Port Royal: The Sunken Pirate City of Jamaica

• HelloWa gwaan
  [wah gwaan]
• GoodbyeLata
  [lay-ta]
• YesYa man
  [yah man]
• NoNuh
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeNuh problem
  [noo pro-blem]
• Thank youRespek
  [re-spek]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sarry]
• How are you?How yuh deh?
  [how yoo deh]
• Fine. And you?Mi deh yah. An yuh?
  [me deh yah. an yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yoo speak english]
• I don't understandMi nuh ondastan
  [me noo un-der-stand]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wah si di menu, pliz
  [me wah see dee menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatMi nuh nyam meat
  [me noo nyam meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi woulda pay, pliz
  [me woo-da pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Gweh!
  [gweh]
• Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [call dee police]
• Call a doctor!Call a docta!
  [call a doc-ta]
• I'm lostMi lost
  [me lost]
• I'm illMi sick
  [me sick]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wah buy...
  [me wah buy]
• I'm just lookingMi just a look
  [me just a look]
• How much is it?A 'ow much it deh?
  [ah o much it deh]
• That's too expensiveDat too much
  [dat too much]
• Can you lower the price?Yu can drop di price?
  [yoo can drop dee price]

• What time is it?A wah time it deh?
  [ah wah time it deh]
• It's one o'clockA one o'clock
  [ah one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Haaf pass ten
  [haff pass ten]
• MorningMawnin
  [mawnin]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [af-ta-noon]
• EveningEevinin
  [ee-vee-nin]
• YesterdayYessideh
  [yes-si-deh]
• TodayTu'deh
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTommaro
  [tom-mar-ro]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Trie
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Fie
  [fie]
• 6Siks
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh di...
  [weh dee]
• What's the address?Weh di address deh?
  [weh dee ad-dress deh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu can show mi (pan di map)?
  [yoo can show me (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen di nex (bus) deh?
  [wen dee nex (bus) deh]
• A ticket (to ....)A tickit (to ....)
  [ah tick-it (to)]

Port Royal was founded in 1518 by the Spanish as a small fishing village and was initially known as 'Caguaya'. It quickly became a vital port for trade and a strategic military outpost, serving as a point of entry for Spanish galleons laden with gold and silver from the New World.

In the late 17th century, Port Royal gained notoriety as a haven for buccaneers and privateers, who preyed on Spanish ships. Figures such as Sir Henry Morgan became infamous during this time. The port thrived economically, earning the title 'The Richest City on Earth' due to its bustling trade and the wealth the pirates brought.

On June 7, 1692, a devastating earthquake struck Port Royal, causing much of the town to sink into the sea. This catastrophic event marked the decline of Port Royal as the center of trade and piracy, leading to the eventual relocation of major activities to Kingston, which was more stable and strategically located.

Following the earthquake, Port Royal transitioned to a more subdued existence under British colonial rule. By the 18th century, it had lost its status as a major port, and Kingston emerged as the capital of Jamaica. Nevertheless, Port Royal retained its historical significance, continuing to serve as a naval base and a fishing village.

Today, Port Royal is recognized for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The area is home to several landmarks, including the Fort Charles and the remnants of the sunken city. Efforts have been made to preserve its history, and it is celebrated for its contributions to Jamaica's maritime and pirate lore, drawing tourists interested in its storied past.

Port Royal is located approximately 12 kilometers from downtown Kingston. To reach Port Royal, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service directly from your accommodation. For a more adventurous route, you can take a bus from downtown Kingston to the nearby town of Harbour View and then catch a taxi to Port Royal. Alternatively, the ferry service from downtown Kingston to Port Royal offers a scenic maritime approach, taking about 30 minutes.

Port Royal is a small, walkable area, making it easy to explore on foot. Local taxis are available for longer distances or for trips to nearby attractions. Bicycles can be rented from some local shops, providing a fun way to navigate the seaside streets. However, public transport options are limited within Port Royal; most visitors find walking to be the most convenient method of getting around.

While Port Royal is generally safe during the day, it's advisable to exercise caution, especially after dark. Areas around the docks can be less secure, so it's best to avoid walking alone in those areas at night. Be vigilant with your belongings and avoid displaying valuables. Always stay in well-lit, populated areas, and consider using a taxi for nighttime travel.

In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance and 110 for fire services. For medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in downtown Kingston, so ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical needs. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and locations handy.

Fashion: Do wear light, comfortable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious or historical sites. Religion: Do respect local customs, and be mindful when visiting churches. Don’t take photos without permission in places of worship. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly or those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a polite hello. Don’t use overly casual language until you know someone well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood specialties and fresh juices. Don’t drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Port Royal like a local, visit the local fish market early in the morning for the freshest catches. Engage with local vendors and try traditional dishes like ackee and saltfish. Attend a local event or festival if your visit coincides with one, as these are excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture. Don’t miss the historical sites like Fort Charles and the Maritime Museum, which offer a glimpse into Port Royal’s storied past as a notorious pirate haven.