876 ISSUE 1 APRIL 2018
EDITOR’S LETTER
LET’S TRAVEL JAMAICA to do list. Tourists recall their experiences in Jamaica to be sand, sun and sea even though the island has several more to offer. Faawud876seeks to expose you to the Jamaican hidden treasures in an effort to attract an even new market to the island as well as to fully immerse you into other unconventional activities that are equally satisfying even on a small budget. In this first issue of Faawud876, we seek to highlight some of the most interesting and taboo Tajae Smith topics in Jamaica. These include EDITOR but are not limited to, unconventional places to stay, eat, visTravel is the gift that keeps on it and explore. This magazine giving, it is often a reward given will seek to immerse the average to ourselves to aid in the delight reader to hidden gems in an efof a new experience or simply to fort to heighten their experience. immerse ourselves into a new culture. Either way, it is one of the few Many tourists visit Jamaica each experiences that often leave one year just to get a taste of our culfeeling with little or no regret. A ture and lifestyle and as such this number one reason for traveling is issue will highlight the Jamaican to escape our current reality, trav- dancehall scene and what it is like elers will often express the height- to play carnival the Jamaica way. ened sensation of newness they experience especially when in a It was a pleasure creating this new country or environment; it’s magazine for you our loyal readalmost a feeling of complete new- ers, as we sought to ensure that ness and is usually surrounded by you are kept informed about the the theme of don’t worry be happy! unconventional happenings and Faawud876 is a 100% truly Jamaican unconventional travel magazine. The magazine highlights the adventures in and around Jamaica that would not be on the average
Page 2
about potential dos on the island. Finally, I wish to thank everyone who participated and provided their feedbacks in the creation of this interesting read. This magazine would not have been pos-
sible without all of your truly top-notch talents, special thanks as well to our readers of Faawud876. . It is through your endorsements and support that we are able to continue on our journey of creating even more exciting content in the future. Jah bless!
FAAWUD876
Jamaica’s unconventionaltravel magazine
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tajae Smith WRITER Tajae Smith CREATIVE DESIGNERS Tajae Smih PHOTOGRAPHER Tajae Smith
ON THE COVER
CONTENTS
5 HOLLYWELL: A Breath of Fresh Air
6 DANCEHALL: A JAMAICAN REALITY
8
11 REGGAE HOSTEL
18 REGGAE FALLS
13 EITS CAFE: WHERE NATURE MEETS CUISINE
CARNIVAL IN JAMAICA
20 THE TABOO LIFE OF A RENT A DREAD
Page 3
WHAT TO DO
A YAAD
BLUE MOUNTAINS
VIEW OF THE BLUE MOUNAINS
CYCLIST RIDING DOWN FROM HOLLYWELL
HOLLYWELL: A Breath of Fresh Air Nested in the hills of the Blue and John Crow Mountain, lies one of Jamaica’s greatest gem, Hollywell. The 300 acre property is one of the largest well kept reserves for birds and boasts some of the islands greatest landscape. The park is located at approximately 3,500 feet above sea level and as such provides an air quality fit for a King. It is often shrouded in a tropical mist which roams the property all day. It is further complimented by a yearlong lush of natural forestry which boasts some of the rarest orchids and bamboo plant indigenous to the Caribbean which blooms every thirty three years. Can you imagine being a part of such a blossom?
The reserve is located at an approximate ninety minute drive from the city of Kingston. The drive itself is often seen as an attraction as you climb the winding terrain which takes you to the different view on every turn. If you’re the more naturalistic type then you can even opt to hike or bicycle the terrain which is less than a six hour journey.
to eight persons depending on the one you want to rent. The rates are all below forty USD per night which makes booking highly competitive.
