There is a certain serenity when you go to Jamaica. The island breeze caresses your cheek, and the scents and smiles of a foreign land greet you with a warm embrace. Beautiful is not enough to describe this place, exquisite perhaps barely scratches the surface of what it feels like to revel in the culture and experience of Jamaica. I have had the pleasure of traveling to Jamaica many times before, but my recent summer getaway to the city of Negril was indescribable, a moment I found myself saying, “You had to be there to understand it.” One week full of core memories, happy tears, conversations with strangers turned friends and laughter over shared meals. As I returned home peering through the airplane window seat, I reflected on the immense emotions I experienced on the island and came to the realization that sometimes it isn’t about the destination but the company.

My voyage to Jamaica was a blank canvas in which we painted with a kaleidoscope of memories. Arriving in Montego Bay airport luggage in hand with my fellow travelers accompanying me, we headed straight for Skylark Negril Beach Resort. There is an overwhelming sensation to illustrate everything you must experience in this country, but for starters Skylark Negril Beach Resort located on the pristine 7-mile beach is the place to call home for the duration of your stay. When you mix together high-quality hospitality, good food, white sand beaches, and the lushness of greenery surrounding your hotel room, Skylark is the perfect melting pot for places to stay in Jamaica. Throughout my travels I have come to find that the people you meet on vacation leave an imprint on your soul and that is exactly what the people of Skylark did to me. The people of Jamaica live up to their cultural values of “One Love” and “No Problem Mon,” the connections made through simple conversation or a passing smile fulfilled the invitation of living an “Irie” life. A day did not pass when the Skylark staff, strangers selling coconuts, or fellow guests didn’t make me feel a part of their home. The level of personable interactions leading to newfound friendships was the essence of what it means to travel and explore a different corner of the world. Jamaica doesn’t fall short of good food, located on the Skylark premises guests can enjoy the flavors of the restaurant, Miss Lily’s. With locations in Negril, New York, and Dubai Miss Lily’s is the place to be for all three meals, just a brisk walk from the comfort of your room you can enjoy a traditional ackee and saltfish breakfast, jerk chicken sandwich on coco bread or a plate of coconut shrimp with a scotch bonnet mango aioli — your tastebuds will never be dissatisfied. To stay at Skylark is to revel in the culture and people of Jamaica, you won’t walk away from this place without a smile on your face and the memory of how its people made you feel.

The company you keep on vacation I have found is what makes your travels unique and memorable. My company for the time I spent in Jamaica was what made this vibrant escape unforgettable. When you have the privilege of experiencing life and the beauty of a place with friends and family, you view the world in those moments differently. There is something rather indescribable about watching your fellow travelers enjoy themselves, and then to be alongside them as well witnessing the beauty is even more special. From swimming in the rain, dancing under the disco ball with rum punches in hand and watching the sun kiss the horizon of the Caribbean sea, the destination would have always been beautiful but living those moments with my company of choice made it even better. You learn so much when you travel and the conversations and emotions you get to share on a pink floater, early morning walks and mouthfuls of laughter over jerk pasta and papaya daiquiris allows you to gain an understanding about each other and yourself. The presence of people close by taught me so much, even the company of unfamiliar faces who then became friends turned a week into a lifetime of memories. My traveling companionship opened doors to enhanced perspectives, meaningful conversation and mutual support through the highs and lows of exploration. Whether with family or friends, the good company you keep fosters a sense of camaraderie as you navigate different cultures, savory local cuisines, and marvel at breathtaking sceneries. With the privilege of having Jamaica as a home away from home, good company transformed the journey into an enriching experience I will never forget.

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Jamaica may be small on the map but the rich blend of culture, natural beauty and warm hospitality entices visitors from across the globe to immerse themselves in the beauty of the island. Many travel bloggers have noted Jamaica’s Rastafari culture and “One Love” as somewhere that has cultivated the image of a place where anything goes. The island immerses travelers in a sensory feast with historical locations, hikes in the Blue Mountains and hidden waterfalls. There is an endless amount of hidden treasures to discover. Jamaica’s allure extends far beyond its landscape, the island encompasses a welcoming spirit and lively locals who are known for their warmth and undeniable hospitality. From the moment you arrive, Jamaica feels like stepping into a woven tapestry of warmth, rhythm and tropical allure. The atmosphere is filled with an infectious beat of reggae music, aromas of spices and a masterpiece of contrasted landscapes, making your memories of Jamaica linger long after you leave the shores of this enchanting island.

Article by Leah Williams, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Bradley Duley, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

The Destination and the Company