Tour Leader’s Blog

This is our third day in Ocho Rios, coming here after enjoying our time in the mineral hot springs in Bath. Each area of Jamaica has its own uniqueness.

Climbing the Dunn’s River Falls, over 600 feet from the Caribbean Sea to the top, was a community experience. Hedi said, “I could not have done it without the guiding hands of our Jamican guide.” Vic said, “We have a new way of baptism - trusting the guide as you go backwards from the rock into the water.”

Yesterday we met wonderful Jamaican business, church and community leaders. It was all behind the inclusive package. Lorne said, “Normal tourists in the all-inclusive packages never get to meet these beautiful people: Lloyd and Joyce at their home and pottery shop. We have products in our luggage to prove our visit.” Ruth Howling met her friend Eunice at Maxine’s store in Retreat. Ruth Snyder wanted the recipe for Maxine’s Sweet Potato Cake that we bought in her store. Can it be made with rice flour?

At Shirley’s home, a Habitat for Humanity house, Shirley’s daughter welcomed us since our dear friend Shirley was at work.

Carol said, “What a wonderful day meeting all these beautiful people, learning about the banana plant and how it grows on Audley’s Plantation Tour and spending several hours on the beach and in the warm water of the Caribbean Sea.

It will be hard to leave these lovely people and their island tomorrow. Yet we know our families at home will be waiting to welcome us and hear our stories.

~ Wilmer Martin