Sounds like it was more than just a hangover with the girls being sick for so long--probably sun posioning/dehydration mixed in. Travelers must be careful, the sun is intense there, and you can get sick from too much, especially if alcohol is in the mix. I drink around 12 cups of water or more a day there--and have a full cup after each rum drink or beer. The tap water in JA is good--so as well as always carry a bottle of Wata with me I get a glass at each bar or home stop. I also love coconut water and have at least one a day (great for dehydration). I am lucky, I drink lots of water at home too, and like it so it takes no effort on my part.

The girls were lucky to have you with them to look after them. One time I got sick to my stomach when traveling on my own and my Jamaican friend brought me soup and made me drink a whole cup while he watched as he said it would make me better. I didn't think I could keep it down, but took his word and forced myself to drink it. It was miracle soup--it did make me better. I have no idea what was in it.