Jamaica Post-Beryl 2024

Arriving at Jamaica Inn one day after the hurricane passed, I was surprised at the feeling of normalcy, or near-normalcy that prevailed.  I know other parts of the island suffered terribly but the people who work at the resort told me that the worst things they encountered were heavy winds, some water in their homes which quickly subsided and the ongoing lack of electricity, or “current,” as they say.  They’ve been without power at their homes now for about five days while the resort is running on generator. 

The guests here are making adjustments also.  I’m wary of the ice, for example, as the water pressure is erratic, and the generator takes scheduled breaks for a few hours in the mornings and afternoons. Similarly, the steak tartare that appeared on the menu a few days after the “current,” died raises some gastro-suspicion and I am opting for burgers, jerked fish and club sandwiches.  I still marvel at the wood burning brick oven on the beach with its thatched roof and conspicuous fire extinguisher.  And the high tea served every afternoon with cucumber sandwiches is a distinctly colonial-inspired affair that seems a bit incongruous while the generator is resting.  I was sweating through a cup of hot green tea yesterday wondering… why.

Still, I am glad I came here.  The resilience, good humor and warmth of the people who work here seem irrepressible.  The beach is still gorgeous, the water perfect.  This is home away from home for me.  I hope the rest of Jamaica, the places that really got hit hard by Beryl, recover quickly.  

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