Have A Staycation (Birthday Edition)

What’s in my Travel Bag Travel Tips I Learned the Hard Way My Jamaica Travel To-Go List 10 Favourite Jamaican Getaways All-Inclusive Resort Discount Giveaway 7 FREE Beaches in Kingston, Jamaica Answers to your Questions

HAVE A

STAYCATION! LIVING. LOVING. LIFE.

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What’s in my Travel Bag

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ultiple trips over the past few years have granted as many lessons as they have experiences. Here are a few items inside my travel bag that any given trip can feel incomplete without...

DLSR Camera These website photos don’t take themselves you know! Let’s be honest, outside of communication, cell phones are not my ideal choice for most things, including photography. I’m what many would call ‘old fashioned’; I prefer pen & paper, laptops, and a handheld camera to any mobile app.

Though smartphones can take great photos, and in most cases are more convenient, the image quality and settings that a DLSR camera provide just can’t compare in my eyes. If you appreciate quality photography like I do, and have a little extra cash in your pocket (like I don’t), treat yourself to a DLSR.

Waterproof Camera As a lover of water and visuals, this is a MUST for me. It’s painful when wading in a picturesque water body and the camera has to be left behind; it feels as though a whole segment of the experience is visually unaccounted for.

A digital point and shoot camera is my first choice for images, while a hands-free action camera is the first choice for video. I currently have a waterproof phone (allegedly) but am yet to test its ability.

I’ve witnessed more than one “waterproof” smartphones face their demise in water, plus it can become hard to manipulate once the screen is wet.

My Essential: Fujifilm FinePix XP30

Waterproof Case

I have witnessed a variety of plastics used for the same purpose, but I My Essential: Canon EOS Rebel SL1 wouldn’t advise using the nearest ‘scandal bag’ or condom (yes, I

have seen this) to waterproof your devices.

If you’re not in possession of a water-resistant phone or camera, this accessory could prove to be the difference between a working device and a destroyed one.

If lucky, you may get one as a branded promotional item like I have, otherwise you can check an electronics / phone accessory store.

Action Camera + Mount There are just some adventures where holding a camera is not only inconvenient but the footage will be ‘shakey’. On adventurous trips such as hikes and swims, action cameras are ideal.Body camera footage can also make viewers feel more in tune with the visuals, as if they’re there.

My Essential: GoPro Hero

Selfie Stick Yes, people (me) still use this. Sometimes you need that extra reach to get the desired shot.

I have both a bluetooth and plug-in selfie stick.

The Bluetooth stick requires charging after a number of uses and may sometimes have connectivity issues. The plug-in stick allows for a quicker set up but doesn’t necessarily work with every phone model. Selfie sticks can be purchased at electronic stores.

Mobile Phone This is an essential for many reasons, the main one being what it was intended for – communication.

Thanks to the large variety of available apps, it can reduce the need for carrying a number of additional items. It’s also great for keeping followers updated with what you’re up to (am I right?).

My Essential: Samsung Galaxy S5

Power Bank / Car Charger Not everywhere you venture will have a power outlet for you to plug in to, or even electricity. It’s always better to secure what you can while you can.

A full day could wear on battery power, and no one wants that!

Sunscreen

A car charger will give you more wattage than the power outlet alone, and allow you to use / juice a device during the journey. A power Because skin is life. Sunscreen, on the face at least, is needed for bank will do the same thing, but outdoor outings especially. with extra mobility.

Cash Not every venue accepts bank cards, and ATMs will not always work in your favour when you need it most. Always have cash on hand, period.

Bottles of Water Keeping hydrated is important, we know this! Carrying a bottle of water or two is always a good idea. This is beyond refreshing during lengthy trips, an activity-filled day, or in some cases, car trouble.

A minimum of SPF 30 is recommended. I have made the mistake of venturing outdoors with a naked face for an extended period, and paid for it the following days; not cute.

My Essential: Neutrogena Ultra-

Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 70

Sunglasses As noted above, the sun can be very unforgiving, especially if you’re unprotected.

