Friday, December 10, 2010

Heritage tours in Jamaica: The Outameni Experience

Jamaica has much more to offer than its beaches. In fact, the best way to experience the island is to gain a first hand perspective of the rich culture and heritage of the island. And if this is what you would like to do, you can try out the Outameni Experience, an interactive walk that takes you to a journey through five centuries.

The term Outameni which means come together was first used by the Taino Indians and reflects the island’s motto, ‘Out of Many, One People.’

The Experience is located in Trelawny, on the hills overlooking the famed north coast of the island between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. In fact most attractions are located in this part of the island and so you can consider staying in Jamaican rentals located within close proximity.

The interactive walk first introduces you to the Taino Indians and their peaceful way of life which lasted till Columbus discovered the island. It then goes on to reflect the period of Spanish conquest and rule.

The walk then focuses on the time when the Spanish were overthrown by the British and Jamaica became an English colony. It was during this sugar estate era that slavery became entrenched. Gradually, over the years, this was replaced by labour from India and China and Jamaica became a melting pot of various cultures whose influences are reflected in the cuisine, heritage and customs of the island.

The experience then takes you through 21st century Jamaica and traces the politics and the industrial development of this developing nation.

The Outameni Experience took 11 years to conceptualize and implement. It was launched in 2007 and is today a runaway success with the visitors.

Should you wish to enjoy this experience, you can stay in Silver Sands Villas on the north coast of the island. This Jamaican rental community prides itself in offering the best rates and services and also arranges for tours and transfers on the island.

1 comment:

Caribbean Villa Rentals said...

Jamaica has a rich cultural heritage and offers numerous attractions where you get to capture the history, traditions and customs of this island. The Outameni Experience, one of Jamaica’s newest attractions and has being seeing tremendous growth. This attraction has features such as art, music, dance, drama, film and offers true Jamaican cuisine. Thanks.