Carnival Jamaican Style

           Last weekend the UWI Campus came alive for UWI Carnival 2K11. The theme this year was  "Birds of A Feather". It was celebrated over a 4 day period  started with Carnival Integration, followed by J'ouvert, the annual Road March on Ring Road and culminating on Sunday with the beach party at Sugarman's Beach in Portmore.It was quite interesting to observe Carnival outside the Eastern Caribbean where its at home such as Carnival in Trinidad, Crop Over in Barbados and Vincy Mas in St. Vincent.
          The Jamaican version was a whole different experience. The first major difference is the downplay of Soca. The music tends to be a blend with more Hip-Hop, Dance Hall and Pop played over Soca. While this adds a Jamaican flair to the party it tends to make the experience not as authentic as those in the Eastern Caribbean . J'ouvert which was an overcrowded party delivered as a water and paint fete but was unable to deliver on the promise morning jump up on the road. However there was a lack of elements such as the red and blue devils as well as the social commentary which is evident in other carnivals. The Road March (better know to those from the Eastern Caribbean as the "Jump Up") was a great experience. The "Alumni Attack" Band which I jumped with delivered a most memorable experience with a Trinidadian DJ who delivered the best Soca experience I have had in Jamaica. Coupled with a few drinks and the beautiful ladies from Cluster 8 of Rex Nettleford Hall, it was a great experience. The Beach Party was a good experience as it was held in a beautiful spot in Portmore. However there are some logistical issues that need to be re-worked so as to deliver a holistic party experience.
    The weekend turned out to be a memorable one and one that has left good experiences of Carnival on UWI in my mind to reflect on for years to come. I look forward to next year's which should be even bigger and better!

Check out my video from Road March 2K11: UWI Carnival Road March 2K11

A Whole Other side

              I always like to think that living in another country, one must take the time to immerse into the sights and sounds. Jamaica is no exception. As I needed to escape the doldrums of campus life at Mona, I went on the excursion being offered by the Vincentian Students Association (VINSA) Jamaica to Somerset Falls located in Portland. The trip promised to provide a view of the Eastern coast of Jamaica, a taste of the best Jerk in Jamaica and a memorable experience at the Falls. It turned out to be all that and more.
             The East Coast looks very much like scenes from the rural side of the Eastern Caribbean. Aside from the towns that were passed, it was interesting to see vegetation which resembled that of the Eastern Caribbean. From the dry scrub land to the rich forested areas, there was a lot to take in. The stop at Boston Jerk Centre was one of the highlights of the trip. It was great to observe how the Jerk meats were make and there were some interesting meats such at jerk pork sausages which were fresh made and Jerk Lobster. The jerk pork was immaculate and served with hot,roasted sweet potatoes was divinely delicious. The final destination was Somerset Falls. This well developed attraction not only boasted two falls but also a great swimming area, a swimming pool for kids, a great restaurant and a menagerie of animals. 
            The trip was an excellent learning experience as well as sight seeing opportunity. I would urge anyone to take this route to see this rugged and unspoilt side of Jamaica.
             Enjoy the video.