Jamaica Experiences Newspaper by JamaicaExperiences

JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM

JUNE 2016

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

PREMIE

ISSUERE

VIVICA FOX

MUST DOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN

#ilovejamaica

JAMAICA

GANJA BEYOND THE SMOKE

USAIN BOLT the road to rio

HOURS

IN MONTEGO BAY

MAXI PRIEST: HOW I ROLL JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 1

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THE NEW CLASSICS

Your go-to charms and bracelets have been reinvented. It’s a fresh take on all your favorites. Create a look that’s undeniably you. Share your #PandoraStyle and discover more at Pandora.net Shown: Stars and lights pavé charms on sterling silver bracelet

Island Village Plaza Ocho Rios

Sangster’s International Airport Montego Bay

Shoppes of Rose Hall Montego Bay

Historic Port of Falmouth Falmouth

7 Dominica Drive Kingston 5 JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 3

EDITOR’S NOTE “There are three types of music that you will hear in every country around the world. Rock, Pop and Reggae.”

EDITOR IN CHIEF Douglas K. Gordon PRODUCTION MANAGER Betsy Gibson

Chris Blackwell (founder Island Records)

JAMAICA JAMAICA! Welcome to Jamaica Experiences! We are the voice of Jamaica wishing to share the beauty, talent, intrigue and magnetism of this special place. Jamaica might be the largest island in the englishspeaking Caribbean, but what is it about this island that’s so infectious? It could be the music that galvanizes people from across the globe with its simple but captivating beats and the penetrating stories told through its powerful lyrics. It could be the range of natural beauty from the white sands of Negril to the mist-covered peaks of the Blue Mountains. Frankly the essence of Jamaica is that it means different things to different people who all share a common allure to its beauty, authenticity and potential. Jamaica Experiences will take our readers on a veritable journey through the essence of this incredible island. Many will hark on the challenges, and they are real; but no more real than many other places around the globe. What we hope to achieve,

CONTRIBUTORS (TEXT + PHOTOS) Tuere Randall, Princella Talley, Deborah Grisham, Ken Goldsmith, Carla Sue, Kishan Gordon, Oral Chambers, Isabelle Tin Aung, Ethan Gray, Sylvia Lerahl ART DIRECTOR Angelo Manalo Do you have editorial submissions, feedback or story pitches? editor@jamaicaexperiences.com

in these pages and across our other platforms (glossy magazine, website, mobile app and TV show), is to entertain, engage and inform you about the rich possibilities and diverse options for having an enjoyable and memorable experience in Jamaica. We hope you find the pages of our first issue to be interesting and informative. There’s no shortage of wonderful stories about this special island and we invite you to share your experiences, interests and likes with us directly. In our quest to produce the most read and engaging publication about visiting Jamaica we are always open and interested in the perspectives and experiences of our readers – whether they be from Europe, USA, Africa, Asia or even right here in Jamaica. Thank you in advance for joining us on this maiden voyage and we look forward to sharing more with you in the days, weeks, months and years to come via one of our platforms. Until then…..Walk Good.

TRAVEL PORTAL LIMITED EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN David Hall ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Shelly-Ann Fung ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Allison Callam, Jodian Brown, Ka-El Clarke. Tameka Bryce PROJECT COORDINATOR Alison Troy WEBSITE & MOBILE APP TEAM Team Leader - Ai Irisawa-Coney CONTENT, ONLINE MARKETING, GRAPHICS Whitney McKenley - Assistant Editor, Sajenour Rhoden - Online Marketing, Jacqueline Young - Graphic Design info@jamaicaexperiences.com Corporate Office: 24 Trafalgar Road, Kingston, Jamaica Copyright © 2016 by Jamaica Experiences. All Rights Reserved.

Douglas K. Gordon Editor in Chief

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Remember UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES IN JAMAICA!

Time...

It’s the one you’ll be talking about for years to come. Experience the best of Jamaica with Island Routes as your expert guide. Space is limited. Book now!

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Tours 250+IN JAMAICA JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 5

72 MOBAY HOURS: BY KEN GOLDSMITH

Cinnamon Hill Golf CourseSunset

Margaritaville Reggae Bus

THURSDAY My flight from JFK was smooth and easy a mere 3 hour ride and I was a world away from the madness and mayhem of New York City. As we landed-- flying a few feet over the blue waters and white sand beaches of Montego Bay, Jamaica--life balance was restored. I’m a chill dude - sans airs and what not - but for a short weekend getaway I was absolutely going to take advantage of the “meet and greet” service offered by Club Mobay. For a few bucks I was able to let my inner VIP out as I was promptly whisked through immigration, offered an ice cold Red Stripe beer, chilled towel and then quickly transferred to Secrets Resorts--a whopping 40 minutes from when my plane touched the tarmac to when I set foot in the hotel...my definition of irie! FRIDAY A relaxing day spent soaking up the rays and enjoying some cocktails at the sexily named ‘Barracuda Beach’ at my resort. The WiFi was used only to upload images of the sand and the current cocktail served up by bartender of the year the charismatic “Leon” - as much mixologist as undiscovered comedian / singer. Ever-adventurous, as evening descended, I set out to Moscino to watch some NBA basketball, indulge in their very sumptuous menu and a few more cocktails. A mere

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Sunset at Doctor’s Cave Beach

24 hours into my trip and all thoughts of New York had drifted away. I couldn’t remember why I hadn’t been back to the island since Spring Break. In the evening--ever in search of “the vibe”--I was advised that there is only one place on a Friday night in Mobay: the iconic Pier One. The place was rammed but the energy was terrific; a healthy mix of locals and visitors lending the place an authentic Jamaican vibe. No airs or corny “hot hot hot” Conga line songs here, it was like listening to all the genres on one Spotify playlist: soca, reggae, dancehall, R&B, EDM and even some classic pop music. Rum and Red Bull kept me going all night and it was only after 4am that my trusted taxi deposited me back safely at Secrets. SATURDAY My scheduled 7:30am tee time came and went as the irresistible plush bed in my hotel room kept me in a tangle of sheets. Thankfully, the hospitable folks at Cinnamon Hill slotted me in for a 10:30am start. Choosing a course wasn’t easy; with Tryall Club, White Witch, Half Moon and Cinnamon Hill, Montego Bay might very well boast some of the best golf per square mile in the Caribbean. Golf Director Sebert Walker set me up and gave me some great tips about the course before I set out with my caddy. While I love golf, truth be told that after a long night there’s nothing quite so

Capleton, Shuga, Peter Lloyd

thrilling as an ice cold Red Stripe to put a wayward drive into perspective. I spent a beautiful day on the course before heading back to the resort for a much-needed siesta by the pool. My evening’s plan promised another late night with a live musical feast down on Doctor’s Cave. Produced by music aficionado and artist, Peter Lloyd, the monthly series takes place the last Saturday of every month and features some top acts in Jamaica. For less than $30, I was jamming mere feet from reggae icon Capleton. The crowd rocked under the moonlight to some of Reggae’s greatest hits including, Jah Jah City, Slew Dem and In Her Heart. SUNDAY Before I knew it, my time in Montego Bay drew to a close as New York City beckoned to me from miles beyond. Before I boarded my return flight home, there was one last thing I simply had to try: authentic jerk pork at the Mobay institution ‘Pork Pit’ on Bottom Road (on the Hip Strip). Before leaving the island, I grabbed a pound of pork, a portion of rice and peas, a bottle of Wata and a bottle of jerk sauce. Less than US $15 and I was embarrassingly stuffed to the gills as I reflected on a perfect weekend getaway that left me recharged for the world of work (and concrete) that awaited me back in the Empire State.

Guilty Pleasures by

BIJOUX JEWELERS

MAMA MARLEY’S BAR AND RESTAURANT

Bijoux specializes in providing watches of the finest quality from brands located all across the globe. Popular Swiss brands such as Omega, Hublot, Breitling and Chopard are all a part of the collection. Costume & fashion jewelry are also offered in wide selections. Priceless Benefits: Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from their hotel. Complimentary beverage upon arrival. Located throughout Jamaica (Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Falmouth). (876) 926-4784. bijoux-jewelers.com

Here, you find peace within your soul by rocking to the sounds of the legendary Bob Marley while enjoying a wide range of local and international cuisines including chicken, vegetarian and seafood dishes. Priceless Benefits: Complimentary appetizer with the purchase of a main course. Complimentary gift with the purchase of $20 and over. Taj Mahal Plaza, Main Street, Ocho Rios. (876) 974-0197.

EVITA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

MARGUERITES RESTAURANT

Enjoy dining in the finest fashion at Evita’s Italian restaurant. Whether an indoor or outdoor lunch or dinner, you can enjoy an incredible dining experience. Evita’s offers Northern Italian fused with Jamaican cuisine to offer an unforgettable culinary experience. Two Specialty pasta entrees exclusively for MasterCard cardholders. Located in Ocho Rios. (876) 974-2333. www.evitasjamaica.com

Enjoy a perfectly cooked meal, using the freshest ingredients at Jamaica's North Coast's finest restaurant. Marguerite's celebrates the abundance of local seafood with options that are sure to satisfy even the most discriminating palates. Breathtaking views paired with delightful meals. MasterCard cardholders receive a 15% discount on all food and beverages. For more information, please visit: http://www.margaritavillecaribbean. com/marguerites.html. Located on Gloucester Avenue, Montego.

THE PELICAN GRILL If you want real Jamaican home-style dishes, they’ve got it! From curry goat to jerk chicken, oxtail to stewed peas and their signature escoveitched fish, you’ll have no choice but to keep coming back. Priceless Benefits: Complimentary Pelican Rum Punch or Planters Punch with purchase of entrée. Gloucester Avenue, Montego Bay. (876) 952-3171. www.pelicangrillja.com

DIAMOND COLLECTION Diamond Collections carries a vast selection of diamonds, including colored diamonds as well as fashion watches for both men and women. The boutique also features a selection of designer perfumes such as Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Bvlgari. MasterCard cardholders may enjoy a 60% discount on jewelry and a complimentary gemstone when paying with their respective cards. Located at Taj Mahal Shopping Centre, Main Street, Ocho Rios

For more Priceless benefits exclusively for MasterCard cardholders visit www.priceless.com

HALF PAGE AD ALL INCLUSIVE

Nestled on a secluded stretch of white sand beach on Jamaica’s north coast, this newly renovated resort is picturesque with an upscale atmosphere. Facing one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, the resort is the perfect getaway for both families and couples thanks to the variety of amenities offered. ACCOMMODATIONS, SERVICES & FACILITIES

Exclusive beach, pool & restaurant |Complimentary airport meet, greet and transportation |Complimentary babysitter | Individual cell phones

MELIA

BRACO VILLAGE JAMAICA

BOOK NOW 1-888-956-3542

JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 9

COCKTAILS JA M AI CA EX PE RI EN CE S

T H E SI G NATUR E

RUM PUNCH

WHAT’S INSIDE? 2 parts Appleton Estate Signature Blend 1⁄2 part Lime Juice 1⁄2 part Simple Syrup 2 parts Fruit Juice 1 part Pineapple Juice

HOW DO I MAKE IT? Use a jigger to measure ingredients Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake well Strain cocktail into a glass (as desired) and add ice cubes Garnish as desired

WARNING Tastes best when made while listening to reggae music!

