As the days of my tentative departure roll nearer, I find myself pulling further from the inevitable. I catch myself reading about famous people like Ian Flemming who could not pull themselves away from Jamaica. And I listen to friends and family share the same perplexity of not wanting to leave this magnetic island after the vacation has ended. Clearly, it’s not just me. All through the decades, men and women have come to this beautiful island and have fallen in love with the charming and lustrous scenery.

The last couple mornings have been spent walking around Mona Dam, and the afternoons at Hope Gardens or sitting on grass admiring the gorgeous UWI campus. Yesterday, I sat at a place called the Look-out-point encapsuled by mountains. For all the months I’ve been on campus, it was the first I’ve ever sat at that little old gazebo. This is the thing about Jamaica, no matter how many activities you do, there is still lots more to be done. Last Friday, I went to this lovely spot to celebrate the completion of the MBA program with fellow classmates. I can’t say how many times I’ve driven pass that venue, yet it was my first time setting foot in the vicinity. Sitting on the terrace lit with fluorescent lights and great company brought spark to the night. The clanging of wine glasses, loud laughter and constant picture taking is something to be remembered years from now.

Lately, I’ve found myself sitting by the benches at my residence with friends from all over the world, til late hours in the night. Already, we are reminiscing about what we’re going to miss about Jamaica. Leaving is just not easy for anyone. Many have extended their stays, not because they do not miss their homes and families, but because this island is an addictive drug that leaves you intoxicated by the experiences.

Visiting Port Royal last Sunday, for the second time, brought me to a another era. After a scrumptious meal at the all-time favorite Gloria’s Restaurant, we walked around the little town taking in remnants of its history. We stopped by plaques on walls to familiarize ourselves with centuries old events that took place. We touched old canons and captured every moment of the experience with flashing cameras and with our sensory system. Yes, these are the experiences I will forever cherish.

Still, there is much that I would like to do here. Negril and the rest of the South West coast is a place I have not yet seen. I have not visited the famous Mystic Mountains, where I would have loved to go zip lining. The water shoes I had purchased for Ochio Rios, have still not been used to climb the falls. Also, I think it’s about time that I visit the lovely resorts here. And too bad, I might be going back home and still not officially conquered the fear of driving here. Since I’m in the Caribbean, I may as well use this time to go snorkelling or do some kind of deepsea diving, especially because I love water so much.

Related: Longing for you, Jamaica

But now I am out of time, unless of course like those before me, such as Ian Flemming and other friends, I find a way to make life here in Jamaica.