Jamaica is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Few people truly understand the extent of its hidden beauty like professional traveler Lilli. The Kingston native is deeply in love with her homeland, enjoying much of her free time exploring the island and discovering its hidden gems. In total, she has visited over 100 waterfalls, each unique and stunning in its own way. Through her Instagram page and blog, Nature’s Sweet Escapes, Lilli documents her nature exploration across Jamaica. With a focus on the picturesque parish of Portland, she plans to compile a book about waterfalls in the region.
“I’ve also dedicated significant time to exploring my cherished parishes of St. Thomas and St. Mary in great detail,” Lilli says. “I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to share with the world the beauty of my home. The thrill of continuous discovery propels me forward, as there’s always a new waterfall waiting to be explored.”
Some of her favorite waterfalls to visit in Jamaica are Fish Dunn Falls in the parish of St. Thomas, Warsha Waterfall in Portland, James Hill Waterfall in Clarendon, and the more than 20 Rio Grande Valley Waterfalls in Portland. Deep in the hills of Jamaica, these consistently flowing falls rest amid lush forests inhabited by endemic birds and butterflies. The hikes to reach these falls offer varying perspectives of the breathtaking mountain views. Numerous fruit trees can also be found along the way.
“I have a deep appreciation for these waterfalls because they remain relatively undiscovered, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded experience,” says Lilli. “My passion for hiking serves as my primary form of exercise, allowing me to revel in the stunning scenery of waterfalls, mountains, and trails. The serene ambiance, accompanied by distant bird sounds and fresh air, enhances my enjoyment.”
Choosing Local Travel
Lilli’s experience is a reminder of the value of staying close to home and appreciating what’s in your own backyard. By keeping her travels local, she saves time and money while gaining a fresh perspective of her island and rejuvenating her spirit.
“Opting to stay on home soil simplifies the escape. Without a lengthy packing list or concerns about escalating costs, the experience becomes straightforward, calm, and ultimately refreshing,” she explains. “Living in the country where you were born and raised, your narrative is intimately woven into the fabric of this land. The act of exploring your own country becomes a profound journey of self-discovery, as you uncover and connect with the layers of your personal history and identity embedded in the landscapes and culture around you.”
Lessons Learned Along the Way
In addition to learning more about Jamaica and her identity, Lilli’s nature and waterfall adventures have allowed her to learn to embrace spontaneity and adaptability. She has had to explore creative solutions to overcome obstacles that inevitably arise along the way. She has learned the immense value of nature. And she has learned humility, as well.
“It becomes evident how insignificant my impact is in the vastness of our world,” she shares. “I gain an awareness of my privilege and recognize aspects of my daily life that I might overlook. You may frequently come across instances of kindness and generosity from individuals with fewer resources than you.”
The main lessons Lilli’s explorations have taught her is to appreciate and find joy in the small things and to never overlook their significance in the hustle of daily life.
“My travels encourage an appreciation for the beauty in things I typically take for granted–from witnessing a breathtaking sunset to savoring a delightful meal and valuing the bonds of friendship. Through this, I come to understand the profound truth that it’s the little things that truly matter.”