A weekend to reconnect, reset at Camp Porti

Camp Porti, the Easter weekend escape tucked into the lush landscape of Portland, Jamaica, has become synonymous with entertainment and wellness. Set against rolling hills, turquoise coves, and wild greenery, the experience invited guests to reconnect with a sense of well-being through a blend of adventure and relaxation. In its second staging, event organiser PJ Wright shared the vision behind Camp Porti’s wellness focus, noting, “Our roots in Jamaican wellness run deep, everything from our local teas and healing herbs to the way we move through this landscape. Here, it’s about connecting with that.”

Speaking on the experience itself, Wright told Lifestyle that, “Wellness in Portland feels different; it’s not imported, it’s embodied. There’s something about running along the shoreline versus in Miami. These experiences can’t be replicated anywhere else. We wanted guests to feel how special that is, to experience wellness in a way that’s uniquely ours.”

The morning sun found groups on Trident Hotel’s lawns, moving through Sharon Feanny’s breath-led slow vinyasa flow. Feanny, a pioneer in Caribbean wellness, described her intention, saying, “I wanted to give people space to reclaim their bodies, to feel grounded and powerful. Linking breath with movement is about creating that inner connection and balance, especially here in nature’s embrace.”

Namaste Studio’s Terry-Ann Clarke guided participants through a yoga flow inspired by 26+2 sequence (a set yoga flow made up of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises), weaving in Pilates principles. “It’s about building strength from the inside out,” she explained. “I want everyone to discover just how strong and stable they can feel – physically and mentally – when they move with intention.”

For many, the highlight was the dynamic sweat and surrender session, co-led by Kamila McDonald and Sarah Silvera. McDonald, known for blending science with Jamaican healing traditions, aimed to “inspire people to reclaim wellness through culture, community, and movement”. As for Silvera, her approach brought rhythm and emotional resonance: “We’re creating spaces where people can celebrate their bodies and restore their nervous systems, all at once.”

Attendees chose sessions based on curiosity and a desire for transformation. Paris Crossley, an autism therapist and Portland native, reflected: “This was my first Camp Porti. I grew up running around here barefoot, so connecting with Portland in this way was really special. The experience touched my core, my strength, my whole sense of well-being. The teachers made it engaging and supportive from start to finish.”

Core Club’s Victoria Colahar led a high-energy, core-focused Pilates sculpt class. “I encourage everyone to set their intentions and really listen to what their bodies need,” she said. “It’s about feeling strong and empowered, not just in class but in every part of life.”

Geahnnie Watt, a brand strategist who joined Colahar’s session, said she expected a strong workout based on her experience at Core Club, but the outdoor setting elevated it, “It was a great workout ... being outdoors felt like I was one with nature. Very peaceful, and the cold towels at the end were the perfect finishing touch.”

Heineken 0.0 was a refreshing addition to the wellness experience, embodying the modern lifestyle of balance and mindful choices. Heineken Brand Manager Nathan Nelms shared, “Wellness today is about options, choosing experiences and products that fit a balanced lifestyle. Heineken 0.0 lets our guests enjoy the celebratory spirit of Camp Porti while staying true to their wellness journey.”

As the sun set over Portland’s coastline, Camp Porti closed out the four-day experience, shaped by the landscape, the people, and the activities that defined it.

lifestyle@gleanerjm.com