Jamaica Tourism Boom: Paradise for Tourists, Exploitation for Locals Modern Echo of the Plantation

Jamaica's thriving tourism industry offers the allure of paradise, attracting countless visitors to its stunning beaches and rich culture. However, behind this idyllic image lies a harsh truth for many Jamaicans. The influx of tourists fills the coffers of resorts and cruise lines, but the benefits often bypass the very communities that sustain this industry. By depending so heavily on tourism, the island’s economy has become fragile, with limited opportunities for growth in other sectors and wages that remain frustratingly low. The concentration of wealth at the top echoes the inequalities of a plantation-era past, raising the question: is this boom truly a blessing, or is it exploitation in disguise?"