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Are you going to Jamaica Carnival 2024? Here’s your guide

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Travels, Black Travels, Black Travels, Carnival Season, Festival Season, Jamaica, Carnival in Jamaica, Carnival in the Caribbean, Travels to the Caribbean, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, theGrio.com

In April, with the arrival of spring, the festival season begins, during which lots of the very best music and cultural festivals happen. From Coachella to the New Orleans Jazz Festival, the probabilities for outdoor gatherings seem countless. However, if you’re searching for a global festival experience, look no further than Jamaica Carnival.

Held in Kingston from the primary to second week of April, Jamaica Carnival stays the biggest cultural event attracting revelers from around the globe. It features vigorous breakfast parties, midnight fetes, dawn j’ouverts and midday road marches. It is an annual event that continues to evolve. To help you navigate through the multitude of attractions, we have put together a comprehensive guide to Carnival in Jamaica.

While in Jamaica it is vital to profit from your experience. “I would tell anyone who comes to enjoy Jamaica,” says Kibwe McGann, director of GenXs, a preferred carnival troupe famous for putting on extravagant events. GenXs is curating an unforgettable road march on April 7, offering carnival attendees costumes, food, beverages, entertainment and safety. In addition, GenXs is organizing “Immortals J’ouvert” and “XS Street”, a post-carnival party with a road march, on Saturday, April 6. Other events hosted by GenXs include “Ocean

“For people who come to Jamaica for the Kingston Carnival, our capital city is also known as the cultural capital of the Caribbean, and for good reason,” explains Donovan White, Jamaica’s director of tourism. “Visitors can visit Devon House, which was the house of Jamaica’s first black millionaire. Our popular Devon House I-Scream serves exotic flavors reminiscent of Devon Stout and Guava ice cream and more. For Easter, they created a brand new flavor – Bun and Cheese. View street art murals by local artists along the Art Walk downtown, stop on the Bob Marley Museum for a glimpse into the lifetime of the legendary reggae singer in his well-preserved home, and ensure to sample a few of our world-famous jerk,” adds White.

With this in mind, it is vital to understand that Jamaica Carnival stands out from other carnivals in its concentrate on cultural elements authentic to the region; especially his legendary music.

“Take a moment and understand why we say this is one of the ‘Irie-est’ carnivals in the world – with the emphasis on ‘Irie,’” says McGann, referring to the proven fact that alongside the largest hits of the season, soca, Jamaica’s fundamental musical export , reggae and dancehall are also within the highlight.

“Be open to new music because it’s in Jamaica; we are the originators of dancehall and you will have dancehall on tour. So if you’re a soca purist, you might come to Jamaica and think, “How come they play dancehall?” I want people to come and be very open to embracing this culture,” McGann continues.

If you’re considering joining this carnival extravaganza, please note that as of 2022, Jamaica has been classified by the U.S. Department of State as “Tier 3: Reconsider Travel.” However, you needs to be aware that although the recommendations concern mainly local crime, the indicator According to NPR. If you resolve to make this trip, essentially the most convenient airport is Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. There are several excellent and inexpensive hotels available including Courtleigh, Pegasus, Hotel AC by Marriott, Hotel Rok, Spanish CourtAND Hotel R. For those searching for short or long run rentals, corporations reminiscent of Luxury Aspen Apartments offer luxury accommodation in complexes close to major shopping districts, business districts, colleges and recreational attractions, boasting panoramic city views.


Wednesday, April 3

Light up: In Jamaica, the soca season runs from February to April, culminating within the fundamental carnival events on the second weekend of April, often after Easter weekend. The festivities often start on Friday evening, but arriving a couple of days early offers a spread of festivities to get you within the spirit.

Traditionally, Wednesday was the day of the famous “iLoveSoca” stadium festival; it has now been moved to Monday, April 1. However, this yr’s “Illuminate” event is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, at 8 p.m. “We always had the idea for Illuminate and saw an opportunity to introduce it last year on Carnival Wednesday, and it was well received,” explained Andrew Bellamy, director of the YardMas carnival team and iLoveSoca, who worked with Franco AND Brush1 to create Illumination. “It was a very energizing event, with thousands of people attending the first staging, so we will do it again in 2024!”


