Awe and Splendor: a Trip Report

[nicole.edith]

Great start, and thanks for taking the time to share your experiences!

I'm wondering if this trip report will include a little shock and awe vs the "awe and splendor" that we all experienced as newbies. It seems like no matter how much you plan, how much you think you know or how many times you have been, there is always that moment where you realize you're no yardie and you still have a lot to learn. I always love hearing what caught first-time visitors off guard, as well as all the things they loved about Jamaica.

A few things surprised us, indeed, as I've tried to note, but not much outright shock. I think my favorite thing, although not shocking, but surprising because it actually lived up to expectations, was the level of hospitality, warmness, and genuine pride in their country the locals felt and showed toward us. Oftentimes expectations and reality are in opposition, but not on this trip, which is what was so amazing. It lived up to and exceeded my expectations - a tall order.

[NKY]

A few things surprised us, indeed, as I've tried to note, but not much outright shock. I think my favorite thing, although not shocking, but surprising because it actually lived up to expectations, was the level of hospitality, warmness, andgenuine pride in their country the locals felt and showed toward us. Oftentimes expectations and reality are in opposition, but not on this trip, which is what was so amazing. It lived up to and exceeded my expectations - a tall order.

Wasn't really hoping to hear about anything that was unpleasantly shocking, but more of a play on words....

I am happy to hear that you were surprised in the best way possible, and your expectations were exceeded!

As far as finding money for another trip, if you've caught the bug you will find a way. My wife and I have gone through about three rounds of "do we use it, no, lets sell it" to fund past trips.