Irie Feeling in Jamaica’s One Love Paradise

Philip Rose and our own Philip Banks at the Funjet Show 2010

Today we have a guest post from our very own, Philip Rose.  Philip is our representative from the Jamaica Tourist Board.  Currently, if you call our office and are put on hold, you will hear Philip talking about his home land of Jamaica.

I must admit my bias when I say I love Jamaica. Not only am I proud, patriotic and passionate (feeling my excitement already?), but this deep love for country inspired me to work for the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), responsible for promoting this unique destination overseas. Living in Dallas has its perks as many of you may know, but there is something about Jamaica that I can’t get enough of, and once you go, you know and would agree. There is a vibe and an energy in Jamaica, which can’t be experienced anywhere else in the world and difficult to find or replicate here. In Jamaica, we just know how to kick back, relax and unwind. On any visit, I guarantee you’ll be sure to hear the expression…No problem mon!

Being in the travel industry, one of the things I take into consideration when I am choosing which city or country I’ll visit next is safety and I am sure it is no different when you are thinking about whether to visit my homeland Jamaica. You can rest assured the destination remains a safe haven for visitors. As I often remind myself however, I must always have my “thinking cap” with me, and I would encourage everyone to do likewise whether they are in Jamaica or any other destination.

First time travelers are encouraged to ask questions from reliable sources: your travel agent, Jamaica travel specialists or a JTB sales representative and on arrival feel free to reach out to your hotel concierge. Our travel agents have been equipped with the latest news on deals and developments and can advise you on what to do and where to go in Jamaica.

Our six resort regions each offer a different experience which is sure to please, whether it is the tourist capital Montego Bay, the laid back Negril, Ocho Rios – the centre of attraction, picturesque Port Antonio, the off the beaten South Coast or the cultural capital Kingston. Come climb the falls, swim with the dolphins or hike up lush blue mountains and see for yourself why so many of our visitors keep coming back. In fact, we have the second highest percentage of repeat visitors in the Caribbean.

Jamaica holds a special place in my heart and it can for you too. After a first visit, soon you could become familiar with the nooks and crannies of what some have called “heaven on earth” — from where to get the best ackee and saltfish (Jamaica’s national dish) to hearing the best reggae on the island. Although I have lived away from Jamaica for a number of years, there are images and aromas that will always remain: the white sandy beaches in Ocho Rios framed by the Caribbean Sea, the spicy fragrances of Scotch Bonnet peppers from jerk chicken shacks, a cup of Blue Mountain coffee to start the day… and these I’ll always treasure. For me, this island is the paradise, so if pleasure is your passion, I invite you to come to Jamaica, where love lingers and the memories last a lifetime.

Feel free to contact me via email at prose@visitjamaica-usa.com if you have any questions. Be sure to check out our Facebook page www.facebook.com/visitjamaica , or send us a tweet @visitjamaicanow