Loving Jamaica

[Kitten]

There are alot of people who love Jamaica. They think about Jamaica daily and how they want to be there. But is this a dream of some people who live in foreign countries and think they can return to The Jamaica they once new?
Is this a reality or is it a fantasy that they can return to the paradise they new? :)

[Zoley!]

I think I found it Kit. Jamaican people want to go home and get away from the fast paced life. But in the world we live in today. Is there a slower life. Thats a good question. I think that its hard to find. Because everything runs off just about the same economical system. Even Jamaica exchange rate runs off the American Dollar. So you will still have to have away to support yourself in Jamaica if you move back there. And right now I think the criminal element there makes me wonder if its any safer.

[Zoley!]

Im not saying there is no hope. All im saying is that for some people they have been away along time. And what they may remember of Jamaica is not the same. Even people who live there say this. So its not just my opinion. They say you cant turn back and Jamaica dont say them same like before even the people have changed.

[BlackCryptoKnight]

There are alot of people who love Jamaica. They think about Jamaica daily and how they want to be there. But is this a dream of some people who live in foreign countries and think they can return to The Jamaica they once new?
Is this a reality or is it a fantasy that they can return to the paradise they new? :)

The only constant is change. Nowhere stays the same forever. People leaving Jamaica long time ago, will not find the same Jamaica they knew. Some things may remain but others will have changed. In some cases it's a good thing - better facillities, improvements in conveniences etc. In some cases it's a bad thing, more crime, economy not so great etc.

Before coming back home to live, people need to visit for a bit and see for themselves how Jamaica has changed then make the decision as to whether they can deal with it or not. Don't just rely on media reports (especially the foreign media). Talk to people here and see for yourself. Have an open mind.

[Cocoa]

Like BCK said, return to the Jamaica we once knew would allow us to take a reality check. However, it is the place I miss and long for, the place I call home.

[Kitten]

You are right BCK nothing stay the same. So if some people think that Jamaica is the same, they should really check things out. I know some people who would just like to go back and retire and now they are having second thoughts because of the structure of the economy. So that is how this question came about. The number one concern right now is the government of Jamaica. Some people think that if Jamaica was still ruled by Britian that they would be better right now. Because while they have been independent they have had to rely on loans from the United States and are almost under the United States. Because they cant possibly stablize owing the government so much money. What is your view on this?

[BlackCryptoKnight]

You are right BCK nothing stay the same. So if some people think that Jamaica is the same, they should really check things out. I know some people who would just like to go back and retire and now they are having second thoughts because of the structure of the economy. So that is how this question came about. The number one concern right now is the government of Jamaica. Some people think that if Jamaica was still ruled by Britian that they would be better right now. Because while they have been independent they have had to rely on loans from the United States and are almost under the United States. Because they cant possibly stablize owing the government so much money. What is your view on this?

I'm no economist or finance person and most of that jargon they spout on the news flies over my head. But I do know that there have been economies that have turned around for the better. I think Jamaica could improve, but for that to happen, some hard decisions would have to be made and much of our people would have to have a change of attitude.

Maybe if we were still ruled by Britain things would be run better than they are now. Some would argue that we aren't "independent" because we have to depend on loans from other countries as you have said. Be that as it may, there's still a lot to give thanks for here in Jamaica today.

A friend of mine was considering migrating to Canada recently. We analysed the pros and cons of migrating and found that moneywise, he'd have pretty much the same income there as he does here. But over there, he'd have to face the bitter cold, no friends or family, and be a second class citizen. He decided to stay even with the things Jamaicans complain about (crime etc.). It turned out that life out here wasn't so bad after all.

[Kitten]

BCK I do see what you mean. I have a friend who has mini bus business and he is quiet comfortable. I think to that people going back have to change back to a different system also. Now they may complain about the fast pace system. But on the other hand thats what they are used too. And in Jamaica things are slower. But you still can live a comfortable lifestyle. As my friend also says that anything you want basically you can get in Ja. But people always want to get something from foreign. Just so they can say thats were they got it from to their friends or whatever. So I think its all in what you decide and how you decide your life will have to be when you make the change to go back.