Not only are sunglasses great for eye protection from UV rays, but you may be surprised how blinding Extra Tip: Fill half of a BPA-free bottle with water and freeze it with the sun can be, even when not looking at it. It can also be the the bottle laying on its side. Fill right before your trip to keep water answer for an instantly bettercooler longer (plus a shortened thaw looking outfit and / or photograph, I’m sure most of us can agree here. time!).

Water Shoes *

A love for river ventures introduced this gem into my life. This footwear makes a BIG difference in the cases of coarse sea floors and riverbeds lined with stones.

For those bumpy bases, the comfort that water shoes can provide will have you wondering why you’ve never had a pair prior. I’d highly recommend to water lovers such as myself. You are likely to find a pair near a popular river, hotel gift shops, and beach stores

Baby Powder * On beach days, a small bottle of baby powder can come in quite handy.

Why? It removes pesky sand grains from feet instantly so they won’t be tracked into a vehicle.

Of course, this will create white, dry feet, so also pack a small bottle of lotion.

except

Travel Tips Learned the Hard Way

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here are tasks many of us tend to check off when planning to travel, and maybe just as many are taken for granted only to have regrets later. Though, it is true that some circumstances are beyond our control, many are more within control than we tend to acknowledge.

Here are a few travel lessons I’ve learned the hard way, which hopefully after this you won’t have to:

Protect Against UV Rays Protection from the sun’s rays isn’t only important for a beach trip, take it from me! If you’ll be outdoors, especially for an extended period, lather up, prioritizing your face.

Apply 15 minutes before stepping into the light and reapply every few hours you’re exposed. Sunscreen is heavily recommended especially if outdoors between the hours of 9am and 4pm, with 11am to 2pm being the most potentially harmful.

Wearing a hat and/or sunglasses is also a good idea.

Lesson Learned: The importance of this was underscored not once but twice when a lapse in memory eventually resulted in days of stripping skin.

Carry Cash As previously noted, always walk with cash when taking a trip, for a number of reasons. Take what you can afford to, and decipher the amount based on the known costs that will be incurred as well as miscellaneous cash based on the potential stops + incidentals.

Lesson Learned: Unforeseen

circumstances may surface, card machines may not be nearby or working, an impulse purchase may appear at an unexpected venue.

Do A Vehicle Check If traveling with personal transportation, always check the vitals of your vehicle before leaving various points. Vehicular issues usually tend to occur at “the worst possible time”; if you can easily prevent it, do so.

Some quick standard vehicle checks include levels of gas, engine oil,

coolant, transmission fluid, and tyre pressure, plus valid vehicle documentation such as registration, fitness, and driver’s license.

Lesson Learned: Truth be told,

I never really appreciated the importance of this until ALL my engine oil leaked out on the NorthSouth Highway following a great birthday staycation! This experience also underscored the ‘take extra cash’ point above after having to make a few calls and organizing a tow truck on a Sunday afternoon to transport the vehicle.

Double-Check Reservations You make a booking weeks, maybe even months in advance, and payment has been confirmed so you think all is well, right? Sadly, that may not be enough.

Make it a habit to re-confirm your reservation shortly before you’re due to arrive (1 - 2 weeks). You should also have every conversation exchange regarding a room booking in writing / email, record the name(s) of person(s) you communicated the bookings with, and confirm receipts on both ends every step of the way.

Lesson Learned: This habit has

afforded me additional peace of mind, after discovering internal communications, or lack thereof, have (or could’ve had) incorrect details booking details.

Carry Sturdy Shoes You can almost never go wrong with sturdy shoes, such as sneakers, but sometimes you feel to slip your feet into something a bit more open or stylish, am I right? I don’t blame you, but in such cases you should keep a rugged shoe nearby…just in case. Besides comfort, sturdy shoes can sometimes be the difference between you still wearing shoes or walking barefoot by the end of your trip. Walk good.

Lesson Learned: Sometimes

you may venture beyond where you intended, which can reveal a different terrain, slopes, or extended walking distances that aren’t the most forgiving for sandals and slippers.

