Book excerpt: Jamaica is a tropical island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and west of Haiti. The country is composed of three counties: Cornwall, Middlesex, and Surrey, with Kingston being the capital city. It has a population of approximately 2.7 million people and has a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including African, East Indian, Chinese, and European. Jamaica has a rich and complicated history, having been inhabited by native Arawak and Taino peoples before being colonized by Spain and eventually Britain. The island was a major producer of sugarcane and was heavily reliant on slave labor brought over from Africa. This history has greatly influenced Jamaican culture, which is known for its music, cuisine, and distinct dialect of English known as Jamaican Patois. Despite facing economic struggles and political corruption, Jamaica remains a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly locals.