The Island of Jamaica embraces movement. Movement as one people, one heart, one community, and one song. The Jamaican People have an amazing zest for life, and it shines through in everything they do. Jamaica is such a vibrant, colorful place with incredible food, beautiful beaches, and energetic, intoxicating music. After 4 incredible trips, these are a few of my favorite places and things to do on the Rock.
The Blue Mountains are most famous for their delicious coffee, but it's the scenery and fresh mountain air that really wins the prize. I have never seen such lush greenery in my life, (and were not talking the smokin' kind). Just driving through the mountains will fill you with a sense of tranquility and peace. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to shoot my first LookBook for the BOHEME Collection in the Blue Mountains, and it was the perfect location for the launch of the Brand.
An absolute Must-Do while visiting Jamaica is to visit Rick's Cafe in Negril. Not only is this a great place to go day drinking, listen to live Reggae music and take in the beautiful sunsets, but the main excitement at Rick's Cafe is the dangerous cliff diving. Stupidly I tried it, (after an hour of downing some liquid courage), and have to tell you first hand- this was one of the most amazing adrenaline rushes I have ever experienced. Depending on the tide, the jump can reach 35 feet, and to be honest- it felt like it was 200 feet. The jump seemed to last forever, and I was so relieved to hit the water safely. The mind numbing impact when I plunged into the water left me in a lethargic trance for a solid ten minutes. Watch my brave jump below!
Know for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the water in Jamaica is so clear you don't know where the water stops and the sky starts. My favorite beach in Jamaica hands down is Port Antonio, famously where the Blue Lagoon and the first James Bond film, Dr. No were filmed. I highly recommend that you enjoy the breathtaking views lazily from the comfort of a hammock.
Jamaica is infamous for it's Rum, so it's a must that you try one of the many delicious Rum based Cocktails. My favorite here, The Jamaican Rum Punch- shot pool side at the Spanish Court Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.
The food in JA is some of the freshest, most flavorful food I have ever eaten, and to this day I crave Scotchies for their authentic Jerk Chicken, Festival and Bammy. Scotchies is my FIRST and LAST stop when I visit JA. The vibe is definitely no-frills. You eat on tin foil with your hands and the atmosphere is extremely rustic. The distinct flavor comes from the secret Jamaican seasoning and grilling the meat over pimento tree wood. And a meal at Scotchies is not complete until you wash it all down with the Official Beer of JA- a Red Stripe.
My clothing style really resonates with the women in JA- as they embrace color and the laid-back beachy lifestyle. I have had the opportunity to showcase my collection in multiple Jamaican Fashion Shows, Trunk Show Events and Red Carpet Premieres, and had the opportunity to meet some really amazing and inspiring people that I am proud to call Friends.
Poolside at Half Moon Bay Resort in Montego Bay with Miss Jamaica, Carolyn Yapp.
With Jamaican Boxer, Lennox Lewis at the OCEAN Magazine Runway Show featuring the Meghan LA Collection.
Twinning and Martini's with one of my VIP Customers at a Meghan LA Trunk Show.