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“Dominoes”

“Puppy Love”

KERRY MILLER: THE ARTIST A LOVE FOR ART AND A PASSION FOR LIFE B Y N I K K I VA RG A S

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or Kerry Miller, art is more than a pastime, it’s her passion and calling. From a young age, Kerry watched as her mother transformed patterns and loose fabric into beautiful clothing, delicate drapes and fine cushions using nothing more than her sewing machine. Her mother’s craft left a lasting impression on Kerry and paved the way to her love for fashion design and art today. As always, the only predictable thing about life is how unpredictable it can be and after setting aside her passion for nine years in order to focus on her career, Kerry stumbled upon the opportunity of a lifetime at work. One day at the office, Kerry was asked to participate in an internal art show. The show gave Kerry the chance to showcase her talent and passion for art; leaving a powerful impression on her colleagues. Being a private person, Kerry had never shared her art with anyone else and was pleased with the overwhelming, positive response she received from this art show. The feedback was enough to inspire Kerry to re-prioritize her life and push her love of art to the forefront. With the help of her mentors, Elgo and Barry Watson, Kerry’s transition into the art world was positive and supportive. Elgo and Barry had a profound influence on Kerry’s craft as the two artists perfectly captured Jamaican culture in their art, a style that Kerry also reflected in her own work. With the help and influence of Elgo and Barry, Kerry perfected her technique in using charcoal and pencil for her drawings. Looking at Kerry’s work, one can see how her strong personality seems to emanate from every stroke and shade. Her preferred medium of choice is charcoal; she explains that the coal allows her to be spontaneous in her creativity and pour her heart and soul into each of her drawings.

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

“HER LONG BREAK FROM THE ART WORLD IS SOMETHING SHE BELIEVES WAS REQUIRED FOR HER TO CREATE THE LIFE SHE ALWAYS ENVISIONED HAVING.”

“Hold Me”

How something looks, how it tastes, how it smells and generally how it appeals to her senses is what ultimately inspires Kerry’s art. Kerry is a true artist whose emotions seem to splash across the canvas and reflect what she is feeling at the time. Her passion led her to create the masterpiece “Hold Me,” which she considers as being one of her favorite pieces to date. Her inspiration for “Hold Me” comes from the life she has with her husband of thirteen years. The piece shows a man and woman embracing; an image that Kerry says represents the loving and supportive bond the two share. Recently, Kerry launched a collection of twenty-five pieces called “Liberated” whose name was motivated by the initial struggle she had with sharing her art in the beginning of her career. After that first art show held in the office, Kerry was liberated (as the collection suggests) to share her art and drawings with the world. The launch of this collection included depictions of dancing, a vocalist and a drummer--reflecting the notion of being set free through art. Her long break from the art world is something she believes was required for her to create the life she always envisioned having. When asked about her advice to aspiring artists, Kerry strongly affirms that people should simply work hard for what they want in life and never give up on their passions. To women in particular, Kerry encourages them to maintain their independence and never be afraid of expressing themselves--no matter their art form.

SPECIAL OFFER ON SELECT TOURS OCHO RIOS | MONTEGO BAY NEGRIL | SOUTH COAST

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VIVICA A. FOX A C T R E S S

#ILOVEJAMAICA V

ivica Fox may be best known for her many film and TV roles, including those in Independence Day, Kill Bill and Empire. But in these parts she's also becoming known as somewhat of a Jamaicanophile. She returns to the island to celebrate her birthday again this July. Every year her contingent of friends, family and fellow celebrities grows with Yazz the Greatest from Empire and MC Lyte, rumored to be joining the festivities this year. Proving that age is just a number, she looks as stunning now as when she was voted one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the world by People magazine. We caught up with Vivica between flights to find out a little bit more about her Jamaican love affair.

My Favorites: FAVORITE AIRLINE:

Virgin America FAVORITE HOTEL:

Four Seasons FAVORITE HOTEL IN JAMAICA:

Secrets Resort and Spa FAVORITE JAMACIAN FOOD:

Jerk Chicken 3 MUST DO’S IN JAMAICA:

Relax on the Beach, Visit Margaritaville, Party at Fiction GUILTY PLEASURE:

Buttercake A La Mode, California Pizza Kitchen LAST GREAT BOOK:

Drinking and Tweeting by Brandi Glanville IPHONE OR SAMSUNG:

Samsung PLACE TO UNWIND:

Spa - Beverly Hot Springs CITY TO PARTY:

New York or Miami WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT JAMAICA..... The People....I love it

so much I am coming back to celebrate my birthday again later this year. I consider myself Jamerican at this point. I COLLECT..... fabulous shoes! I GET UP EVERYDAY AT..... 6am

“I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE PEOPLE!” JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 15

VIVICA’S Jamaica Playlist

The Hollywood star shares some of her favorite Jamaican tunes. Is This Love (I Wanna Love You) BOB MARLEY

Welcome to Jamrock DAMIEN “JR. GONG” MARLEY

Close to You MAXI PRIEST

Girls Dem Sugar BEENIE MAN

Temperature SEAN PAUL

Brown Skin RICHIE SPICE

I Feel Good BERES HAMMOND

It Wasn’t Me SHAGGY

Redemption Song BOB MARLEY

Three Little Birds BOB MARLEY

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Arrival Services - Personalized Meet & Greet - Escort & Fast Track Access through Immigration & Customs - Assistance with luggage retrieval - Coordination with your ground transportation - Private restrooms & changing facilities

Departure Services

Find us at the Departure Terminals at Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport, Kingston.

- Fast Track Access through Security - Access to departure lounges - Complimentary non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages - Complimentary snacks - tapas, sandwiches, patties & fruits - Complimentary Wi-Fi - Cultural Exhibits - Shower facility - Free international calls to USA, Canada & UK Landlines - Digicel Business Centre JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM | 17

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WWW.RAINFORESTBOBSLEDJAMAICA.COM | (876) 974.3990

NYAMMINGS

BOILED CORN WITH PIMENTO B Y T H E RO U S S E AU S I S T E R S

Butter and Cheese Coconut Jasmine Fried Rice Pilaf with Cashews and Raisins When Michelle lived in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, every Saturday she would head to the Fort Greene Flea Market to browse, chill a bit, buy a donut (or six) from Dough and eat corn on the cob rolled in chile and sprinkled with Mexican cheese. This is our ode to that dish, but we’ve added a little “Yardie,” or Jamaican, flavor. SERVES 6

12 cups water 1 pound (4 sticks) butter 1 bunch scallions 4 cloves garlic 6 scotch bonnet peppers 2 tablespoons sea salt 1 bunch fresh thyme 6 allspice berries 2 bay leaves 6 ears corn, husks reserved 4 ounces pimento butter 4 ounces Asiago cheese, grated (about 1 cup) Spiced salt to taste 3 fresh limes 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro METHOD

1. In a large pot, combine the water, butter, scallions, garlic, scotch bonnets, salt, thyme, allspice and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, add the corn and boil until the corn is very tender, about 45 minutes (less if using fresh American corn). 2. With tongs, remove the corn from the water. Roll each corn cob first in the pimento butter, then in the cheese, then return the cobs to their husks. Garnish each corn cob with some spiced salt, a squeeze of fresh lime juice and the cilantro. Serve immediately.

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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THE DELIGHTFULLY CHARMING

CHRISTOPHER’S AT HERMOSA COVE H

ermosa Cove is a lush 12 acre beachfront property in St. Ann, Jamaica owned by Texans Clayton and Deb Korver who fell in love with Jamaica way back in 1976. It is a timehop back into Spanish history with grandiose architecture of hand-crafted stone built into fortresses and towers mixed with the island flair of thatched roofs and rustic wooden trimmings. It’s the perfect hidden gem located on cliffs just outside of Ocho Rios that’s easy to miss if you’re whizzing by. Each of the nine villas at Hermosa Cove is unique, appealing to the varying desires of the discerning traveler. All are equipped with kitchens and their own private pool. The warmth of dark wood and leather invite you inside luxurious chambers with views of opulent gardens and sounds of the sea. Christopher’s, named after European explorer Christopher Columbus who said Jamaica was the “most beautiful island he had ever seen” is an award winning

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restaurant. It was dubbed “Best Kept Secret” at the coveted Table Talk Jamaica Observer Food Awards 2014 and their Executive Chef, Chef Conroy Arnold, was awarded Chef on the Rise. Seafood is the specialty inside the gourmet kitchen as the restaurant has a close relationship with local fishermen who come daily to deliver their fresh ocean bounty. Inspecting the menu will reveal many inclusions of fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs grown a few steps away in the garden which you may tour and select your choices to be paired with your dish. Chef Arnold prides himself on being a man of clean flavours using fresh ingredients.

tenderloin steak served up with fries or substituted with roasted wedges, curried goat ravioli, oxtails, coconut braised chicken, grilled lobster along with the catch of the day done to your liking. The marlin salad has been met with rave reviews along with the smoked chicken quesadilla and ackee spring roll appetizers. Warm bread pudding served with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice-cream tops a delicious dining experience inside the restaurant with ocean views or out in the open air. A stroll down to the intimate white sand beachfront with a spiced cocktail made from fresh-pressed juice in hand from Isabella’s Rum Bar at sunset adds romance to what will surely be a delectable evening at Hermosa Cove. The attentive and accommodating staff and celebrated chef help bring life to the Golden Age surroundings which envelope you on this property and submerge you into a magnificent aura of splendour and island charm.

The menu is very Jamaican serving up meats and seafood smoked over the signature pimento wood used in authentic Jamaican jerk. An international spin adds panache to each dish distinguishing Christopher’s menu from your usual resort dining options. Dishes such as callaloo with scotch bonnet sauce, crispy plantain chips with fresh salsa, ribs with ratatouille style vegetables,

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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THE JAMAICAN WAY:

LICK TWO DOMINO T

he game of dominoes is a favorite in Jamaica and a staple at many corner bars and slot machine shops. What was once considered a pastime for the working class now infiltrates the masses and anywhere that Jamaicans gather to blow some steam and have a good time. Pull up an overturned crate, a rock stone, or a bar stool on a makeshift table and prepare to “lick some dominoes” with the best of ‘em, completing a table of four. Dominoes can be spotted at gatherings on the beach, in the police stations, at jerk shops, on back verandas, at “dead yards,” and anywhere there’s rum. The “poor man’s pastime” is now the uber-competitive sport played among “rumpanions” gathered to shoot the breeze. It’s played with an enthusiasm that might baffle you or tickle your funny bone as the pieces hit the table with a loud noise to make a statement, whatever that may be. The noise, of course, comes with catcalls and the heckling of opponents. “Hold dat!” shouts “The Teacher,” a competitor who has dubbed himself "qualified to school these boys” declares to the table as he slams down a piece and takes a swig of his beer. The player beside him whose turn it is now sullenly knocks the table twice with a piece in his hand, admitting temporary defeat and declaring that he has to “pass.” This means he has no matches to play this round. The next player slams down his piece triumphantly.

