‘Escape to Jamaica’ Instagram series delivers a taste of the destination - Virtual care package aims to lift ­spirits during social distancing

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is using its digital platform to deliver a virtual care package to uplift and inspire followers around the world who are currently practising responsible social distancing.

The JTB kicked off its ‘Escape to Jamaica’ Instagram Live series on April 3 with ZJ Sparks. The popular ZIP 103 DJ hosted a dance party, spinning the latest reggae and dancehall hits live from Jamaica, helping viewers chill and unwind after another week of social distancing. Then on April 6, there was a wellness session with Empress Thandi Wise, Certified Yoga Instructor from Rasta Wellness Centre and Jakes Hotel. Andre Fowles, Food Network Chopped Champion and Culinary Ambassador for Miss Lily’s in New York, Negril and Dubai, did the first cooking demo on April 8. Also on April 10, DJ Delano of Renaissance Disco had the audience rocking.

‘Escape to Jamaica’ will occur weekly on the JTB’s Instagram channel sharing irie vibes. The series will also feature cooking demos and pre-recorded wellness sessions.

VIRTUAL GETAWAY

“We’re aware that people from all corners of the globe may be in need of an escape with all that’s happening right now. With this live series, Jamaica can offer a virtual getaway through our music, cuisine, culture, warm people and that unmistakable Jamaican spirit,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s director of tourism.

“Since visitors are unable to come to us at the moment, we want to bring the ‘Heartbeat of the World’ to their homes. Jamaica will be here to welcome travellers when we can travel once again and, in the meantime, we want our followers to know we can only get through this together.”

Following is the schedule of the ‘Escape to Jamaica’ series, with additional dates to be announced:

• April 3: ZJ Sparks – Zip 103

• April 6: Empress Thandi Wise – Certified Yoga Instructor, Rasta Wellness Centre and Jakes Hotel

• April 8: Chef Andre Fowles – Food Network Chopped Champion and Culinary Ambassador for Miss Lily’s in New York, Negril and Dubai

• April 10: DJ Delano – Renaissance Disco

• April 15: Rousseau Sisters – Jamaican Sisters, owners of Summer House in Kingston and authors of ‘Provisions, The Roots of Caribbean Cooking’

• April 17: ZJ Chrome – Zip 103

To participate, be sure to visit the JTB’s Instagram account at www.instagram.com/visitjamaica. Join the conversation with #EscapetoJamaica.

Viewers who missed any episode can watch them @visitjamaica on Instagram TV (IGTV).