Port Antonio Welcomes "It's a Woman's World" Film Crew

Dean and Tom film Camilla as she arrives at my house.    (Neville Reid Photo)            
This past weekend was especially thrilling.

Europe's Travel Channel International was filming in Port Antonio for its upcoming, "It's a Woman's World," travel documentary series. The series which will feature four (4) exotic locations; Turkey, South Africa, The Philippines and Jamaica; is unique to the "Travel Show" genre as it introduces viewers to each country from the perspective of the local women encountered.

As such, I met with host Camilla Andersen and the Woman's World crew, and introduced them to some of my favourite Portie attractions and activities to be featured in the Jamaica episode of the series. Our tour included a trip to my alma mater, Titchfield High School, a visit to one of Port Antonio's most gifted nail artists and lunch at Cynthia's at Winnifred beach. It was satisfying to know that the group enjoyed Port Antonio and easily declared it their favourite parish.

It's a Woman's World is expected to be aired in October 2011. Until then, I've included some behind-the-scenes shots of the day's filming.

Filming continues at Titchfield High School while Producer Julia look on.     (Neville Reid Photo)

(Neville Reid Photo)

Navy Island as seen from Titchfiled High School.     (Julia Cornes Photo) 

Jamaican-inspired nail art as done by Kimesha. (Photos by Julia Cornes). 

Guru Ram Das Healing Centre

(L) Lunch prepared from organic farm produce. (R) Mangal Jot Kaur owner and operator, Guru Ram Das Healing Centre.

One of my favourite places to re-focus and re-energize is the Guru Ram Das centre in the Commodore hills of Portland. Owned and lovingly operated by Mangal Jot Kaur, the centre experience figures highly on my list of things to do in Portland. Have a peek at my conversation with Mangal Jot to see what you may be missing. 

Prêt-à-Portie: Where are you from originally?

Mangal Jot: I was born in Paris, France. My mum is French and my dad is from Benin, on the West Coast of Africa.  A few weeks short of my 18th birthday, I moved to London where I lived for 17 years until I came to Portland.

Prêt-à-Portie: Why did you choose Portland and what do you love most about living here?

Mangal Jot: Years ago while still living in London, I read a newspaper article about Portland and thought that if I was to go back to Jamaica, I would have to visit Portland.  When I was first thinking of relocating on the island, I gave myself four days holiday in Portland during which I just fell in love, and it was clear this is where I wanted to be. 

There are so many things I love about living here, the fact that we are surrounded by so much natural beauty makes me feel in awe every moment of the day. 
 

Prêt-à-Portie:  What was your inspiration for starting the Guru Ram Das Healing Centre?

Mangal Jot: Ultimately, it has to be my love for the One in all.  And my eternal gratitude for those teachings which have not only changed my life but also saved my life and allowed me to serve others along the way.  I wanted to create a beautiful and peaceful space where people can come to learn to relax, renew, understand, transform, heal and empower themselves.

 

View from Guru Ram Das centre
Prêt-à-Portie: What are some of the services you offer at the centre?

Mangal Jot: Private consultations, healing conversations, counselling for couples and children, conflict resolution & mediation are also offered.  I have a business background and offer Business Strategy Coaching and Mentoring also. Private Yoga Classes are also done by appointment, meditation and deep relaxation for all levels and beginners are always welcome.  You can stay on to share a delicious Ital lunch made with products from the farm. In coming months, we are planning to offer more classes, workshops & retreats geared towards the healing and empowerment of women and their families.

Prêt-à-Portie: What has been your proudest moment/biggest accomplishment at Guru Ram Das Healing Centre? 

Mangal Jot: Looking back, I guess it was keeping up when I could have given up, and with "Keep up, you'll be kept up!" imprinted in my mind, a favourite Kundalini Yoga mantra, this was never an option, and for that I am infinitely grateful. 

Prêt-à-Portie:  How long have you been a yoga teacher and how did you discover yoga?

Mangal Jot: I have been a Kundalini Yoga teacher since 2001, so this year marks my 10-year anniversary. I discovered yoga in 2000 after a challenging time when I lost my job, an illness, another failed relationship and feeling depressed for as long as I could remember. I hoped and prayed for something to take away that feeling of emptiness, pain and aloneness. I took my first class at my local gym in Brixton London and it was love on the spot. I loved the way it made me feel, in my body, my mind and my whole being. I felt different, like that heavy feeling was lifted, relaxed yet energised and I just wanted more of that. I decided to do the teacher training, and the more I learned and practised, the more I felt, "This is great, it works, and I just have to go and share it with the world."

Prêt-à-Portie: What are the benefits of the practice? 

Mangal Jot: The benefits are many and put simply, it helps you self-adjust in every sense of the term, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. But ultimately, there is nothing more true and real than personal experience because it goes straight to your heart and this is where healing and change take place. With an open heart and mind, come and try it for yourself, and you will understand why so many people from all ages and walks of life are making yoga and meditation part of their lives. 

For more information or to make appointments call 876-585-7994. 

Mangal Jot prepares for a Kundalini Yoga session

Portland's Own 'Charlie Brown'

Welcome sign to Charlie Brown's Williamsfield workshop/showroom.
Long before I met Astley "Charlie" Brown, I was admiring his impressive craftsmanship and intricate carving designs at the Great Huts property in Boston Bay. So naturally, our meeting this past summer was not only inevitable but long overdue.