In a moment’s notice, the fourth player knocks out three pieces, one after the next, bowing out boastfully. When a player bows, it means he has blocked the game, controlling both ends of play. He’s certain he has the lowest count of the cards left in his hand to win the game. Just before a player bows out, he may ask the table how many pieces each of them hold in his research. In Jamaican domino language, that can go a little something like this: Bower: Tell me something, how much card you have in your hand? Player B: Three. How much you have? Bower: A no your business dat! A no your turn! *turns to other opponents and asks* How much you have? Player C: 2

If the game is being played with two sets of partners, then one is not safe from jeering from his own partner if he has made what is dubbed a bad move. To be skillful at this game means to know how to read the game correctly. It’s not enough to simply match the cards in your hand to those on the board, you need to be able to determine which opponent has which cards. “Killing the doubles” is one such read that pro domino players are skillful at. This skill determines where the doubles are held in order to kill them in your opponent’s hand so that they never see the light of play. “He’s gone! He’s gone to dead yard! The double-five is gone!” sings one opponent who has discovered that the player next to him has the double-five card. “Stop talk the game!” the player shouts out to him. “You don’t know what you talking!” he insists.

Bower: Dash dem away, I’m about to teach you how to play this game, you see! You see this card? You know what it name? School is in session boy!

“Go talk to the cashier” or “Tender, send one Q pon Larry bill” can be heard as winners declare the losing party’s obligation to buy the table a round. A “Q” or “QQ” is a quarter-quart of rum in Jamaican parlance. Tender is a shortened title of a bartender.

If a player is at the table long enough to lose six times, the ebbing will be humorously torturous. It can go on for hours and end with him buying the table a round of drinks.

If you’re not brave enough to join in a round, just pull up a chair, buy a beer, and enjoy the entertainment wherever the domino table unfolds. If you do join in, remember not to talk the game!

Player D: 3, is what you trying?

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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NEW LABEL. SAME BLEND.

RESERVE IS NOW

V/X

IS NOW

12 YEAR OLD IS NOW

• Curated blend of select aged rums

• Created by Master Blender Joy Spence to celebrate the Estate’s 250th Anniversary

• Created by our former Master Blender nearly 30 years ago

• Blend of 20 aged rums – including 2 special ‘reserve stock’ rums

• Unique blend of 15 aged rums

• A masterpiece of oak ageing, using Number One Select American Oak barrels

• Best enjoyed in a premium rum cocktail such as an aged Daiquiri

• Best enjoyed neat or in the finest cocktails such as the Original Mai Tai

• Perfect for elevated rum cocktails, such as26the Rum Manhattan, or enjoyed neat | JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM

HOW I ROLL

MAXI PRIEST Singer/Songwriter Maxi Priest is a man always on the move. His global fan base keeps him busy with a hectic schedule of shows spanning the globe, from London to Los Angeles, Frankfurt to Tokyo, Hawaii to the Caribbean. We caught up with him outside a studio in London to get some insight into his travel favourites.

Maxi’s Favorites (outside of Jamaica):

AIRPORT

Tie between Dubai International and Hong Kong International

AIRLINE

TRAVEL ACCESSORY

CITY

Mac computer

Osaka

Emirates and American Airlines

HOTEL

CITY FOR

If I could I would live in…… England....IF I could get the sunshine!

Sunborn (Gibraltar) – it’s the world’s only super-yacht hotel (In the Caribbean it’s Jade Mountain in St. Lucia)

PLACE TO UNWIND

FOOD

A football pitch - when I play I zone out of all life’s noise and distractions.

Tie between LA and New York City

3 PLACES ON TIMEPIECE

Black face solid white gold SubMariner Rolex

CITY TO PARTY IN

New York

GUILTY PLEASURE

Timepieces... I own so many but seldom wear one!

HOW MANY MILES PER YEAR

Somewhere between 280,000 to 400,000 per year

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

LAST GREAT BOOK

Who Moved my Cheese?

MAXI’S BUCKET LIST

India – I would love to visit the Taj Mahal, Pyramids in Egypt, Safari in Tanzania

IPHONE OR SAMSUNG

Both!

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GANJA: BEYOND THE SMOKE! B Y S Y LV I A L E R A H L

n Jamaica, a country where marijuana has long been entrenched in the culture, last year’s decision to decriminalize small amounts of the herb brought a welcome sigh of relief for many. Like s’mores at a campfire, pot often goes hand in hand with the island, and it’s been that way for decades. However, not all residents of this mountainous, lush destination are thrilled. For some, the change of law brings new concerns. In a country infused with Bob Marley at every turn, a place where potent ganja is sold for less than J$100 (apx US$1) an ounce, it comes as no surprise that sun-loving, marijuana-aficionados have flocked to this Caribbean island in droves. What may be surprising-- at least to the millions of tourists who visit Jamaica each year-- is that marijuana became illegal in the area in 1913. Despite having approximately 37,000 acres of marijuana fields and some of the most idyllic growing conditions in the world, until 2015 anyone caught in possession of the plant could face five years in jail and an exorbitant fee of US$1,500. More, they would have a challenging time finding employment or traveling abroad with such a conviction on their record. Last year this changed-- in part. While possessing weed isn’t exactly legal in the country,

the Jamaican government decriminalized the possession of small amounts of it (up to two ounces) on February 6, 2015, Bob Marley’s birthday. Jamaicans can smoke it for spiritual purposes, and US citizens who carry a medical marijuana permit can also partake while on the island. However, consumption isn’t allowed in public areas. Although full legalization is a likely possibility, the government is taking baby steps toward such a decision. In the meantime, officials are closely monitoring how residents respond to the change in law, as well as to how things progress in states such as Washington and Colorado, and elsewhere throughout the world. Just as people throughout the United States debate the merits of pot legalization, so do those situated 90 miles south of Cuba. With lingering concerns about economic stability and budget shortfalls, the primary driver behind legalization stems from the financial benefits of the marijuana industry. Undoubtedly, Jamaicans notice the economic benefits afforded Washington, Colorado and Holland after legalization. Grabbing a slice of that herbal pie is tantalizing, to say the least. Some argue that doing so helps position the islanders to take advantage of an emerging industry.

“TO MAKE MARIJUANA AGAINST THE LAW IS LIKE SAYING GOD MADE A MISTAKE.” – BOB MARLEY 28 | JAMAICAEXPERIENCES.COM

S O C I A L I L L O R M E D I C A L M A R V E L?

Truths • In the 1970s the potency of marijuana averaged just around 1%, now it averages 13%. • THC is the name given to the chemical in the plant responsible for the high while CBD is hailed for the medicinal benefits now being studied. • Both components are needed to have even just a medicinal effect, studies reveal. • CBD has been praised for helping ailments such as lupus, crohn’s disease, chronic pain, epilepsy and even cancer. • Colorado collected over US$4.2M in taxes in the first two months of legalization of the herb. • It is estimated that over 37,000 acres of ganja fields are now grown in jamaica. • There are over 180.6 Million marijuana smokers worldwide • It is estimated that the revenue from a single marijuana plant is US$2,200. • In the first 6 months of sales in colorado, sales were estimated at over US$202m, with medicinal marijuana far outweighing recreational pot. • Ganja was a US$3.4B market in the united states in 2015. • It is not a criminal offence to have 2 ounces or less of the herb on your person in Jamaica.

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

DiscoverJamaica’s Jamaica’sShining Shining Stars Discover Stars

IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach & Spa Complex • Rose Hall Main Road Montego Bay • Little River P.O. • St. James • Rose Hall • Montego Bay • Jamaica Tel: +1 876 680 0000 • Fax: +1 876 953 8019 • reservations@iberostar.com.jm

IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach & Spa Complex offers the best in gourmet dining, spacious rooms and a range of activities to please every interest. Whether you are seeking a luxurious, romantic getaway in an adults-only setting at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall, or looking to please every member of the family at IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Suites or IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach, you’ll enjoy the all-inclusive vacation of your dreams. Sparkling pools, stunning beaches, a relaxing spa and our signature hospitality, it’s all here at IBEROSTAR.

The use of ganja also has a foundation in spiritual beliefs. For Rastafarians, cannabis is a holy plant that grew on the grave of King Solomon. With the popularity of reggae in the 1970s, the herb’s popularity swelled as well. Many musicians have described the sacred status of marijuana among the Rasta population, notably Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, whose anthem “Legalize It” is perhaps the most recognized example. Plenty of others have also taken to the guitar and microphone to share their love of the green, both for its soothing high and its medicinal benefits. Some Rastafarians are celebrating the shift in policy in hopes that it lessens the stigmatization they have faced over the years, most pointedly by the police. Negative perceptions have led to violence in the past, which is something most citizens hope to avoid. Referred to as “Bad Friday,” eight Rastafarians were killed in a clash with the police in 1963. In protest of what they deemed harassment for loitering outside hotels in Montego Bay, violence erupted. However, it isn’t just the do-gooders who voice another side to this controversial topic. Many people in the Rastafari community are concerned about government motives and question why more hasn’t been done to include them in the economic benefits of this movement. Others worry that the licenses to grow marijuana will only go to people with the right financial, political and social connections, thereby marginalizing the small pot growers. Though common theory suggests legalization will reduce violence, some Jamaicans fear the opposite is true. Such anti-legalization residents conclude that by legalizing the herb, criminals will resort to different means to make money. In turn, other illegal activities will explode. Passing this legislation doesn’t mean Jamaica is suddenly a free-for-all, though. As a major exporter of marijuana, the country is bound by international agreements intended to reduce drug trafficking. With the shift in international policies, however, Jamaica is well-positioned to reap some of the economic benefits—and face the attendant challenges—of the marijuana industry.

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“WHEN YOU SMOKE THE HERB, IT REVEALS YOU TO YOURSELF.” - BOB MARLEY

Whether you choose to golf on the plunging greens of White Witch or among the ruins at Cinnamon Hill; be captivated by tales of the notorious Annee Palmer in her Great House or exchange wedding vows on this historic plantation... you are sure to delight in Rose Hall's unique flavour of Jamaica! www.rosehall.com

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THE DECO COLLECTION

MONTEGO BAY: Shoppes of Rose Hall, Sangster International Airport OCHO RIOS: Island Village KINGSTON: New Kingston FALMOUTH: Historic Port of Falmouth sales@bijoux-jewelers.com

GET READY RIO THE ‘LIGHTNING’ BOLT IS READY TO STRIKE! B Y D I L LO N YO U N G W I T H I S A B E L L E T I N -AU N G

hat’s the mystery behind his speed? Does he possess some kind of “know-how” in order to move that fast? These are just a few of the mind-tickling questions that seem to be at the tip of the tongues of many people worldwide when their thoughts turn to Usain St. Leo Bolt, the fastest man on earth. Here in Jamaica, we have stuck to the belief that Jamaicans are just naturally talented when it comes to Track and Field. Beyond that, some have suggested that ground provisions such as yam, green bananas, and Irish potatoes are the storehouses for such tremendous speed and ability.

