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JAM | Dec 12, 2022

10 things about Jamaica that visitors love

Shemar-Leslie Louisy

Shemar-Leslie Louisy / Our Today

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Across the Caribbean there are a lot of similarities, especially as it relates to language, societal norms and cultural values. However, when examined closely enough, the differences come to light.

In the interest of good fun, Our Today asked students from other countries, who are currently studying in Jamaica, just what discoveries they have made here that they enjoy and that they do not have in their home countries. Here’s what they had to say:

Antigua

Blue Hole Falls, Ocho Rios (Photo: Sandals.com)

“Some things that Jamaica has that we don’t have back home are waterfalls, waterparks and rivers.” – Shervernice Mills

Interesting fact: Antigua has no rivers and very few springs.

Bahamas

Blue Mountain Peak (Photo: tripadvisor.com)

“I actually love being able to look around me and see mountains, I find the sight pretty interesting, in Bahamas your whole world is flat.” – Brandon Roberts

Interesting fact: The highest point in The Bahamas is known locally as Como Hill and is only 63 metres above sea level, the Blue Mountain Peak, Jamaica’s highest point is 2,256 metres.

Barbados

“Ting (soft drink) is really good and we don’t have it back home.” – Alexus Daniel

Belize

“There’s more variety of products and groceries here compared to back home, plus more dining options.” – Alikah Jones

Interesting fact: Most of the imports in Belize come from Latin America, which often results in a smaller product offering compared to what is available in Jamaica.

Grenada

Usain Bolt (JAM) of Jamaica celebrates winning the Jamaican team’s gold medal at the Rio Olympics with Asafa Powell (JAM) of Jamaica, Nickel Ashmeade (JAM) of Jamaica and Yohan Blake (JAM) of Jamaica. (File Photo: REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach)

“The growing athletic culture and the multitude of sporting activities available to youths and also the resources being pumped into athletic development and advancement. Also, the Starbucks and the Crocs store.” – Lelanie McLawrence

India

“From what I’ve seen so far, there’s a better sense of work-life balance and work ethic in Jamaica compared to India.” – Harsh Shah

St Lucia

“I like the taxi system. It’s pretty well organised and affordable compared to back home. In Jamaica I don’t feel the need to get a car in the Kingston area.” – Kentry Frederick Jr.

St Vincent

“There’s a lot of variety in things like restaurants and entertainment here. Also a bigger night life culture; places stay open later here. I also like the convenience of delivery services here.” -Queriise Thomas

Tobago

I love how easy it is to get patties here, especially the cheese ones, compared to Tobago.” – Joshua Frazer

Jamaican cheese patty. (Photo: Instagram @juicipattiesja)

Trinidad

“I love the beaches here compared to what we have back home and the customer service is better here too.” – Kennyse Viarruel

Reggae Beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann.

Interesting fact: Trinidad, although known as the land of sun and parties, isn’t actually known for having the best beaches. Locals usually take a boat ride to Tobago for a good time in the sand.

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