Dos and Don’ts for
your Spring Break in Jamaica
Deciding to take your Spring Break in Jamaica could be the start of a holiday of a lifetime, but there are some things that you need to keep in mind to ensure that you stay safe but still have a great time.
DO make sure that your parents
know where you're going to be staying, who you are traveling
with, have contact information and a rough idea of what you'll
be doing there – especially any places you intend to
visit. You should also make sure that you give your home contact
information (such as parents names, address and phone numbers)
to at least 2 of the people you are traveling with in case
they need to be contacted.
DON'T accept/buy/take drugs
– Jamaica may be a place where you can freely find them,
but it's not a good idea. Really! As accessible as they are,
they are also illegal and the last place you want to spend
your Spring Break is a local Jamaican police cell!
DO listen to any personal safety
advice that's given. They are talking to you! Just because
you're young and only there to have a great fun doesn't make
you immune to the darker side of Jamaica. The advice may sound
as if it's your parents speaking, but it's not just for your
benefit – crimes against tourists affect the local economy
so the hotel has reasons for keeping you safe!
DON'T take any expensive jewelry.
You're probably going to spend most of your time in the water,
on the beach or partying anyway so you don't need it! If you
don't take it, you can't lose it or have it stolen!
DO follow any safety guidance given by activity instructors. If you later take part in the same activity without an instructor, remember the safety warnings and make sure you have the right equipment.
DON'T go out on your own at
night if you're female! Jamaica is a beautiful country, but
it's a culture is very much male dominated with women being
of little value. Enter any relationships with male locals
with caution!
DO have a great time! This
could be a once in a lifetime vacation that you'll remember
for years to come. Jamaica is an island paradise, a place
where most people will only dream of visiting so get the most
of out it – don't spend the entire vacation on the beach!
The safety advice may sound
a little dramatic, but think about it – it’s not
so very different to what non-US people are told when they
are planning a visit to New York City! Most of it is common
sense. Don't get too confident about your safety, listen to
the hotel's advice, and you’ll have a wonderful experience
but still get home in the same condition you left!
|