USAIN’S “LIGHTNING BOLT” TRANSITION Born to Wellesley and Jennifer Bolt on August 21, 1986 in Trelawny, Jamaica, Usain grew up in the farming community of Sherwood Content where he first discovered his love for sports. Also referred to as “Lightning Bolt” and “The Sprint King”, Bolt stands as a world-renowned Jamaican sprinter and “the first man in Olympic history to win both the 100-meter and 200-meter races in world record times in 2008. While there may be many good things to be said about this

great sprinter, his successes and titles did not just suddenly come into existence at a snap of the fingers. All this started at a young age and gradually developed over time. Bolt attended Waldensia Primary and William Knibb Memorial High for his primary and secondary education, respectively. However, his passion didn’t always lie entirely in athletics. From a tender age, he has always been interested in cricket and football. It was not until coaches Pablo McNeil and Dwayne Barrett observed how fast he could run that his focus shifted to athletics. Both coaches were hugely instrumental in Usain’s upbringing as a young schoolboy Track and Field athlete. From early morning to late night training sessions, they ensured that Bolt had all that was required to “blaze” the track. In 2001, at the age of fourteen, Bolt’s spectacular performances in the 100-meter and 200-meter races captured the attention of many at his first high school championships. There, he claimed his first 100-meter gold medal and silver in the 200 meters. When he turned 15, he took the opportunity to appear in front of thousands of onlookers at the 2002 World Junior Championships in Kingston, Jamaica. This was a world-stage

event that could give him the lifetime breakthrough to achieve his career goals in Track and Field. Bolt amazed the crowd with his magnificent run in the 200-meter dash to take home the gold medal and the title of the “youngest world junior gold medalist ever.” Bolt received recognition from many Track and Field disciplines and continued on his journey to become a part of the Jamaican Olympic team. However, due to injuries, the years 2004 to 2006 were devastating for his career. It was not until 2007 that he made a breakthrough by breaking the 200-meter record and returned home with 2 silver medals from the World Championship in Osaka, Japan. Plausibly the most fleet-footed individual to ever grace the face of the earth, Usain Bolt went on to rack up three gold medals at the 2012 London Olympic Games and stands as the two-time IAAF World Athlete of the Year, Track & Field Athlete of the Year and Laureus Sportsman of the Year. The accolades that come with being the world’s fastest man have not always been a bed of roses. Barriers had to be broken and mountains had to be climbed in order to get to the top of his success.

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In fact, Jamaica has produced some of the most talented athletes to perform at the Olympic Games.

BOLT BY THE NUMBERS AUGUST 21, 1986 Usain was born to Wellesley and Jennifer Bolt in Trelawny, Jamaica.

1991 He was enrolled at Waldensia Primary School in Sherwood Content for his primary education. 2002 Bolt became the youngest World Junior Champion when he won the gold medal at the World Junior Championships in Kingston, Jamaica. 2003 Bolt graduated from William Knibb

High, which meant an end to his relationship with coach Dwight Barnett.

2004 Usain participated in the CARIFTA Games, the World Junior Championships and the popular Athens Olympics. 2005 Due to an injury, Bolt finished eighth in the 200-metre final at the World Championships in Athletics, held in Helsinki, Finland. 2006 Usain missed what turned out to be a ‘Jamaican party’ at the Commonwealth Games in Australia when he suffered another hamstring injury.

2008 Bolt revealed his humanitarian side to the world when he contributed US$50,000 to the victims of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. 2009 The Government of Jamaica conferred Bolt with the National Honor, Order of Jamaica (OJ) and the diplomatic title ‘Ambassador-at-Large’, for his outstanding achievements in the field of Sports. 2010 He signed what is believed to be the

biggest sponsorship deal in the history of athletics with Puma.

2011 He was conferred the honorary Doctor

of Laws (LLD) degree by the University of the West Indies (UWI) in November.

USAIN’S IMPACT ON JAMAICA – “JAMAICA TO DI WORLD!”

more British citizens are heading for Jamaica, linking the change to better economic conditions and also a response to Jamaica Tourist Board advertisements featuring sprinter Usain Bolt.”

The degree to which Track and Field has had an impact on the people of Jamaica is unquestionable. And rightly so. Jamaica has produced some of the most talented athletes to perform at the Olympic Games.

RIO 2016 – WHAT TO EXPECT?

During the 2012 London Olympic Games, places like Halfway Tree, Kingston turned into a festive atmosphere with a cacophony of colors. People turn out in their brightlycolored black, green and gold apparel to cheer for the Jamaican team. “Jamaica to di world!” and “Bolt! Lightning Bolt!” were just some of the loud chants that you could hear echoing in the streets of Kingston, where crowds started appearing as early as 5 a.m.

With longtime rivals such as Tyson Gay and Justin Gatlin aiming to overthrow him as the sprint champion, Bolt is set to go full speed ahead to ensure that that doesn’t happen. “Jamaica to di world!”

Almost everyone here is able to do his signature “Lightning Bolt” hand sign. Bolt is even credited with playing a positive role in attracting tourists to Jamaica. His global profile and appearance in Jamaica Tourist Board advertisements credited specifically with an increase in arrivals from British tourists. Collinder (2015) declares that “Holiday Hypermarket in the United Kingdom said Tuesday that

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2014 In March, he underwent foot surgery and recovered to participate at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. 2015 Bolt announced that he intends to retire from athletics after the 2017 World Championships in London. 2016 Bolt eyes triple three-peat at Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Bolt is currently engaging in warm-up sessions for the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games, where he’ll be back in action to defend his 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles.

Bolt issued a warm message to his fans regarding the highly anticipated Rio 2016 Games. According to The Guardian, Bolt stated, ““I am pleased to announce my return to the Olympic stadium in London for the 2016 Anniversary Games. I know the athletics fans in London are very knowledgeable and passionate about track and field and will come out in force and create a great atmosphere like they

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For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

always do.” Jamaica is hoping he’ll continue to amaze the world with mind-blowing sprinting and more world records. Speaking of world records, Bolt is mainly focused on shattering his 200-meter world record in the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games. In 2016, Competitor.com reported that “…six-time Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt, 29, said he’d like to run sub-19 seconds for the 200 meters this year and that he’d likely continue his career beyond the 2016 Olympics this summer in Rio—maybe through 2017, but definitely not through the 2020 Games in Tokyo…” In The National, he further states that “it’s one of my major goals. I think it’s one of the toughest ones because it’s going to be hard to find the right day, and sometimes the perfect race, to get this 200m record.” “I’m starting the season in a much better shape than I did the last one, so it is only forward from here.” He also sent out a stern message to his main rival, Justin Gatlin along with his other competitors. Bolt asserts that, “Justin Gatlin says he’s coming, but for me, I’m much more focused.” Bolt is presently on some promotional duties for his main sponsor, Puma, and is doing his best to remain in shape, avoid injuries and eat healthy, as the Rio 2016 Olympic Games draw near. The excitement is palpable. The world is ready to experience another amazing feat by one of track and field’s legends and, dare we say, ready for that infamous lightning bolt pose.

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teaching them a trade. The St. Patrick’s Foundation was founded in 1994 and operates as a training institute, focused on cosmetology, food preparation, customer service and electrical engineering.

DIGICEL JAMAICA F OUN DAT I ON :

HELPING OTHERS HELP THEMSELVES “Even before they provided the financial support they were clients. They truly bought into the vision.”

“We serve in a number of inner city communities and we find that it is very difficult to inspire youth to excel if they can’t see examples of excellence. That’s why we needed state of the art facilities, “ explained Chairman of the St. Patrick’s Foundation Board, Mrs. Hermine Metcalf.

In addition to the support they provide Deaf Can!, the company also backs the anti-discrimination program, Respect Jamaica. Respect Jamaica was founded in 2014 on the idea of promoting inclusion and equality for all Jamaicans, regardless of social identity and status. Since the program’s inception, 36 companies have become a part of this anti-discrimination movement.

Since its inception in 2004, the Digicel Jamaica Foundation has invested over US$6.4 million in community development projects that have impacted over 200,000 Jamaicans around the island. By providing funds for these community-awareness programs, Digicel is helping to improve the lives of Jamaicans for generations to come.

B Y S TAC E Y M I C K L E S

ince 2001, Digicel has been one of the leading telecommunications companies in the Caribbean and is the preferred mobile provider for more than 70 percent of Jamaicans. Digicel was born from a desire to both help customers in the Jamaican community as well as connect local government and businesses. Today, Digicel is doing much more than providing mobile connectivity, they are setting an example for businesses everywhere by supporting numerous charities in the Jamaican community. Of the many charities they support, Deaf Can! is one of their passion projects. Deaf Can! Coffee is a social enterprise managed and operated by deaf youth in the Jamaican community. The mission behind Deaf Can! is to spread a positive and simple message to members of the deaf community that their disability is a part of who they are but does not define them. In December 2015, the Digicel Foundation partnered with a group of entrepreneurs by providing US$27,000 to upgrade their equipment and coffee appliances and install a solar energy system. The generous donation helped create college scholarships for young, deaf men in the Jamaican community. “Any time you’re doing something good you need people to help you to get where you need to go. Digicel Foundation is that critical partner that has encouraged us and helped us to keep believing in the work we’re doing,” explained Blake Widmer co-founder of Deaf Can!

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In 2014 the Digicel Foundation provided funding support to equip the Cosmetology Lab and partially equip the Cake Baking and Decorating Department, in order to provide young people with state-of-the-art technology to help them fine tune their respective trades. These skills can help youth in communities like Seaview Gardens where 50 percent of the population under 30 are unemployed.

Earlier this year, the Respect Youth Ambassadors started submitting weekly articles to one of the country’s premier newspapers, The Jamaica Gleaner, which has helped raise their profile within the community. The articles outlined views of Jamaican youth on the state of education, democracy and governance. Each article presents challenges and solutions to these problems, and afterwards a meeting is scheduled with Members of Parliament on how these solutions could be implemented. The Respect Ambassadors have participated in a number of school tours to target their peers and engage in debates and conversations on how to encourage greater respect for all Jamaicans. All in all, Respect Jamaica has helped mobilize and train over 100 youth in social advocacy to improve public understanding of discrimination and human rights. Digicel also has given a hand to the St. Patrick’s Charity, a mission focused on empowering young people by

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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EDITORIAL

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WHAT MAKES JAMAICA SO SPECIAL?!

JAUNEL MCKENZIE Model

DR. DAMIEN GRANT Grant Orthodontics

Jamaica is special because it’s home! No matter where I go in the world, Jamaica will always be the place I go to spend time with my family, for breathtaking natural beauty and the wonderfully flavorful food – which I love! #imabigfoodie

Jamaica is so special to me because it is the land of my birth. The culture is made up of people from many races and I like that we don’t even think about that. We think about love, warmth and caring that we all have for one another. The music and food are wonderful and when I hear the music or eat the food, it takes me back to my childhood days which were fantastic.

