World-famous for its breathtaking beaches, rugged mountains, magnificent waterfalls, and authentic Caribbean hospitality, Jamaica is indeed a bucket list topper. Soar sky-high in the air, swim on horseback, explore the countryside on an ATV, or take a relaxing float down the river. You will never run out of exhilarating activities in Jamaica!
The best beaches are usually near the resorts along Jamaica's coastlines. However, the entire island is a must-see, not just the resorts. Some of the beaches are very unique. The combination of breathtaking scenery and once in a lifetime, experiences will make your trip so very memorable. Some Jamaican favorites you must visit include the white river entrance in Ocho Rios, the lime cay in Kingston, and Frenchman's Cove and Boston Bay in Portland Parish.
Most think of the beaches of Jamaica when they are looking for things to do, but take the time to look into what is around, and you may find some memorable experiences. Jamaica has a beautiful culture and a landscape that is just as diverse as anywhere else. There are great people, tropical wildlife, and things to do inland and on the coast. Just expand your horizons and see all the things that Jamaica has to offer.
If you would like to learn a little bit more about Jamaica and what it offers to its visitors, I'd love to help you plan your trip to Jamaica! Be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
Jamaica is an island in the West Indies, 90 miles (145 km) south of Cuba and 100 miles (161 km) west of Haiti. It is a little smaller than Connecticut. By area, it is the third largest island in the Caribbean. The island is made up of coastal lowlands, a limestone plateau, and the Blue Mountains, a group of volcanic hills, in the east.
Climate
In Jamaica, the climate is tropical, hot all year round, with little difference between winter and summer (just a few degrees). Even in winter, daytime temperatures are around 27/30 °C (81/86 °F) and night-time temperatures around 20/23 °C (68/73 °F). The southern coast, where Kingston is located, is slightly warmer in the winter months, in fact, the maximum temperature is around 30 °C (86 °F) even in January. The best time to visit Jamaica as a whole, whether you intend to visit cities and go on excursions, or to swim and sunbathe, runs from January to April. In fact, it is the driest and coldest period.
The best way to get around Jamaica is by taxi, whether you're coming from one of the airports – Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is the most accessible to the tourist areas – or making your way around town. Renting a car is also an option, but driving on the left side of the road can be confusing, road signs are unhelpful, drivers can be aggressive and potholes are rampant. Use of public transportation is not recommended since public buses are often overcrowded and can become venues for a crime.
Jamaica has its own dollar, far less valuable than the U.S. dollar. The Jamaican dollar is the monetary unit of Jamaica, where it is issued, since 1969. The symbol is $, J$ or JA$ to distinguish it from the American dollar and other dollars. The Jamaican dollar (as well as the Cayman Islands dollar) is different from all the other dollars in the British West Indies in that its value was half-pound sterling, while other dollars took as a reference either the US dollar unit or the Spanish dollar unit. Jamaican currency is issued in bank notes of J$50, J$100, J$500, J$1000 and (rarely) J$5000.
Visitors from the USA
Jamaican law requires that local currency is used when paying for all goods and services, though that law is followed very loosely and the US Dollar is accepted almost universally. To avoid confusion determine which dollar unit is being quoted in the price prior to any transaction being made.
The Meet, the People program, was launched in 1968 by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) to reach out to curious visitors of the island nation who are interested in exploring the culture of this vibrant Caribbean island. The program takes them beyond the traditional resort and beach setting into the colorful realm of Jamaica's lifestyle, traditions, and customs.
Meet the People is free for anyone who may be interested in this unique experience. The program allows tourists to meet Meet, the People's ambassadors and their peers, who share a common profession, hobby, or interest.
Jamaica's original inhabitants are the Arawaks, also called Tainos. They named the island Xaymaca, which means "land of wood and water". They were followed about 800 by the Arawakan-speaking Taino, who eventually settled throughout the island. Their economy, based on fishing and the cultivation of corn (maize) and cassava, sustained as many as 60,000 people in villages led by caciques (chieftains). The Arawaks have quiet and peaceful lives until they were destroyed by the Spaniards years after Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1494. Jamaica served mainly as a supply base in conquering the American mainland.
The Jamaican flag is distinct in that it is the only flag that doesn't contain red, white, or blue in its color scheme. In 1962, when Jamaicans gained independence, the government officials saw black as the perfect color to represent the difficulties faced by the country, green represented the island itself, and gold symbolized the bright sun that shines over the land.
