UK Couple’s Deep Love for Jamaica and the People

What began as a single vacation has grown into a lifelong love affair with Jamaica for United Kingdom couple Tracey Smith and her husband, Christopher, a journey defined by culture, connection, and a passion for giving back.

Jamaica is no longer just a destination for the Hampshire natives. It is a place of belonging, one shaped by friendships, shared experiences, and an enduring admiration for the island’s people.

“We’ve been coming to Jamaica since 2006, and we’ve been here 50 to 60 times,” Mrs. Smith told JIS News, reflecting on nearly two decades of visits.

Their first stay at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort marked the beginning of a relationship that would steadily deepen over the years. While the island’s natural beauty left a lasting impression, it was the warmth of its people that kept them returning.

“It’s because of the people… everyone is so appreciative and loving, and they enable you to get involved and really help make a difference rather than just coming on vacation,” she explained.

That connection has seen the couple move beyond traditional tourism to fully embracing Jamaica’s culture in ways that have become central to their lives.

Among those experiences is their love for dancehall music, a vibrant expression of Jamaican identity that they have wholeheartedly embraced.

“We also love dancehall music… we were at Reggae Sumfest last year to watch Vybz Kartel be crowned [dancehall king] by Spice,” Mrs. Smith said, referencing their admiration for the dancehall icon.

So enamoured are the couple with the performer and genre, that their passion extends well beyond Jamaica’s shores.

“We even went to see him in the UK wearing our Jamaica shirts… ; we were representing,” she said smiling, expressing that wherever they travel, Jamaica is never far from their hearts.

From attending major cultural events to proudly representing Jamaica internationally, even as far as the Taj Mahal in India, the Smiths have become enthusiastic ambassadors of the island’s spirit.

While their love for the culture is palpable, their commitment to service is what truly defines their bond with Jamaica.

Through the Sandals Foundation, the couple has transformed their vacations into opportunities to give back, participating in beach clean-ups, school outreach initiatives, and community projects across the island.

Regional Public Relations Manager at Sandals, Lyndsay Isaacs, describes Mrs. Smith as an unwavering presence in these efforts.

“Every community event… Tracey is the first to be there… whether it be tree planting, beach clean-up, feeding the homeless, painting schools… this lady and her husband, they are with me,” she said, noting that the couple often plans their visits around outreach activities.

Their involvement has fostered meaningful relationships, particularly with children in the communities they visit.

“When we revisit, they’re like ‘Auntie Tracey, Uncle Chris’… it shows that you’ve touched them and hopefully given them some help or hope,” Mrs. Smith reflected.

Those moments, she said, are among the most rewarding, simple yet powerful reminders of the impact of genuine connection.

That bond was tested and ultimately strengthened during the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

“We were tearful… . I cried because I was thinking of everybody,” Mrs. Smith recalled, describing the emotional toll of watching the storm approach a place and people she now considers family.

She told JIS News that returning to Jamaica after the hurricane was not just another trip; it was a deeply personal mission.

“We feel really privileged… especially post-Hurricane Melissa… when you see how the island was devastated, and to be doing something like this is absolutely amazing,” she said during a recent tree-planting activity in Ocho Rios.

Determined to assist, the couple mobilised support by sourcing essential supplies, donating funds, and encouraging others to contribute to recovery efforts.

“Post-Melissa has mostly been bringing in items… clothes, toiletries… all sorts of things to help people rebuild,” she noted.

Beyond their personal contributions, the Smiths have become passionate advocates for Jamaica, urging others to visit and support the island, particularly in times of need.

“Jamaica needs everybody to come now and give them your support,” Mrs. Smith appealed.

She expressed that their message is already resonating with several couples planning visits alongside them, inspired not only by Jamaica’s beauty but by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

Though they have considered owning a home on the island, Mrs. Smith believes their current journey has allowed for something even more valuable.

“If we were in a home [here], we wouldn’t have made all the relationships with the lovely people that we’ve met,” she said.

Now retired, the couple remains committed to deepening their connection with Jamaica and expanding their role in community initiatives.

“We feel absolutely blessed and privileged to be part of it… . We will keep coming back and keep flying the flag and keep promoting Jamaica,” Mrs. Smith affirmed.

Through years of visits, heartfelt service, and a genuine love for Jamaica’s people, music and culture, the Smiths have transformed travel into something far greater – a lasting relationship grounded in compassion, shared humanity, and the enduring spirit of ‘one love’.