FAQ

What is the weather like?
Temperatures can get up in the 90’s with very high humidity. The warmest months of the year are in April through August, with August being the hottest. November through March is the coolest part of the year, but it still remains fairly hot during the day even in those months. My Father’s House is not air conditioned.

Do Jamaicans speak English?
Most Jamaicans speak English and Patois, an English dialect. You should be able to understand most of what they are saying… if they want you to.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, you will need a passport to travel to and from Jamaica.

Do I need to get any shots?
Shots are not required, however it is recommended to check with your physician. The U.S. Center for Disease Control shows Jamaica as being a risk for hepatitis A & B and low threat for malaria. Visit the CDC Website for current information. If you use common sense you should be fine. No one from teams in the past have picked up any diseases. If you are going to be in Jamaica for more than 1 – 2 weeks, you should think about getting the hepatitis vaccination. The vaccination is a series of three shots and you have to start it a couple months before the trip.

Where will we stay while in Jamaica?

You have two options for your accommodations while on island:

KBM / My Father’s House
The team will stay at My Father’s House, a large house in a residential neighborhood and our children’s home. Your team of up to 40 members will be comfortable yet stretched at the mission base. On the ground level we have a boy’s dorm and a girl’s dorm each filled with bunk beds. On the main level are living areas, game room and a large dining deck. You will enjoy good meals with a variety of food. A taste of Jamaica is offered through the week. My Father’s House has a pool on site and is within walking distance of the beach. While you’re at My Father’s House, everyone enjoys our children :-)! Five children from the ages of 1 to 18 presently reside there. Interacting with them is a wonderful blessing for all involved.

All meals are provided through the week. When staying at My Father’s House, all team members participate in helping with the daily chores and needs around the house, including cooking. You will be assigned jobs throughout the week and will assist or be assisted by the children who live at the home. You might expect to try lots of wonderful tropical fruit and interesting local dishes. If you’re especially lucky, you may get a taste of Chicken Foot Soup for dinner and Salt Fish and Cabbage for breakfast! More familiar foods are also available but Jim and Penie definitely try to give their guests a true Jamaican experience. You will likely enjoy the food, but very picky eaters may want to bring extra granola bars or peanut butter.

KBM / Luna Sea Inn
Your group can choose to stay at Luna Sea Inn while in Jamaica. Luna Sea Inn is a beautiful hotel with an amazing restaurant right on the Caribbean Sea! We will still minister to the surrounding communities and work hard each day to the glory of God, AND you will stay in air conditioned rooms with hot water, begin each day with a scrumptious breakfast, return to Luna Sea for dinner and either tranquil relaxation or a time to play in the sea with the non-motorized toys. Yes, our fees for this option are a bit more, but we believe many will find the added benefits well worth the increase.

What should I bring with me?
● Bible
● Journal
● Beach towel & wash rag
● Snacks to share
● Praise & Worship cds, Christian Rock cds… the kids really enjoy new music!
● Your camcorder, camera, and digital camera. The electric there is the standard US plug and will work to charge your batteries. Computers are available to put your pictures on CD if your memory card gets full. Please give a copy of your pictures to Jim and Penie, they don’t always have time to take pictures while hosting a team.
● Sunscreen – and be sure to use it.
● Insect Repellent – the bugs are not terrible but they make their presence known in the evening. Repellent should contain 50% DEET or more to be effective. If you would prefer to avoid DEET, Avon’s Skin so Soft oil may be good for you OR look for natural bug repellent with eucalyptus.
● Your swimsuit – there is a pool on property and there is a beach within walking distance. You will definitely want it at YS Falls on your recreation day.