Holidaymaker flies home for emergency surgery after shark attack
A holidaymaker was forced to fly home to the for emergency surgery after she was bitten by a shark. Rachel Smith, 26, was paddling in hip-height water off Rose Hall beach, in Montego Bay, Jamaica, when the sea creature snapped at her left hand.
She was terrified to see her ring finger was hanging off and blood was pouring from the wound. Sister Lisa Smith, 28, saw a metre-long shark darting away - and she led Rachel to safety while shouting out a warning to other holidaymakers enjoying a morning paddle.
Pharmacologist Rachel was taken to hospital in an ambulance and medics said she needed plastic surgery. But with no surgeon available for two weeks, the pair cut their holiday short and flew to Cork, Ireland, where their parents live.
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Doctors confirmed the tendons and nerves in Rachel's ring and little fingers were ruptured, and the ligaments in her ring finger had been disconnected. She had emergency surgery and hopes to regain full movement in 18 months time.
Lisa, a procurement specialist, and Rachel, both from Newham, London, said they have suffered with nightmares since the attack on May 8. Rachel said: "There was so much blood coming out I honestly thought I was going to die.
'I was in complete shock. My whole hand went numb so I thought my whole hand had been taken off. I feel grateful to be alive and so grateful to have my hand. I have a long road of recovery ahead but I have a positive attitude and I believe I will get through it.'
Lisa added: "We were so terrified. I honestly thought her fingers were gone - there was blood everywhere. At one point a vein burst and sprayed blood all over both of us. We were just crying and thinking she was going to die."
The close sisters holiday together each year and had arrived at the Hilton Rose hotel on May 5, intending to stay for two weeks. She was attacked around 10am, and say the shark knocked them both backwards after hitting them with its body.
The sisters say the flag on the beach was raised indicating it was safe to swim and doctors confirmed the bite was likely to belong to a reef shark. The pair were initially taken to a private hospital where they were asked to pay $2,000 to have the wounds stitched and quoted $25,000 for further surgery.
The transferred to a public hospital before heading home for surgery at Cork University Hospital. The sisters had to pay for ambulance and taxi travel to hospitals in Jamaica, and to get a 'fit to fly' certificate to come home - totalling nearly $500.
Rachel said: "I really did think I would die. The private hospital were only concerned with getting the payment before stopping the bleeding."
Lisa said Rachel was bitten inside an area cordoned off as safe to swim inside, near the beach, by a rope. "There were two young kids swimming by the rope, it's lucky it wasn't them," she said. "I'm just so glad and grateful that she's alive."
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Caribbean Island Is Famous For Beautiful Beaches and All-inclusive Resorts—and It's the Birthplace of Reggae and Jerk Cooking
For over 70 years, Half Moon has been one of the most iconic resorts in the Caribbean, exuding a refined elegance that stands the test of time. From Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay to hidden stretches of sand at the far reaches of the island, there's a beach for every occasion in Jamaica. Head to the hillside near Ocho Rios for a family-run, farm-to-table dining experience at Stush in the Bush, getting to the heart of Jamaica's tropical bounty with authentic island flavors. Visit the sprawling estates of the island's interior to sip some of the world's best coffee amidst the untouched expanses of the Blue Mountains. Less-visited Port Antonio feels remote and removed, hiding some of the island's best beaches and surprisingly cool accommodations in a destination that is nothing short of a tropical paradise. Amidst a sea of indistinguishable beaches and impersonal all-inclusive resorts, only a lucky few Caribbean-bound travelers dive deeper to explore the profound depths and unbridled richness of what the region has to offer. However, even the casual observer can sense that one island breaks the mold of all the others. Jamaica conjures captivating images all its own: the rhythms of reggae, jerk chicken best served beachside, and a shoreline punctuated by stretches of sand spanning every shade from white to glimmering gold. Even so, any local or seasoned Jamaica traveler who has gone further than the resort strip of Montego Bay can tell you that the island has still more to explore and experience. "Adventure-seekers can go cliff-jumping or hike the Blue Mountains. Foodies can try the best of jerk cuisine and fresh seafood. If you're looking for wellness, find peaceful resorts that offer yoga, luxurious spas, Ital cuisine, and excursions to natural springs and waterfalls," says Shernette Crichton, general manager at the historic Half Moon in Montego Bay. It's that profound abundance of appeal that has, for decades, made Jamaica one of the most perennially popular and captivating destinations in the Caribbean, drawing return visitors year after year. More than just the sum of its stereotypes, Jamaica is a force all its own, "an island that truly meets you where you're at," she muses. Courtesy of Sandals Resorts One of the most iconic resorts in the Caribbean, Half Moon has spread gracefully across the white sands of Montego Bay for more than 70 years. 