Today, the flag colors take on different meanings. In 1996, they recognized the color black as a representation of the people that showcased strength and resilience against hardships. The green color represents the abundance of flora found in the island of Jamaica, and the gold color symbolizes the riches found within the island.
Later in 1509, the first Spanish colonist came. On May 10, 1655, English had a successful attack on Jamaica. The Spaniards surrendered to the English. It was this set of slaves and their descendants who became known as Maroons. The slave trade became a popular and profitable venture for the colonist. The slaves, however, were unhappy with their status so they rebelled. The Maroon also had several wars against the English. In 1740 a treaty was signed with the British stating they were given the land and rights as free men. In return, they were to stop fighting and help recapture runaway slaves but this results in a rift because other Maroons did not agree to return runaway slaves. On January 1, 1808, the Abolition Bill was passed. Trading African slaves are utterly abolished and declared to be unlawful. Emancipation and apprenticeship came into effect in 1834 and full freedom was granted in 1838.
Jamaican national hero, Norman Washington Manley's birthplace, is at the Roxborough Great House. It's initially part of a more prominent Roxbro Castle Estate. The Manly family inhabited Roxborough until 1903 and then moved to St. Catherine Parish. Over time, the property suffered dilapidation and was eventually destroyed by a fire in 1968. What remains today is a terraced garden, and the foundations of the house and the barbeque used for drying Pimento grains. The name Roxborough is believed to be of Scottish origin. A pilgrimage to Roxborough is held every year on July 4th, the anniversary of Norman Manley's birth.
Travel back in time and visit Roxborough! I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
The Jamaicans culture is expressed through local stories, songs, dances, the use of herbs and bush medicine, local beliefs, the preparation of indigenous foods and through religious practices. Jamaicans perform folk songs and dance mainly during festivals and independence celebrations. During celebrations, it is customary to wear their nation costumes, which is called the Bandana.
Language
Jamaica is regarded as a bilingual country where Jamaican English and Jamaican Patois are the most widely spoken languages. English is the official language in Jamaica and the language mostly used in formal contexts. The English spoken in Jamaica has been influenced mainly by British English. The Jamaican Patois is also referred to as Jamaican Creole or Patwa. Although English is the official language of the country, Jamaican Patois is the most widely spoken. Jamaican Patois is a form of English Creole developed on the island during the slave trade.
Jamaica has the most churches per capita of any country in the world. Protestant majority (Anglican, Baptist, Church of God and Methodist) with Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Baha'i communities. Rastafarianism, a religion based on belief in the divinity of the late Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie (Ras Tafari), is also widely practiced. Jamaica also has a number of small spiritualist cults.
Jamaica is well-known for its enticing reggae music. So, I'd like to share some fun facts about this lively genre of music.
- Bob Marley will be worth $130 million if he was still alive, that's how influential he was that even after his demise. He always manages to inspire millions of people everywhere. Bob Marley's Legend album is the best selling and most popular reggae album of all time.
- Reggae was invented by accident. There was a reverb on the amp, which copied the chord on the offbeat. Today, there are about 200 Reggae Festivals worldwide held each year, the majority of which are in the USA.
- Did you know that there are over 15 music forms that were derived from reggae? It's made a significant impact on the music world even today.
We all know that Jamaica is known for its great beaches and tropical sunsets, but there is a lot more to do than go to the beach. Although this is a great way to spend a vacation, some people want to be able to do a little more and see Jamaica and all the things that it has to offer.
Whether it's on land, in the water, or even flying through the treetops, there are a lot of exciting adventures ahead. Travel over the rugged terrain of Jamaica's interior or surf the squally waves on our coastline. Your experience is definitely up to you! Here is a list of some of the most amazing things to do in Jamaica that don't involve sitting on the beach and catching some rays.
Jamaica's waterfalls are lavish, brimming with freshwater rivers radiating out from its abundant and mountainous interior. The most famous waterfalls are Dunns River, Mayfield Falls, and YS Falls. The most unique and less touristy falls are Tacky Falls, Cane River Falls, Reggae Falls, Scatter Waterfalls, Reach Falls, Turtle River Falls, Kwaaman Waterfall, Fishdone Waterfalls, and Nanny Falls.