On a good day, one can find Charlie carving, sanding or painting his wooden creations in his Williamsfield workshop/showroom or beneath the shade of the mangrove-lined Turtle Crawle Harbour. Either way, he and his carvings are hard to miss. The self-taught artist who works primarily with Cedar and Lignum Vitae has been honing his craft since the late 1970s producing original handmade items for clients world-wide. Not to be outdone anytime soon however, Charlie credits the source of his inspiration, "I see my creations first in my mind then I transfer them to wood." Any examination of his work will prove he has mastered this process.

So next time you're passing by feel free to stop and have a look or give Charlie a call at 1-876-850-5829.

Clients admire Charlie's work

Charlie outside his workshop/showroom at the end of his workday.

More wonderful Charlie Brown creations

On Top of the World...Almost.

Arlene and Justin look on as Jamie photographs the Buff Bay Valley
Now that I'm safely on this side of Sunday, I dare declare, "Yesterday was AWESOME!!!" I was almost on top of the world, or so it seemed as some friends and I made the trek up the Blue Mountains. We drove from Charles Town in Buff Bay as far up as the terrain allowed then parked and walked the rest of the journey to Section. Once there, we stopped at the James Dennis coffee farm for some much needed rest and good organic brew.

It was definitely one of the more fun yet eventful Sundays I've had in a while; what with one flat tyre, a twisted ankle, landslides and a close-call (yes, my life flashed before my eyes as I negotiated that never-ending hill through the Dennis coffee farm). Still, I'd do it again in a heart-beat.

The views defy description, so I will not attempt any. I guess it was such a place as this that Gregg Braden referenced in the statement, "A place where the skin between the worlds is really thin." As usual, I got pictures, but its an experience you must have for yourself. I guarantee it'll leave you breathless, in every way possible.









Clearing landslide in the rain

Jah-T's Late Night Food Joint

Jah-T prepares his famous fried dumplings.
If you're one to party or go clubbing 'til the wee hours of the morning, then you already know that to satisfy those late-night cravings all roads lead to Jah-T's street-side joint . The Red Hassel Road hot spot is open every night, except Sundays, from 8:30 til as late as 4:00am. Of course, some of us are not the partying kind. Still, that's no reason to miss out on the delicious after-hours offerings. Some people have been known to take a 10-mile commute for the fried dumplings alone, or the hot Milo with a splash of white rum. And the best part is, you can order seconds even on an after-party budget.

Who needs chairs when the food is this good?

Earth Day is Everyday at Kanopi House

Almond Tree House exterior
Yesterday was Earth Day. So, it was perfectly fitting that I'd spend the afternoon at beautiful Kanopi House. As with all treasures, this property has an elusive quality to it, being cleverly tucked between the Dragon Bay hotel and the villa-lined bay of the Blue Lagoon. Once you've found it though, you realise you've struck gold. This gem features six eco-friendly tree-houses all made and bearing the names of regional hardwood; Spanish Elm, Sweetwood or Almond Tree.

The entire trip was an other-wordly experience for me, even by Port Antonio standards. However, the highpoints of my visit were the outdoor shower at the Spanish Elm house, everything about the Almond Tree house and the view from the main dining area. A picture may say a thousand words, but nothing beats seeing it in person. I really hope you get a chance to see first-hand.

All in all, I'm immensely grateful to Jacqui Neil, property manager, for the invitation and also for being such a gracious hostess. Its one Earth Day I won't soon forget.


(l)The Canopy-lined road leading to Kanopi House. (r) Yellow Poui flowers on the way to Kanopi House 

(l) Outdoor shower (r) View of Tree Houses

View from main dining area of neighbouring Blue Lagoon Villas and Monkey Island.

Room interior

Section of Almond Tree House Interior

Picture Perfect at Frenchman's Cove

Frenchman's Cove Beach, Portland
Today, I had a portrait session with this very beautiful young family at Frenchman's Cove beach. It was the perfect setting for them, and baby E. was a hit with everyone. As usual, I couldn't help myself and took way more shots than were necessary. Now the real work, of editing and choosing the best of the best, begins.

Here are a few of my favourites from today. Have yourselves a fabulous weekend!!!









Singer and Portie-regular Carlene Davis is delighted to meet Baby E.

Friends + Food = Fun!

Blue Lagoon, Portland
This holiday weekend has been wonderful, and I'm fueled and ready to get back to the serious stuff...like work.

I had fun catching up with old friends and welcoming new friends to Port Antonio. Also, I took the opportunity to indulge (again) in the tasty, gooey-goodness of some Woody's veggie cheese-burgers. Always delightful!!!

I'm particularly pleased to learn that I have inspired some of you to explore the treasure that is Port Antonio. Keep coming and be sure to spread the word!




Woody's 'genuine' veggie cheese-burgers

Inside Woody's Place, Drapers Portland

Keresa and Simone are eager (but cautious) for a ride on the Blue Lagoon

With Benton, you're in very good hands!

Water Is My Element

I've always been drawn to bodies of water...especially flowing water. So naturally, when I came across this little stream in Comfort Castle, I went right in (camera in tow) and spent the better part of three hours being one with the water. I highly recommend it:)

From the Archives:: Portie Faves

Most of these photos are among the very first I took in and around Port Antonio. If you're on my flickr stream you'll recognize a few.