Don’t Try To Do It All It’s actually possible to miss out on a lot by trying to do more; sometimes you’ll be tempted to fit in as many activities as possible while on a trip. The problem is

planning multiple activities into a short space of time.

It’s great to have a variety of experiences, but sometimes expectations are set too high which can result in burnout, irritability, overspending, and a lower quality experience. It’s better to have 1 rewarding experience than 2 halfdecent ones.

Lesson Learned: A couple years

ago I shortened a stay at one venue to also experience another. The stark difference in quality had me wishing I stayed the full time at the first venue and maybe experience the other at another time.

Bad Weather ≠ Bad Time In the case of unexpected weather conditions there are 2 choices: pout or make the best of it. Make the most of it, whether that be enjoying the experience regardless or doing alternative activities.

Sub-point: Ideally, travel with company that’s easygoing and able to roll with the punches.

Lesson Learned: I’ve had to

improvise with random activities and enjoy venues in the rain a few times.

My Jamaica Travel List

Where It All Started

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n 2016, I created a list of local places I desired to visit. The list is evergrowing, so though it may not have all the places it should, it includes the original venues and some that are still pending.

Hopefully it will help to inspire your Jamaican travel plans as well!

Travel List • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Bowden Hill Falls Reggae Falls Blue Lagoon Turtle River Falls Laughing Waters Kanopi House Rockhouse Hotel Glistening Waters Kwame Falls Dornoch Head River Konoko Falls Gut River Y S Falls Nanny Falls Stush in the Bush Mayfield Falls Starlight Chalet Blue Hole Mineral Spring Camp Cabarita Rastafarian Indigeonous Village Portland Riverside Retreat Strawberry Fields Together Reach Falls

• Holywell • EITS Café • Pelican Bar

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Bob Marley Museum Dolphin Cove Blue Ridge Restaurant/Cottages Frenchman’s Cove Sugarpot Beach Rasta Ade Ital Food Montego River Noisy River Stones Throw Restaurant Zimbali Retreats The HouseBoat Grill Appleton Estate Rum Experience Hampden Estate Rum Tour Rio Grande Valley Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour Craighton Estate Coffee Tour

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10 Jamaican Getaway Favourites

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Blue Lagoon

y 10 personal favourite getaways to date, in no particular order are …

1

Where: Blue Lagoon

Why: Water is my happy place, and Blue Lagoon definitely has the most mesmerizing water I’ve ever seen!

The beautiful blue hue is so brilliant that it looks like it glows, making you stop and really appreciate the beauty that nature can create.

The mineral water is cold like river water, but has sand like a beach – best of both worlds!

Nanny Falls Where: Nanny Falls Why: The tall cascade is tucked in the middle of the jungle and is surrounded by pure nature. Its height makes the plummeting waterfall hit the pool below with a force that creates constant mist and cool air, but is still gentle enough to stand under for a shower.

Besides the gorgeous waterfall and surrounding nature, the fact that a maroon guides and accompanies visitors gives insight to the land, its history, and their culture.

2

Where: Nanny Falls

Why: The tall cascade is tucked in the middle of pure nature. The height of the cliff makes the plummeting waterfall hit the pool below with a force that creates a cool mist, but is not so powerful that you can’t take a shower beneath it.

Besides the gorgeous waterfall and surrounding nature, the fact that a maroon guides and accompanies visitors while giving insight to the land, its history, and their culture is a bonus.

3

Where:Living Akashi Where: Living Akashi PrivatePrivate Island Private Island Island

Why: The all-natural private islet is surrounded by unspoiled nature including lush greenery, surrounding mountain ranges, caves, waterfalls, and mineral pools. Delicious and filling vegan meals satisfy your hunger cravings without leaving you feeling guilty. With limited manmade distractions, it’s the perfect Delicious and filling vegan meals are place to cuddle with your mind and recharge. served to satisfy hunger cravings (and body health) without any guilt.

Why: With limited manmade distractions, it’s the perfect place to connect with your mind and recharge energy. The all-natural getaway is surrounded by unspoiled nature including lush greenery, mountain ranges, caves, waterfalls, and mineral pool.

