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Travel: Ocho Rios, Jamaica: Sun & Adventure

Published

9 years ago

June 23, 2015

Oakland Post

Lady at party in Ocho Rios

By Dwight Brown
NNPA Travel Writer

The hilly town of Ocho Rios sits on the north coast of Jamaica, at the base of the St. Ann Mountains. The former fishing village, now a tourist destination, is as noted for its resorts and beaches as its mountainous terrain and natural wonders. A trip here offers vacationers heaps of adventure and festivities with their sun and sand. Bring your flip-flops and your sneakers too to take advantage of all “Ochi” has to offer.

A Laidback Town

Planes fly tourists into the north central city of Montego Bay from all over the world. A two-hour bus ride going west takes you to the 7-mile beach town of Negril. If you stay in Montego Bay, the island’s second largest city, you’re central to restaurants, shops and resorts. Head east, on a one hour, 45-minute journey, pass farmland, grazing goats and horses, and the road to Ocho Rios eventually takes you pass huge industrial vats that once held bauxite, sugar and limestone that were picked up by freighters and shipped internationally.

Downtown Ocho Rios (population 9,450), the setting of the James Bond movie Dr. No, is pretty sublime and by all visible clues, it doesn’t look anything like a tourist trap. There are no strings of souvenir shops, no tall buildings, just small stores, strip malls and locals walking around, heading to work, running errands, shopping in outdoor markets and socializing. The residents speak a blend of English and Patois: Wha’appen? = What’s up? Bashment = party. Rhaatid! = Wow! If you hear all three in a sentence, grab your party shoes and go.

Natural Wonders

Though the name Ocho Rios literally means “Eight Rivers,” and there are a number of rivers running through it, there are not eight. In fact, aside from the sea, the water source that is most famous in the environs is Dunns River Falls. Looking like gigantic steps constantly flooded by a stream of crystal clear water laden with travertine, this natural wonder measures 600 feet long and 180 feet high. The falls cascade down to a small V-shaped beach where the Battle of Las Chorreras (The Falls) was fought in 1657 when the English overpowered the Spanish/Cuban forces.

Years ago, if you couldn’t climb Dunns River Falls, all you could do was look. Now, stairs and viewing stations parallel the falls, so anyone can ogle them from the top to the bottom, or easily step into one of its soothing whirlpools. Guides from Dunns River Park can take those who are adventurous up the falls, in about an hour and half, barefoot or wearing water shoes.

The tall Mystic Mountain crowns the hilly terrain in Ocho Rios. A state-of-the-art chairlift, dubbed the Rainforest SkyExplorer, helps guests ascend over treetops up to the 700-feet crest. Views of downtown Ocho Rios, the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding rainforest are visually arresting. Once you get to the top there are tourist shops and choices to make.

You can pick from two distinct adventures: 1) The Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica is a fun ride that features a 1,000-meter long gravity-drive through the rainforest on custom-designed, high-tech sleds fitted on rails that weave, pitch, turn and drop. You get in and a metal hood covers your legs. You control the speed of your sled by pushing (fast) or pulling (slow) on levers as you race down the mountainside through dense foliage. 2) The Zip Line attraction whisks you through the rainforest, from platform to platform. Some dexterity, skills and arm strength are required to control the ride and stop. At the end you have the choice of taking the SkyExplorer back down the mountain from the halfway mark. Both attractions, and the chair lift, are a perfect family outing.

There are other adventures of note: Swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove (http://dolphincoveja.com), and Chukka Caribbean Adventures (http://www.chukkacaribbean.com/) that offers White River tubing, horseback riding in the sea and ATV safaris.

Resorts to remember

Ocho Rios has a wide variety of resorts. Small lush inns, mid-sized hotels, all-inclusives. Something to keep in mind is that the island is changing rapidly. Chain hotels from foreign countries now dot the shores, many looking like a string of windowed boxes on the beach. They have little charm, almost no vegetation and very little connection to Jamaican culture.

The Sandals Ochi Beach Resort (http://www.sandals.com/main/ochorios/or-home/?gclid=CIilp5vJjcYCFcWPHwodWw4Agg), formerly Sandals Grande Riviera Beach & Villa Golf Resort, has had a $60 million makeover that added a modern, hip, South Beachish vibe to the premises, yet it has retained its link to old world Jamaica.