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PHOTO + VIDEO CONEST Snap.Click.Record. As Easy as 1-2-3: Post It. Share It. Tag It. #JamaicaExperiences

Share your photos and videos of what you LOVE most about Jamaica and you could win one of many great prizes! Prizes include: All-Inclusive Hotel Accommodation. Excursions. Dinner for Two. Romantic Getaways. Amazing Jamaican Tours and Attractions. Smartphones. Event and party passes and much more! Contest starts July 1, 2016 and runs until September 30, 2016. For full details on how to enter visit: www.jamaicaexperiences.com/contest

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WHAT MAKES JAMAICA SO SPECIAL?!

CONSTANCE WHITE Fashion Expert

RICHARD FERDINAND UWI WJC Ambassador

It strikes me that while I have traveled extensively to many countries, Jamaica stands out for its richness, culture, respect and beauty of the people inside and out. It is the people that make Jamaica so special.

Jamaica is well known for its beautiful beaches, breathtaking views and vibrant sunshine- the determination and defiance of the Jamaican people is easily overlooked.

I have also noticed that for a small country, Jamaica has produced enormous talent and knowledge. It would be deserving of a social study to know why Jamaica has produced so many influential people in the areas of knowledge, music, social movement, sports as well as general contributions to society.

For me, there is a natural mystic that surrounds the people. It is what makes the island more than an unforgettable destination or cultural mecca but a place that I am proud to call home.

WWW.RAINFORESTBOBSLEDJAMAICA.COM | (876) 974.3990

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FLEX ALEXANDER

THE STARS

COME OUT TO PLAY!

Jamaica hosts it's fair share of celebrities. And that means that Club Mobay and Club Kingston host their fair share of the global glitterati as they pass through the airports - providing them with that smooth and seamless entry and exit from the island. Here are a few of the personalities who have graced the lounges.

JOHN LEGEND

RYAN GOSLING

ATO BOLDON

JORDIN SPARKS

DAVID DUCHOVNY

OMAR BENSON MILLER

SHAGGY

MICHAEL DOUGLAS AND CATHERINE ZETA JONES

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WEDDINGS THE COUPLE

KWAME SPRINGER AND JESSICA SPRINGER BY KEN GOLDSMITH

The First Dance - Jessica and Kwame

Jessica and father Ernest Livingstone Huie

usinessman Kwame Springer, 41, and PR expert and Entrepreneur Jessica Huie, 36, were introduced in 2012 through the groom’s sister in London, where they both reside. The couple connnected quickly around their shared background of young parenthood, entrepreneurship and business success. A well-known PR executive with her own firm, Jessica, is a regular visitor to the Caribbean island. The couple married at Hopewell Baptist Church in Montego Bay and held an intimate reception for 80 close friends at Tryall Club’s spectacular Hanover Grange villa, owned by UK power couple Andrew and Theresa Roberts. After spending a few days at the stately home, they couple jetted off to Bali for a luxurious 10 day honeymoon. Bride, groom and their children Omari, Monet, Mya and Jensen

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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EXPLORE JAMAICA

"THE SEA, ONCE IT CASTS ITS SPELL, HOLDS ONE IN ITS NET OF WONDER FOREVER." encouraged to relax, expand your horizon and roll with the tide. The Red Dread is one of the largest catamarans in Montego Bay, measuring an impressive 65 feet in length. A popular choice, the Red Dread sails weekly (excluding Mondays) and it’s recommended that you prebook to guarantee your space. We gathered at the dock just before 10am and eagerly waited for our catamaran to approach. Before you see the boat, you’re guaranteed to hear it as the rich sounds of reggae music float across the turquoise waters promising good things ahead. It might have been morning but, as the saying goes, and the rhythms reinforced, it was certainly afternoon somewhere in the world. The party vibes quickly embraced us in their frenzied reggae rhythms and as the catamaran approached, cutting through the Caribbean Sea. Jacques Cousteau once said of the ocean, ‘it casts it’s spell and holds one in its net of wonder forever.’ As we embarked the catamaran, the beck and call of Jamaica’s clear waters was like a siren’s call to the passengers. Everyone was magnetically drawn to the netted areas of the catamaran, looking out at the ocean and basking in the sunlight of Jamaica’s never ending summer. After a friendly, and comprehensive, safety brief we were able to relax and ready ourselves for what Island Routes proclaimed was the “LIVE FUNNER” philosophy in everything they do. The friendly team and fun philosophy is admirable especially in light of the company’s commitment to ‘responsible fun’ and its sustainable tourism practices.

RED DREAD

We went snorkeling at the Doctor’s Cave Reef, which so happens to be depicted on the back of the Jamaican $50 note. It was truly magical. A definite must!

JAMAICAN VIBES ON THE CARIBBEAN SEA BY KISHAN GORDON-CHAMBERS

imply put, your island visit is incomplete without a water experience. After all, most of us can do that landlocked stuff at home.

Of course there are many options – whether your interest lies in scuba or snorkeling, fishing or jet skiing, wave running or parasailing. Whatever your particular choice, a catamaran cruise needs to be close to the top of the list. And amongst catamaran experiences, there are others, and then there is Island Routes; boasting the

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newest fleet and arguably the most robust drink and food menu with some of the friendliest people on the water! We recently hopped aboard the infamous ‘Red Dread’ boarding in Montego Bay and took on the 3-hour Island Routes Reggae Catamaran Cruise for a taste of Jamaica’s idyllic scenery and lively music. Island Routes catamaran leaves from the Tropical Beach pier, which boasts a picturesque waterfront with beautiful vistas. Upon entering the property you’re

Once we had our fill of snorkeling, drinks appeared and the party kicked into high gear. ‘Captain Shaggy’, as he introduced himself, set out a delectable spread of tuna wraps, chips and salsa, chocolate chip cookies and fresh fruit kebabs, while the bartender, Dellena, served the cocktails. We made our way over to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville to release our inner child and enjoy the water slide and ocean-facing trampolines. As we left Margaritaville, the party escalated and the energy on the Red Dread moved up to another level. It was an hour of reggae-fueled partying and libations; an experience that takes you beyond the resort and into the heart of the island’s playful, live-life-to-its-fullest culture. As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and so our catamaran adventure ended just as it had started - on a pier with the pulsating sounds of reggae wafting across the clear blue Jamaican waters.

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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proprietors,’ the social order will not be preserved and the misery levels within the society will increase.” On the other hand, if indigenous people are actively involved in the economy, he suggests, “It’s a beautiful confluence of local and foreign investment that now makes for a harmonious operation and builds out the strategies for a successful destination.”

ED BARTLETT

EXCITING TIMES BECKON! A SIT DOWN WITH JAMAICA’S MINISTER OF TOURISM BY KEN GOLDSMITH

e calls it the “irie” and at the helm of a $2.2 billion industry, Edmund Bartlett wants us all to feel it. As Minister of Tourism in Jamaica, Bartlett identifies this sense of love and wonder as the most important component to any visitor’s trip to the island. Well, that and a culinary adventure to “Scotchies,” home of Jamaican jerk chicken. Only several months into his second tenure as the leader of tourism, it is clear Bartlett is where he wants to be. His voice rises as he speaks of his fellow Jamaican islanders. His hands punctuate each syllable as if he’s drawing a literal picture as he speaks. “I think the iconic attraction is really our people. And that is what we invite the world to come to know-- this experience called the ‘Jamaican people.’ Because once you get into their hearts, they get into yours immediately.” While many people try to capture the essence of tourism by referencing physical landmarks, accommodations and dollar amounts, Bartlett eludes to something much more profound. Although luxury resorts are sprinkled throughout the 4,213 square mile island, they shouldn’t be the emphasis, says the tourism expert.

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Acknowledging that big businesses are integral to the country’s success, he doesn’t want to disregard the folks lower on the figurative totem pole. “We need the big investors to create the critical mass but we need the indigenous to deliver on the inputs. So when the visitor comes, their experience is our experience.”

While in recent years Jamaica ushered in more tourists than ever before, Bartlett wants to see this trend continue. His smile, at times wry and at times almost boy-like with huge dimples and only a small glimpse of teeth, is notably excited as he discusses the prospect. Now that the doors have opened to Cuba, he iterates, there is even more potential for growth. “We see Cuba’s entry now as completing the geographic circle that will drive new tourism and create a new diplomacy within that space. We are saying that it is about competitiveness only as a region, but it is about collaboration as individual states. We are looking for economic conversions rather than commodity competitiveness,” he explains. Whether Jamaica is poised to overtake Hawaii and Greece as Trip Advisor’s happiest and best tourist destination in the world remains to be seen. For the time being, Bartlett is satisfied knowing that the island comfortably sits in the number three spot. After all, there is plenty of irie to go around.

The role of marketing, then, is to advertise an experience. As if to emphasize the point, Bartlett elaborates. “And the experience is not from the hotel. It’s from the people. And the geophysical endowments that we have and how we as a people harmonize our ideas with the physical attributes that are around us.” To be clear, the physical attributes Bartlett references include lush vegetation, limestone hills and coastal plateaus. There’s no denying that this corner of the Caribbean is beautiful. Rolling waterfalls cascade down the mountainside. Water the color of jadestone provides a serene backdrop. This beauty, explains Bartlett, is only possible through a strategic balance of big business and the small to medium players. “If the tourism industry becomes what I call ‘a plantation owned by absentee

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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Your All-In Luxury® vacation starts on Jamaica’s pristine white beaches, a picturesque Caribbean paradise. Jamaica is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations because of its grand diversity and ability to please everyone with its heritage sites, beaches, and for the more adventurous eco-tours, all in the friendly warmth of Jamaica. Nestled on the shores of Montego Bay, a scenic 35-minute drive from Sangster International Airport, Royalton White Sands is the destination of choice for families, couples and groups who desire luxury, comfort and style on their Caribbean vacation. Using sophisticated decor with charming Caribbean ﬂair, each air-conditioned luxury room features modern amenities and comfortable appointments, and are also ideal for families and groups travelling together.

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MY PIECE OF JAMAICA! WHAT DOES US$500,000 BUY YOU?

OLD FORT VILLAGE (OLD FORT BAY, ST. ANN)

IRONSHORE (MONTEGO BAY, ST JAMES)

BEVERLY HILLS, KINGSTON

Modern and fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment in Old Fort Village, an exclusive new development in Old Fort Bay, St. Ann. Old Fort Village comprises 13 townhouses and apartments on a 1 acre lot. Enjoy a host of first class amenities including security, automatic gate, landscaped grounds, swimming pool, water tank and generator. The complex is completely solar powered which significantly reduces monthly JPS costs and there is access to an amazing private white sand beach. Old Fort Bay is 50 minutes from Kingston on the new highway. This is the ultimate weekend getaway, permanent residence or vacation rental, just minutes from Ocho Rios!

Executive 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom townhouse with helperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quarters in a gated complex with security system, standby generator (common areas and unit), pool and gym. This town house is in a private setting overlooking the golf course. The lower level has an open concept plan with a powder room, making it great for entertainment.The double garage is also ideal for owners who like to travel leaving their vehicles in a secured area. The upper level has 3 bedrooms and 3 ensuite bathrooms, as well as a second living area. The townhouse overlooks the golf course and is close to shopping, restaurants, nightlife, beach and the airport.