The location also boast a natural waterfall which is said to have some amount of healing powers, well that’s at least if you believe in that sort of thing. An entry fee of 2 USD is also required to gain The attraction boasts ten rivers and entry in the park and children is home to the island’s largest snake are free to enter, they even have the Jamaican boa, the giant swal- their own playground section so lowtail butterfly, and the island’s please ensure to take them along. national bird; the humming bird. So what about food and busiOk, so now you’ve heard what’s ness, they’ve got that covered to see. Here’s what to do: too with their newly opened cafe and business center so yes you The park hosts four trails which can definitely take work along. Jacome along with tour guides. maica is best known for sand, sun However if you’re the wandering and sea but believe me if you’re type so be it, you may take a trek a botanist, bird watcher, nature alone at your own risk. There are lover, sightseer or adventurer an approximate twelve tent sites this is a must to do on your list! and five cabins which sleeps four
CABIN IN HOLLYWELL
Page 5
DANCEHALL: A JAMAICAN REALITY You can’t boast about being in Jamaican unless you’ve stopped at a dancehall session. In many countries the weekend is the ideal time for family time and games but here on our islands, we have a dancehall party for every day of the week. Dancehall is genre born locally which features a combination of reggae type singing accompanied with DJ. It is the preferred music type in most of the islands local attraction and dominates the airways. Popular artists include Shaggy, Sean Paul, Beenie Man, and Vybz Kartel. The music is now commonly fused into RB culture and sees local artist collaborating with Rihanna, DJ Khalid and Beyoncé just to name a few. You perhaps have already been exposed to dancehall so just to see if we are on the same wave length I’ll name a few popular ones that have lasted through the decades. Shy Guy, Murder She Wrote, Mr. Boombastic and Just Gimmie the Light. These have all managed to gain internal acclaim and fame. So now what’s a dancehall session? Imagine bright lights with open air and speakers all around, then compliment that with individuals in a brightly coloured attire all doing what can appear to be synchronized dancing. The event usually consists of small pockets of groups, a large bar mainly serving bottom shelf rum and beer with very minimal themes and decor. The DJ is a must have and he mix-
Page 6
DANCEHALL PATRONS PARTYING
es songs throughout the night, all of which is given an introduction. For example if the DJ was going to play Shy Guy, he would first come on the microphone referencing the song to gain attention from the crowd; he might perhaps say “this one goes out to all the ladies that want a shy man”
a shoulder. Dances are usually advertised within the communities and on local channels So if you’re ever in the mood to immerse yourself into something different outside of a tan, be sure to attend a session - there’s always one happening all the time within your area.
The event usually starts at around 10pm and ends at 2pm and usually consists of police and security personnel to assure safety. But no one ever goes early so peak times are around 12 and 2. Entry is usually free or 10 USD or less with an alcoholic beverage ranging as low as four USD per cup or beer. Food is usually limited with options such as Jerk Chicken or hot dogs and on some occasions if you’re lucky enough, a dancehall artist might perform. Dancehall is also driven by your ability to dance. Every month new moves are released with matching songs and as such be prepared to shake a leg or “fling” DANCEHALL PATRON DANCING
Q&A with
@KAREEMBIGDREAMS at
my
fingertips.
Literally.
Q3: How have new communication channels, such as social media, changed the way you work and promote the dancehall brand? A: Social media is the biggest influencer for me and my dancehall brand. It’s an immediate Channel to engage with our target audience. Immediately you can get a feedback as to what will and won’t work. KAREEM BIGDREAMS
Kareem Weathers popularly called Kareem Bigdreams is a dancehall party promoter and coordinator. Kareem Bigdreams is known for his well known dancehall events; Kingston5 Uptown Street Dance and SIP Summer Dreams. Fawud876 sat down with Mr. Bigdreams himself to know some more about the dancehall culture and this was what he had to say; Q1: What interests you about being a promoter for the dancehall brand? A: It was inevitable for me to be a promoter. There’s no more gratifying feeling than seeing patrons enjoying themselves at your own event. Q2: How do you keep up with trends and news in your industry? A: SOCIAL MEDIA and some more SOCIAL MEDIA. Everything I need to know is right
Q4: How do you think dancehall and the dancehall culture is impacting tourism in Jamaica? A: Jamaica is dancehall. Dancehall is Jamaica. Other than our beaches and food. Our music and parties are next in line as a pull factor for tourists. They want to come here and experience the vibe, our music and what DANCEHALL in itself has to offer
visit your dancehall events? A: Visitors are always fascinated with just the flare of our events. It’s authentically Jamaican. The dancers, the dance moves. Even the props: fire torches, a pot cover knocking somewhere. The decor; which I ensure is as dancehall as possible. This gives them a feel like they are getting everything the dancehall scene has to offer. Q7: What can the dancehall community do to make it more appealing to more foreign visitors? A: Better structuring! A lot of these events need more organization. More production. Personally, when I walk into an event just the decor alone will determine if I’m going to have a good night.