[BlackCryptoKnight]

I must say, I love Jamaica. This is the only place I'd feel comfortable living in. I've visited countries in North America and Europe and non of them are as comfortable to me as Jamaica. Here I have everything I need. And it's warm :icon_mrgr

[Kitten]

You have to rub it in dont you. Well it takes awhile for me to get used to the heat when I do come there. But after that I love it. But I think my body is used to the cold. and thats crazy. :) love your country yes. Its a great place.

[Zoley!]

my love for Jamaica is because of the natural beauty that is found in secluded places. this picture of Blue Mountain Waterfall speaks for itself kitt.


http://tinypic.com/x6s10

[cue]

A friend of mine was considering migrating to Canada recently. We analysed the pros and cons of migrating and found that moneywise, he'd have pretty much the same income there as he does here. But over there, he'd have to face the bitter cold, no friends or family, and be a second class citizen. He decided to stay even with the things Jamaicans complain about (crime etc.). It turned out that life out here wasn't so bad after all.


Ooh Contrare!

I represent a large and strong contingency of Jcans that are here in Canada and i can tell you there is a financial difference...

No matter what you are skilled at, whether book smart or street smart, with a little determination and patience you can earn at least twice what you would back home. And believe me, money matters.

I understand the point that nowhere nuh sweeter than yard. But its a matter of priorities. I left pretty much everything behind to start a life here in Canada. And its a struggle for me and everyone i know in my shoes. But financially in the long run its better than home...especially when u look at the long run of mouths to feed & families to raise.


Without a doubt, Jamaica is less stressful and more fun. But at least i can afford to come down any holiday i choose..to enjoy Jamaican life without strugglin to find next months rent/mortgage. While if I was there (or i should say when i was there) i didnt even see the airport other than when i drove by!

Get what i'm sayin..its a matter of what's priority in your life. And i believe i can raise a family better here in Canada than i could in JA
(from a financial point of view that is)

[BlackCryptoKnight]

Ooh Contrare!

I represent a large and strong contingency of Jcans that are here in Canada and i can tell you there is a financial difference...
I've heard from family and friends there, that after Canadian salaries are converted out to Jamaican dollars, they almost come out to the same thing as you would make out here. This is something I've heard from several people.
What they do say as well, is that Canada's health care and benefits are not as costly as some other places, and there are some things you don't have to pay for, or pay little for.

I also heard that the cost of living is higher when you consider the cost of heating, electricity, water, winterizing your car, winter clothing etc. etc.
But I'm sure that different people will have different experiences.



No matter what you are skilled at, whether book smart or street smart, with a little determination and patience you can earn at least twice what you would back home. And believe me, money matters.
I'm sure opportunities are there. But there are opportunities here as well - especially since so many have already left for up North.

[QUUOTE]Get what i'm sayin..its a matter of what's priority in your life. And i believe i can raise a family better here in Canada than i could in JA
(from a financial point of view that is)[/QUOTE]
Fair enough. Some people can work with things out here, while for others, it's better to move on.

[mesinya]

Based only on supposition that these facts are true.

Jamaica Facts

Jamaica has a population of 2.75 million people and is a third world country.
Since gaining its independence from Britain, Jamaica has changed from a peaceful tropical paradise to a poverty-stricken, war torn island of garrison communities and political factions.

Kingston, Jamaica's capital has a population of just over one million and 500,000 of these people live in the ghetto. Violence is rife. Kingston has the third highest murder rate in the world. Unemployment is high and literacy levels are low. Handicapped children are routinely abandoned, as parents are unable to cope.

Jamaica's economy is narrowly based on bauxite, sugar, and tourism. It is particularly vulnerable to world commodity price fluctuations and weather.
Jamaica also has a high debt position and a shortage of investment capital.

Although labor is generally available at a low cost, there is a shortage of skilled labor that requires firms to look abroad for technical and managerial personnel and makes it even harder to attract outside investment capital.

Drug trafficking plays a significant role in Jamaica's underground economy and drug related activity has had a deleterious effect on the general social, political, and business climate in the country.

(Question)What would any individual have to gain by moving to Jamaica?

(Question) What is the average pay for a person working in Jamaica say in the computer technology field? What is the gross salary amount for the year?

A. 20k
B. 30K
C. 40k
D. 60k

Do you feel that an average household in the U.S. is making less than 30k and providing for a family of lets say four people?

est. in U.S. dollar amounts.

[Gillion]

:eusa_thin ^

[Greatis]

haha right on Gillion.

