The inaugural episode highlights St. Elizabeth, with a special focus on the town’s picturesque resorts, authentic culture, and traditions. As viewers follow the journey, they are encouraged to take the mantra Be a traveler, not a tourist to heart. Upcoming episodes will explore Negril, September 15 and Ocho Rios, October 15, allowing travelers to experience various facets of Jamaica’s South Coast, all while embracing the island’s diverse heritage.
Discovering Jamaica’s South Coast
Unlike typical tourism promotions that often spotlight only the island’s top beach resorts, Jamaica Is sets out to paint a more complete picture of what makes the South Coast so special. The series is designed to introduce travelers to the culture, history, and traditions that are embedded in the everyday life of the locals.
Episode one is a visual journey beginning in St. Elizabeth, a region known for its stunning landscapes, which include the awe-inspiring Lover’s Leap and serene YS Falls. The episode also introduces the mouthwatering local cuisine, with a visit to Little Ochi, a restaurant famous for its fresh seafood. Here, travelers will have a chance to virtually sample the region’s most authentic dishes, prepared with ingredients sourced from the surrounding waters.
Authentic Local Encounters
In addition to the picturesque views and scrumptious food, the series highlights the people who make the South Coast come alive. Viewers will meet Captain Dennis, a local guide on the Black River who shares stories of the area’s rich natural history. The documentary also offers a look at the shrimp harvesting community in Middle Quarters, showcasing their age-old methods and the hardworking individuals behind this traditional practice.
For a taste of Jamaica’s deep cultural roots, the episode takes viewers to Appleton Estate, where the rich history of rum production is brought to life. The estate tour highlights the centuries-old tradition that has shaped not only the economy but also the culture of the region.
Jamaica’s People and Culture in Focus
The series emphasizes that Jamaica is not just about pristine beaches but is a destination where culture, history, and the warmth of its people are central to the experience. Jamaica’s tourism officials are committed to sharing stories that bring these elements to the forefront. According to the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, the series reveals the island’s true essence.
Bartlett explains that this series is about showing the world that Jamaica is not just beautiful beaches. The South Coast exemplifies this impeccably, offering travelers an experience that is as soulful as it is scenic.
Donovan White, Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, echoed this sentiment, inviting travelers to step off the beaten path. The South Coast is a place where culture, creativity, and community thrive, and Jamaica Tourism is proud to share these authentic stories with the world.
A Fresh Perspective on Jamaican Travel
Jamaica’s South Coast has long been a hidden gem, attracting travelers looking for something beyond the conventional tourist hotspots. With Jamaica Is, the Jamaica Tourist Board is sharing a fresh perspective on what the island has to offer. The documentary series aims to inspire travelers to explore the uncharted and lesser-known corners of Jamaica, while connecting with the local people and their rich culture.
Each episode of the series will bring audiences closer to the soul of Jamaica. By featuring a mix of stunning natural landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and vibrant traditions, the JTB hopes to change the way people think about Jamaican travel. This is a place where the culture is as rich as the scenery, and the connections made are as meaningful as the experiences.
What Next?
As the documentary series rolls out, audiences will uncover how Jamaica’s South Coast becomes more than a place on the map; it’s a corridor into living history. Fresh installments drop every month, welcoming every prospective visitor to move beyond the postcard beaches and, instead, immerse themselves in the island’s enduring elegance and the gentle hospitality that defines it.
Tags: Donovan White, Jamaica Tourist Board, Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Tourism
