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Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica

ESSENCE's exclusive guide on how to see, taste and experience the hottest destinations in Black travel.
Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica
Photo Credit: @motivational_gypsy
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
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From the moment you touch down, the energy of Jamaica penetrates your soul and fills you with its laid back spirit. The bustling streets, sandy beaches, friendly locals and body-rocking reggae riddims’ will make you feel connected to the country’s culture.

There’s no right or wrong way to experience this paradise, however, if you want to skip some of the more traditional tourist haunts and get a real sense of the island’s vibes, then you gotta explore like a local. Malik Jackson (@motivational_gypsy) is a proud Jamaican who loves to show off the beauty of his country through his eyes. Recently he returned home, camera in tow, to reveal a side of the travel hotspot we don’t typically see.

Our exclusive guide will help you plan the escape you’ll need this winter season, but for the real inspiration, check out these photos from Malik’s journey to see why every little thing is gonna be alright on the sunny isle of Jamaica.

01
Welcome to Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the Caribbean’s best gems with enough activities, landscapes, and cuisine for every kind of traveler. Ask anyone that’s been and they’ll probably tell you that it’s the one destination that they can visit over and over again. The best time to explore Jamaica is from November to mid-December (Carnival is in April) when the sunshine is sure to give your melanin that perfect glow.
Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica
Photo Credit: @motivational_gypsy
02
Stay With A Purpose
Jamaica’s motto is “Out of many, one people,” and they take it very seriously. That’s why hotels like the stunning Rockhouse in Negril gives back to the local community (And the Earth, they are Green Globe Certified) through their Rockhouse Foundation program. Guests to the resort are encouraged to pack school supplies that they can donate to the foundation upon arrival.
Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica
Photo Credit: @rockhousehotel/@coreymus
03
Coco Lovin’
Jamaica is known for its jerk and curry dishes, the result of African, Taino, Chinese and Indian influences, but there is so much more to its delicious cuisine. As simple as it may sound, one of the things you must try when you visit is the delicious coconuts. Just stop by any roadside vendor for a fresh-from-the-tree sip of coconut water. Trust us, your life will forever be changed.
Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica
Photo Credit: @motivational_gypsy
04
Floating Paradise
From the Bob Marley Museum to the Blue Mountains and Scotchie’s Restaurant, there are many places to visit once you touch down in Jamaica. But if you’re looking for a place with a chill vibe where you can grab a drink and take a dip with new friends, then make sure you visit Floyd’s Pelican Bar on the island’s less traveled South Coast.
Black Travel Vibes: Feel The Local Vibes of Jamaica
Photo Credit: @motivational_gypsy
TOPICS:  Black Travel Moment of the Day coinage travel travel guide