Group+One

=__** JOURNEY TO JAMAICA    **__=  

SDSU Alumni Cruise
The cruise will be 12 days long, we will depart from Florida and head down south. Ten days will be used to travel and explore the island and travel from one port to another. Even though, Jamaica mainly caters to the American traveler, making up 70% of all visitors (Boxill), there are still many hidden gems and culture to be learned. So, don't be afraid and COME ABOARD for a cultural experience in Jamaica. We will be visiting:
 * Discovery Bay
 * Ocho Rios
 * Port Antonio
 * Kingston (port will be Port of Royal)
 * South Coast (Black River)
 * Montego Bay

**Before Departing on your cruise, we would like to offer some useful background information regarding Jamaica's People, Culture, and Literature**

**History** Jamaica was first inhabited by the Arawak and Taino, who oringinated from South America. They settled and ruled the island from 400 to 1000 BC with the Cacique (chief) the head of the clan. The land was then divided into regional chiefdoms and had a growing population. When Christopher Columbus arrived in 1494 there was already a form of government. Most of the Arawaks/Taino people ended up dying from smallpox after they had contact with the Europeans. Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica in 1494 on Discovery Bay and claimed Jamaica for Spain. He first settled his crew in Sevilla, but later got moved to Spanish Town, which became the capital in 1534, due to various pirate raids. Spanish Town remained the island's capital unitl 1872. It was throughly thought of when they picked Spanish Town to be the capital, "They chose an inland site because this spot was a crossroads, connecting the overland trade routes that traversed Jamaica's mountains to the Rio Cobra what is now Kingston Harbor (Koot)." Spanish's reign in Jamaica did not last very long, in 1655 the British had completely taken over Jamaica by now. The first 200 years of Britan's reign Jamaica became the world's leading sugar-exporting. During 1820 and 1824 77,000 tons of sugar were being produced, all labor done by slaves, of course. Once the abolotion of slave trade ended in 1807, the British started to import Indian and Chinese indentured workers to Jamaica. Today many Chinese and Indians still live in Jamaica. Jamaica relied heavily on slaves, it came to the point where blacks outnumbered whites, 20 to 1 (Wikipedia). Parliment in Great Britain was trying to abolish slavery and make better living conditions for them, but the House of Assembly in Jamaica objected to the Parliments rules saying the slaves were content with their current living conditions. After many rebellions and changes of views in Great Britain, slavery was abolished in 1834 and emancipated in 1838. It took time for Jamaica to gain independence from United Kingdom, but in 1958 it became a province of the Federation of the West Indies (part of the British West Indies). On August 6, 1962 it left the federation and gained its complete independence.

//By Cinthia Cruz//

Geography ** Jamaica is part of the Caribbean islands and the one with the most English-speaking community. It is home to the Blue Mountains inland, and is surrounded by a narrow coastal plain. Most major towns and cities are located on the coast, of course, due to tourism. The main cities are Kingston (capital), Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Montego Bay and Spanish Town. The climate in Jamaica is tropical, with hot and humid weather, although higher inland regions have a more temperate climate (Wikipedia). Jamaica lies in the hurricane belt of the Atlantic Ocean resulting in significant storm damage once in awhile. Hurricanes Charlie and Girlbert hit Jamaica directly in 1951 and 1988, respectively, causing major damage, destruction, and many deaths. In the 2000s, hurricanes Ivan, Dean, and Gustav also brought severe weather to the island (Wikipedia).

//By Cinthia Cruz//

Although the slave trade brought Anglican religion to Jamaica, slave traders were often opposed to sharing their religion with their slaves (Barrett 14). As a result, many slaves practiced their own African traditions, which led to //myal// and //obeah// practices. Both consist of voodoo and magic, focusing on good and bad spirits (Barrett). Myal is known for its rituals in music and dancing, primarily using drums and chanting.Rastafarian religion emerged partially as a rebellion against the white colonizers who oppressed their slaves (Chevannes 33). Its influences come not only from the //myal// and //obeah// spiritualism, but also Christian Baptism, which was introduced in the 1700-1800s (Barrett 17). Known as the Revival Zion, Rastafarianism believes the savior was Haile Selassie, the king of Ethiopia (Chevannes 42). At present, Jamaicans practice a wide variety of religion, including several sects of Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam (Wikipedia).  On the cruise boat, there will be Christian services as well as lectures about Rastafari, //myal//, and //obeah// traditions for those who are open to learn about and practice a new religion. Musical entertainment, influenced by Jamaican historical religion, such as reggae and traditional drum circles will also be incorporated.
 * Religion **