400 seaside acres hide a championship golf course, multiple award-winning restaurants, an equestrian center, and an expansive spa and wellness space. But Half Moon is much more than its amenities; its most defining feature is how it effortlessly wears its decades of elegance while seamlessly integrating modern luxuries in a way that has kept it at the cutting edge. Choose from accommodations within the historic Founder's Cove or more modern rooms, suites, and residences at Eclipse by Half Moon. Coming soon, the refreshed Villas at Half Moon will offer getaways with space for the whole family. Nestled between a championship golf course and the shimmering expanses of the Caribbean Sea, The Tryall Club is a collection of 74 private villas that, in many ways, is far from a classic Caribbean resort experience. Each villa at this 2,200-acre seaside property outside of Montego Bay has its dedicated staff, including a butler, chef, housekeeper, and more, giving it a home-away-from-home feel. Escape to the new spa or the Great House for gatherings with fellow guests. The brand-new Ooshan Bar and Restaurant is another highlight, featuring a modern twist on classic Jamaican flavors for lunch and dinner, though sunset hour cocktails with views over the water are hard to beat. Clinging to the cliffside in Negril, Tensing Pen is a historic boutique hotel so special that it was chosen by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the best hotels in the world last year. Natural materials like local stone and wood used throughout the property's design make it meld into the island's rocky, rugged coastline, while amenities like a spa, yoga studio, and culinary experiences highlighting colorful Caribbean cuisine lend it a refinement that has long made it a stand-out place to stay. Its boutique size and tucked-away feel make it a romantic destination perfect for a reclusive vacation. Celebrity guests like the Rolling Stones and Bob Marley have been plunging from the cliffs at Rockhouse Hotel & Spa in Negril since the 1970s, a storied past that lends an impossibly cool air to this 40-room property considered among the island's best boutique hotels. There are a number of different room styles to choose from here, though the thatched-roof villas made with hewn stone that dot the cliffside are breathtaking with their ocean views. Amidst so many other highlights, the culinary experience deserves attention, with menus at both restaurants that read like love letters to the island with ingredients from the oversized hydroponic greenhouse. Jamaica didn't invent the all-inclusive vacation, but it certainly perfected it. Emerging from a top-to-toe transformation, Sandals Dunn's River is one of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica. The property is newly foodie-focused with more than a dozen restaurants, and it feels deeply rooted in place with local art and design. 260 rooms come in 14 different categories, lending the property the unique ability to cater to every style of traveler and size of group. Still to come? The stretch of sand next door to this Ocho Rios institution is set to be transformed into Sandals Royal Dunn's River. Rafting in Martha Brae River. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure It's impossible to overstate the beachy beauty of Jamaica. Make Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay your first stop before escaping to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach near Negril for, you guessed it, seven pristine miles of blissfully white sand. For more untouched shores, Frenchman's Cove in Portland is just as renowned for its natural feel as for the jerk chicken stands that set up shop nearby. South coast beaches, barely visited, feel like one of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean. There are a million and one reasons to venture into the verdant, rainforest-coated interior of Jamaica, but if we have to pick just one, we will choose rafting down the Martha Brae River outside of Montego Bay every single time. This is a rafting experience without a rapid in sight. Instead, slink slowly down the gentle river on a flat bamboo raft, drifting beneath tropical foliage. It's just as dreamy as it sounds, though it's best to avoid days when cruise ships are in port, as the river can feel busy. The Bob Marley Museum, housed within the musician's former Kingston home, is an obligatory stop in Jamaica for any music lover. Pair the experience of an hour-long guided visit with a musical salute to the star by stopping at some of the island's most beloved reggae venues: Dubwise in the capital, Roots Bamboo in Negril, or the famous Pier 1 in Montego Bay. Diehard fans will want to plan their entire visit around Reggae Sumfest in July or Rebel Salute in January, with unforgettable shows that feature the homegrown and internationally renowned stars of reggae. Travelers tend to flock to the stunning ultramarine sinkhole known as the Blue Hole in Ocho Rios, but we recommend skipping it in favor of the Blue Lagoon instead. Far fewer visitors make it to this stunning natural attraction, known for its impenetrably turquoise water, so mesmerizing that it was once thought to be bottomless. Visitors can paddle across its still surface on flat bamboo rafts or swim out to nearby monkey-less Monkey Island and spend the afternoon relaxing on its beautiful beach. Grown in just a sliver of the high altitudes of the Blue and John Crow Mountain ranges, Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is highly coveted, offering a unique flavor experience that coffee fans can't miss. Try it straight from the source at the historic Craighton Estate overlooking Kingston, or sign up for a tour that includes hiking and biking across multiple spots in the mountains. Spend the night at nearby Strawberry Hill, a boutique mountain property owned by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, to