Jamaicans do many things better than anybody else, and generalising is one of them. One place and its people, some of us get horribly wrong in the facts department, is Portmore. You would be surprised at the number of stereotypes that people have of Portmore. So, which are myths and which really make sense?

What people say

Probably the first 'myth' is that the entire community is built on 'dumped up' land and that one apocalyptic day, the sea shall reclaim her own.

Reality

While there are sections that would fall under the 'dump up' category, other areas are old sugar cane field lands that are perfectly solid.

What people say

The issue of mosquitoes is another that brings 'biting' comments from those who don't live in the Sunshine City. We have heard that mosquitoes are as big as moths, are all over the place and you have to lock your door by 6 p.m.

Reality

While residents of Hellshire whom we spoke to did complain about the pests, the small blood suckers are not found everywhere, with residents in other areas oblivious to the notion there was a mosquito problem.

What people say

Every home is beside a gully/canal.

Reality

Depending on the scheme you're in, you won't even know what a gully/canal looks like.

What people say

Crocodiles are everywhere.

Reality

Unless you live in proximity to the swampy areas, it's unlikely you'll run into our reptilian friends.

What people say

Whenever a hurricane threatens, all residents have to pack up, board buses and head for shelter at the National Arena.

Reality

Sure, some places are susceptible to flooding and storm surges, but that's the cry of other sites in Jamaica like sections of Bull Bay in St Andrew and Cave Valley in St Ann, the latter is not even as close to the sea shore as some parts of Portmore.