Adventure and affordability at the heart of Rashell Myrie’s Exploring Ja
Her top 5 spots to visit on the island
Published:Saturday | January 13, 2024 | 12:08 AMJada Powell/Gleaner Writer -
As we step into 2024, the perennial resolution to ‘travel more’ once again takes centre stage, fuelled by our boundless aspirations. Yet this fervent goal often remains entangled in the realm of unfulfilled dreams, perpetuated by the misconception that travel is an expensive affair. Rashell Myrie, founder and chief executive officer of Exploring Ja, is hoping to change that perception and transform travel dreams into attainable adventures, demonstrating that the journey is as within reach as the enticing destination itself.
Reflecting on the inception of Exploring Ja, Myrie shares a simple and heartfelt motivation. “My main drive in starting Exploring Ja was the desire to explore our island’s hidden gems with friends. People asked to join, and the rest is history.”
With a dedication to affordability and an unwavering passion for unveiling Jamaica’s hidden wonders, Myrie reveals a transformative shift in perspective. “Many Jamaicans were unaware of the actual costs of exploring our own island before the introduction of Exploring Ja in 2021,” said Myrie. “Now, people realise they don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to explore Jamaica. Booking with Exploring Ja is a seamless experience — just book your trip, show up, and have fun.”
For those still contemplating travelling the island this year, Myrie shared her top five spots in Jamaica.
1. REACH FALLS IN PORTLAND
From the beautiful turquoise water to the natural landscape, rabbit hole, river hike, and falls themselves, there is a lot to do for swimmers and non-swimmers alike.
2. PUERTO SECO BEACH PARK IN ST ANN
From the pool to the amazing food to the obstacle course and so much more. Spend a day here, and I promise you won’t be bored, shared Myrie.
3. BENTA RIVER FALLS IN WESTMORELAND
“Benta Falls is what I like to call my own slice of heaven on the north side,” said Myrie. With its lush, green scenery, limestone massage, cool water, mini pools for swimming and underwater caves, you don’t have to climb these falls to enjoy it.
4. YS FALLS IN ST ELIZABETH
With its seven-tiered waterfalls, three pools, and a mineral spring, YS Falls have the trappings for a perfect family day. Zipline over the majestic falls or relax by the garden, for Myrie, there is nothing better than enjoying the St Bess sun.
5. HOLYWELL NATURE PARK IN ST ANDREW
Spend a weekend surrounded by nature as you camp under the stars. Nothing is quite as peaceful.
As Exploring Ja marks its third anniversary, Myrie encourages us all to embrace the profound truth that travelling pays in experiences. “Travel. Yur money will come back, your time won’t,” she shared. In a world where we often feel like we have all the time to savour life, Myrie’s words resonate as a powerful reminder to stop merely existing and start living. So let’s trade complaints for exploration and take that leap into a world of discovery.
Myrie’s philosophy extends beyond waiting for companions. She advocates going solo if needed and promises that once ready, a group trip with Exploring Ja will introduce you to like-minded travellers, turning strangers into friends. A key lesson she has learnt over the past three years: “Always bet on yourself. At the end of the day, if you try something and it doesn’t work, you still go to bed. So just start. Everything will fall in place after,” she said.