Windsor Mineral Spring is located at St. Ann's Bay. This pond gets its name because it really can catch on fire. It is said to have such high levels of sulfur that the surface of the water can catch fire. For decades, locals have talked about the rejuvenating and healing potential that this small body of water has. Residents are also known to cook on this water, as well.
This beautiful "cenote" type body of water is rumored to be bottomless, according to locals. The turquoise blue water is surrounded by some of the tremendous tropical greenery that makes Jamaica beautiful. It is the perfect place for some snorkeling, swimming, and many people love to jump in from the vines in the trees that surround the Blue Hole.
This 33-mile-long river is the perfect place to see one of Jamaica's most rare creatures, the crocodile. These animals are a rare sight in Jamaica, but they can be seen in the Black River near the southern coast of the island. A tour of the Black River is a great way to get into the wilds of Jamaica and get in touch with its wildlife.
Port Royal was once known as the most wicked city in the world, and now it sits under about 40 feet of water. An earthquake destroyed much of the town and killed hundreds of people, and what it didn't destroy was laid to rest underwater. It is a great place to go diving to tour the pirate city that was cast into the sea.
This lagoon has a fantastic "glow in the dark" quality that comes from the microorganisms that call it home. The Luminous Lagoon is located in Falmouth, Trelawny, and there are only three lagoons like it in the world. Tours offer visitors an unforgettable experience as they can swim and dive in such a rare body of water.
This is an attraction that is offered at some of the resorts across Jamaica, such as Half Moon Resort. These resort train thoroughbred horses to swim with visitors on their backs. Many people say that riding a horse is a spiritual experience, imagine getting into the water with these majestic creatures who, by the way, are great swimmers.
There are vast mountainous areas to see in Jamaica as well, including the mountains of Ocho Rios. Whether it is on their "bobsled"-like rollercoaster or zip line, visitors can explore the 700-foot-high peak of Mystic Mountain. It is splendid fun that is a great way to see Jamaica in a way that most people don't consider.
The Blue Mountain range is the longest mountain range on the island of Jamaica. These mountains are lush with tropical forests, and they are the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and biking. You might want to consider camping in Jamaica!
Serious birders around the world travel far and wide to add endemic birds to their life lists – birds that can only be seen wild in one location. Jamaica is a favorite Caribbean destination for endemic birding. Over a year of counting the full range of migrant species, more than 300 bird species can be found in Jamaica. Of the 300, more than 125 breeds on the island, and 28 are found only in this part of the world.
Some unique species you may find in Jamaica are waterfowl and wading birds, an extensive suite of songbirds, raptors, game birds, swifts and nighthawks, etc.
Bucket List (Things to Do)
- Scuba Diving in Port Royal
- White Water Rafting
- Go Bamboo River Rafting
- Shimmy to Soca Carnival
- Swim in the Luminous Lagoon
- Go Caving
- Hike up the Blue Mountains
- Spelunk through limestone caves
I'd love to help you plan your trip to Jamaica so you can see some magnificent birds, hike the mountains, or have some great photo ops at a water destination of your choice. Be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
Jamaica is a family-friendly travel getaway, thanks to its many all-inclusive beach resorts, but the fun doesn't end at the hotel. Be sure to go zip-lining, bobsled on a mountain coaster, take a catamaran trip on Negril's beautiful coast, go horse-riding, go on river adventures, visit Dunn's River waterfalls, and go dog-sledding. A lot of these activities are within a day's distance of any of the main resort areas.
Family Travel Highlights
- Swim With The Dolphins
- Discover Treasure Bay
- Dip into Milk River Spa
- Admire Shaw Park’s floral splendors
- Go on a Bob Marley pilgrimage
I'd love to help you plan your family trip to Jamaica, so be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
The evening sky radiating vibrant hues over the Negril cliffs is such a romantic scene. Jamaica is the perfect place for lovers. After all, it is called the island of "one love." There are a lot of experiences for you and your loved one to enjoy together. Cuddle up next to that special someone as you make your way down a peaceful river. Dance the night away on a romantic catamaran cruise or reminisce over a dinner for two on a moonlit white sand beach.
Whether you're just getting started or still feeling the butterflies, the real beauty and appeal of Jamaica will make your trip feel like the beginning of something beautiful. I'd love to help you plan your romantic journey, so be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
While vacationing in Jamaica, whether it is with your sweetheart or friends or family, you won't want to miss taking pictures at these amazing spots around Jamaica!
