Capturing the magic at Hillside Veranda Jamaica

Golden sunset paints the sky over Hillside Veranda, Darliston, Jamaica, casting a warm glow on the lush landscape.

WHA A GWAAN?

Living the Jamaican culture...

Jamaica is a place much like New York in the United States where they say, “ the city that never sleeps”. Well, yes Jamaica sleeps but it always has one eye open. What do I mean?  Well, you just have to know the What, When and Where of” WHA A GWAAN?

WHAT-staying local..

What better way to explore the true Jamaica and get to know the vibe of the people than to live among them. Why not book a vacation and stay in a local home like Hillside Veranda. There you can experience the unspoiled environment and savor the real food cuisine. The Veranda is also surrounded by local homes. Throughout the day you will hear the voices of the people echoing back and forth in the native patois from one home to another. Patois is a broken form of English that is spoken throughout the country.

A delightful Hillside Veranda breakfast featuring Ackee and Saltfish with fried dumplings, served alongside creamy porridge and a touch of hot sauce for added flavor.

WHEN- Holidays, Early mornings, and Late nights

Sleep, who can sleep when the holiday season begins? It seems as if it is always a holiday in Jamaica. From the birth week celebration of Reggae Great Bob Marley in February to the weeklong July Reggae Music Sum fest, and Jamaica’s Independence celebrations in August are just a few of the many happenings throughout the year.

There are always countless events going on locally. Driving or walking along the street do not be surprised if you come upon a local dance scene or hear music emanating from someone’s home or business. Music is the heartbeat of the Jamaican people.

How about in the early mornings, around 4, 5 and up to 7am. This is a special time that has a sound of its own. At the Hillside Veranda, the Wind is usually the first to begin the serenade as it passes thru the trees. Next comes the sound of the neighbors Roosters, with their signature crowing, which heralds the start of a new day. Followed closely are the black birds that may be heard rustling loudly through the trees and tweeting, John tu-eat; John tu-eat.

Finally, the sounds of random cars and bikes tooting their horns as the day unfolds. In this community, it is not uncommon to see the men with bags, sticks and machetes as they make their way to their farm.  For many, the nighttime is the best time. 

Birds nestled in the lush greenery near the Hillside Veranda, Black River, showcasing the area's rich natural beauty. Connect with us @ guwaayculture.com

One eye always open….

While one eye is asleep the other eye is open, meaning while in one community it may seem quiet and uneventful, just a few miles down the road, there is a jam session. The local communities are populated with small shops where you can find the locals sipping on a Red Stripe beer or Gin and Rum. These shops tend to stay open as long as there is someone present.  At the Hillside Veranda, we love the nighttime, because the sky is literally alive with stars and even when cloudy the atmosphere is truly refreshing.

WHERE-Hillside Veranda in the South, Montego Bay Hip strip in the West and Kingston museums in the East.

So, where to go see and enjoy “WHA A GWAAN”? Book a stay at Hillside Veranda in the south. Here you can do me time or see time. Enjoy quiet time for yourself, savor the local cuisine or go out and explore nearby scenes. In the West is Montego Bays busy city streets with lots of shops and beaches and Casino for those of you who like to take chances. The capital city of Kingston is a great place to learn the legacy of some of the pioneers of Jamaica. Maybe visit the Bob Marley and Marcus Garvey Museums.  There are plenty stops along the journey while exploring Jamaica. There is always something you have never seen before or somewhere you might have missed.

As always, That a what a Gwaan, when it a Gwaan. Hashtag# keep culture alive!

Moe