Ocho Rios’ main road divides the resort into two separate sections. On a hill, there’s the All-Butler Village & Great House. Its ultimate lovers refuge is the Village Honeymoon Romeo & Juliet Sanctuary: One Bedroom Villa Suites that feature a private courtyard with a plunge pool, Jacuzzi and a separate kitchen/living room. You could walk around indoors and outdoors completely nude and no one would be the wiser. No one can see in. Butlers provide private candlelight dinners, and the works. There are also four-suite cottages, which have their own pools, and rooms in the Great House that overlook an expansive, beautifully designed pool area that looks like it belongs in Beverly Hills.

Sandals’ Caribbean Riviera Section, across the street, sits on the beach and also features cottage- types suites, surrounded by plush lawns, bougainvillea and palm trees; rooms in the main house give you a panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea. There are two distinct sections on the beach: one resembles a lively Miami Beach club with curated music; the other side is more serene, protected by a reef and has a U-shaped pier that juts out into the sea. You can get on an air mattress and float up and down the shore, in waist-high water that is as placid and calm as a shallow pond.

Staying Active and Pampered

The Sandals Golf & Country Club’s hilly Par 71 course overlooks the sea and offers guests unlimited play and no green fees. It’s all free. Knocking that little white ball into 18 holes is a nice challenge for novices and invigorating for dedicated golfers. There are clinics, private lessons, free clubs and golf balls. If you’ve always wanted to play, but were intimidated by the costs, this is where you start, with teaching pros like Bill Williams who will coddle you.

Chris is Sandals’ resident tennis pro. Beginners clinics start at 8 a.m., Intermediate at 9 a.m. and Advanced at 10 a.m. There are no charges for classes, private lessons or to play against Chris, who is friendly and competitive as he whips a forehand by you.

The evening catamaran ride aboard Island Routes Dunn’s River Catamaran Cruise www.islandroutes.com includes snorkeling, a buffet dinner and an opportunity to dance to DJ music. As the catamaran host will remind you constantly, you will never see these people again. So dance, drink, sing and act out to the blaring reggae and house music. An air of euphoria reigns for about three hours.

After a day lying in the sun, or horsing around, the Red Lane® Spa offers sore bodies, dry faces and needy skin traditional massages, facials, scrubs and body wraps with local flair and ingredients. One of its signature treatments is the Night Blooming Jasmine Massage, which is performed at twilight, in a location of a couple’s choosing, featuring an aromatic massage with hints of Chinese Jasmine.

Eating, Drinking and Being Seen

Sandals’ The Southern Table restaurant features American comfort food: start with the Apple Pumpkin soup, move on to the signature dish of Free Range Fried Chicken with red beans, steamed rice and corn kernels and top if off with Bread Pudding. The new Jerk Shack has a menu filled with Jerk Chicken, Pork, Sausage, Steamed Fish and tasty donut-like bread called Festival. Le Gourmand appeals to those looking for French cuisine with entrees like Souris d’Agneau au Romarin (braised lamb shank, haricots verts, caramelized pearl onions, roasted pumpkin, Cabernet jus). Perhaps the most romantic location for dinner, of the resorts 16 eateries, is Kelly’s Dockside Seaside Bar & Grill, a fine dining experience on the Riviera’s open-air pier with the waves gently flowing underneath you as you munch on Tiger Shrimp and sip Caribbean Muse (Appleton Genesis, vodka, cantaloupe juice, lime juice, crème de banana and simple syrup).

Watching the sunset from Sundowner, the chic rooftop lounge also on the Rivera side, with its outdoor fireplace, is fun. Hoist a Red Stripe beer and watch the sun turn orange and pink. Even more special, once the sun goes down, is heading over to the Rabbit Hole, on the Manor side. It’s a Speakeasy bar, you have to say a code word to enter, and once you do you’re treated to a two-story nightclub that feels like it was set in Harlem during prohibition. There’s a DJ and a chanteuse named Phylia Carley who is clad

in an old, red flapper dress and belts out the blues. Other evening activities include steel bands and concerts, like Shaggy playing to a crowd of high-spirited fans.