Photography Hot Spots
- Frenchman’s Cove
- Blue Lagoon
- Blue Mountains
- Rose Hall
- Seven Mile Beach
- Reach Falls
- Blue Hole
- Pelican Bar
- Rio Grande
Jamaican cuisine is a combination of cooking techniques, flavors, spices, and influences from the indigenous people on the island of Jamaica, and other ethnicities who have inhabited the island. Jamaican cuisine has been adopted by Irish, African, Indian, British, French, Spanish, and Chinese influences.
Aside from the ingredients that exist in Jamaica, any foods that have been introduced are now grown locally. A wide variety of seafood, tropical fruits, and meats are available. Jamaican patties, a lot of bread, and pastries are also a staple, as well as fruit beverages and Jamaican rum. Treat your taste buds and fly to Jamaica!
Foods To Try
- Ackee and Saltfish
- Jerk Chicken
- Fried Breadfruit
- Jamaican Red Peas Soup
- Goat curry
- Jamaican Beef Patty
- Mannish Water
- Callaloo
- Festival Bread
Would you like some of my recommendations to eat at, that are unique to Jamaica? These next two places you will want to visit while vacationing in Jamaica.
Rick's Café in Negril, Jamaica, sits atop beautiful 35-foot tall cliffs overlooking the ocean. Aside from the great food and drinks, visitors can go to cliff jump off these cliffs. Some daredevils even jump from the trees and other buildings that line these cliffs. Then some want to enjoy the Jamaican sunset from these cliffs.
This bar and restaurant is built from driftwood and sits atop stilts on a sandbar that is about a quarter of a mile out to sea. It is just a 20-minute boat ride from the coast of Negril. It is the perfect place to spend an evening swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying some great food and a cold Red Stripe.
Now that we are on the subject of bars and drinks, let's talk about Jamaican beverages
When it comes to cooling off at the end of the day, Jamaica offers a variety of refreshing beverages.
Popular in Jamaica, Red Stripe Beer was born and brewed in 1928. Initially, the beer was unidentifiable from the pale lager everyone knows today. The very first Red Stripe was an ale that was much heavier and darker than today's Red Stripe.
Technically, Red Stripe was indeed born in 1938. The next decade gave birth to the revamped, improved upon 4.7% ABV pale lager that we all know and drink today. The Red Stripe recipe is not originally from Jamaica, although it's always been made in Jamaica. The method was first produced in Illinois in the United States of America before it was brought to the nation.
We all know all the health benefits of coconut water, but it's also widely known as an excellent mixer for cocktails. What's the reason? It's simple. Coconut water tastes great, but did you know that the hydrating properties found in coconut water can actually cure your hangover or even help you avoid it altogether? Coconut water is distinct among drinks because it's flavorful yet subtle. It's refreshing and unique tropical taste best blend with the ingredients of a mixed drink without being too overwhelming, which is precisely what you want out of a mixer. Coconut Margaritas, Coconut Mimosa Twists, Coconut Water and Rum, and Grace's Sangria are four of the most popular mixed drinks in Jamaica.
Cocktails to Try:
- Jamaican Sorrel Drinks
- Rum Punch
- Dirty Banana
- Jamaican Rum Crème
Other Jamaican beverages:
- Bag Juice
- Ting Grapefruit Soda
- Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee
Jamaican coffee is something all coffee enthusiasts must-try. Did you know that the first coffee beans are believed to have been brought to Jamaica by King Louis XV in the early 1700s? Jamaica is responsible for producing top coffee brands around the world, including Jamaica Prime, Jamaica Select, High Mountain Supreme, and Blue Mountain Coffee. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is a globally protected certification mark, which means that only coffee certified by the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica has the right to be labeled as such. Believe it or not, high-grade quality Jamaican coffee goes through an entire 8-week process, which includes six weeks of leaving the beans to dry.
Not surprisingly, Jamaican coffee is rather pricey. Have you ever wondered why it comes at such a high cost? Well, Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is some of the rarest coffees in the entire world! The coffee is grown on the side of a mountain range, it's challenging to cultivate, and each bean is hand-picked. Don't let the price tag scare you off because you absolutely must try a cup of this piping hot heaven in a mug!