This property comprises 2 homes. The main building is 7,250 square feet and has 5 bedrooms and 8.5 bathrooms, while the second building is a 3,480 square foot townhouse, consisting of 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Both structures offer a beautiful view of the city.

US$450,000

US$623,431

US$530,000

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JAMAICANISMS

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YS Falls

MUST-DOS

IN JAMAICA

YS FALLS

St. Elizabeth (876) 997-6360 - Ysfalls.com - $17.50 for adults 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. Closed Mondays and Local Public Holidays YS Falls is a nature-based attraction offering the opportunity to experience seven beautiful waterfalls, natural pools and canopy rides surrounded by lush gardens and magnificent trees.

APPLETON ESTATE TOUR St. Elizabeth. (876) 963-9215. appletonrumtour.com. $ 25 for adults, free for children under 12 years old, and half price for those over 12. Monday - Saturday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm The Appleton Estate Tour will provide a memorable journey into the history of this iconic Jamaican brand and an exclusive perspective of Jamaica’s history and rich culture. Enjoy a proprietary blend of 5 of Appleton premium quality rums all on an amazing 2-hour tour.

RIO GRANDE – RAFTING Portland. (876) 993-5778. $72 per raft (1 or 2 guests). Children 10 or under free with parents. Sunday to Saturday 9.00 am – 4.00 pm. Indulge in the ultimate experience of rafting on the mystical Rio Grande river which runs through deep valleys, rolling hillsides and opulent tropical forests. A picturesque and mind-blowing 2-to-2 ½ hour trip.

DUNN’S RIVER FALLS, OCHO RIOS St. Ann. (876) 974-2857. www.dunnsriverfallsja.com. $15 for adults and $12 for children (2-11 years). Sunday to Saturday 8.00 am – 4.00 pm. Experience thrilling rock-climbing adventures with your

friends and family at the Dunn’s River Falls in fresh, cool water in a tranquil and luxuriant environment.

LUMINOUS LAGOON Trelawny. (876) 954-3229. www.glisteningwaters.com/ tour. $25 per person. Sunday to Saturday 10 am – 9pm. The Luminous Lagoon offers the ability to enjoy a swim in the lagoon’s fantastic mineral water during the boat tour. You will experience the exciting glow all around you as you splash and swim around. And remember, the more you splash, the more you glow!

FLOYD’S PELICAN BAR St. Elizabeth. (876) 354-4218. Cost: 1 person: $140, 2 persons: $180. Extra Persons: $55 (Rate includes private transportation and boat to Floyd’s. Maximum: 6 persons) Take a 20-minute boat ride about ¾ mile out at sea and dine at Floyd’s Pelican Bar. Excite your taste buds with Floyd’s own freshly-prepared seafood dishes and let the calm sound of the waves put your mind and body at peace.

BOB MARLEY MUSEUM, KINGSTON Kingston. (876) 923-9380. www.bobmarleymuseum. com. $25 per adult and $12 per child 4 to 12 years. Mondays to Saturdays 9:30 – 4:00p If you are a fan of the legendary Bob Marley and his music, take a 1-hour tour of the Bob Marley Museum to shape your knowledge of his life and the history and philosophy of his music.

with these impressive creatures. At Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios the Royal Swim allows you to play and swim as you spend time with these amazing creatures. There are lots of memorable moments from the apx one hour long experience but nothing quite like getting a dorsal pull or a foot push or maybe even both. Enjoy a kiss, try a dance, perhaps you will get a splash or two and have a real up close experience.

CHUKKA SANDY BAY ATV QUAD SAFARI Sun, sand, sea and FUN! Spice up your vacation experience with a ride on the wild side on the amazing ATV Buggy Safari excursion. As you journey through the hills and Jamaican back country on the 2-seater ATV Buggy you'll navigate this powerful yet easy to handle vehicle that gives you unparalleled access to the untouched hills and plains of this beautiful Caribbean island. Journey around the rugged dirt trails of a historic estate. Explore the scenic mountain terrain and through local communities and forests. Approx. 2 hours. $115.00

MYSTIC MOUNTAIN They say "What goes up.....must come down". Well what better way than to soar 700 feet above the tress than riding the rainforest Sky Explorer chair lift tour to the top of the mountain offering extraordinary views of Ocho Rios. Find yourself twisting down the mountainside aboard our bobsled adventure. Inspired by the famous Jamaica bobsled Olympic team, the bobsled ride is the signature attraction of Rainforest Adventures Mystic Mountain, ranked by TripAdvisor.com as one of the top attractions in Ocho Rios. Starts at $46.50.

SWIM WITH THE DOLPHINS Yes you've seen all the pictures but there really are few experiences as memorable or exhilarating as swimming

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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ONE LOVE

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA

he inaugural One Love Concert brought music back to the iconic Aqueduct venue centrally located in Rose Hall.

The event included performances by Akon, Skip Marley, Ky-Mani Marley and No Maddz amongst others and was part of a 2-day fundraising event to celebrate Bob Marleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life and legacy. Proceeds supported the Marley Foundation in partnership with the Rollins Foundation.

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ready to talk about your next project? EVENT MANAGEMENT TRADE FAIRS/EXPOS BOOTH DESIGN & EXECUTION OUTDOOR PARTIES LIVE EVENTS PRODUCT LAUNCHES

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amaica has a rich and well established global reputation for its creative work. Recently, Kingston was named a creative city for music, a recognition bestowed on Jamaica’s capital by UNESCO. The vast amount of untapped creativity in Jamaica has snagged the attention of tourism, companies and investors alike as small businesses have sprung up in Jamaica and contributed to the stabilization of the island’s economy. Jamaica is exploding onto the world stage and investors are starting to taking notice. JAMPRO is a trade and investment company that was established in 1988 and was made a statutory body in 1990. The organization’s main purpose is to market, promote and facilitate business opportunities in export and investment to the local and international private sector. The organization has three key performance indicators: capital investments, export value and job creation. JAMPRO has shown a significant amount of growth over the past four years, allowing for a positive impact on Jamaica’s economy. The Jamaican government considers JAMPRO to be crucial in the country’s goal of attracting more foreign investors to the country. In fact, because of the confidence that the government has in JAMPRO, it has recently established an economic growth council that is aimed at feeding more investment into the island. Any small business looking for a relationship with JAMPRO needs to demonstrate a product or service that has a unique selling proposition with commercial market potential. The business should also demonstrate they have the management, resources and dedication to see through the product and service delivery. JAMPRO has specific criteria it uses to assess market readiness, pricing of products and the target market, to evaluate each opportunity that comes before them. If a business has met all the requirements and its products and services have been fully assessed, JAMPRO begins to prepare it for introduction to the market. There are several workshops that are organized for the benefit of the small businesses; there are those meant to help the business in understanding their target market and those aimed at assisting the business in packaging and labeling its products. If the business is interested in exporting products, JAMPRO also organizes workshops on doing business in a particular country.

JAMPRO’S ROLE IN THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF

JAMAICA B Y E T H A N G R AY

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

Once JAMPRO is involved with a business, they maintain a long-term relationship, which they believe is vital to its success. This relationship ensures that the business keeps exporting products and expanding the number of products it provides. There is no doubt that the success of any small business benefits immensely from a relationship with JAMPRO. JAMPRO is on a growth trajectory, with its five-year goal set to capitalize on the stability of the Jamaican economy so as to sustain its growth and increase the amount of investment in the country. Of course, if a team is only as strong as its leader, then much of the success of JAMPRO must be accredited to Diane Edwards, who as president of JAMPRO works diligently to ensure that the company achieves its goals and gives exceptional service. Diane is a Jamaica native who has always demonstrated an admirable desire to aid in the development of her home country, Diane’s work both gives back to her local community and is an inspiration to Jamaican women around the island who can see firsthand how a passion for change can be turned into a beautiful reality.

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Cufflinks

Square in Stainless Steel with Onyx

Montblanc Heritage Collection Rouge et Noir Special Edition

Stay AT ONE... Play AT BOTH.

PEACEFUL. SOPHISTICATED. PARADISE.

STYLISH. RADIANT. FUN. Secrets St. James Montego Bay and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay are adjacent luxurious havens for adults only. Secrets St. James offers a sophisticated interpretation of Jamaica’s Victorian soul. Secrets Wild Orchid has a hip, vibrant ambiance and swim-out suites. Both provide all the inclusions of Unlimited-Luxury.®

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THE RISE OF

JAMAICA’S FARM-TO-TABLE TREND B Y N I K K I VA RG A S

t’s mid afternoon in Jamaica and the weather witching hour is upon us as the once spotless sky shifts dramatically to stormy weather. I am driving up a dirt road that precariously wraps itself around Free Hill; it is the type of steep drive that seems to climb up forever past lush vegetation, colorful clapboard houses and barefoot locals languidly sitting on ledges by the side of the road. I am headed to an organic farm founded by local, Chris Binns and his wife, Lisa, whose love of farm-to-table cuisine and healthy living has earned them a stellar reputation in the community. Stush in the Bush they call it–the “stush” a Jamaican word for elegant bordering on pretentious stands in stark contrast to the “bush”–slang for rustic and low-key--perfectly summing up the couple behind the small tasting room at Zionites Farm. Chris

(the Bush) is a Jamaican native and farmer who grew up on Free Hill; Lisa (the Stush) is a New York transplant who brings a certain panache and business savvy to what was once just another farm on the island. Stush in the Bush is at the forefront of a food movement in Jamaica—the reinvention of the home cooked meal and the growth of sustainable and ethical farming. In a country saturated with tourism and poor replications of foreign cuisine, this new movement brings food back to basics and celebrates the island’s natural bounty. Stush in the Bush—an operation backed and funded by the European Union—is a prime example of Jamaica’s culinary heritage with meals made entirely from local ingredients. Standing tall in khakis and a button down shirt, with the classic Rastafarian dreadlocks neatly pulled back,

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

Chris and his two Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs lead me around the property. As we walk, it seems every plant, flower and tree we pass serves both a medicinal and culinary purpose. Motion sickness? Chris reaches for ginger. Bug bites? Chris tears off a “Leaf of Life” for me to rub on my leg. Stress? Chris hands me a fragrant blade of lemongrass often used in both cooking and teas. We make our way back to Chris and Lisa’s home—a rustic cabin that is so harmonious with its surroundings it looks as though it has sprung up right out of the earth. Every detail of their home mirrors back the natural surroundings—from their bed made of large chunks of cedar trees to decorative wooden bowls filled with passion fruits. Stush in the Bush is this perfect blend of rustic and sophistication (or Rastafarian and chic as the owners

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. Hotel to Hotel Transfers

experience

ROCKY’S TAXI AND TOURS = Excellence

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Live A Little

Discover Duty Free At Jewels In Paradise, tax free & duty free shopping is but one of many advantages to stepping inside their doors. Home to some of the leading Haute Horlogerie brands, such as Audemars Piguet, IWC and Jaeger-LeCoultre, to name a few, this family owned and operated establishment is, and has been a gateway to aﬀordable luxury for over 50 years. But, don’t take our word for it. Stop by for a visit at the Shoppes at Rose Hall Mall on the elegant corridor of Montego Bay, Jamaica, and allow their friendly team of professionals to guide you through an unforgetable experience that will "Transform Your Moments into Memories”.

