The storm left communities reeling, as homes were destroyed, trees uprooted, and floodwaters surged through towns and villages. Dozens of people lost their lives, many others were injured, and daily life ground to a halt.
Power and communication networks collapsed across large parts of the country, forcing thousands of families into shelters as debris filled streets that were once bustling.
With billions of dollars in damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods, the hurricane carved a path of devastation that will take years for Jamaica to overcome.
Recovery efforts have been inspiring, bolstered by international partnerships. On January 14, 2026, the Rwanda Defence Force deployed a contingent of military engineers to assist with rehabilitating critical infrastructure, a meaningful gesture that highlights deepening bilateral ties and Jamaica's global connections.
As the nation rebuilds, its timeless appeal shines brighter, inviting exploration of its beauty, history and unbreakable resilience.
Geography and size
Jamaica, the third-largest island in the Caribbean, covers about 10,991 square kilometers, roughly the size of Connecticut in the United States or Lebanon in the Middle East. Located in the Greater Antilles, south of Cuba and west of Haiti, it boasts an extraordinarily diverse terrain packed into a relatively small space.
The eastern interior is dominated by the majestic Blue Mountains, rising to 2,256 meters at Blue Mountain Peak, where misty clouds and fertile soil produce world-renowned coffee. Lush rainforests transition into rolling hills, fertile valleys, and flat coastal plains.
Over 200 kilometers of coastline feature everything from powdery white-sand beaches and coral reefs to rugged cliffs and hidden coves.
Rivers plunge into spectacular waterfalls, while limestone cave systems add an underground wonder.
This geographical variety creates distinct climates: cool and wet in the highlands, hot and sunny on the coasts. It's a playground for nature enthusiasts, offering hiking, diving, birdwatching, and relaxation in one compact paradise.
History
Jamaica's past is a tapestry of indigenous roots, colonial hardship, and hard-won independence. The Taíno people, original inhabitants, named it "Xaymaca", land of wood and water, and thrived until Christopher Columbus's arrival in 1494 sparked Spanish colonization.
British control from 1655 transformed the island into a sugar powerhouse, reliant on the transatlantic slave trade and plantation labor.
Enslaved Africans and their descendants endured immense suffering but resisted fiercely, forming Maroon communities in the mountains under leaders like Queen Nanny and fueling rebellions like Sam Sharpe's 1831 uprising, which accelerated emancipation in 1838.
The 20th century brought waves of change: Marcus Garvey's global push for Black empowerment inspired movements worldwide, while labor leaders Norman Manley and Alexander Bustamante guided Jamaica to independence in 1962.
Today, this history lives on in preserved sites, museums, and the national motto, "Out of Many, One People," celebrating unity amid diversity.
A multicultural hub in Kingston
With a population of approximately 2.8 million, Jamaica is a vibrant melting pot. Influences from African, European, Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern ancestors, shaped by enslavement, indentured labor, and migration, create a rich ethnic blend reflected in daily life.
Kingston, the capital on the southeast coast, is home to over 580,000 and serves as the nation's pulsating center. A city of contrasts, it mixes modern skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts with historic neighborhoods, colorful markets brimming with fresh produce, and street art that tells stories of resilience.
As the economic, political, and cultural heartbeat, Kingston embodies Jamaica's energy, where English is official but expressive Patois brings conversations to life with rhythm and warmth.
Culture and lifestyle
Jamaican culture pulses with creativity, spirituality, and an infectious "irie" outlookâ€"optimistic, laid-back, and full of joy even in tough times.
Reggae, born here in the 1960s from ska and rocksteady, spreads messages of peace, love, and social justice globally, thanks to icons like Bob Marley.
Dancehall keeps the beats evolving with high-energy rhythms, while Rastafarianism, rooted in the 1930s, promotes natural living, Ital (vegetarian) diets, African pride, and spiritual depth, influencing everything from dreadlocks to philosophy.
Lifestyle revolves around community and celebration: family gatherings over home-cooked meals, lively street dances, and festivals like Reggae Sumfest that draw international crowds.
Hospitality is legendary, visitors are welcomed like old friends, and faith, whether Christian, Rastafari, or other, provides a strong foundation. In post-hurricane recovery, this communal strength has been evident, with neighbors and global partners coming together.
Cuisine: Bold, spicy flavors that tell a story
Jamaican food is a delicious fusion of history and fresh ingredients, known for its spice and soul. The national dish, ackee and saltfish, features the creamy (and carefully prepared) ackee fruit sautéed with salted cod, peppers, onions, and thymeâ€"often enjoyed for breakfast with boiled green bananas or fried dumplings.
Jerk seasoning defines the island's grilling tradition: allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and herbs rubbed on chicken, pork, or fish, slow-smoked over pimento wood for smoky, fiery perfection. Roadside jerk pits are cultural institutions, serving it with festival (sweet fried dough) or rice and peas simmered in coconut milk.
Other highlights include tender curried goat, escovitch fish (fried and topped with pickled vegetables), flaky beef or vegetable patties, and abundant tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples. Blue Mountain coffee is smooth and prized worldwide, while rum distills the sugarcane heritage into punches and cocktails, paired perfectly with crisp Red Stripe beer.
Tourism and key attractions
Tourism is Jamaica's lifeblood, drawing millions for its beaches, adventure, and culture. Iconic spots include Negril's Seven Mile Beach, with soft sands and dramatic cliff sunsets; Dunn's River Falls near Ocho Rios, where visitors climb cascading terraces in a fun group tradition; and the Blue Mountains for hiking trails, coffee tours, and breathtaking views.
In Kingston, the Bob Marley Museum offers intimate insights into the legend's life, while Devon House, a 19th-century mansion built by Jamaica's first Black millionaire, charms with gardens and legendary ice cream. Emancipation Park provides urban tranquility, and historic sites like Port Royal (the old pirate capital) or Rose Hall Great House blend mystery and lore.
Eco-tourism thrives with rafting on the Rio Grande, exploring luminous lagoons, or relaxing in natural hot springs. Post-hurricane, many attractions have reopened stronger, showcasing Jamaica's bounce-back ability.
Sports and global influence
Jamaica excels in athletics, especially sprinting, producing stars like Usain Bolt, whose Olympic dominance made him a worldwide icon. The island's school-based track programs nurture talent that consistently shines internationally.
Cricket remains a national passion with hard-hitting legends, soccer rallies behind the Reggae Boyz, and the underdog bobsled team's story inspired the world. Sports reflect Jamaica's competitive heart and ability to achieve greatness on limited resources.
Jamaica blends natural wonders, cultural depth, and warm resilience into an unforgettable experience.
Théophile Niyitegeka
