Rastafari is the second-largest faith in Jamaica and has been practiced since 1930. Across the island, people coexist in Rastafari villages with horizontal societies and equitable exchange. Near Montego Bay, Rastafari Indigenous Village welcomes visitors to its experiential cultural capsule.
To reach the peaceful enclave, we traverse barefoot through the shallow cool stream of the Montego River, where nature baptizes us for the forthcoming experience. Once we reach the far side of the bank, we’re transported to another world — one where respect for all living beings is of utmost importance.
Rastas are always expressing gratitude for the blessings of nature. Our guide, Nyerere, is no exception. He’s incredibly knowledgeable about indigenous plants and points out various medicinal fruits, seeds, and leaves as we continue barefoot along the path’s edge. We walk towards the village through a lush forest exposing an abundance of coconut palms, bamboo, banana, bay leaf, noni, coca, calabash, and blue mahoe trees.
To enter the discreet 2.5-acre village, we pass through a foyer adorned in vibrant red, yellow, and green stripes — the colors of Ethiopia. Yellow for the sun, red for the blood of all living things, and green for nature. Rastafari is founded upon the principle of living in harmony with all species and equal rights and justice for all. One love, one heart.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GALAPAGOS OF THE EAST
Koalas are just the beginning on Australia’s fauna-rich Kangaroo Island.
PLUG IN AND POWER UP!
More and more, ports and cruise lines are working together to keep the lights on and keep the pollution down
Making Up For Lost Time
After everything we’ve been through, who’s saying no to a postpandemic world cruise or grand voyage offering months at sea?
MEXICO'S COASTAL ESCAPES
With Mexico rolling out the red carpet and opening flight borders to Americans, now is the time to redeem the pent-up wanderlust of the last year.
Countess In!
Porthole Cruise and Travel enjoys slice after slice of Americana while sailing the new American Countess.
The Joy of St. Croix
Of all the Caribbean vibes, St. Croix’s is unique.
Unique Hotel Boutiques
Gone are the days of sad hotel gift shops that sold little but after thoughts. Today’s hotel shopping is varied and eclectic, offering status items and one-of-a-kind finds alike.
Sipping on the Sand
The unique beach bars near South Florida’s cruise ports are a perfect reflection of the shorelines they represent.
St. Thomas, Sophisticated
A former cruise director revisits the tiny, charming paradise he adored...only to find even more to love.
Traditional Tlingit Tastes
In Hoonah, Alaska, food is about much more than just what's on the plate.
