JMMB Goal Getter Live Shares Pointers on ‘Staycationing’ on a Budget

Several destinations now have new travel restrictions in place and some activities have come to a grinding halt, due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), but summer 2020 is not cancelled, just different this year, shared Kerry-Ann Stimpson, chief marketing officer at JMMB Group and moderator, of a recent JMMB Goal Getter Live (webinar). So, instead of cancelling all your vacation plans, how about taking the time to explore the beautiful island paradise that we call home – Jamaica – by staycationing?

In a recent webinar episode on JMMB Group’s social media platforms, Teika Samuda, travel and lifestyle blogger and CEO of Being Jamaican, a tour agency, shared pointers on staycationing on a budget, whether you are a solo traveler, taking family along or just going on a road trip with friends. 

The travel and lifestyle blogger encouraged individuals to explore the rich culture and history of Jamaica while having fun this summer. 

Planning your staycation can be fun and exciting, “it starts with an open-mindedness to new experiences,” Samuda said. She further urged individuals to create their bucket list of local gems - whether it is off the beaten path, must-see sites, or a combination of both, noting “what is important is understanding what piques your interest and do a little research for starters – there is something for everyone.” The travel blogger pointed to social media and other online sources for insight about the destination’s history and significance. 

Vacationing Safely 
Underscoring that safety is paramount at this time, with the spread of COVID-19, Samuda shared a few pointers on how to enjoy your vacation safely: 
•    maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet at all times, from persons not in your party;
•    wear a mask in all public places; 
•    wash hands frequently and, where facilities are not available, sanitize;
•    plan road trips and other vacation activities within the required/restricted group numbers; 
•    limit touching of shared surfaces, such as handrails, to minimize contamination; 
•    pay keen attention to regulations and travel restrictions, which may include pre-testing for COVID-19, and observance of quarantine for persons who intend to travel overseas; and
•    prepare for your trip by packing with the necessary sanitization guidelines and use your own items like chairs, towels et al, where possible.

Although COVID-19 presents safety challenges, there are great deals and discounts at this time that you can take advantage of, as you enjoy your staycation. 

Discover Hidden Gems 
The effervescent Samuda outlined that your vacation can take you off the beaten path, without requiring you to have any athletic prowess; cultural sites offer a good mix of adventure and though ‘in plain sight’ are often overlooked. Among those sited were: Culture Yard, Bob Marley Museum, Liberty Hall: The Legacy of Marcus Garvey, National Museum Jamaica and the National Gallery of Jamaica. Historical sites are also littered across Jamaica, such as forts and light houses, and make for interesting places to visit. Additionally, “this is not just an opportunity to have fun but to learn something too,” said Teika, pointing to places such as Nanny Falls, where guided tours are offered by members of the Maroon community and Port Royal, which has relics of the historic 1692 earthquake. 

Jamaica is known worldwide for its cuisine, culture and its people. Teika reminded individuals to “make your vacation a full experience” of all Jamaica has to offer.  She therefore encouraged persons to “not limit their experience; go outside of the hotel and (get to know) the community - immersing yourself, while supporting the mom and pop shops,” of course, taking the necessary precautions at this time. Among the local gems highlighted during the live were: Pelican Bar, Monkey Island, Cane River, Hollywell, Blue Mountains, Blue Fields, Black River Safari, Treasure Beach, Café Blue, Reach Falls, and Dub Club on Skyline Drive. 

Kid-friendly Staycation Ideas
Summer is also a time for the children, as they get a much-needed break from school. Having spent the majority of their time confined indoors since mid-March being homeschooling, as a result of COVID-19 forcing schools to close, the children are no doubt full with anticipation to soak up some summer sun and fun.  Teika provides the perfect staycation solution for parents, with this word of advice, “get creative and use the time to bond and think outside of the box,” in spite of the damper that the virus may present. A great option she suggests is, explore nature; “as it is an opportunity for (children) to experience something outside of their ‘norm’…by seeing wildlife, flora and fauna…without the worries of social distancing. Notable landmarks Blue Mountain and Hollywell fit the bill, as “you can build a bonfire, go camping or hiking.” 

The ‘all-year-round vacationer at heart’, in sharing her final nugget, notes that although summer provides a great time to staycation, it is a good idea to make this a part of your routine, to uncover the gems that Jamaica has to offer. The added bonus is that most of these staycation ideas can be done on a budget and can be planned on a whim, or months in advance and are ideal for adventure seekers, or those who just want to chill and relax, or simply take in the scenic views. So, whether ‘flying solo’ or taking friends and family along, make the experience as simple or elaborate as you choose, as long as you have fun doing it. 

Following the lockdown from the global pandemic, COVID-19, the JMMB Goal Getter Live series has explored a range of topical issues with a diverse international audience tuning in, across its social media channels (YouTube, Facebook and Twitter). Over the last few weeks, the company has turned up the heat with its summer edition and also explored a culinary and happy hour special, dubbed, ‘Cocktails, Mocktails & Meal Ideas to Beat the Heat’ and a  ‘Small Business Virtual Expo’, which allowed selected JMMB small business clients, which produce Jamaican products or services, to showcase their offerings. The series seeks to give hope, lend expertise and share solutions that will assist clients and the wider public, to navigate the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.