad the ideal travel experience is at some point to “go local”.

I was recently invited to Ocho Rios by a good friend whose parents reside in St. Ann’s Parish. I was honored to be welcomed as a guest and believe me when I tell you, I wasted no time booking a flight – you can’t get any more local than that folks, ok?!

Oh sweet, sweet, Jamaica…The people. The culture. The music. The vibe. The food. The food. Did I mention the food? The sea. The breeze. The sunset. I’m sure the sunrise was beautiful too but I didn’t quite wake up early enough to find out. Yeah-yeah I know, that’s what photographers are “supposed” to do. We are supposed to get up before the crack of dawn, get in position and have our cameras ready to take the best sunrise shots. (I’m not there yet, no judgment please!)

Half a mile from the beach in a gated community are the family’s living quarters. All of the bedrooms have a private walkout balcony where one can enjoy that tropical breeze – no matter the time of day or night. Fresh coconut, mango, plantain and breadfruit growing in the backyard. Community streets are named after these luscious delights (like literally named, Mango Street and Coconut Way!)

Enjoying the community view from bedroom balcony

The vibe – Mi in no rush mon. The scenic route was taken everywhere that I went and I learned a lot of history along the way about the island and its many parishes. The key is to take time and enjoy the moment. A stop on the side of the road for fresh guinep and guava. A detour to a farmer’s market for more local produce. Pull up to Shazz or Total to pick up Yummy’s Coconut Bread (sooo good). A scenic drive through Fern Gully to admire the views and breathe in the fresh air.

I decided to skip some of the normal touristy stuff this time around. Instead of heading to Dunn’s River Falls, I spent time at “Little” Dunn’s River instead. This is where the locals go and its free! It is a hidden gem in the same vicinity but I will forewarn you, it is easy to miss from the street. I had to practice my walk down the unbeaten path balancing skills, but who doesn’t want a little adventure right? The water temperature. Cold? Warm? Actually both. There were moments when half my body was cold and the other half was warm at the same time, which was pretty interesting. The falls run into the sea so you have a mixture of cold fresh water and warm salt water. Mini photo shoot, both behind and in front of the camera. Praying the whole time that my sidekick Nikon stays dry. Admiring heavy accents, smiling faces and melanin glistening in the sun. Counting my blessings one by one while I enjoyed the simple pleasures in life - clear water, warm sun and good company.

Travel Ninja’s Local Food Picks:

Ultimate Jerk Centre – Jerk Chicken, Rice & Peas and Festival
- Get there early if you want to select from their full menu of options. You can’t arrive at 8:00pm for dinner and expect to get your top pick – it’s not gonna happen hun.
Tastee – Beef Patty and Coco Bread Combo
- Hot and fresh all day long
Faith’s Pen – Jerk, jerk and more jerk!
- Roadside dining located between Spanish Town and Ocho Rios. Around 30 Jerk huts are lined up side by side, you can smell the food for a mile. As you can imagine there are a variety of Jamaican dishes to indulge in, just take your pick!
Jangalee Seafood Joint & Bar – Stew Red Snapper, Rice & Peas and Fried Plantains
- You will personally select the fresh fish that you want and wait patiently while its being prepared to your liking. Sit back watch the waves while you listen to reggae or walk around a bit, it’s worth the wait!
The Roxborough Restaurant & Grill – Escovitch Fish, Grilled Lobster and Coconut Shrimp
- The beach is this restaurant’s back yard. Excellent seafood and traditional Jamaican dishes, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Evita’s (The Best Little Pasta House of Jamaica) – “Coo-ya” Spaghetti ai Gamberi and Fettuccine Carib-Alfredo
- This is an upscale Jamaican Italian fusion restaurant with a fantastic view overlooking the city.

Have you been to the sweet island of Jamaica? I’d love to hear about your local experience. Please feel free to share your comments below and follow me on Instagram @travelninja.llc