[Kitten]

I for one cant answer this and i take it, that you are lookin for a answer that maybe no one here has attempted to answer. i will try and get back to you on it after doing some research. i havent lived in Jamaica in over a decade and my knowledge of things right now would not be present to what is going on right now. i would have to do some checking to find out about the salaries and such. although i find your facts interesting they are a very negative view of the society of Jamaica. Still they could be true facts and no matter how negative they may seem it could be reliable information. i still love my home country and that will always remain true no matter what. :)

[masterp]

So what your saying is there is no hope there?

There is always hope for JAMAICA because we still got so many things that can help us to make our country proud like our farmers, and our ports even our air line industry ... well what you gotta say about that now ? huh :eusa_whis :eusa_whis :eusa_whis

[masterp]

:eusa_thin ^

Hi Gillion i'm from Portmore too how are u doin' ?
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas your friend always LANCE ..........

[little warchief]

There is always hope for JAMAICA because we still got so many things that can help us to make our country proud like our farmers, and our ports even our air line industry ... well what you gotta say about that now ? huh :eusa_whis :eusa_whis :eusa_whis



hope for jamaica...hahahah funny..I see you believe in miracles....well i do too but this is one miracle dat nah guh happen fi jamaica. All we country need for itself is a AK and we destroy the whole world

[BlackCryptoKnight]

hope for jamaica...hahahah funny..I see you believe in miracles....well i do too but this is one miracle dat nah guh happen fi jamaica. All we country need for itself is a AK and we destroy the whole world

Interesting philosophy from a "little warchief".

So are you gonna be leading the battle "warchief"?

[BlackCryptoKnight]

There's good and bad in every country. Jamaica is not perfect, neither is the USA, or England, of Canada. Despite Jamaica's problems, I still feel comfortable living here. Wouldn't trade it for anywhere else.

Economic statistics, and other purported facts about Jamaica, do not tell the whole story. In the USA, the average household may be making more money than that in Jamaica, but what is the quality of life like overall? What is the stress level like? Are the people really happy? Different people will feel more comfortable in certain environments. To each his own.

I have heard from foreigners how they yearn to move away from their first world country to a place like Jamaica - and they don't care about the problems. They just want a different pace of life, and a different perspective from what they are used to.

Jamaica is my home. I love it no matter what anyone says. That love doesn't have to be justified to anyone. And miracles do happen. Our very existence is a miracle.

[BlackCryptoKnight]

There are good things happening in Jamaica:

1. The Stock Market is trading at all time highs. Investor confidence is improving. It is reported that at least 4 new companys may be listing on the stock exchange this year. Among them are Mayberry Investments Ltd. and First Global bank.

2. The development of the new Highway 2000 is progressing. They still have the toll issues to sort out, but the highway will make transportation and business much more convenient.

3. Standard and Poors increased Jamaica's credit rating. Internation investors will thus have greater confidence in Jamaica as an investment destination.

4. New hotel developments are planned.

5. New developments are planned to accomodate the Cricket World Cup

6. Licences have been granted for 2 new fibre optic circuits to be built to connect Jamaica to the rest of the world - no more monopoly on that by C&W. This means potentially lower prices to consumers for things like long distance calling, broadband Internet access etc. This in turn translates to cost savings for business, and even incentive for further investment in Jamaica.

7. Jamaica did well at the Olympics - winning gold, silver and bronze medals. This boosted the morale and sense of National pride amongst the people.

8. JFF just signed a deal with a New York based Caribbean TV station to show the National Premiere League games. This means more money for the JFF and the local league clubs. Good development for local football.

9. We will be hosting portions of the Cricket World Cup in 2007. As has been mentioned previously, this means more developent of infrastructure and facillities. That means employment, investment and during the event, a significant boost for tourism.

10. The soon to be implemented Caribbean Single Market and Economy will open up opportunities for Jamaican businesses and citizens in the markets of the other member nations. Sure there will be challenges too, but the thinking is that as a more unified region, we will be better equipped to deal with the effects of globalization and the removal of preferential treatment for certain trades on the international market.

It's not just doom and gloom happening in Jamaica. There's still much to give God thanks for and to love about Yard.

[Gillion]

bck the optimist

[BlackCryptoKnight]

bck the optimist

Somebody has to be. :icon_mrgr

Too much doom and gloom not good for the system.