Thursday, April 4

Touchdown Jamaica: Exciting and trendy romance, Touchdown Jamaica embodies the quintessential soca weekend experience happening at Jangas, Kingston’s famous soundbar and grill, from 6 p.m.

Rytz featuring Kes: The iLoveSoca and Tipsy Music Festival teams collaborate on the presentation Rytz, an exclusive, luxury all-inclusive event featuring a live performance by one in all soca’s biggest artists, Kes. Join us from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m


Photo: AdobeStock

Friday, April 5

All-inclusive SunKissed Beach Cruise: : All-inclusive sunbathing beach cruise is hailed as some of the vital beach festivals and catamaran cruises of the season. Enjoy the very best soca rhythms from noon to 5 p.m. as you cruise on the water.

Juice starter: Known DJ Private Ryan releases his own Soca Starter Playlist at the start of annually, offering insight into the important thing tunes that he predicts will dominate international Carnival celebrations. As such, you won’t want to miss his annual “Soca appetizer party from 15:00 to 23:00

Scorch Ducks Work: : Scorch Ducks Work is a famous cooler holiday that has left its mark in Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica. Join Team Scorch for Carnival on Friday, April 5, from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. for a sizzling Jamaican atmosphere.

Bacchanal J’ouvert – Paint Rave: One of the unique j’ouverts, Bacchanal J’ouvert – Paint Raveis a vigorous painting event held at Mas Camp in Kingston, starting at 10 p.m. and lasting until the morning.


Saturday, April 6

I opened the immortals: GenXs, the leading “ultra premium” carnival band, continues to dominate the soca season with unique events reminiscent of Immortals J’ouvert. This breakfast event starts early Saturday at 2 a.m. and provides an unforgettable experience crammed with paint, powder, water and the very best soca tunes. Don’t miss this epic celebration!

Sunnation Breakfast Party: If you had to select only one event to attend during Jamaica’s carnival season, it might be none apart from the famous all-inclusive event Sunrise Breakfast Party at Sunnation. Desired for its elegance, wide range of dining options, top-notch performances and infectious atmosphere, this breakfast party draws attendees on Saturdays from 5 a.m. to party with friends throughout the day.

Lil Strut Jamaica: When you hear about it Lil Strut Jamaica, imagine boats, bubbles and bacchanal! As the last official GenX-approved boat ride before the masqueraders hit the road to jump on Carnival Sunday, consider this an important cruise event from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.


Sunday, April 7

Glam carnival center: Come early Sunday morning to experience Glam carnival center with your reservation and luxuriate in hair styling, sweat-proof makeup, breakfast, drinks, skilled photography, carnival costume assistance and transfers, all under one roof. This is the place to be sure that you’re in top shape before joining your carnival band members and dominating the Sunday carnival.

Travels, Black Travels, Black Travels, Carnival Season, Festival Season, Jamaica, Carnival in Jamaica, Carnival in the Caribbean, Travels to the Caribbean, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, theGrio.com
(Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

GenX road march: It’s Carnival Sunday and the long-awaited moment has arrived. Put on your costume, fasten your blindfolds and take part GenX at 9 a.m. on the way in which to parade through the streets of Kingston, cordoned off for your pleasure.

March on Yard Mas Road: Join Mass Garden and a vigorous masquerade scene for a fun-filled day on the road, taking a distinct route through Kingston from 9am to 6pm with loads of all-inclusive food, drinks and snacks.

March on the Xodus Road: Known for its danceable beats and vibrant atmosphere, The God The Road March is a spirited carnival procession where costumed revelers freely have a good time within the streets, dancing throughout the day. Join this dynamic carnival band at 9am for a day of all-inclusive festivities.

XS Street: New afterparty prepared by the GenXs team, XS Street it’s pure dance atmosphere after the Sunday carnival march. Join the GenXs team from 6 p.m


Monday, April 8

Ocean X: Just when you think Carnival Week is over, re-evaluate. Ocean X is a GenX catamaran cruise that docks on Maiden Cay, Jamaica; boarding starts at 10:00

XS Sunset: The final event of the week for GenX is XS Sunset, a fun cool-down fest free for GenX masqueraders.