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describe it). The tasting room is surrounded by tropical landscape yet has wine glasses flown in from New York. The plates are handmade by a local artisan and placed alongside tinted blue jars with rosemary herbs thoughtfully pouring out of them. I am sitting in the Stush in the Bush outdoor tasting room with unbeatable views of the surrounding hills and Caribbean sea beyond. Lisa serves up a chilled avocado soup with spicy corn muffins, fire grilled pizza with fresh pineapple and a homemade tomato sauce. Every plate served is simply made—basic ingredients derived from the land—no chemicals, no preservatives. The dressings, sauces and jams have no more than three or four fruits or herbs in them, a welcome change from the long list of hardto-pronounce ingredients usually seen on food labels back home. By the time Lisa serves the final dish—a homemade chocolate cake with her signature passionfruit butter—I am deliriously happy and wonderfully full. The afternoon has melted into evening and the farm is lit up with strings of white lights casting a warm glow over the tasting room and their home. Jamaica’s reinvention of the home cooked meal is a welcome experience as tourism on the island shifts from standard resort buffets to down-to-earth dining amongst local islanders. I think back on some of the other meals I’ve had since arriving on the island—elaborate sushi rolls, complicated Italian recreations, all of them misfires, all of them paling in comparison to the fresh food of the island, all of them having too much “stush” and not quite enough “bush.”

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NAUTILUS

LUXURY VILLA LIFESTYLE

SAN SAN | PORT ANTONIO

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When it comes to service, luxury and refinement, you’d be hard pressed to find better than Nautilus Villa in Port Antonio, Jamaica. Since the 1950s - Port Antonio has been the playground of the world elite, hosting Kings, Queens, Agha’s, movie stars and every manner of Nobility in between. Nautilus is a luxuriously appointed 3 bedroom villa catering to the most discerning tastes.

VILLA STELLA TRYALL CLUB | MONTEGO BAY Redolent of a classical Jamaican house with deep shaded verandas and tall ceilings, Villa Stella offers splendid ocean views from its elevated setting. The spacious living areas on two levels and a large swimming pool with separate Jacuzzi and games room makes it a perfect choice for families or groups of friends. A dining area on the upper veranda is complemented by an indoor airconditioned dining room.

MALATAI OCHO RIOS Malatai is a breathtaking 9,500 sq ft six bedroom luxury villa located directly on one of Jamaica’s most beautiful white sand beaches. Our staff of seven and spectacular amenities are sure to keep you relaxed on your island getaway. www.malatai.com

For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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EXPERIENCE THE RUSTIC CHARM OF THE RIVER BUMPKIN FARM Calling all adventure seekers! Hidden away in the lush forests of Jamaica, The River Bumpkin Farm is an eco-friendly adventure park where visitors can enjoy river tubing, kayaking, bicycle adventures, historical walking tours and so much more. The River Bumpkin Farm is a one-stop shop! When you visit, you receive four unique experiences including tours, history, nature and the Bumpkin lifestyle!

Toll free #

1-800-744-1150

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BACCHANAL JAMAICA

The Bacchanal Jamaica experience extends over six glorious weeks of parties and revelry before culminating in the ultimate road party. In the words of true Carnival aficionados: "Outside of Trinidad Carnival, Bacchanal Jamaica is the best carnival anyone can experience." - TriniJungleJuice.com #jamaicaexperiences @jamaicaexperiences

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EVENTS JULY - SEPTEMBER 2016

JULY

LITTLE OCHI SEAFOOD CARNIVAL Alligator Pond (South Coast) July 11 REGGAE SUMFEST Catherine Hall, Montego Bay July 17 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 23, 2016

AUGUST

THE ABSOLUT TEMPTATION ISLE Negril August 5-8 RED STRIPE DREAM WEEKEND Negril August 5-8 THE NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE FLOAT PARADE AND GRAND GALA Kingston August 6 JAMAICA ARTS & MUSIC SUMMER (JAMS) Rufus King Park August 7-8 JAMAICA SOUNDFEST August 13 SENSUAL GODDESS UNLEASHED JAMAICA RETREAT Montego Bay August 15 CHARITY TEA AND ART AFFAIR The Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel August 27, 3:30pm

SEPTEMBER

HIGH VIBES ROOTS & REGGAE FESTIVAL Aqueduct, Montego Bay www.highvibesjamaica.com September 2-4, 2016 FALMOUTH BLUE MARLIN TOURNAMENT Montego Bay Late September DESTINATION: JAMAICA Mahogany Bay September 4

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En route, he made several jokes on why I packed such a small bag as he was sure that I wasn’t coming back. I returned to Ireland to collect my items 8 weeks later! What was it like to work for someone like Denis O'Brien? It was an absolutely brilliant experience with no regrets. I learned so much from working for him and without this experience I would have gone bankrupt in my current business. He taught his management team how to look for solutions and never accept defeat; that hard work and a positive attitude will get you there. Then there was the fun side and the charitable side. I am involved with a special needs school in Kingston (Genesis) and our labour day project was with the Montego Bay Autism Centre. Not only did Denis have an interest in special needs but he always promoted the importance of being a good corporate citizen. Digicel was a game changer to the telecoms industry in Jamaica and then the Caribbean when it arrived. Share with us what it was like to work with the company back in those days. We had an absolute blast. I had the best management team you could imagine. In actual fact every employee was world class. We all worked so hard, but we had fun. Every launch and promotion, the team tasked themselves to do something “out there” and we even had a “snow party” in the Caribbean. Every day we were winning and it felt great. Very few had worked in the industry before and so we were learning as we were going.

INSPIRED + INVIGORATED DAVID HALL

avid John Hall is an Irish transplant who by his own admission has been swept up in the natural magnetism that Jamaica seems to exercise over so many. Hall could never have guessed that when his then boss, Denis O’Brien, brought him to this Caribbean island for a ‘quick trip’ it wouldn’t return him home for some 8 weeks and would mark the beginning of arguably the most dynamic stage of his life and career; and in the process swap one island for another. Hall, now 47, begun his own personal “Jamaican Experience” as CEO of Digicel in 2003 and now has a thriving lounge business (Club Mobay and Club Kingston) under his belt and has recently embarked on a journey in publishing with the founding of Jamaica Experiences. We caught up with the hard-charging businessman to get some insight into the person and the exciting future he sees for his adopted island. David, what brings you all the way from Ireland to Jamaica? I worked with Denis O Brien at Esat and Servecast. When he launched Digicel in the Caribbean, we started in Jamaica. I was made Finance Director in 2002 and a year later, CEO for Jamaica. My initial stint was meant to be for 12 months but I fell in love with the country and have been here ever since. Where were you when you got the offer to come to Jamaica? What was the very first thing that ran through your mind? Denis is very persuasive and I don’t recall the actual words “job offer” being used. We were at a Servecast board meeting and he asked me to ‘fly down to Jamaica with him tomorrow for 2 days’ as he wanted my view on something.

Be truthful, was it the rum that brought you here? No, but it is one of the reasons I am still here. What time do you get up each morning? I know that this is insane but 3.30 am! I brew a great Blue Mountain Coffee, scan the Irish papers and start working at 4am. I get my best work completed in the next 3 hours as I have no interruptions. What led you to start Club Mobay and Club Kingston? In my last two years at Digicel, I was in charge of the operations for 7 islands which required a lot of travel. I felt that the travel experience could be better. I visited the Virgin lounge in Heathrow when I was flying back to Ireland and I just said to myself, ‘we can have this back in Jamaica’. The company recently celebrated five years. Please share some highlights from the journey. Yes we were 5 years old on May 1, 2016. I suppose the main highlight and certainly one of my proudest accomplishments, is the employment that we have generated. We now have over 360 fantastic employees. Our strong industry relationships from hotels to customs, DMC’s to PICA have been invaluable. Additionally, our passion to serve our clients and the faith and loyalty they have shown us, especially in our early days when we didn’t always get it right. We have won a number of awards along the way, including best airport lounge worldwide from Priority Pass and then Best Caribbean Lounge for 3 years in a row via World Travel Awards. What makes Jamaica special? The people. I have a million stories over my 15 years here where you just go “fantastic” and all relate back to the people. What sort of opportunities to do you see on the horizon for Jamaica? OMG – I think that the opportunities ahead are immense.

Caribbean, we should be able to cater for every type of tourist. I look at Ireland and I see how the USA bought into the Irish story and in less than 15 years we went from having huge unemployment to a booming economy. Jamaica should be this and more. The people are great and so capable. The biggest untapped opportunity is the Ganja industry. I visited Amsterdam with my wife a few years back and we were bowled over with the number of tourists, it was safe and fun, whether you visited the Van Gough museum, took a canal cruise or just mellowed out at a local café, it had it all. Can you imagine how downtown Kingston could be transformed? Just like you have the old streets in Cuba and Panama you could have lots of little cafes, with good Jamaican food, Appleton rum, Red Stripe, spliff and great music amidst all these Jamaican personalities. A game changer! Food and Ingredients, Telecoms, Technology, Tourism, Media, Real Estate. What's the common thread? They were all great opportunities at that point in time. I was always very selective on what industry I wanted to enter at a point in time and thankfully I feel that I got it right each time. What led you to this publishing venture? I kept coming across people who said to me “I did not know that you had that in Jamaica”, or I did not know that you could buy that at the airport”. Essentially, we can do more to promote what we have here. The entrepreneur came out and I felt that this was a niche worth pursuing. How important a role do you feel Jamaica Experiences will play in furthering Jamaica’s tourism plans and ambitions? Critical. I really feel that Jamaica Experiences can become an invaluable resource about Jamaica for the visitor, tourist, investor, diaspora or Jamaican resident as it will always have up to date useful information. Very quickly we will find out whether I can deliver on the dream but what I can say is that there is a need for this information and we are perfectly positioned to make it available. What motivates you, David Hall? My employees, my friends and my family motivate me. The idea of success and alternative, failure, motivate me. What are your passions outside of business? Everything I do I have a passion for. If I don’t have a passion for it then I don’t do it. I love sports, spending time with my family, charity work, socializing with friends, travel…. I simply love life! What's next for David Hall? I have hired a new CEO for the company, Ricardo Esteban who has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. I am very excited about the changes and improvements he will bring to the table. In addition, it will allow me to take a little time off or move forward with an expansion into other airports. I would like to get involved in a much bigger way in helping out whether it is through assisting organizations that specialize in special needs or through mentorship of young entrepreneurs via the Branson Foundation, I want to give back in 2017. Regardless of what road we go down, I need to get more balance into my life and my family will need to get some quality time. The agreement with my wife is that I can continue working at this pace until December 31st and then it has to change!