Rum Tour Where: Appleton Rum Tour Where: Appleton Rum Tour Why: As weird as this may sound, it’s not all about the rum. The experience itself is well-organized, insightful regarding the rummaking process in an interesting way, and interactive. The cocktails are tantalizing, the insights are interesting, the mix of modern and dated elements are charming. This is a great group activity for friends.

4

Why: As weird as this may sound, it’s not all about the rum. The experience itself is well-organized, insightful towards the rummaking process, well-presented, and interactive. Don’t get me wrong though, the cocktails can be addictive!

The mixed incorporation of both modern and dated elements are charming and give the tour much of its character. This is a great group activity for friends.

5

Where: Blue Ridge

Cottages & Restuarant

Why: How could you not love a getaway in the Blue Mountains? The attention to detail and presentation of both the restaurant and cottages are refreshing.

Meals are tasty and served by courteous staff. Of course, the rolling mountain views (and air) are perfection. Cosy, relaxing, clean, and affordable!

Where: Reach Falls Reach Falls

Why: The main attraction of Reach Falls is the waterfall, but I much prefer the river leading to it. Upstream is an entrance to a beautiful underwater cavern and a number of natural pools. It’s more serene and less crowded. The water is clear, the way the sunlight breaks through the surrounding canopies is hypnotizing.

7

Where: BlueBlueRidge Ridge Cottages & Restuarant

Why: The meals are tasty and the presentation details are charming. The staff are friendly and the restaurant space and views are perfect. The room also has a great view and is a cosy cottage blanketed by cool mountain air. It’s very quiet and relaxing, clean, and affordable.

6

Where: Reach Falls

Why: The main attraction of the venue is the large waterfall, but I much prefer the treasures upstream. It’s more serene and less crowded. There are entrances to a gorgeous underwater cavern and a number of natural pools. The turquoise water hit by the sunlight breaking through the surrounding canopies is nothing short of hypnotizing.

7

Where: Rockhouse Hotel Where: Rockhouse Hotel Rockhouse

Why: To date, I haven’t experienced the full resort, yet I still grade my experience a 10 / 10. The boutique resort made of thatch roofs and rock foundations perched on the Negril cliffs is a postcard getaway.

Their menu items may sound like typical Jamaican-fusion dishes, but even everyday local meals taste exceptional! Snorkeling and offshore excursions offered by the resort are top-notch, and exceeded my expectations. The preview made a big enough impression for me to want to return.

Pelican Bar

Where: Pelican Bar Why: As if traveling to a bar in the middle of the sea isn’t unique enough, what really impressed me was the warm atmosphere spread from the owner to the shopkeepers.

Mr. Floyd Forbes is often found on location sitting looking out at sea and enjoying one of his catches of the day, all while shouting ‘welcome’and interacting with visitors to the bar. The cooks

Why: To date, I haven’t experienced the full hotel and I still grade my experience a 10 / 10. The boutique resort of thatch roofs and rock foundation on overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the cliffs is a postcard getaway. The sunset views during

8

Where: Pelican Bar

Why: As if traveling to a bar in the middle of the sea isn’t unique enough, what’s really impressive is the warm atmosphere created by the owner and working personnel.

The visionary, Mr. Floyd Forbes, is often found on location sitting looking out at sea enjoying one of his catches of the day.

Chill out and have a drink at sea, support locals, and add to the décor by leaving a token or carving your name into the wooden structure.

9

Where: Martha Brae

Why: Rafting on the Martha Brae river is a 45-minute journey that highlights the beauty of surrounding nature.

The slow ride through the tranquil river and greenery of the hills is nothing short of soothing. Raft captains are available not only for navigating, but also enlightening conversation and maybe even a lovely handmade souvenir.

Where: Couples Resorts Couples Tower Isle (Tower Isle) Why: I was impressed with the customer service, no matter how short you’ve been there, workers treat you as individuals by remembering your face, maybe even your name, and always greet you with a broad smile and small conversation. The food options are endless and not disappointing.