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Noel Cymone Walker theGrio.com

Noel Cymone Walker is a New York-based author specializing in beauty, fashion, music, travel, and cultural anthropology. She has written and produced artwork for several notable publications including The Recording Academy/The Grammys, The Fader, Billboard, OKPlayer, Marie Claire, Glamour, Allure, Essence, Ebony and more.


This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Travel

Why a fall beach trip was just the reset I needed

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The beach is my comfortable place. Something about the smell of the salty water floating in the breeze, the sound of the waves crashing on the shore, and the warmth of the sun on my skin just melts my stress away. And searching at the vast horizon stops me from every part else occurring in the world, giving me time to reflect and shift my perspective that offers me clarity and focus.

Since I live in New York, the end of summer normally means the end of the beach – at the very least until mid-winter, when I’ll inevitably hop on a plane to a sandy tropical destination with the remainder of the sun-seekers . But this 12 months I decided to try something different: a fall beach trip.

I took advantage of the warmer than usual weather in the Northeast and planned a weekend trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey for one last likelihood to be a beach bum, courtesy of Ocean casino resort.

Here are three the explanation why fall is the perfect time to go to the beach:

1. To stave off the seasonal blues

As soon as Labor Day weekend involves an end, I begin to dread the impending reality of sunsets getting earlier and earlier. That first day while you leave the office and it’s already dark outside is at all times a shock for me. And for people affected by seasonal affective disorder, the change of seasons is even tougher.

A trip to the beach is the antidote to shorter, gray days. You could also be wrapped in a sweater as a substitute of wearing a bikini, but the extra vitamin D is real. Even when I stayed in the room, not only did I have amazing views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, but I had hours of fantastic sunlight.

Planning a time change escape is one other smart travel move since it gives you something to sit up for quite than “rolling back.” In addition to the casino, Ocean Resort after all offers a variety of bars and restaurants, HQ2 nightclub, Topgolf Swing Suite and the best live entertainment venue, Ovation Hall, which hosted Lenny Kravitz the weekend I was there. How are you able to be indignant while you spend the last hours of summer singing together with Lenny?

2. To prepare for a productive fourth quarter

Have you heard of the “winter bow”? The TikTok trend could also be recent, but the idea behind it shouldn’t be. It’s a strategy to commit to self-improvement during the colder months by specializing in recent, healthier activities. It’s also a strategy to kickstart your “new year, new you” resolutions because, despite the frosty name, it normally starts in October. A fall trip to the beach may be the perfect begin to your winter fun, because it’s the perfect place to read, journal, and meditate. If physical well-being is a priority for you, you’ll be able to visit the recently renovated MUSSELS fitness center at Ocean, with a yoga area and Peloton offerings.

Even should you don’t intentionally work in your winter glow, research has shown a link between travel and mindfulness, creativity and private growth. Fall has traditionally been a time of reflection, change and rediscovery, so it’s the perfect time to flee.

Increasing your activity can enable you to achieve your Q4 goals upon your return.

3. To enjoy the peace before the summer storm

Before you recognize it, your calendar – and to-do list – will probably be stuffed with holiday shopping, travel, hosting and parties. It could also be the most wonderful time of the 12 months, however it’s probably the most hectic. Spending time with just myself and the ocean helped me feel able to face the difficult months ahead. And while dipping your toes in the icy waters of the Atlantic wasn’t an option, if water is what you discover soothing, Ocean Casino Resort has a year-round indoor/outdoor pool overlooking the coast, and a whirlpool and jacuzzi at the award-winning Exhale Spa + Bathhouse.

On the other hand, should you began watching Christmas movies in July and may’t wait for the season to begin, the end of fall is a great time to experience the magical touches that many hotels offer. Ocean Casino Resort transforms into a seaside winter wonderland with 30 holiday-themed rooms and suites, complete with Christmas trees; festive Jingle Bell Bar and pop-up Christmas marketplace for adults; and an adventure at Santa’s Hideout if you desire to make your trip to the beach a family affair.


This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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Spirit Airlines files for bankruptcy amid surge in holiday travel

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Spirit Airlines, recognized for influencing cost-effective travel and reworking the market, has filed for bankruptcy protection amid consecutive years of losses, a failed merger, growing competition and changing customer demands.