A visit to Ocho Rios, Jamaica (http://www.visitjamaica.com) gives you a great beach experience, a romantic interlude, great festivities and a sense of adventure you won’t find readily elsewhere.

Visit NNPA Travel Writer Dwight Brown at www.DwightBrownInk.com.

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Activism

South African Solidarity Committee Hosts 31st Annual Celebration

“We’re all together for each other celebrating 31 years of building international solidarity between the people of the United States and South Africa toward the implementation of the 1955 Freedom Charter and 2030 Sustainable Development Goals,” said COSAS Operations Manager Nicole Richards.Located in Berkeley, COSAS is dedicated to the continuing struggle by the people of South Africa’s need for independence.

Published

2 days ago

November 3, 2024

Oakland Post

Zimbabwean dance and music group performs at COSAS' 31 Year Celebration at the East Bay Church of Religious Science. Photo By Carla Thomas.

By Carla Thomas

The Committee of South African Solidarity (COSAS) celebrated its 31st anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 26 at the East Bay Church of Religious Science in Oakland.

Themed “Ubuntu,” a word in Zulu and Xhosa, which means “I am because we are,” the event brought together supporters and community members.

Located in Berkeley, COSAS is dedicated to the continuing struggle by the people of South Africa’s need for independence.

A soulful meal was prepared by Chef Rene Johnson and Blackberry Soul Catering along with live entertainment and speakers.

COSAS is an all-volunteer, private membership organization, made up of South Africans, Africans, students, professionals, clergy and others committed to building solidarity between the working people of the U.S. and the South African people still struggling for economic and political freedom.

Formed in 1993, the organization promotes the “real nature” of the changes and struggles taking place in South Africa and the African continent, according to Richards.

“COSAS counters ‘disinformation’ and ‘misinformation’ in the U.S. and Western mainstream media that creates division and distrust,” Richards said. “We produce the South African Beacon and organize and transport solidarity shipments of school supplies to South African grade schools requesting assistance,” Richards said.

According to organizers, COSAS is completely run by volunteers, free from the corporate and government agendas that continue to keep South Africa dependent on the West.

“We rely on the support of concerned individuals. Call us today about how you can get involved by sorting and packing supplies, donating office equipment, and supporting special events,” said Richards.

Earlier in the year, COSAS hosted its World Affairs film showing at Downs Memorial United Methodist Church. The screening featured a short film, “Feeding a Crisis: Africa’s Manufactured Hunger Pandemic,” exploring the hunger challenges African countries face and approaches to resolving the issues.

Contact the Committee for South African Solidarity, 1837 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley, CA, 510-251-0998 for volunteer opportunities and event information.

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How Mobihealth Drives a Telemedicine Revolution in Africa

As a child growing up in northern Nigeria, Dr. Funmi Adewara experienced a severe hand injury that required multiple surgeries and frequent hospital visits. These visits exposed her to the harsh realities of the country’s healthcare system. “I remember sitting in overcrowded waiting rooms, watching doctors stretched thin, unable to meet the needs of so many patients,” Adewara recalls. This formative experience ignited her passion for transforming healthcare in Africa.

Published

2 weeks ago

October 21, 2024

Oakland Post

Dr Funmi Adewara, founder and CEO of telehealth company Mobihealth. Mobihealth International photo.

By Ifeanyi Abraham

CNN

As a child growing up in northern Nigeria, Dr. Funmi Adewara experienced a severe hand injury that required multiple surgeries and frequent hospital visits.

These visits exposed her to the harsh realities of the country’s healthcare system. “I remember sitting in overcrowded waiting rooms, watching doctors stretched thin, unable to meet the needs of so many patients,” Adewara recalls.

This formative experience ignited her passion for transforming healthcare in Africa.

Growing up with a mother who worked as a nurse, Adewara’s understanding of healthcare challenges deepened through her mother’s stories.

“I knew early on that healthcare wasn’t a privilege — it was a necessity, and I wanted to be part of changing the system,” she explains.

After training as a physician, Adewara worked for 15 years in the United Kingdom’s National Health Service before founding the telemedicine platform Mobihealth in 2017.

Since its launch, Mobihealth has impacted thousands of lives, connecting patients with doctors and healthcare professionals across Nigeria and beyond.

