Nothing Beats An Island Gyal Holiday: A Journey of Exploratory Travel
- nacilia mccarthy
- Sep 18
- 6 min read
Growing up as a child of Jamaican parents in the bustling city of New York, Vanessa often dreamed of sun-soaked beaches and the gentle sway of palm trees. The chilly winters felt like a world away from her island roots, and she knew deep down that she was a natural island gyal at heart. To escape the cold, her family made it a tradition to embark on vacations to warmer destinations, turning these trips into the highlights of Vanessa's childhood.
The Joy of Family Vacations
"Each year, my family organized vacations that took us to various parts of Jamaica, including charming rural hideaways and luxurious resorts. We also enjoyed unforgettable cruises and vibrant trips to Las Vegas." These adventures were more than just getaways; they were chances for bonding, laughter, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.
"Our vacations were made possible through our tax refunds", a savvy strategy from her parents to fund their adventures. "I remember the thrill of preparing for our trips, packing our bags, and counting down the days until we would be free of winter’s chill. During those moments, I recognized how lucky I was to experience different cultures and environments firsthand."
Vanessa and her family would often visit Jamaica or other Caribbean islands. They would even take trips to Las Vegas. Whatever the case, they thought it was important for her and her siblings to travel. For many of her peers, travel was just a dream, but for her, it was woven into her identity. Each trip broadened her horizons and added a layer to her personality, enriching my life experiences.
Her First Big-Girl Trip
College was a thrilling turning point in Vanessa's travel adventure! She embarked on her first big-girl trip to Dream Weekend in Jamaica, an electrifying music festival bursting with fun and unforgettable moments. Staying at her cousin’s home in Kingston, she eagerly looked forward to the breathtaking drive to Negril for the event. Her excitement hit a bump when pickpockets nabbed her money and camera during one of the parties. It was a tough lesson in the realities of travel, but she was undeterred! Refusing to let this setback ruin her adventure, she was determined to make the most of the rest of her trip.
A Smarter Traveller
Returning to Dream Weekend as a more seasoned traveler was a game-changer! Vanessa embraced every moment, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, lively music, and the warmth of the people. This time, she chose a hotel that wasn’t all-inclusive, which made the experience even more authentic. Each day, she delighted in the taste of ackee and saltfish, reveling in the rich flavors of Jamaican cuisine. Her hotel, nestled on Seven Mile Beach, offered incredible views, and although it wasn’t all-inclusive, it was worth every single penny!
One of her most unforgettable highlights of this trip was parasailing. Watching others soar high above the water, she decided to take the plunge herself. The feeling of being lifted into the air was exhilarating, and the breathtaking view was simply awe-inspiring. “Being up that high reveals a different appreciation for nature’s beauty. It felt dreamy,” she exclaimed, "above the crystal-clear waters."
Beautiful Saint Lucia
After hitting the 90-day mark at a new job, Vanessa felt the urge to reward herself with another adventure. A close friend of hers, who was from Saint Lucia, had always praised its beauty, so she chose to visit right at the start of the tourist season. Timing her trip allowed her to snag excellent deals, adding to her excitement.
Saint Lucia exceeded her expectations. The tranquil surroundings, stunning landscapes, and delicious local food created an unforgettable experience. She describes having an overwhelming sense of calm as she explored the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. She had the chance to hike the famous Gros Pitons Mountain, where the view from the top was simply breathtaking. She also delighted in the hot springs and indulged in a rejuvenating mud bath. Some of her other experiences included visiting the local supermarket, marveling at the stunning waterfalls, and enjoying an exhilarating catamaran cruise. To top it all off, she attended one of the vibrant nighttime fetes (parties). The residents of Saint Lucia were incredibly warm and welcoming, making her feel right at home. Saint Lucia became one of her absolute favorite islands, offering a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere outside of the carnival season!
Mexico
Mexico consistently offers the most incredible vibes! Vanessa had visited this Central American treasure multiple times, and each visit was more thrilling than the previous one. Most recently, Vanessa stayed at the stunning and luxurious Impressions Hotel in Cancun, a breathtaking resort featuring expansive balconies and jacuzzis at every turn. On the first day, she indulged in the most amazing head massage at the hotel; it was truly the best she's ever experienced. The experience was enhanced by personal butlers at her service, adding an extra layer of luxury. She also enjoyed a lively tequila tasting, explored a mesmerizing cenote, and embarked on an adventure park escapade with ATV riding, ziplining, and a delicious meal to conclude the day. To top it all off, she visited Isla Mujeres and enjoyed a blissful massage on the beach.
Sint Maarten
Vanessa embarked on an exhilarating solo adventure to Sint Maarten, bursting with excitement for another vacation! As she set off, she fondly reminisced about one of her cherished family trips from childhood, which brought back vibrant memories of her brief visit to Sint Maarten during a cruise. Since it was only a fleeting stop back then, she was determined to extend her stay this time around. So, she eagerly booked a week's stay at a breathtaking resort. The island's stunning beaches were one of its most beautiful features, and Vanessa made sure every single day was a beach day. Sint Maarten was simply spectacular! She delighted in the local cuisine, choosing to skip the all-inclusive experience to fully savor the Caribbean flavors near the strip. This decision opened up endless opportunities to dive into a variety of seafood delights!
Hawaii
Vanessa's trip to Hawaii was an absolute dream come true, all thanks to her friend's invitation! She was bursting with excitement at the thought of this adventure. With a five-hour time difference and the freedom of remote work, it was the ideal setup for a thrilling escapade. Visiting the Hawaiian Islands had always been on her bucket list, and now she had the perfect chance to make it happen. Her work schedule, from 5 am to 12 pm, left her with endless hours of fun and exploration. She stayed at the fabulous Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
Vanessa kicked off her adventure with an exhilarating hike up Diamond Head Mountain. This was especially thrilling for her, given her fascination with volcanoes. While she didn't surf, she was captivated by watching others ride the waves and was over the moon to see a dog surfing! Her journey also led her to the Honolulu Zoo and countless other exciting spots.
But this trip wasn't just about the excursions. One morning, she indulged in a fantastic breakfast at Menehune Grill, where the food was divine, and the drinks were the real stars of the show. On her last night, they enjoyed a delightful dinner at The Grove, wrapping up an unforgettable trip. Vanessa left Hawaii feeling incredibly grateful for the chance to work remotely and experience a place that felt so wonderfully different from the rest of the US, even though it's part of the same country.
Reflections on Growth
Vanessa's journey from being a child of Jamaican parents living in New York to an exploratory traveler has been filled with lessons, laughter, and personal growth. Each trip has shaped her understanding of the world and deepened her appreciation for her heritage.
Traveling has taught her to be more aware and to embrace new experiences.
Whether it’s the thrill of a festival, the calm of a beach, or the flavors of new cuisines, Vanessa eagerly anticipates the many journeys still ahead. After all, the world is vast, and there is so much more to discover.
Travel is a powerful source of inspiration, and it's essential to seize every opportunity to explore the world. When asked what her advice would be to someone anxious about travelling because they fear they might encounter prejudice, she says, "Don't let fear of hate hold you back. This is something that you are already familiar with, so it can't be any worse." Traveling immerses you in diverse cultures and instills a renewed appreciation for life. Make travel a priority, whether it's a solo adventure, which Vanessa strongly advocates for, or a journey with friends. Embrace every chance to travel, be it annually or seasonally. Travel offers the chance to meet fascinating people along the way.
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