There is a great range of activities to choose from to indulge in.

The freebies and complementary surprises are a nice surprise.

Where: Martha Brae Martha Brae Why: Rafting on the world-famous Martha Brae river is a 45-minute ride appreciating surrounding nature. The slow ride in the tranquil greenery of the hills and river is soothing. Engaging the raft captain in conversation will provide enlightenment and maybe even a lovely handmade souvenir. For lack of further reason, it’s beautiful and calming.

10

Where: Couples Resorts

Why: As all-inclusive hotels should be, food options are endless and beyond satisfying.

There is a great range of activities to choose from to help you bond with your significant other or friend.

I was also greatly impressed with the customer service; no matter how short you’ve been there, all staff seem to remembering youas an individual, maybe even by name.

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7 FREE Beaches to visit in Kingston

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know. Kingston, Jamaica isn’t a popular first choice when you want to visit a nice beach. Even Kingstonians tend to venture to other parishes to enjoy sand and sea. Well, bet you didn’t know there are [at least] 7 picturesque FREE beaches in the capital city worth visiting, huh?

1

Port Royal Beach

If you visit the historic city of Port Royal, continue walking on the sand, past the popular Gloria’s eatery, to reveal a sand beach. There is a grill and bar set up on location lined by a bamboo fence, serving seafood and bar drinks.

2

Brook’s Pen Beach

Continuing East past the Harbour View Catholic Church and Copa Cabana, you’ll spot a blue and yellow wall next door to the Little Copa Restaurant.

On entry you may be greeted by jerk pans smoking up a meal, or a small crew playing dominoes. Beside a pair of swinging hammocks is a small gate which reveals a short descent onto the beach.

The wind and waves here are more tranquil than the former, and the water is a picture-perfect shade of blue. This is a great choice to have a day swim or take a relaxing stroll.

There is another beach venue right next door with more developments, however it attracts a small fee.

There are also presentable, functioning bathrooms, which is sadly not as common as it should Not many steps away from the be for public beaches. The beach former, this beach strip is itself is filled with coarse, charcoala very popular surfing and coloured sand that your feet can event spot. Surfboards and sink into with ease. Winds can instructors are available, become strong, and in such case the as well as rooms for rent, deep blue sea can become rough but that doesn’t stop residents from managed by a Rasatafarian family willing to open their home and way taking a dip. of life to others. Clean bathrooms and changing facilities is usually This venue is a good choice for a luxury for public beaches, but chilling out with friends or sitting thankfully not here! and enjoying the view.

Jamnesia

3

4

Wickie Wackie Beach

Continue further east into Bull Bay, and look out for a sign welcoming you to the Wickie Wackie Housing Scheme. Behind it is an open beach that is popular for events and photoshoots.

The beach is lined by a hill views, with sizeable waves that can be a bit rough, but again, that doesn’t stop visitors from enjoying a swim.

Besides central seating, there are no amenities on location, unless you count privacy and the view.

5

Bob Marley Beach

Shortly after passing the Bull Bay Police Station is a lane’s wall entrance with graffiti signage directing visitors to the beach. You’ll commute over a bridge and through a small community before a fence of trees will grant a glimpse of blue waters.

Fine sand, variant pebbles, and the calm blue waters make it easy to lose track of time here. Ongoing developments are evident through small hand-made cabanas, display stands, restrooms, wash off area, plus cook and snack shops. This is a great venue for a day out at the beach with family and friends!

6

Lime Cay

Though access to the isolated islet is free, it would require transportation by boat, which may not be.There are various spots in the city of Port Royal which offer boat rides to this white sandy beach about 10minutes out at sea.

Being an island on its own, there are not many facilities - including restrooms - mostly just beautiful scenery of sand, sea, rocks, and greenery. It’s a favourite spot for Kingston weekenders and yacht owners.

7

Maiden Cay

Another popular isolated islet, especially for parties, but this one is merely a patch of sand, which means no amenties whatsoever. Here, there is definitely no hiding place from the sun, except on a yacht if you’re lucky.

