Faculty-Led Study Abroad in Jamaica

The trip to Jamaica was the best trip In my high School Career. Being there I definitely look at everything differently and no regrets. One of my favorite parts of the trip was costing the Annie Dawson Home because the girls there were so grateful, beautiful, loving, and funny. I also loved the house we stayed in, the food that was cooked for us, and the party they threw for us before leaving. Another I enjoyed was the beach, it was so beautiful. I love Jamaica and would most definitely go back if I could.

The experience was an incredibly fun thing to do for the class, and was very educational. The staff were very kind and personable, and the Smokey Vale Manor was absolutely lovely. We were served Jamaican food every day at the manor, and given lessons on Jamaican culture with any questions we had answered by the very nice and personable staff. They accompanied us on our trips, making sure we got where we needed to go, giving us advice and tips, and pointing out nuances of what we saw and did.

Overall, the experience was very interesting and exciting. There were many once in a lifetime opportunities to see things that not every traveler gets to see. We were lead everyday by multiple staff members and were carried from each destination in nice air conditioned buses. We followed closely to the busy schedule which allowed us to get the most out of each day of participation. I enjoyed my experience and would suggest it to anyone who wishes to learn about life in Jamaica.

The program was an great experience, i learned a lot about the culture. My favourite thing about the trip was the food, i got to taste a lot of great food. The jerk chicken we have in America is a little different then what i had here. I also like our bus rides we took. On the bus ride i was able to see different parts of the country. I was also able to see all the kids going to school. I wish the weather was a little better, but it was still better than what we have in Illinois.

My experience at Smokey Manor was great! Travelling to a different country can be daunting, but the ladies and gentlemen at Smokey Manor gave me comfort and confidence in my stay. At one point, I even got sick and had to stay in bed for the day instead of exploring with the group and the staff took great care of me. The men and women of Smokey Manor also took so much pride in their culture and took the time to share with us bits and pieces of their customs. Overall, it was an educationally-enhancing and friendly experience!

I think that this program has helped me learn more about Jamaican culture. For example, I have learned that death is not really a sad thing but looked upon a transition into a new life. I have also learned about different agricultural practices that take place here and its effects. We those practices I have noticed that there are things that are similar and things that are different from the U.S. I have also come to learn about the different economic challenges that Jamaica faces.

This experience was amazing. My classmates and I were able to experience not only Jamaica but also its people. By staying at smokey manor, I was able to interact with so many great people of Jamaica. We were not only well taken care of but also given the opportunity to learn dance moves that are typical of people our age. We also 2 meals a day at the house which was a great way to try new things and take a "culinary adventure." I would recommend this to anyone who wants to experience Jamaica.

The staff was wonderful and so helpful whenever I needed anything! The food was great and they made sure to include Jamaican culture into our experiences. I will definitely take back a piece of Jamaican culture when I go home. The house was always nice and upkept with everything clean and in order. The staff was always ready to handle whatever situation might arise and solve the problem quickly. I highly recommend staying with Jamaica Volunteer Programs in Smokey Manor!