Jamaica

Jamaica is the third largest country in the Caribbean, but it is nothing like the other Caribbean countries. Located right in the center of the Caribbean Sea, it covers an area of nearly 11,100 km². Jamaica is not only naturally colorful, but also culturally multi hued. This tropical paradise ever since it was discovered, has attracted first explorers and now millions of tourists to its breathtaking lands. Jamaica also boasts of its Blue Mountains which are arguably the best coffee producer in the world. Do not forget to taste a freshly made cup of coffee from here, and no matter you do anything else or not, your trip would have already made all the sense.

Home of the legendary reggae singer Bob Marley, Jamaica has portrayed its culture as its biggest tourism factor. And this has till now worked wonders for the country. Everyone knows that when it comes to natural beauty, Jamaica is a piece of paradise, but what the country wants the world to know is the undiluted culture that it possesses. The hip hop culture has become famous all over the world. But if you wish to get the best of it all, visit the home of reggae and hip hop. For tourists who are looking for some of the most exemplary forms of adventure there are the gorgeous beaches with possibilities for the water sports an there are brilliant mountains that are full of trek routes. Choose your style of travel and Jamaica has something to compliment it.

Kingston is the capital and the largest city of Jamaica. Situated on the southeastern coast, the city is clearly demarcated into uptown and downtown region. Though the city in recent has been pretty safe, it is advised that you get to know the city first and only then move out alone. The main attractions of the city are Bob Marley Museum, Devon House and National Gallery of Jamaica. Other important cities of Jamaica are Montego Bay, Portmore and Spanish Town.

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Fast Facts

Location – Caribbean
Capital – Kingston
Population – 2,825,928
Language – English, Jamaican Creole
Religion – Protestants, Roman Catholic

Calling Code - +1-876
Time Zone – UTC -5

Climate –Tropical Climate
Currency – Jamaican dollar (JMD)
Best time visit – All through the year

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Highlights

Dunns River Falls

This is probably the most popular attraction among tourists to Jamaica. Situated near Ocho Rios, Dunn River Falls is one of the very few waterfalls in the world to empty directly into a sea. It's water directly flows into Caribbean Sea. Dunn Falls is a stepped fall which rises to a height of 600 feet. Tourists like to hike above the waterfall which is challenging as well as exciting. It is advised that you attempt this only with a guide as it is quite slippery.

National Gallery - Kingston

of course, Jamaica has incredible natural beauty and it takes lot of time to enjoy it all; but that is not all Jamaica has to offer. Do not commit the same mistake that most tourists to Jamaica do; thinking that is all it has and missing out on one of the most important cultural aspect of the country. National Gallery in Kingston city has a large collection of artifacts and arts related to the rich culture of Jamaica. The major works displayed are of the well known Jamaican artists. The main attraction of the museum are the sculptures of legendary reggae singer Bob Marley built by Christopher Gonzalez.

Montego Bay Marine Park – Montego Bay

Adventure and excitement know no limits in Montego Bay Marine Park. This is the first national park in Jamaica to be thrown open to public. The name itself tells you how this park is different from other national park. It is a park that is totally under the water. The park runs along the coastline for around 9 km which somewhat covers the whole of Montego Bay. It also has the ecologically important Bogue mangrove system. People here can sight a varied marine life and coral reefs by indulging in scuba diving and snorkeling.

Green Grotto Caves – Northern Coast

Situated on the northern coast of Jamaica, Green Grotto caves are a must visit attraction. This is not the only name by which Green Grotto Cave are known. Locals refer to it with names like Runaway Bay Caves, Discovery Bay Caves and Hall Caves. The Green Grotto is around 1,525m long and 12 metres deep. The caves have been sufficiently illuminated to let you see even the most minute details. The caves have also served as homes to many tribes like Tainos who were the first inhabitants of Jamaica. The limestone cave with its stalagmites structures is the main attraction of Green Grotto Caves.

 

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Things To Do

Swimming With Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins has become one of the most popular activities among tourists to Jamaica. The best destinations for swimming with dolphin is Ocho Rios which has many parks like Dolphin world and Dolphin Cove. Just hang onto the fin of the beautiful animal and swim around at speeds unimaginable.

Horseback Riding – It is Different Here

Horseback riding in Jamaica is an experience matched nowhere else. Horseback riding in Jamaica is more like horseback swimming. This is a unique way in which you sit on horseback and the horse wades through the shallow waters. There are mountain ranges as well where you can explore the deep forests and the tropical ecosystem.

Scuba Diving – Crystal Clear

The underwater world here is not just blue, but an amalgamation of more than 1000 colors. Watch the enchanting marine life of Jamaican waters thriving from close quarters. And there is no better way than scuba diving to do so. Almost the entire coastline of Jamaica is considered a perfect dive destination, Many resort here also offers professional training to novice divers

Sailing – Enjoy The Open Sea Vistas

The calm waters around the Jamaican coastline are as perfect as it gets for indulging in sailing. There are many operators on and around Jamaican beaches who organize sailing tours, varying in their duration. You can also hire a yacht and design your own tour. This also gives you an opportunity for deep sea fishing.