We’ve read about the expectations of Jamaicans when receiving barrels of goodies from friends and family members abroad. However, it is important to note that those living overseas also have anticipations of their own when their loved ones are visiting from Jamaica. 

Here are 8 of those highly requested items:

1. Patties 

One does not simply leave Jamaica to go visit those in the diaspora without taking along at least one box of frozen patties. The only question in making that decision is whether they prefer Juici Beef, Tastees or Mother’s. 

2. Bucket of KFC

One of the world’s oldest debates may just be whether Jamaica has the best tasting KFC. Regardless of the result, a bucket of the coveted fried chicken is atop most lists when having family over. 

3. Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum 

Drunkard or not, this item somehow always makes the list of requests. In fact, it is one of those items that can be copped in the duty free section of the airport, lest you forget!

4. Bammy 

This is a flatbread made from cassava and has proven hard to find in other areas outside Jamaica. Hence, visitors from the island are usually asked to carry a few parcels when travelling. 

5. Ackee

Hear me out. Pick and clean up the ackee nicely, boil and freeze it. On the morning of your flight, take the frozen parcel out the fridge, wrap it in as much newspaper you can find then drop it in a Ziploc bag. Do not leave yawd without it…We are depending on you to play your part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race and to free your loved ones living oversees from the shackles of tinned ackee! 

6. Tastee Cheese

The reason this delicacy made this list is simple- there’s no cheese like Tastee Cheese. Argue with someone else! 

7. Sugar Cane 

Did you know that sugarcane is not a fruit? It is a type of grass like bamboo, which stores sugar in its stems and is grown in the Caribbean. The memorable joys of having its juices run down your chin and hands as you chew pieces of cane into trash is one that stay with you! Why wouldn’t it make this list?

8. Escovitch Fish 

Mothers and grannies wake up at the first glimpse of morn to fry the biggest snappers they can find, just before garnishing the crispy goodness with slices of vinegar soaked onion, carrots and scotch bonnet pepper. Wrapped these several times over in foil paper and they’re fit to fly!

If you are a loved one will be traveling from Jamaica in the near future, do the right thing and ensure you pack these items to go!

Thanks for reading. 

Safe flight!