//by Amanda Hess//

For being such a small island, Jamaica is known all around the world for its music. Reggae, which is a byproduct of culture, religion, and Caribbean influences, can be heard around the world. Festivals dedicated to Reggae music are celebrated globally, and can always be found to celebrate peace, life, and most importantly one love. Jamaica was originally populated with a native culture, who were soon decimated with the Spanish settlement on the island. The settlers brought slaves with them, and the slaves brought their own culture and practices. One of these practices is a drum circle, which serves both a religious and social purpose. These beats inspired some of the early musicians of Jamaica to branch out into different musical genres. media type="youtube" key="h47cRqLlOpc" height="344" width="425" Some direct musical influences on Reggae are ska, and rocksteady. Ska is a byproduct of Carribean mento music (explore that further) and American Jazz/ early Rhythm and Blues. Rocksteady is similar to ska except that the tempo is slower, and there is more emphasis on the back beats. The person who really took Reggae into the limelight was Bob Marley. Bob started in a band called “The Wailers,” who were relatively popular in the 1960s. In the 1970s, however, Bob Marley went out on his own and started recording his won tracks and music. He is now a cultural icon, representing peace, one love, and the Rastafari movement. Reggae has transformed in the last 10 years into a global cultural phenomenon. Bob Merley passed the torch on to his sons, most notably Damien and Ziggy Marley, who continue to make music and promote the Rastafari spirit. Reggae has also been influencial to many new genres of music, such as reggaeton, which blends reggae and hip-hop, splashed with latin flavor.
 * Music and Literature **

Jamaican literature traces its roots back to a rich history of oral tradition steming back to the native as well as imported slave storytelling culture. One popular story is the Anancy tale, a character taken from West African folklore. Modern literature includes authors such as Hazel Dorothy Cambell, Michelle Cliff, and Erna Brodber. In his anthology, __Iron Balloons__, Colin Channer presents contemporary Jamaican literary voices through short story. The book is packed with amazing writing inspired by the island and its heritage with topics ranging from personal and generational history, to Bob Marley.

//by Rea Arechandieta//

Among the many intriguing qualities Jamaica has to offer, one that interests many is the food. Jamaica provides a largely diverse array of culinary delights that indulge the palate. However, to truly appreciate the delicious and unique food that is enjoyed on the island today, we must look back to Jamaica's cultural history. According to "Food in Jamaica," before the arrival of Christopher Columbus, the Arawaks were the native peoples of Jamaica. Through their basic means of living, they survived on staple foods which included spinach, papayas, guava, maize, potatoes, peanuts, peppers, beans, seafood, and meat. When the Spanish invaded the island in the late 1400's, they brought limes, sugar cane, coconuts, lemons, pigs, goats, and cattle and slowly incorporated the new foods into the Arawaks array of basic foods. However, the mix of food was always changing and took a turn once more with the start of the slave trade. Slaves traded to the West coast of Jamaica brought okra, peanuts, peas and beans, and //ackee.// The most interesting thing about //ackee// is that it is a fruit tree which is not native to Jamaica, but because of its incorporation to the land during the slave trade, //ackee// is now known as the national tree of Jamaica (foodbycountry.com). Rosalie Bliss of __Agricultural Research__ discusses how ackee made news in the 1970's. In 1973, ackee was taken off the import list to the United States because of the toxin HGA, or hypoglycin A. HGA is present in ackee seeds prior to maturation in order to hold the existence of the fruit. The Food and Drug Administration was wary that HGA would be present in cans of ackee imported to the United States and would sicken people. However, after many years of tests to prove the HGA was harmless, ackee is now being imported back to the U.S. (Bliss). Presently, Jamaican food uses an array of spices and various ways of preparing food. Ginger, nutmeg, and pimento are the most popular spices used when preparing dishes and "jerking" is the process of slowly seasoning fish and meats before a meal. Meats and seafood are also a staple in an ordinary Jamaican meal. Ackee and Saltfish is a national dish and fruits such as mangoes, pineapples, papayas, bananas, guava, coconuts, and ackee grow very well in the climate and are used primarily for desserts. During your cruise, popular Jamaican dishes will be available to you to enhance your experience of the overall culture. Enjoy!
 * Food **

//By Lauren Paul//

=   = = = =<span style="font-size: 150%; color: rgb(31,132,46); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">__Itinerary__ = Arrive at Discovery Bay
 * __First Day__**
 * You could check out the history behind Discovery Bay. This is where the Spanish first landed.
 * There will be a snorkeling activity for the coral reefs that are located in the area.



