Last week, I had the honor to travel to a destination that has persisted as a mainstay on my “Places to Visit” list. Your girl finally made it to Jamaica! Montego Bay, to be exact. I arrived on May 29th and stayed until June 4th. Let me tell you – it was an absolute dream.
I did travel with a few family members and my fiancé to the island. The trip, itself, was pretty smooth. On the way, we did endure about a 30-minute layover in Washington D.C. from Houston. We also trekked on a second 4-hour flight straight into Montego Bay. Once we arrived, all the travel seemed worth every minute.
Whenever my family travels, the all-inclusive route seems to be an overall fave. If you don’t know what “all-inclusive” entails, the resort usually includes all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and drinks (alcohol included) within the one-time payment you make for your room. In addition, many resorts also have live on-site entertainment during their guests stay.
Riu Reggae was our all-inclusive selection. I highly recommend Riu Reggae! The resort features their own beach, jaw-dropping views, fine cuisine and also accommodate guests with daily water activities such as paddleboats, tubing and paddleboards. The paddleboats were so much fun!
Aside from the mere beauty of Jamaica, it was so refreshing to be able to simply chill. I reflected on my life, my future as a wife and embracing all that God has blessed me with. I also discovered I adore the water! The peace it brings, the crisp cool that washes over you and the feeling that all your worries melt away… there’s nothing like it.
Jamaica is full of hidden gems. Although Montego Bay is a tourist city, don’t be afraid to venture out to learn more about the natives, the culture and the true essence of this Caribbean nation. We did get a chance to visit Margaritaville in Negril (which is about an hour outside of Montego Bay). In the mere ride to and from the resort, I observed and learned so much about how Jamaicans live in their day-to-day.
Seeing how other live truly makes you more grateful for what you have back home.
The hospitality was unmatched. The food was even better: plantains, jackfruit, curry goat, meat pies, papayas and callaloo are all permanent fixtures in my palate.
Honestly, I was sad to leave. I said my goodbyes to the crash of the waves, the fresh air and the blazing sun. If you’re looking for a getaway that’s more than just a vacation, visit Jamaica. You will leave inspired. You will leave humbled. That’s my guarantee. I can’t wait to get back!
Sound off below – what destinations are on your list for future travel? Have you ever visited Jamaica? If so, I’d love to hear about your experience. Any recommendations for my next trip? Let’s get the conversation started. 🙂
Photography Credit: All photos were taken by Esmesha Campbell and accompanying family (via phone)
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 