Q5: Do you think dancehall music and culture is playing or can play a role in Jamaica’s economic development? A: Have you seen the party scene in the nights? There is an event every single night. Multiple events per night and I can assure you each and every event has a great number of patrons. If that doesn’t play a role in the economic development of Jamaica I don’t know what else does. Q6: What do visitors most forward to when
look they
PATRON DANCING NEW MOVE
Page 7
CARNIVAL IN JAMAICA
SHANNON JONES POSING IN HER CARNIVAL COSTUME
From Jamaica Carnival in the 90’s to now Carnival in Jamaica, The Carnival product on the island has gone through quite the process to become what it is today. Back in the early 90’s when the Byron Lee lead Jamaica Carnival infiltrated Jamaica it was seen as an alien culture from neighboring Trinidad. The sights and sounds of soca culture were exciting to Jamaicans and Byron Lee and his crew had massive support from all sectors of society. The true spirit of Carnival which is one of inclusiveness was evident when thousands packed the Streets of Kingston on Carnival Sunday annually. A spectacle that hardly anyone could deny.
TONIAN LEE POSING IN HER CARNIVAL COSTUME
Over the years, though Carnival in Jamaica has gone through some ups and downs. The early nineties up to the 2000’s was for many the best of Carnival in Jamaica by then there were two established mas bands in Jamaica, Byron Lee’s Jamaica Carnival and Bacchanal Jamaica which was seen by many as the elitist band for the so called “uptowners” of primarily Kingston Jamaica. The first major blow to the Carnival In Jamaica product came when the broadcasting commission in conjunction with the church ordered that Carnival would no longer be carried live on National TV. Then in 2008 with the passing of Byron Lee came the biggest damper of the Carnival product in Jamaica. Jamaica Carnival which
Page 8
THIANA FEANNY DANCING WHILE ON THE ROAD PARADING
THIANA FEANNY AND FRIEND POSES WHILE AT ROAD MARCH
L-R THIANA FEANY, TALIAH LAYNE, SHANNON JONES AND TONIAN LEE SHARES A LAUGH
had been on the streets for almost 2 decades had suddenly dissipated and left only Bacchanal Jamaica which had its people but was never recognized by the masses. Over the last 2 years, though Carnival has taken a turn for the better. Bacchanal Jamaica who had the monopoly for quite some time received competition by two new entities; Dream Entertainment’s Xodus and Sleek Jamaica’s Xamayca. With Jamaica’s own culture being injected into the annual festivities, a product that was once seen as borrowed from Trinidad is now being recognized as uniquely Jamaican due to the injection of dancehall culture being fused with those of Trinidad and Tobago. With the advent of social media and excellent marketing strategies by the Jamaica Tourist Booard and Jamai-
PATRONS SING S ALONG WITH SOCA MUSIC
can Carnival Promoters, Carnival in Jamaica is now a sought-after event. This year the Ministry Of Tourism reported a 12.8 percent increase in foreign arrivals to the island for carnival compared to the same period last year.
So on April 28, 2019, join us on the streets of Kingston, Jamaica and let us “palance” all day long to sweet sweet dancehall and soca beats.
