Wow, what a great vacation, seeing part of the world I've only glimpsed through history books and movies. Jamaica was everything it could be, beautiful scenery, gracious and kind people, and some of the most breathtaking flowers I've ever seen. Herewith, a sample. After two days at sea, relaxing, dining with good company, spending quality time with the bride, a few drinks and a little gambling (I won 5 nights out of seven, mostly at blackjack, some at roulette) we had landfall at Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Nearby is Runaway Bay, the place where runaway slaves often fled their oppressive masters and took boat to other shores. We opted for a bamboo raft ride down one of the many rivers rather than attempt climbing Dunn's River Falls with a bad knee. Dunn's River Falls is perhaps the most visited spot by tourists in Jamaica. Our river guide and "Captain," Claude Johnstone built his own raft and rafts down the river eight or nine times a week in a good week. From this and tips, he supports his family of five. Claude is in his mid forties, but looks to be in his early thirties and during the entire trip downriver gave a terrific running commentary on the flora and fauna of the river as well as history of Jamaica. Here is Claude poling down the river:

Music was being played everywhere, reggae, pop, even country and western with a reggae flavor. These gents had a wonderful sound, even though they didn't look like they were enjoying playing. Yet, with the sounds they were making, they obviously put heart and soul into it.

Jamaica was hard hit by Ivan in September, 2004, and seventeen souls lost their lives. The people however, like the flora cannot be repressed and retained a joy of life not always found in other climes, other cultures. Though the crops; like bannana, coffee, breadfruit, mango and truckgarden crops suffered, all are coming back. Some of the flowers were so spectacular, I couldn't resist taking multiple shots. Here are a couple:

this one

and

Of course, no photo essay of the Caribbean would be complete without a spectacular sunset, so here are two for your eyes to feast on. This was our second night at sea after a brief but spectacular storm in the west:

and this one leaving Jamaica

More Caribbean photoblogging later.

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