Portmore: The Pulse of Jamaica's Urban Life

• HelloWah gwaan
  [Waah gwaan]
• GoodbyeLikkle more
  [Lik-kle more]
• YesYah man
  [Yah man]
• NoNah man
  [Nah man]
• Please/You're welcomeSarry/Sank yuh
  [Sar-ry/Sank yuh]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [Tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [Sar-ry]
• How are you?How yuh stay?
  [How yuh stay?]
• Fine. And you?Mi deh yah. An yuh?
  [Mi deh yah. An yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Yuh chat English?
  [Yuh chat English?]
• I don't understandMi nuh undastan
  [Mi nuh un-da-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi waan si di menu pliz
  [Mi waan si dee menu pleez]
• I don't eat meatMi nuh nyam meat
  [Mi nuh nyam meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi waan pay, pliz
  [Mi waan pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Move fram yah!
  [Move fram yah!]
• Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [Call dee Police!]
• Call a doctor!Call a dokta!
  [Call a dok-ta!]
• I'm lostMi lost
  [Mi lost]
• I'm illMi sick
  [Mi sick]

• I'd like to buy...Mi waan buy...
  [Mi waan buy...]
• I'm just lookingMi jus a look
  [Mi jus a look]
• How much is it?A wah di price deh?
  [A wah dee price deh?]
• That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [Dat too dear]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh can drop di price?
  [Yuh can drop dee price?]

• What time is it?A wah time it deh?
  [A wah time it deh?]
• It's one o'clockA one o'clok
  [A one o'clok]
• Half past (10)Haaf pas (10)
  [Haaf pas (10)]
• MorningMawnin
  [Mawnin]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [Afta-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [Evenin]
• YesterdayYessideh
  [Yes-si-deh]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTamara
  [Ta-ma-ra]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Tree
  [Tree]
• 4Fo'
  [Fo']
• 5Fi'
  [Fi']
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Whey di...
  [Whey dee...]
• What's the address?A wah di address deh?
  [A wah dee address deh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh can show mi (pan di map)?
  [Yuh can show mi (pan dee map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen di nex' (bus) deh?
  [Wen dee nex' (bus) deh?]
• A ticket (to ....)A tikkit (to ....)
  [A tik-kit (to ....)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Portmore was inhabited by the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of Jamaica. The Tainos were skilled farmers, fishermen, and artisans who lived in harmony with the natural environment. They left behind a rich cultural legacy that still influences Jamaican culture today.

In 1494, Christopher Columbus arrived in Jamaica, marking the beginning of Spanish colonization. The Spanish established settlements and brought with them new crops, livestock, and European customs. However, their presence also led to the decline of the Taino population due to diseases and harsh labor conditions.

In 1655, the British captured Jamaica from the Spanish, ushering in a new era of colonial rule. Portmore, like much of Jamaica, became part of the British Empire. The British established sugar plantations which relied heavily on the labor of enslaved Africans, leading to significant demographic and cultural changes in the region.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 brought profound changes to Portmore and the rest of Jamaica. Formerly enslaved people sought new opportunities, leading to the development of free villages and a shift in the labor market. This period also saw the rise of new cultural expressions and the strengthening of Afro-Jamaican identity.

In the mid-20th century, Portmore began to evolve from a rural area into a suburban community designed to alleviate overcrowding in Kingston. The government initiated housing projects, and Portmore became known as a 'dormitory community' where residents commuted to Kingston for work. This transformation led to rapid population growth and urban development.

In 1988, Hurricane Gilbert struck Jamaica, causing extensive damage to Portmore. The hurricane's impact was devastating, destroying homes, infrastructure, and causing widespread flooding. The recovery efforts that followed highlighted the resilience of the Portmore community and led to significant rebuilding and improvements in disaster preparedness.

In 2003, Portmore was officially granted municipal status, becoming the Portmore Municipality. This change allowed for greater local governance and the implementation of development projects aimed at improving infrastructure, public services, and community facilities. Today, Portmore continues to grow and modernize, balancing its historical roots with contemporary urban development.

Portmore is located just west of Kingston, Jamaica's capital. The most convenient way to reach Portmore is by flying into Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Portmore, which is approximately a 30-minute drive. Alternatively, you can use shuttle services or private transfers available at the airport.

Portmore offers various transportation options. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. Public minibuses and route taxis are commonly used by locals and are an affordable option, though they can be crowded. Renting a car is another option, providing flexibility and convenience for exploring the area and nearby attractions at your own pace. Be sure to drive on the left side of the road, as Jamaica follows British driving rules.

The official currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD). Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Portmore. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available in Portmore, but it's a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Portmore, like many urban areas, has its share of crime. While most visits are trouble-free, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Notable areas with higher crime rates include Gregory Park and Naggo Head. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs. Stick to well-lit, busy areas and use registered taxis or reputable transportation services.

In case of emergency, dial 119 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Portmore has several medical facilities, including the Portmore Healthcare Complex, which can handle minor to moderate healthcare needs. It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Show reverence in places of worship by dressing modestly and behaving respectfully. Public Transport: Do use registered taxis and be cautious on public minibuses. Avoid taking buses late at night. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Jamaicans are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and street food, but make sure it’s from a clean and reputable vendor. Don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.

To experience Portmore like a local, visit the Hellshire Beach for its famous fried fish and festival. Engage with locals at the Portmore Mall where you can shop for authentic Jamaican goods. Attend a local football match to feel the vibrant community spirit. Don’t miss the Caymanas Park for horse racing, a popular local pastime. Interacting with locals can provide unique insights into the culture and history of the area.