Page 9
REGGAE HOSTEL
Many times visitors arrive in our beautiful island of Jamaica they tend to want to stay at an all inclusive hotel, where there is a stretch of white sandy beach to get a tan and persons serving them throughout their visit. That’s fine if that is your thing but if you want an authentic Jamaican experience; Reggae Hostel is the place for you to stay! Reggae Hostel, located on Burlington Avenue in Kingston and Ocho Rios is the ideal location for those bag packers who wants to visit Jamaica and experience an authentic Jamaican lifestyle. The hostel is like a Jamaican family home and visitors are exposed to real Jamaican activities such as the nightlife and mountain climbing.
REGGAE HOSTEL FRONT VIEW
Reggae Hostel boasts for receiving the award by hostelworld. com for being the best hostel in Jamaica for many years. So next time you want to experience Jamaica outside of a resort, I recommend that you book your stay at Reggae Hostel.
REGGAE HOSTEL BAR
REGGAE HOSTEL BEDROOM ART PIECE BELONING TO THE REGGAE HOSTEL
Page 11
WHERE TOEAT
A YAAD
EITS CAFE FRONT VIEW
EITS CAFE MOST POULAR DRINK
EITS CAFE DINING AREA WITH MOUNTAIN VIEW
EITS CAFE: WHERE NATURE MEETS CUISINE Located 3500 ft above sea level is the Europe In The Summer (EITS) Café. This restaurant is on the premises of Mountain Edge Guest House, which is located in Newcastle, a village in the Blue Mountains.
EITS Cafe uniqueness is due to the fact that it offers freshly harvested fruits and vegetables from their farms in the preparation of the meals prepared at the restaurant. The Europeaness of the restaurant offers a great combination of international and local flavors much of which are greatly appreciated by foreigners and local visitors alike. When you walk into the EITS
Café its ambiance is like nothing you will ever experience before. The rustic décor feel, mountain views and warm customer service is a piece of heaven on earth. The drive to the restaurant is approximately 45 minutes out of Kingston and is sure to work up an appetite.
Page 13
JAMAICAN BEEF PATTY A real authentic Jamaican beef patty is a cheap convenient way to have a nutritious meal while on the go. However, if you missed out on the opportunity to grab a bite be sure to try this recipe on your own when you get back to your own country. Ingredients • 2 lbs ground beef • 1/2 teaspoon Accent • 8 sprigs of thyme • 2 ozs escallion • 2 small hot peppers • 1 teaspoon paprika • half a loaf french bread • 1 teaspoon salt The cooking method will be featured in our next issue.
TOM BITES IN A JAMAICAN PATTY
CAFE BLUE
Jamaica is said to be home to one of the best brewed coffee brand in the world, the Blue Mountain Coffee. Cafe Blue is one of the must stop shops to experience this delight.
Irish Town, St, Andrew
PageHOT 14 CUP OFCAFE BLUE COFFEE
ACKEE AND SALTFISH AND FESTIVALS
STEWED OXTAIL AND RICE AND KIDNEY BEANS
CRYSTAL EDGE RESTAURANT
ESCOVEITCH FISH
SWEETWOOD AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN JERK
CRYSTAL EDGE RESTAURANT LOCATION: IRISH TOWN, ST, ANDREW
PEPPERWOOD AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN JERK LOCATION: 2 CHELSEA AVENUE, KINGSTON 5
REVIEW: CRYSTAL EDGE RESTAURANT CAN BE FOUND ON THE EDGE OF THE MOUTAIN IN THE COOLS HILLS OF IRISH TOWN. AT CRYSTAL EDGE CUSTOMERS CAN GET THE BEST IN LOCAL DISHES, SUCH AS, ACKEE AND SALTFISH, MACKERELRUNDOWN, STEWED OXTAIL AND CURRIED GOAT. THE VIEW WHILE ENJOYING YOUR MEAL IS NEXT TO NONE AND THE CUSTOMER SERVICE IS EXCEPTIONAL
REVIEW: PEPPERWOOD AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN JERK HUB IS A MYSTICAL FEATURE SPOT IN NEW KINGSTON,THEY\ ARE KNOWN FOR PRODUCING THE BEST JERK CHICKEN AND JERK PORK AROUND KINGSTON. PEPPERWOOD IS KNOWN TO BE THE JERK HUT THAT USES WOOD SUCH AS PIMENTO TO JERK THEIR MEAT. THE SWEETWOOD EXPERINCE IS ONE TO BE EXPERIENCED, THE DINING AREA IS PREDOMINANTLY HUTS MADE UP OF PURE WOOD.