The platform has 20 integrated telehealth clinics that offer remote consultations, diagnostics, and access to specialist care via digital health tools. Located primarily in Nigeria, these clinics are accessible to patients through various subscription plans and are often financed through partnerships with global donor organizations and private donors.

In addition to the clinics, Mobihealth has partnerships with over 200 hospitals, labs, and pharmacies, Adewara says.

The company has earned global recognition, including a $1 million grant from the U.S. Trade and Development Agency in 2022. Adewara was also one of the World Bank’s seven 2020 Sustainable Development Goals & Her award winners, selected from over 2,400 entries worldwide.

Connecting Rural Patients

Across sub-Saharan Africa, millions struggle to access basic healthcare. According to the World Health Organization, the region bears 25% of the global disease burden but has only 3% of the world’s healthcare workers.

“In rural Africa, a trip to the nearest hospital can mean the difference between life and death,” says Adewara.

Mobihealth’s latest initiative offers healthcare for $1 a month for rural and underserved populations. It allows Africans in the diaspora — and global supporters — to sponsor essential services like doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, and access to telemedicine clinics.

The scheme is not solely based on donations; individuals can also subscribe to the service for themselves.

“Healthcare systems across Africa are under immense pressure,” Adewara explains. “Our initiative is a direct response, using technology to connect rural patients with doctors thousands of miles away.”

For Adewara, Mobihealth’s telemedicine platform is not a temporary fix; it represents the future of healthcare in Africa.

“This is about creating a resilient, sustainable and inclusive system, where people, no matter where they are, can access the care they need,” she says.

“Telemedicine brings doctors to people, wherever they may be. By integrating AI and remote monitoring, we are improving the speed and accuracy of care, saving lives in the process,” she adds.

A number of African companies provide telemedicine services, but researchers have pointed out that there are obstacles that could hinder the growth of telemedicine in the continent.

Rural areas can have an unreliable electricity supply and poor internet connectivity, and there is often a lack of government policies and funding around virtual healthcare.

“A Healthcare System for the Future”

Adewara envisions scaling her company’s model to reach millions more across Africa, particularly in countries like Ghana, Kenya, and Ivory Coast.

“Our work is just beginning,” she says. “We are building a healthcare system for the future — one that is resilient, inclusive and capable of meeting Africa’s growing population’s needs.”

However, partnerships are crucial to achieving this vision. “We can’t do this alone. Our collaborations with the African diaspora, hospitals, governments, and international organizations allow us to reach more people and ensure that healthcare is affordable, efficient and accessible,” Adewara adds.

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Activism

Atty General Rob Bonta Joins Coalition Backing Pres. Biden’s Migrant Parole Program

“The Biden Administration’s CHNV Parole Program provides a safe pathway to apply for protection for Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, or Venezuelan migrants fleeing violence and upheaval. We urge the court to uphold this program that creates orderly processes for people fleeing humanitarian crises to lawfully reach the United States,” said California Attorney General Rob Bonta. The federal government has exercised its authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to parole migrants into the country for humanitarian purposes since the Eisenhower Administration.

Published

3 months ago

August 17, 2024

Oakland Post

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By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

Attorney General Rob Bonta joined a multistate coalition of 18 attorneys general to write an amicus brief supporting President Joe Bidens’s Parole Program for migrants fleeing violence.

The multistate coalition will submit the brief to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the case Texas v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The brief endorses Biden’s Parole Program for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV Parole Program). The migrant parole program allows individuals from the four countries to apply for advance travel authorization. Migrants can be considered for temporary humanitarian parole of up to two years including employment authorization.

The coalition highlighted California’s interest in maintaining the federal government’s discretionary power granting migrants entry or allowing immigrants to stay on humanitarian grounds.

“In California, we believe that migrants escaping violence should be treated with compassion and dignity, and immigration parole programs are a crucial part of a just and secure immigration system,” said Bonta.

The federal government has exercised its authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to parole migrants into the country for humanitarian purposes since the Eisenhower Administration.

The coalition argued that the lawsuit in Texas threatened to undermine the federal government’s authority to establish crucial programs that help migrants escape unstable circumstances in their home countries.

The coalition stated that parole provides safe, legal, and orderly pathways for people to seek protection in the United States.

However, opponents claim that parole pathways help increase crime and impose costs on states.