get the full Blue Mountain experience. A Jamaican curry dish. from_my_point_of_view/Getty Images A winding route out of Ocho Rios through the immense lushness of the island's interior leads to Stush in the Bush, a vegan farm-to-table dining experience lovingly curated by Chris and Lisa Binns. This creative couple champions Ital cuisine, a plant-based culinary movement particular to Jamaica, welcoming visitors into their world with a farm tour and thoughtful dinner of handcrafted, locally-grown delights. Make sure to book ahead; this dining experience and mountainside destination is so beloved it made our list of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. Tucked into the mountainside that starts just meters from the sand, Half Moon's famed Sugar Mill is one of the most celebrated restaurants in the Caribbean. It offers a white tablecloth fine dining experience inside an 18th-century sugar mill surrounded by magical gardens illuminated by hanging lights. The menu calls on beloved Caribbean flavors and staple ingredients for highlights ranging from pumpkin soup to jerk-seasoned grilled short ribs and fresh fish. When it comes to fine dining in Jamaica, it is only potentially upstaged by Half Moon's newer Delmare restaurant, where Italian influences meet local flavors for inspirational dishes like Blue Mountain coffee-infused pasta. "Scotchies is iconic for a reason–make sure to try the jerk chicken and pork," says Crichton of this Montego Bay institution, which many argue is the best jerk on the island. The rustic setup under thatched roofs is all part of the appeal as diners await large portions of expertly grilled and seasoned meats with rice and beans best enjoyed with a crisp, cold Red Stripe. "For a more romantic setting, try The HouseBoat Grill, a floating restaurant in a marina that is great for seafood lovers," says Crichton. Just as its name implies, this oversized two-story vessel sits moored in the tranquil waters of Montego Bay, serving an extensive menu of mostly seafood dishes, but with a little something for every diner. A small ship ferries locals and visitors alike across the waves for lunch and dinner service, though sunset is the best time to enjoy. A person enjoying a beach near Montego Bay. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Montego Bay is the undisputed beach capital of the island, with hotels and resorts of every shape and size lining its powdery fine sands. This is the ultimate destination for travelers looking for a convenient and quick fly-and-flop style getaway, though there are still quite a number of things to see and do in the area. Visit Martha Brae River and enjoy ziplining and hiking in the hillsides, or visit Rose Hall Great House for a look into the island's history. The coastline of Negril, located on the west side of the island, feels impossibly varied, ranging from beautiful stretches of sand to craggy cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. Stay at Tensing Pen or Rockhouse Hotel & Spa for the raw beauty of the rocky shoreline, or something more classically Caribbean like Beaches Negril for a family-friendly stay along a white-sand beach. Ocho Rios feels like a getaway within a getaway, home to an impressive number of resorts and hotels yet removed and relaxed enough for some serious R&R. Make sure to swim in the Blue Hole and hike to nearby Dunn's River Falls, or head to Mystic Mountain for ziplining and jungle bobsledding. Fans of 007 rejoice: Ocho Rios is also home to GoldenEye, where Ian Fleming wrote the original James Bond stories, and James Bond Beach, where Dr. No was filmed in 1962. Even if you're itching to hit the beach, don't skip Kingston. There is plenty to see and do in Jamaica's vibrant capital city, from the must-visit Bob Marley Museum and the National Gallery of Jamaica to award-winning restaurants and buzzing dance halls. Cap your visit to the city with a stop at Devon House, part monument and part gastronomic destination, where visitors can chow down on everything from lobster-stuffed patties and jerk chicken to Jamaican stout-flavored ice cream. On Jamaica's less-visited eastern side, Port Antonio feels utterly tranquil and untouched compared to some of the island's more sizeable seaside towns. Come here for surfing, hidden cove beaches, and delicious local food at the foot of the Blue Mountains. Starting this year, guests can even stay at Diplo's house, one of the most hotly anticipated new properties in the Caribbean, for sweeping views overlooking the mountainside and ocean. People on a Jamaica beach during sunset. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure The best time to visit Jamaica is between December and April, when crystal-clear skies and slightly cooler temps make for gorgeous stretches of weeks on end that seem tailor-made for a trip to the beach. Such dreamy weather draws visitors escaping snow and ice back home, so expect beaches to be busier and prices higher during this season. May provides a small window where visitors can enjoy nice weather with smaller crowds and lower prices, but with the start of the Atlantic hurricane season in June comes an increased likelihood of warmer, wetter weather. Hurricane season lasts through November, but travelers who don't mind a higher risk of rainy skies will quickly find that Jamaica can be a beautiful destination year-round. "For a cultural high, plan to visit around Carnival in April," advises Kenton Jones, managing director of The Tryall Club. Jamaica's Carnival celebrations are some of the biggest and most boisterous in the Caribbean, complete with parades, parties, and over-the-top costumes made for getting down to calypso and soca music. Music lovers will want to plan a