This week, the airline announced that an “orderly” petition has been filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York as a part of a “restructuring support agreement” as a part of the statement. Spirit says that while the corporate is working to restructure its debt, it should proceed operations through the holiday season and into 2025.

“Spirit expects to continue its operations in the normal course throughout the planned and streamlined Chapter 11 (bankruptcy) process,” the airline said in an announcement. “Guests can continue to book and fly without interruption and use all tickets, points and loyalty points as normal.”

Additionally, the brand new filing won’t impact worker salaries and advantages.

While this term may sound scary, Spirit isn’t the one US airline to declare bankruptcy. Major competitors corresponding to American Airlines, United and Delta Airlines have filed for bankruptcy over the past 25 years. Just as other carriers have emerged stronger since filing for bankruptcy, Spirit President and CEO Ted Christie hopes to do the identical. The airline’s CEO asserts that restocking the airline and negotiating with creditors will allow Spirit to enter the brand new yr with less debt and greater financial flexibility, which can position “Spirit for long-term success and accelerate investment, providing guests with a better travel experience and greater value.” .

In open letter to Spirit gueststhe corporate assured travelers of what was to come back.

“We’re still flying, so no need for FOMO! You can continue to rely on Spirit for great quality and excellent service,” the airline wrote on Xwith a link to the open letter that read: “The most important thing to know is that you (customers) can continue to book and fly now and in the future. We also want to assure you that you can use all tickets, credits and loyalty points as normal. You can continue to take advantage of our Free Spirit loyalty program, Saver$ Club bonuses and credit card terms and conditions. Our amazing team members are here to offer you excellent service and an exceptional experience. We expect to complete this process in the first quarter of 2025 and be even better positioned to deliver the best value in the sky.”

Uber helps passengers 'Go Anywhere' - even on safari in South Africa

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Green Book Global launches road trip planner to provide inclusive options for Black travelers

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car, Greenbook Global

Building on the success of the primary and only Black travel booking and review platform, Green Book Global is expanding its services with the brand new Road Trip Planner app feature.

WITH Global Green Paper already recognized as a contemporary interactive guide for black travelers, the corporate has now added a feature to help plan safer and more enjoyable trips across the US. Launched on a redesigned mobile app (available on iOS and Android) and accessible via an internet app, this recent Road Trip Planner tool is powered by community insights and data.

“Our mission has always been to provide Black travelers with information that fosters a safer and more inclusive travel environment,” Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global, he said . “With Road Trip Planner, we turn our community’s collective experience into a robust tool that maps the most effective routes and areas to avoid based on historical and up to date data.

“It’s greater than only a planning tool. This is a brand new level of safety for our community,” he added.

Named after , which provided travel suggestions for African Americans traveling in Jim Crow America from 1936 to 1966, Green Book Global is a contemporary app and interactive guide designed to help Black travelers within the twenty first century. Using hundreds of reviews generated by Black users, the app will help users plan safer trips by identifying optimal routes and avoiding areas known to be inhospitable or potentially dangerous.

“Our goal is to provide information so that Black travelers can make a very personal decision about where they want to go,” Phillips said.

According to Green Book Global, the friendliest U.S. destinations for black travelers include Atlanta, Houston, Baltimore, Washington, Charlotte and Chicago. The platform also offers a world destination search tool, with recommendations for various destinations similar to Kenya, Slovenia and Argentina.

Phillips points out that the brand new Planner tool allows drivers to select the “Avoid City” option to avoid cities at sunset and robotically re-route them.

“Our community rates cities on a five-star scale for traveling as a black person, and cities receive an overall rating,” he explains. “Green means the safest and friendliest destination, yellow means average and red means needs improvement. The color red signifies a city where black travelers generally didn’t feel protected or welcome, and should even signify a former sunset city.

The study also revealed some unexpected findings about cities which may be predominantly white but have small but powerful black populations.

“Portland, Maine was a big surprise,” Phillips says. “Although Maine is one of the whitest states in America, with a Black population of almost 2%, the city of Portland is almost 10% Black. It was amazing. Delicious food, lots of attractions and a nice atmosphere.”


This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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