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Tropical Place of this month:
J A M A I CA |
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Welcome in Jamaica, the island that the Arawak Indians called "Xymaca" - the land of wood and water. Columbus first visited the island on his second voyage in 1494; on another voyage in 1503 he was stranded on the north coast due to a shipwreck. His own log details the beauty of the island and the help of the friendly Arawak people. His affection for the Arawak di not stop him from claiming the island for Spain. The only thing the colonists seeemed to accomplish was the extermination of the Arawaks and the introduction of African slaves brought in to replace them. |
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"Out of Many, One People" - this is the motto that unites the different people of Jamaica, the majority of whom are of African and Africa-European descent. There are also small minorities of Chinese, Indian, Portuguese, and English, along with emigrants from other Caribbean Islands.
In general Jamaicans are friendly, outgoing and very proud of their nation. They enjoy humour, swapping stories (or liming as they call it), can be opinionated and are very talented. Jamaican artwork is highly sought after and the Reggae music thta originated on the island is world renown. Though English is the official language it is fascinating to listen to "Jamaican Talk", or the local dialect spoken in a musical lilt - mixture of English and African words (and some slang thrown in as well!!). Jamaicans keep a positive and care-free attitude toward life, answering many questions or inquiries with a "No Problem Mon" or an "Irie" - believenig that its all going to work out and everything is OK! |
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The Jamaican flag features a gold cross on a black-and-green background. Soem Jamaican friends explained to me that the gold cross represented the sunshine that blesses the island, the green from the rainfall thta makes the island lush and verdant and the black for the people and for the African slaves forced over to the island that after centuries won their freedom. The flag is recognised throughout the world and Jamaican sportsa teams proudly incorporate the flag into their uniforms. |
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Fast Facts |
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Size: 4.400 sq. miles; Population: 2,5 million; Main cities: Kingston (capital), Montego Bay is the second largest city in Jamaica and is the gateway to tourist activity on the north coast; Climate: 74-77F (winter), 80-84F (summer) |
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here to see the weather forecats in Jamaica now ! |
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Some ...Jamaican pictures... |
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Related Links: |
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www.atasteofjamaica.com |
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www.jamaica.com |
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