Portland Jamaica Vacation
Freedom Time Tour 2023
Portland Jamaica
June 30 to July 7, 2023 (7 Nights)
Retreat Price: $3,250
All prices are in United States Dollars (USD). A $700 deposit is required to hold your reservation. First 50% is non refundable once you register.
Portland Jamaica Retreat Team
Wafa Aouchiche
Retreat Planner and Host
Dr. Butch Ware
Special Guest
Retreat Overview
“Emancipate yourself from mental slavery” ~Robert Nesta Marley
Jamaica was home to some of the earliest rebellions against the British slave trade. Maroon settlements dotted the Island as Arawaks and enslaved Africans – many of them of Muslim origins – freed themselves from bondage. They leaned heavily on African culture and religious expression to liberate themselves internally and externally. Rastafarianism grew from these roots, flourishing in cultural and musical expression. But it is not widely known that much of the foundation for Afro-Caribbean roots and culture came from West African Muslims. During this retreat we will explore together the historical, spiritual, and musical connections linking Jamaica, Africa, and Islam.
During our Jamaica excursions, we’ll visit Kingston Central Masjid mosque, pray in peace, remember Allah, and enjoy an exquisite eight-course farm-to-table meal at Stush in the Bush organic farm. You’ll also have the opportunity to take in Portland Jamaica’s unspoiled nature and swim in breathtaking waterfalls, beaches, and lagoons. We’ll hike up the famous Blue Mountains, where we’ll visit one of the island’s oldest Rasta communities and dissolve all ignorant misconceptions about the island and its proud people.
This won’t be about all-day tanning, beachside braids, and gift shop Rasta hats (not that there’s anything wrong with that); we just want to rejuvenate you in a different way. After all, we travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us, right? We want to share the glory, struggles, and beauty of this island- a BEAST of an island, as you will find out!
Please note that guest speakers can change due to unexpected circumstances. Burgundy Roots will guarantee optimum quality for its guest speakers. We ask for your flexibility and understanding.
Who is Dr. Butch Ware?
Join us on this unforgettable adventure through Jamaica, where you’ll have the incredible chance to travel alongside Dr. Rudolph ‘Butch’ T. Ware III, a distinguished scholar, author, and educator renowned for his insightful exploration of Black history, particularly focusing on the African diaspora and the Caribbean. Dr. Ware’s acclaimed works delve into the deep connections between Jamaica and the broader Black experience, highlighting the contributions of West African Muslims and their lasting impact on Jamaican culture and religion.
On this immersive journey, Dr. Ware will enrich your experience with his profound knowledge and captivating storytelling, bringing to life the rich tapestry of Jamaica’s African, European, and Indigenous heritage, with a specific focus on the often-overlooked Islamic influence. Dr. Ware’s insights will provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance, particularly the deep connections between Jamaica, Africa, and Islam.
Travel with an open mind and a curious spirit as Dr. Butch Ware guides you through the captivating landscapes, vibrant cultures, and spiritual traditions of Portland Jamaica. This won’t be your typical beach vacation; we want to rejuvenate you in a different way, by delving into the true essence of the island and its people. After all, we travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us, right?
Freedom Time Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrivals & Introductions
Arrive in Kingston and meet the rest of the group. From Kingston, we’ll make our way to Portland (4h 30 minute drive). Upon arrival at our hotel, you can relax, unwind and mingle. In order to ensure airport pick up, please arrive before 12 PM. Should you arrive at a later time, we can provide you with a driver (extra costs apply).
Day 2: Beach Day
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.
- At 10:00 we’ll hop on our bus enjoy your first day in Jamaica on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches! We’ll spend a full day here, swimming, eating, and getting to know one another!
Day 3: Blue Lagoon
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.
- At 10:00 we will hop on our bus and explore one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons! We’ll spend our morning on Monkey Island, afterwards, we’ll rinse off in the lagoon and fresh spring.
- Lunch
- Free time
- Dinner
- Evening session with Dr Ware
Day 4: Waterfalls
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.
- At 10:00 we’ll hop on our bus and make our way to magical waterfalls! Swim in the clearest waterfalls you’ve ever seen and enjoy a hike/ river walk.
- Lunch at the hotel
- Free time
- Dinner
Day 5: Farm Day
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Stush in the Bush organic farm: It is a love story, a magical fusion of Rastafari and chic. It is the blending of ‘Ital’ farming and exotic vegetables. It is the love of mother nature and the love of fine dining. It is rustic and it is gourmet. (5 hour drive from Portland to St-Ann’s)
- After our farm visit, we will make our way to the iconic city of Kingston and spend our last 3 nights.
Day 6: Rasta Camp & Blue Mountain Climb
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.
- At 10:00 we’ll hop on our bus, drive up to the Blue Mountains and hike to visit a Rasta community we’ve been working with for many years.
- Late lunch at Eits Cafe (farm to table experience)
Day 7: Centra Masjid: Mosque Visit and Farewell Dinner
- Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware.
- Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.
- At 3:00 PM, we’ll head to Central Masjid to meet Sheikh Tijani, visit the Mosque and learn about the work the community is doing.
- Farewell dinner at a private location
Day 8: Departure from Kingston Jamaica
Sad to see you go, thank you for joining us and trusting Burgundy Roots. Safe journey, inshallah!
What’s Included on the Jamaica Freedom Time Tour?
Included:
- Airport Pickup: Must arrive before 12:00 PM
- All accommodations: Shared Three (3) people per room
- Breakfast and Two Lunches (Halal, vegetarian, and vegan options available)
- Four (4) Attractions: All except Stush in the Bush (additional $375)
- Private Transportation
- Tour Curators and Guides
- Lectures and Classes with Professor Butch Ware
Not Included:
- Airfare
- Airport drop off $50. Must arrive before noon to be eligible for the airport pick up.
- Remaining Meals (4 Dinners and Stush in the Bush)
- Tips
- COVID-19 Tests
- Medical and Travel Insurance
- Souvenirs and Extra Activities: Activities that are not included in the itinerary Ex: Zip lining, skydiving, dance class etc.
Portland Jamaica Photo Gallery
Embark on a visual journey through the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Jamaica with our curated photo gallery. Discover the beauty of this enchanting country one image at a time. Click a photo to start the slideshow.
A Few Words From Our Travelers In Jamaica
Read reviews from our travelers who have experienced the community tourism we offer; we proudly feature only feedback from real guests.