trip to Montego Bay's annual Reggae Sumfest, which draws a lineup of the biggest names in reggae for parties that last from dawn to dusk. Jamaica has two primary international airports: Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. For travelers headed to the beach, flying into Montego Bay tends to be the best option, offering decent proximity and shorter travel times to popular destinations on the north and west coasts, like Ocho Rios and Negril. Kingston is the best choice for travelers sticking to the city or headed to destinations like the Blue Mountains and Port Antonio on the east side of the island. Whether flying through Montego Bay or Kingston, travelers should have no problem finding convenient flights; these airports are among the busiest and best-served in the Caribbean. Aerial over Falmouth port in Jamaica. You may be just as surprised as I was to learn that driving around the entire island of Jamaica can take up to 16 hours. Distances here are further than expected, so leave plenty of travel time in your itinerary if you plan to crisscross the island. "Renting a car is an option if you like flexibility and do not mind driving Jamaican-style," says Jones, though drivers should be aware that traffic flows on the left side of the road, a vestige of British rule. For those who'd prefer to leave navigating island roads to the more experienced, "I'd recommend hiring a private driver to get around the island," says Crichton. "It makes day trips easier and allows you to have flexibility while customizing your own tour of Jamaica." Or, for a more budget-friendly option, consider Knutsford Express for reliable and air-conditioned coach service. For local trips, travelers can rely on taxis. While rideshare apps like Uber exist in major cities in Jamaica, driver shortages can make rides expensive. Uber has also faced pushback from local leaders, making upcoming changes in usage and fees likely.
CBS News
a day ago
- CBS News
California surfer survives weekend shark attack off Montara State Beach
A surfer was not injured after a shark bit into his surfboard during an attack off a beach in San Mateo County over the weekend. California State Parks officials told CBS News Bay Area that the attack took place off Montara State Beach around 2 p.m. Saturday. Lifeguards and officers responded to the incident, which happened about 100 yards offshore. Officials said a surfboard sustained damage consistent with a shark bite. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, 42-year-old Jens Heller of Albany was in the water for about 10 to 15 minutes when the incident took place. His wife and 6-month old daughter were enjoying the beach while he went out surfing. Heller said that he fell off his board during the incident. After the shark let go of the board, he swam back to shore. "It was my lucky day, I guess," he told the newspaper. In response, lifeguards cleared the water and implemented a 48-hour closure of the beach. The beach is expected to reopen to the public at 2 p.m. Monday. The agency said in a statement that sharks are an important part of the coastal ecosystem and that interactions between people and sharks are rare.
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Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Travel + Leisure
The U.S. Government Changed Its Travel Advisory for Jamaica—What Travelers Should Know
A Caribbean island has just become safer for Americans to visit, according to the U.S. government. On May 29, the U.S. Department of State lowered Jamaica's travel advisory rating from Level 3, which means travelers should reconsider travel to the country, to Level 2, which recommends increased caution and possibly heightened risk. The main considerations driving the evaluation of Jamaica are crime and health care. 'While violent crime in Jamaica has decreased since 2024, it remains statistically high throughout the country. Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country,' the travel advisory for Jamaica states. 'The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.' The advisory also notes that Jamaica does not provide the same level of health care that is available in the U.S., including less access to care for illness or injury, and slower emergency response times. 'Ambulance services are not always staffed with EMTs and are not always readily available, especially in rural areas. U.S. citizens should bring extra prescription medication as common medications, such as insulin, can be difficult to obtain,' the advisory states. It also reminds American travelers that Medicare and Medicaid is not valid overseas, and travelers should purchase insurance before their trip. Despite the change in warning level, there are still parts of Jamaica that retain a Level 4, or Do Not Travel, ranking. These areas include specific off-limits zones within 11 different parishes that are listed on the U.S. State Department's website. 'In our Travel Advisories, we suggest you do not to travel to high-risk countries or areas. These places are dangerous. By visiting, you may be putting yourself at extreme risk, and we may have limited ability to help you,' the U.S. State Depart website notes. The travel advisory also notes that visitors should not bring any kind of firearms or ammunition into the country, as the penalty for even accidentally bringing either into the country are severe and can include prison sentences. Travelers should also avoid walking or driving at night, avoid remote places, and be aware of their surroundings. In the case of a robbery attempt, the advisory recommends not to physically resist. Jamaica is well-known for its splendid beaches, distinct local culture, tropical forests, and lush beach resorts.