Page 15
IF YUH HAVE MORE
TIME A YAAD
REGGAE FALLS
Page 18 REGGAE FALLS IN HILLSIDE, ST. THOMAS
ST.THOMAS’ HIDDEN TREASURE:REGGAE FALLS Jamaica is known for its lush breath taking views and its seven mile beach in Negril but to the eastern end of the islands lays ones of it greatest man made gem, Reggae Falls. On a path of mainly dirt and stones and sitting in the middle of one of the islands widest rivers is a failed hydro-electric plant. It is a hidden Reggae Falls treasure nestled in the community of Hillside, Morant Bay, St, Thomas. The fall is about 70ft high, very beautiful and is estimated to attract a wide array of tourists weekly. Admission is completely free as the property is currently not commercialized. The journey to the falls consist of a short drive through the river bed of approximately one mile thereafter one treks through the river up the bed until you reach upon one of the most intimidating feats of all time; the gigantic fall.
REGGAE FALLS RIVER
Residents in the community act as unofficially tour guides guiding the visitors to picturesque spots and advising of the depth of the river to guide dives and swimming locations. There are small shops setup along the river which is supported by a restaurant which does mainly grilled food. The day’s excursion can see a cost of approximately 40 USD which is basically the cost for food and the customary tipping of the tour guides. It is also home to a large array of Lilies and insects which makes it a must stop especially for naturalists. The location is currently being renovated to support hiking and possibly cabins to accommodate check-ins. So if your ever on the edge for an adrenaline rush - be sure to stop by in St. Thomas and take the ultimate plunge, after all its on the house!
VISITOR JUMPS FROM REGGAE FALLS ROCKS
Page 19
THE TABOO LIFE OF A RENT A DREAD It is highly unlikely that you are a native of a tropical island without the notion of who a “rent-a-dread” is. But, per say you do not, a renta-dread is a man who sports dread locks and acts more of a tour guide who takes you off the beaten path and exposes you to a more authentic side of the island. This solution is ideal for bag packers and for those who are adventurous In our Caribbean Island, Jamaica, the services of a renta-dread are almost non-existent in today’s new era. Here is the story of Jeffery, a rent-a-dread who offers his services in Negril. As we entered Jeffery’s house, the sweet mixture of a concoction filled his modest home. He later informed us that its ingredients were Oats, Peanut, Supligen and Dragon. A smile of confidence on his face, Jeffery drowned his mixture, making reference to the extra drive that it gives him. “Yuh si this mixture, it will mek any man a stallion. It mek yuh run marathons and that is what the foreigners dem love. Why you think black man can get any woman dem want? Is because of the natural produce of the land that we mix and turn into greatness. The service I offer is rare. It is mostly the white European women who seek out my profession. They like to have a good time when they visit my beautiful island they are willing to spend any
amount of money to receive this”. We enquired the cost for such services and was informed that it depends on what exactly the women require. “If the woman wants the man to be just her companion during her time here in Jamaica, just someone to take her around the island and show her the beautiful attractions, she is looking at USD100 per day. If she wants to experience why they call Jamaican men stallion, she a look pan a USD200 per day. At first glance, Jeffery’s exterior seemed rough, like the type of guy who likes to always be in control. But as the day progressed and we delved deeper into his everyday life, we realised that there was a softer side to him. A father of four, Jeffery spoke proudly about his family and the home he has built with his common-law wife, Sonia. When we asked Jeffery about how his spouse felt about his profession, he responded that though she sometimes did not like that he is always around these women, she was aware that
this was what paid their bills and that it was an honest living. As such, she supported him and ensured that he had all he needed. We decided to approach the woman with whom Jeffery was a rent-adread and had a brief conversation. Sara, a fifty five years old a native of Atlanta, Georgia informed FAAWUD876 that she has not felt used since she met Jeffery. “He treats me well. My time with him is filled with love and affection. When I am in Jamaica, I can relax and be my true self. He has taught me to love myself for who I am. Before I met him, I felt old and fat. With him, I feel like a teenager—young and alive. I am able to have fun and dance and laugh. My life back home does not allow me to do so.” Sara is confident that what she feels for Jeffery is real and that what he feels for her is also real. Unaware that Jeffery has four children and a common law wife at home, Sara is hopeful that she will be able to convince him to visit her country one day.