The beach’s size has obviously diminshed in size over the years. It’s lack of general activity will probably almost guarantee perfect solitude on a random day.

Port Royal Beach

Jamnesia

Brook’s Pen

Wickie Wackie

Bob Marley Beach

LimeCay

Maiden Cay

Q&A with subscribers

Q:How did you choose your blog Q:You have man? name?

A: Lol, I have a partner A: A brainstorming session, then narrowed down choices by comparing 2 at a time. I originally Q:How long have you been chose SimplyLocal.com but that web traveling? site domain name was unavailable, A: As a habit, 2 years and the host website suggested ‘.life’ which I thought was more unique.

Q:How do you find these places that you visit?

A: Google searches of parish

attractions, social media posts, noticing venues while on the way to somewhere else, and word of mouth.

Q:How long does a blog post take to complete?

A: Wow, it really depends.

Between writing, editing photos, defining the layout and, in some cases, editing videos...1 post could take anywhere between 4 to 16 hours.

Q:How can I be a part of your travel group?

A: You’re welcome to join one of

the open road trips. Make it a group trip by carpooling with friends.

Q:Did you travel before you got a car?

A: Yes, but honestly not as regularly nor in the same manner.

I’ve actually used a rental car for local travel more than my own! Otherwise, I’ve used public transportation, carpooled with friends, and joined travel group trips.

Q:Do you do tours?

A: Not quite. In the past month

I’ve faciltated open road trips with followers and offered a ride to a few of them. Otherwise? Nope.

Q: Do you get paid [to blog]?

A: In various ways, yes. Sometimes I am paid in cash, other times I’m paid in other rewards.

Q:When SimplyLocal aguh tek Switzerland?

A: Lol, thinking of possibly going

international once resources are in place.

Q:Have you visited every Jamaican parish?

A: Yes, and also experienced at least 1 venue in each.

Q:When you gonna have some kids?

Lol A: Lol, whenever I feel “it is time”

From Me to You:

Birthday Bucket List Treat yo’self and indulge in a new dish Order a cocktail from the name without looking at ingredients Go topless / skinny dipping Befriend a total stranger Get adrenaline pumping and conquer a fear Try a new activity Attend a random party / dance Do a touristy activity Watch the sunrise AND sunset in a single day Indulge in an activity from your childhood

Why Celebrate A Birthday?

Firstly, What’s a Birthday?

How I Celebrate

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I love to celebrate birthdays irthdays have always been each year with loved ones doing viewed as special occasions in my something a bit out of the ordinary. eyes. Many persons (men especially) In recent years I’ve enjoyed a series don’t choose to celebrate birthdays of celebrations over a 2 – 3 day and sometimes view it as ‘just period, usually topped with a firstanother day’. Let’s see if I can time experience, and this year is NO convince you otherwise. different!

Do the following: 1) Stop and think… how old are you?

2) Then think of a news story, social media, or a tale you’ve heard… Can you think of at least one person in the past week who didn’t get to experience that many years?

3) Now think… do you know anyone personally who sadly didn’t get to experience that many years? …That’s how you can view birthdays, as a privilege.

They can be considered of celebrations of life and of continued living. To know that many persons in the world, including some I knew, would want to see the same amount of birthdays that I have and more makes it that much easier to celebrate each year I’m present.

Here are a few memorable activities from the last 2 birthday staycations: • Snorkeling • Lunch on an islet • Witnessing a natural phenomenon • Bamboo Rafting down a river • Walked a world-famous beach • Partied night & day • Ziplining

Celebration Inspirations • Pamper yourself • Have a potluck • Host a games night • Eat something new somewhere new • Volunteer or donate • Treat yourself to a new purchase • Spend time enjoying nature • Take a joy ride - rent a car, boat, helicopter, horseback etc.

• Reflect on major blessings in the past year Birthdays don’t call for an extravagant celebration, but I do urge you to acknowledge the anniversary of the day you and those you love issued the first breath of life.

Celebrate your way, but please do celebrate.

Follow the Journey!

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