My wife Chris and i had the best holiday of our lives in Jamaica earlier this year. We spent the first week of April at River Lodge on the north coast and our second week at Vikings House in Treasure Beach. Both places shared a very similar vibe and every person we met gave off genuine warmth. Staying with Stephanie,Viking and family was truly wonderful and joyously relaxed. Even our day trip to Kingston music studios in the first week was hassle and threat free.
On our return, no matter who we have told about our trip, the initial reaction from people was how lucky we were not to have been robbed/ kidnapped/attacked.In both areas we stayed it was clear to see the importance attached to low key but sustainable tourism and the benefits of community tourism. Surely the Jamaican Tourist Board (if it exists!) could put together a website which includes those areas of Jamaica, like Treasure Beach, that pride themselves on offering beautiful peaceful alternatives to the locked in resorts of Negril , Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Alternatively, if there is a community tourism network, guest houses and homes across the island could link up to offer the REAL Jamaican experience as part of a holiday package.
Again, we totally loved our experience and are constantly dreaming about a return visit.In the meantime we will continue to tell people that there is a whole world of magic in Jamaica that is a million miles away from the depressing violence of Kingston and hassle of the resorts.
Love and respect to Stephanie, Viking and family- we miss you !

I am happy, that at lease there are people out there who have experienced that it is not always good to listen other people negative comments and painted scripts, that has been perceived of the beautiful Island Jamaica.

Jamaica is one of the most beautiful place in the world and yes there are good, bad and indifference every where in the world. Those who had a bad experiences whilst vacating in Jamaica, I am sorry that you encountered such unfortunate circumstances. I think that incidents, accidents and overall discomforting chaos arises any where in the world so Jamaica deserved a chance to strive rather than being bad mouthed.

Rick, I hope you will return god bless.

Well said Nordia. On the other hand I wish the Government would try harder to make it even safer so more tourist/Jamacian born would choose coming there instead of going to the other carribean islands.The economy needs a boost.
Let us keep them coming and treat them well so on their return to their homeland they can give Jamaica a good rating.
It is such a beautiful Island let's all try to keep it that way.