“Forin” — Traveling While Jamaican

While island life provides beautiful scenery and magnificent beaches, it poses a real challenge when it comes to the production of goods and some raw materials. Overseas traveling is a lifeline for most Jamaicans. It is a time to shop while making the expense worthwhile upon returning to the island. Thus, each dollar, person and space is maximized so as to counter the shortfalls of living in a developing economy. Though, more recently more have become accustomed to leisure time and sightseeing, but old habits die hard. 

First and foremost, the cost of the airfare must match the length of stay, whether it’s one month, two months, three, four or six — the maximum time allotted upon point of entry and tourist visa guidelines. For such extended stays and high rate of migration, it is most likely the trip involves visiting and staying at a relative’s and/or friend’s residence. 

Then comes what to bring. Everything. The entire pantry. Food is very important to Jamaicans and although the main purpose of the trip is shopping for goods, it is also to bring Jamaican goods to relatives and friends. This is always welcomed by your host, and rather always interesting to the receiving border Custom Officer. Now, I’ve seen many get creative with cargo, but it is safe to say the majority includes mostly dry goods and a few perishables; a variety of island favorites, bammy, yam, meats, Jamaican Beef patties and a special request or two. Whether requested or gifted, it is all completely normal. 

First-time travelers tend to make the mistake of packing too many items they desire, to enjoy their stay, and when returning there isn’t enough room to transport the new items home. The second trip and thereafter everyone packs just the bare essentials — empty suitcases for cargo. Then the adventure of running down the list of essentials and personal requests begins. I’ll admit the first couple years engaging in this fiasco was fun and at times exciting. I love receiving guests, reliving memories and getting tokens from home, but as time went on, my currency changed and now I no longer enjoy the tradition. 

When I’m home I enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer, the food, land and loved ones, but I also leave it all there to ensure a quick return when I long for more. Now, leaving for home is a bit more challenging because Dad missed my memo, but I am always in receipt of his. I allow him one item in my cargo, but besides that, it’s me. I’m going home. Though, it will be interesting to witness how COVID-19 changes this “right of passage;” will we leave the things behind having now faced the risk of losing everything? 

The diaspora longs for Jamaica and the foreigner is the bridge between Someday the two shall meet the Jamaica each needs