Exploring the Cultural Ties Between Scotland & Jamaica

This lush and culturally diverse Caribbean island carries within its history various influences, including that of Scotland. Our Scottish connection dates back to 1656 when Oliver Cromwell banished 1200 Scottish prisoners-of-war to Jamaica, England’s recently acquired colony. Subsequently, the practice of banishing Scottish exiles to Jamaica continued, and several thousand more Scotsmen came to Jamaica as indentured and skilled labourers with the promise of land and other riches. Eventually, Scottish settlers became involved in the slave trade and used enslaved Africans as their labour force on the sugar plantations. As such, Scottish and Jamaican history are intricately intertwined, albeit ghastly in many ways. Today, I’ll share five tangible ways in which Scotland has shaped Jamaican society.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle26 Comments

Forgotten Footprints: Welsh Legacy in Jamaica

Last week’s article on Oktoberfest & Jamaica’s German legacy was so well received that I decided to continue this history series. Plus, this research is super fun! Similar to the Germans, the Welsh migrated to Jamaica in smaller droves but their presence is a lot more tangible today. The Welsh arrived to Jamaica alongside the British in the mid-1600s, but even before then Welsh pirate Henry Morgan was already raiding settlements and shipping bases in Port Royal. In fact, Henry Morgan was one of the richest pirates in the Caribbean and served as one of Jamaica’s earliest Lieutenant Governors under British rule. Most Welsh migrants to Jamaica were ministers of religion and plantation managers especially from the Anglican, Moravian and Methodist faiths. Others were artisans, sailors and labourers. With that said, let’s share five facts about Welsh legacy in Jamaica.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle24 Comments

The Untold Story of Germans in Jamaica

Did you know that Jamaica has German history? Their numbers were significantly smaller compared to other European immigrants, but they are still a visible minority group thanks to The Jamaican German Society which works closely with the German Embassy in Kingston. Today, German isn’t spoken in Jamaica nor taught in Jamaican schools or universities but it’s still possible to enjoy a taste of Germany in Jamaica as the two countries have an intertwined history and diplomatic ties. In commemoration of Oktoberfest, today I’ll share five facts about German legacy in Jamaica.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle8 Comments
Gathering of people around performer on stage

Where to Get Weekly Live Music in Kingston

Kingston, Jamaica, is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, art scene, reggae music, and pulsating rhythms. If you’re a reggae music enthusiast looking for an authentic live music experience, you’re in for a treat. Kingston is home to a plethora of venues which cater to roots reggae lovers, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to immerse themselves in the island’s rhythmic beats. In today’s post, we’ll explore four live music venues in Kingston where you can groove to the infectious beats and sounds which make Jamaica’s music scene so iconic. These venues host weekly events which make up Kingston’s music calendar. Before you go, learn more about Jamaica’s music history here.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle24 Comments

Nightlife in Kingston, Jamaica: The Best Spots

Kingston, the capital city of Jamaica, is renowned for its rich culture, lively music, art scene and vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets over the Caribbean, Kingston comes alive with an eclectic mix of clubs, bars, and entertainment venues that cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a reggae enthusiast, a lover of dancehall beats, or simply seeking a memorable night out, Kingston offers an array of hotspots to explore. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the best spots for nightlife in Kingston. These options are perfect for summer 2025 & beyond.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle20 Comments

Top 8 Jamaican Music Festivals To Experience in 2025 & 2026

Jamaica is renown for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its legendary music scene. Reggae, dancehall, ska, rocksteady, mento and dub are the six genres of music which originated on this island. What better way to immerse yourself in the rhythm and soul of Jamaica than by attending one of its thrilling music festivals? Here are eight Jamaican music festivals to add to your bucket list for 2025 & 2026.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle19 Comments
Louise Bennett statue

6 Sculptures Which Define Kingston, Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica’s vibrant capital city, is not only renowned for its rich cultural heritage and musical legacy but also for its thriving art scene. Sculptures play a significant role in showcasing the artistic prowess of the island. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of sculpture by highlighting six sculptures in Kingston that are worth exploring. From historical tributes to contemporary masterpieces, these sculptures offer a glimpse into Jamaica’s diverse and captivating artistic landscape.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle20 Comments

Unveil Kingston’s Art Scene With These 6 Gems

Art is an integral part of the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Kingston, Jamaica. As the capital city and cultural hub of the island, Kingston boasts a diverse art scene that reflects the island’s history, struggles, and triumphs. From street art to contemporary galleries, the city offers a wide range of artistic expressions. In this article, we will delve into the budding world of art in Kingston and explore six places that exemplify the city’s creative spirit.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle11 Comments

Ital Food: What Rastas Can Teach Us About Health

Ital food, often associated with Rastafarian culture, is a dietary practice that emphasizes natural, plant-based foods in their purest form. Derived from the word “vital,” ital food not only nourishes the physical body but also carries spiritual and ethical significance. With roots in Africa and Jamaica, ital food has gained recognition worldwide for its health benefits and sustainable approach. In this article, we will delve into the essence of ital food, exploring its origins, principles, nutritional value, and the broader impact it has on individuals and communities.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle22 Comments

A Jamaican Year: Measured by Fruit Seasons

For today’s WordPress prompt, I’ve been asked to list my top five favourite fruits. This is a difficult selection to make as I love fruits, and here in Jamaica we are blessed with dozens of seasonal tropical fruits. In fact, the year to a Jamaican is divided by seasons– fruit seasons. We begin the year with Otaheite apples, followed by mango season then lychee and guinep season and finally June plum, hog plum, cherry, naseberry and sweetsop season. Some fruit trees bear multiple times a year like oranges, bananas and ackee, one of the world’s most poisonous fruits, which is a Jamaican delicacy and forms half of the National Dish. After much deliberation, these are my top five. If you’d like to try Jamaican fruits, check out this farm tour in Ocho Rios, or the Bluefields Farm tour near Negril.

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Rochelle | Adventuresfromelle49 Comments