BOB MARLEY STATUE N CULTURE YARD, TRENCH TOWN
CULTURE YARD: TRENCH TOWN One thing about music is when it hits you, you feel no pain. If that had any meaning for you then the town of Trench Town will truly awake your senses. Trench town is a small community within the city of Kingston; it was established in the 1940s when 200 acres of “Trench Pen” area was converted into a model community. The community of Trench Town bred the likes of many
BOB MARLEY VAN IN CULTURE YARD, TRENCH TOWN
talented Jamaicans including Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, The Abyssinians and the Heptones and also the home of one of the world’s best studio Tuff Gong. Many have come and gone and have wanted a piece of the King of Reggae Bob Marley, though there is a museum - the real story on his rise to fame remains to be found in this small town.
Culture Yard located at 6- 8 Lower First Street is the location that reggae legend Bob Marley once lived. It is now an architectural and cultural museum. It has a small souvenir shop with rich, rich history! It contains articles, instruments and furnishing used by Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer in their younger years. Many say that Culture Yard gives you a better
Page 21
TRENCH TOWN, KINGSTON
ARTIST IN TRENCH TOWN, KINGSTON
sense of the origins of Bob Marley and his contemporaries. The tour guides are community members and once you visit Culture Yard the tour guides will show you what life in the tenement yard was like through the 50s and 60s Culture Yard was the home of a popular community leader, Vincent ‘Tata’ Ford. He was instru-
Page 22
mental in the development of Bob Marley’s abilities, as it is said that Vincent ‘Tata’ Ford taught Bob how to play the guitar. It has been said that the famous “No Woman No Cry” lyrics sung by Bob Marley was penned in Culture Yard by Ford and Marley. Culture Yard was also the location in which any other hits were written and recorded such as Bob
Marley and the Wailers’ first album `Catch a Fire’ The tour takes you through the outer parts of the courtyard where evidence of the residents’ normal life can be seen. Just outside too, you will see a rusting, old bus which was owned by Bob Marley. The tour continues through six rooms which were delicately restored but retains many original features and fittings, from “Tata” Ford’s bedroom with graffiti walls to the single bed on which Bob and Rita Marley slept. Culture Yard is open for business daily between the hours of 9a.m and 6p.m and attracts a USD10 coat to enter and experience the life of what was reggae King Bob Marley’s,
JAMAICAN TRAVEL TIPS 1. There are two internation-
al airports - Norman Manley International in Kingston, Sangster International in Montego Bay.
2. Departure Tax is J$1800 (equivalent to approximately US$14). This is usually included in the cost of airline tickets. 3. Remember to drive on the left. 4. Look out for potholes. There are many, and they are often of the large variety. 5. Lock your car doors if you are leaving your car unattended. 6. For the most part, bring along cool, casual clothing. 7. It’s a good idea to travel with insect repellant and sunscreen, or buy some soon after getting here. 8. Small shops and rural businesses may not readily accept foreign currency. The same applies to international debit and credit cards.
9. General Consumption Tax of 16.5% is added to most consumer goods and services. 10. Jamaica’s telephone area code is 876
Page 23