__**Second Day**__ Arrive at Ocho Rios
 * Dunn's River Falls excursion. Leaving early and lunch will be provided. Dunn's River Falls cascades down approximately 695 feet into the sea. There will be an opportunity to "climb" the falls.
 * If you have always wanted to swim with dolphins or you would like to do it again. Take advantage while you are here and head down to Dolphin Cove.
 * Are you a fan of the Reggae legend Bob Marley? Take a tour of his hometown Nine Mile, just 40 miles outside of Ocho Rios. You will hike to Zion Rock to experience a Rastafari meditation ritual, just as Bob did while looking at the amazing views. On this tour, you will be able to pay your respects at his grave site.

__**Third Day & Fourth Day**__ Arrive at Port Antonio
 * Visit the Blue Lagoon, which owes its color due to its 200 feet depth. You could just cross a bridge and enjoy its beauty or for an extra fee you could take a boat ride.
 * Take advantage of the rich history presented here. You could visit the ruins of Folly's Mansion and/or the DeMontevin Lodge.
 * If you just want to do some relaxation head to Frechman's Cove Beach, a nice secluded place. Use your newly learned drumming skills and participate in a drum circle on the beach!

__**Fifth Day & Sixth Day**__ Arrive at Port Royal
 * Will be visiting Morant Bay.This is where a peasant uprising occurred that had significant and far-reaching effects on the governance of the country and on the lives of ordinary citizens. The uprising was brutally repressed. Close to 500 people were killed by soldiers after the Governor at the time, Edward Eyre, declared martial law against the people. This made Morant Bay one of the most historic towns of Jamaica because of the Morant Bay Rebellion.

There will also be an option to do a bike tour to Blue Mountain. Tour includes: Roundtrip Transportation Brunch and lunch Guided tour Bicycles Safety Equipment


 * An option will also be available to take a tour of Mavis Bank Coffee Factory Limited, home of the world famous JABLUM Blue Mountain Coffee. The tour will be guided by experienced tour guides and you will see all the processing operations from the pulping of Blue Mountain Cherry Berries to the addictive aroma of the Roasting plant.

__** Seventh Day & Eighth Day **__ Arrive South Coast (Black River)
 * Enjoy its environmental beauty
 * Visit the Waterloo house. It was the first residence in Jamaica to have electricity. It is said that it was originally owned by the Shakespeare family, who were thought to be related to William Shakespeare.
 * Feeling adventurous? Try this. The Safari offers visitors an exciting six-mile trip up the Black River to see its wildlife and complex ecosystem. The mangroves that grow close to the banks of the river are a haven for over 100 species of birds, crabs, fishes, frogs, crocodiles and other wildlife.

__**Ninth Day & Tenth Day**__ Arrive at Montego Bay We will be arriving in time for the Reggae Sumfest. We will be offering discount tickets if you choose to go to the concert.<span style="background-color: rgb(255,211,0);"><span style="background-color: rgb(245,244,244);">

__**Optional Classes and Services During Your Cruise**__ <span style="background-color: rgb(255,211,0);"><span style="background-color: rgb(245,244,244);">
 * Jamaican Dance: Taught by Brittay Lions, 2008's Miss Jamaica.
 * Jamaican Drums: Taught by the members of //Rockers//
 * One Love: A Reggae music lyrics writing seminar
 * Christian church services lead by the cruise ship minister
 * Hair braiding/ Dreadlocks
 * Jamaican chef Nigel Spence, owner of New York restaurant __, on-site chef throughout the cruise
 * Cooking classes with chef Nigel Spence
 * 24-hour, full-service library on board
 * Jamaican Poetry Writing and Performance Classes: Lead by famous dub poet, Jean "Binta" Breeze
 * Rastafari Ideology Lecture
 * Nightly performances by Jamaican folk and Reggae bands, with special guest, Jah Cure!

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<span style="color: rgb(250,10,10); background-color: rgb(249,244,26);"><span style="display: block; font-size: 190%; color: rgb(0,255,40); font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif; background-color: rgb(248,253,227); text-align: left;">CLICK HERE to See Real Jamaican Drumming and Dancing!

<span style="color: rgb(0,255,14); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Works Cited <span style="display: block; font-size: 190%; color: rgb(0,255,40); font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif; background-color: rgb(248,253,227); text-align: left;"> <span style="display: block; font-size: 190%; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif; color: rgb(4, 6, 4); background-color: rgb(253, 254, 251); text-align: left;">

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Hevetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;"> Easy Skanking

<span style="font-family: Hevetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: lighter; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">all saturday evenings should be like this, caressing your thigh while reading neruda with his odes to matilde’s arms, breasts, hair – everything about her that made him a part of this bountiful earth – lilies, onions, avocadoes – that fed his poetry the way rain washes the dumb cane with desire or banyans break through asphalt. this is the nirvana that the buddha with his bald monks and tiresome sutras never knew – or else he’d never have left his palace and longing bride – the supple feel of your leg in my hands for which i’d spin the wheel of karma a thousand lifetimes, more -Geoffrey Philp