Irish adventurer walks 340km across Jamaica, praises island’s hospitality

KINGSTON, Jamaica — What began as an 18-day journey across Jamaica turned into an unforgettable experience for Irish adventurer Johnny Coyne, who walked approximately 340 kilometres from St Mary to Negril, discovering a side of the island he said challenged the negative perceptions he had heard before arriving.

Armed with a pair of second-hand shoes, a hammock and a desire to explore, Coyne set out to experience Jamaica beyond its popular tourist attractions, choosing instead to immerse himself in the daily lives of its people.

His journey took him through bustling towns, rural communities and coastal areas, where encounters with residents often shaped his experience more than the destinations themselves.