Specifically, the hospitality industry has huge room for expansion and the BPO industry is another. With the diversity in Jamaica relative to the remainder of the

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LET'S GO SPELUNKING! CAVING IN THE COCKPIT COUNTRY The Cockpit Country in Jamaica is a vast and spectacular sight to behold, providing endless exploration both above and below ground. Maroons were descendants of slaves who fled there 100 years before slavery was abolished, and you can only access the caves by going through their settlement. Speleologists have documented well over 800 caves of various sizes and believe there are hundreds more to be found. The lineage is vast, as it is believed to spread from the hilly interior of Linstead, St. Catherine all the way to Montego Bay in the North-West. Some passages that connect the caves are only a few feet long while others go on for miles in the limestone belly of the island. Learn the exciting history of the caves. The now extinct Arawak Indians left behind paintings and carvings on some of the walls that they used for shelter, ceremonial occasions, and burials. If you want to see some of these paintings, start at the Pantrepant Farm in Trelawny or the Mountain River Cave in St. Catherine.

EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES IN JAMAICA British High Commission (876) 936-0700 PPA.Kingston@fco.gov.uk

Embassy of Russia (876) 924-1048 Rusembja@colis.com

High Commission of Canada (876) 926-1500 kngtn@international.gc.ca

Embassy of Spain (876) 929 6710/ (876) 929-8575 embespjm@mail.mae.es / jamesp@ jamweb.net

United States Embassy (876) 702-6000 KingstonIRC@state.gov Embassy of Cuba (876) 978-0931 (-33) embacubajam@cwjamaica.com consuljam1@cwjamaica.com

Embassy of the People's Republic of China (876) 927-3871 chinaemb_jm@mfa.gov.cn Japanese Embassy (876) 929-3338 / 9

For list of all embassies and consulates visit www.jamaicaexperiences.com

Pots and pans made from earth, skeletal bones and artful carvings were all removed from the innermost corners of these caves. The most famous Arawak carvings now sit in a British Museum but were removed from the Carpenters Mountain caves in 1792. Copies can be viewed at the Institute of Jamaica on East Street in Kingston. Secret meetings and religious ceremonies were common in the caves during the period of slavery. Rebellions were planned and missions detailed, along with other housed runaways seeking refuge from the plantations. The Government of Jamaica used the caves in Runaway Bay to store rum during World War II, and it is alleged that pirates would also use them to store their loot. In fact, notorious 17th century pirate Sir Henry Morgan’s loot that he amassed over the years is said to be hidden in Port Henderson hills. If you’re into mermaids, then chase the “River Mummas.” These half human, half fish creatures live in caves that have rivers flowing through them. They’re known as guardians of the river heads and protect the treasures hidden in the caves. If you see one combing their hair with a golden comb, know that this is where their power lies. If you get your hands on one, the River Mumma will give you gold to get it back. Intrigued yet? If you’re not an expert, stick to the more popular caves such as the Two Sister’s Cave in St. Catherine, the Green Grotto Caves and Windsor Caves on the North Coast or the Nonsuch Caves in Portland. These are show caves and can be easily explored by anyone. A vast majority of Jamaican caves are wild and shouldn’t be visited by anyone who’s not an expert. Seek knowledge from experts and guides and stick to those operated by tour companies if you’re uncertain of what lies ahead. Happy Spelunking!

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See it. Feel it. Love it. For more great features and info on Jamaica visit us at jamaicaexperiences.com or download the app Jamaica Experience

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Blue Skies. Turquoise Dreams. Golden Memories. Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special moments deserve to be painted with a unique palette. On a lush green bluff just west of Montego Bay, a complete spectrum of total relaxation awaits you at Round Hill. Life is precious and your memories at Round Hill will last forever. Follow us

roundhill.com | 1.800.972.2159 | 1.876.956.7050

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DINING GUIDE

BLUE MAHOE | THE SPA RETREAT | NEGRIL

MISS T’S | OCHO RIOS

MYSTIC INDIA | WHITTER VILLAGE | MONTEGO BAY

There are few better places to start your morning than enjoying ackee and saltfish (the national dish of Jamaica) while overlooking the coastline in Negril. Blue Mahoe is part of The Spa Retreat Hotel in Negril.

Certainly Miss T’s has earned it’s many accolades. The décor and relaxing ambience belie a restaurant that is a stone’s throw from the heart of bustling Ocho Rios. This is an absolute must for anyone staying in Ocho Rios and certainly worth for anyone traveling between Kingston and Montego Bay. This is authentic Jamaican food with a very international flair.

Arguably the best Indian food in Jamaica, Mystic India has earned it’s reputation for fine cuisine. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the eclectic but cosy atmosphere where you can often find owner Kareena milling about with her guests and team.

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WWW.RAINFORESTBOBSLEDJAMAICA.COM | (876) 974.3990

PROCRASTINATE /prə'krastə,nāt/

verb Delay or postpone action; put off doing something.

Twenty or thirty years from now, I'm going to be on a beach in Jamaica Idris Elba

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Seas, hills and beaches with endless leisure choices, Rose Hall captures Jamaica’s magic. This resort community has ample options; from a tour of the Plantation House, a round of golf on two different courses, wedding facilities or even a potential to build a dream house. Rose Hall will be your own unique Jamaican Masterpiece!

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MegaMart Wholesale offers everything from groceries to clothing, and all things inbetween. Wholesale items, as well as retail supermarket items, available in one place complete with multiple payment options. OFFER Spend J$10,000 with this ad and receive a J$1000.00 voucher!

Explore Jamaica with an Island Routes Catamaran Cruise! Set sail on an open-air, Reggae fuelled, cocktail and appetizers filled jaunt around iconic landmarks. All-inclusive sunset, party and landmark cruises are available across Jamaica. Call Island Routes: 1.800.744.1150 (Promo: JAMEX)

Shade Shack features a collection of fashion sunglasses in a modern self serve concept, duty and tax free. Any and all brands. Stores at 21 Shoppes at Rose Hall, Montego Bay, and the Historic Port of Falmouth. Monday through Saturday, 10am - 6pm. 10% savings with this coupon.

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Mention this ad and receive a complimentary signature cocktail with your meal at Christopher’s seaside restaurant.

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Whip out your Jamaica National Card and save on your next purchase! Yes, it is that simple! Identify the item, show or swipe your JN Debit, Money Transfer or Retirement Scheme Card, and instantly qualify for up to 20 percent in discounts at any of our more than 100 JN Merchant Partner locations across the country. All courtesy of the JN Rewards Programme.

For software engineers who want to travel incognito, Avis offers tinted windows. For everyone else, we offer GPS navigators, affordable rates, complimentary 24-hour roadside assistance, and exceptional service. We also have a diverse fleet of vehicles that includes everything from compact cars to family-size SUVs. Stop by any of our five locations across the island to find out why Avis is proud to be the number one car rental company in Jamaica.

Caribbean Airlines operates more than 600 weekly flights to 18 destinations in the Caribbean and North and South America. With Caribbean Airlines there is never a ticketing fee and your first checked bag always flies free. From Jamaica, fly daily and direct to New York, Fort Lauderdale and Toronto. To book your next great trip visit www. caribbean-airlines.com.

For 20 years, the Happy Sport watches by Chopard have been appealing to devotees of contemporary, daring, and subtly unconventional timepieces. The Chopard icon combines steel and rose gold within a contemporary and technical watch housing a self-winding movement. In the iconic Happy Diamonds collection, the most precious of stones, the diamond, is free to dance, twirl and shine between two sapphire crystals.

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Experience the best of Jamaica with CHUKKA, the Caribbean’s leading nature adventure tour operator. Chukka boasts over 20 activities for the entire family. Enjoy the culture and relic of our Good Hope Estate, the only adventure park in the Caribbean. We’ve got the island covered! Book your tour now. It’s time to play! chukka.com

Rainforest Adventures presents vibrant entertainment options, celebrating nature, cuisine and culture set atop majestic Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios. Rated as one of the top attractions in Jamaica and includes the Sky Explorer ride, canopy zip lines, Mystic Waterslide, Infinity edge pool, and more.

Add $22 USD credit to your Digicel phone or send credit to your loved ones phone in Jamaica and they get double credit every day plus 7 days of free data. Add $29 USD or more from Fridays to Sundays and they get triple credit plus 7 days of free data! Top up from a Digicel branded store in the US, UK or Canada or from the Digicel Top Up App (available for download in the App Store or the Google Play Store). Visit DigicelTopUp.com to top up or learn more.

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After 15 years, Dolphin Cove has become the #1 attraction in Jamaica. With 3 dolphinariums in the main touristic sites, more than 700,000 guests have lived The Experience of a Lifetime with us, becoming environmental stewards and protectors of these marvelous Marine Mammals.

Minutes after arriving at the Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall, you’ll see why guests give our resort 5 stars on TripAdvisor. From the personalized butler service to the delectable gourmet cuisine, we provide an all-inclusive, adults-only experience filled with endless luxuries.

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Konoko Falls and Tropical Gardens offers a multitude of experiences all in one tour with Jamaica Tours! Join your guide on an invigorating climb up the cascading waterfalls and take a refreshing shower and explore natural waterfall caves along the way. Nestled in the hills overlooking Ocho Rios awaits one of the island’s best kept secrets.

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Couples Resorts’ collection of four all-inclusive oceanfront resorts in Negril and Ocho Rios sets the standard for luxury and tropical island romance. Couples Resorts’ “no kids, no singles, no hassles” promise sets it apart, creating idyllic settings free of distractions and filled with countless ways to reconnect and spend quality “grown-up time” together.

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Love, care and attention to detail are laid upon each hand-finished piece of PANDORA jewellery from start to finish. The collection cleverly melds new materials with innovative crafting techniques to create playful contrasts. The Pandora collections follows with all the trends of the season; shimmering stones in beautiful colours, hearts filled with love and beautiful flowers.

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We offer premier transportation services throughout Jamaica, competitively priced to satisfy every budget. We offer service from all resorts, hotels and villas throughout Jamaica. Rocky’s Tours is the #1 rated transportation company by many visitors to Jamaica and Tripadvisor. Contact us today: (JA) 876-648-1877, US 305-848-8389 or website: https://www.rockystaxiandtourservice.com

SeaGarden Beach Resort is ideally situated to achieve the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. SeaGarden offers easy access to local attractions, shops, restaurants, businesses, and entertainment. Feeling the genuine warmth in the smiles that greet them, before long, guests are relaxed and fully engaged in a hassle-free vacation that offers an all-inclusive package suitable for the entire family.

Round Hill Hotel and Villas is situated on a lush 110-acre peninsula just west of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Boasting a guest list of world leaders, cultural icons and Hollywood A-listers, this classic resort continues to attract a global jet-set who appreciate timeless glamour and understated luxury along with pristine natural beaches and the inimitable Caribbean waters.

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Your All-In Luxury™ vacation at Royalton White Sands starts on Jamaica’s pristine white beaches, a picturesque Caribbean paradise. Jamaica is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Royalton White Sands is the destination of choice for families, couples and groups who desire luxury, comfort and style on their Caribbean vacation.

Set on a peninsula with over a mile of private beach surrounded by the crystal-clear Caribbean, this quiet oceanfront destination offers adults the ultimate in sophistication, relaxation and romance. This vibrant AAA Four Diamond resort offers adults the ultimate in excitement, fun, romance and Unlimited-Luxury®.

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