Postcard from Jamaica

Jamaica regularly makes an appearance among the top ‘coolest’ Caribbean islands. With its dreadlocked Rastas, sweet reggae rhythms, jaw-droppingly delicious jerk and that infectious, charming accent, it’s easy to see how it earned its standing. Beyond all that, there’s plenty to explore on this island and we’ve rounded up just a few must-dos for you.

Words by Monica Walton.

VISIT Kingston

If you’re not staying here, try to at least spend the day in the atmospheric, buzzing capital of Jamaica. Whether you’re getting into the reggae groove, gulping down a Red Stripe or following the enticing smell of barbecued meat down narrow, culture-filled streets – in Kingston, that’s just the beginning of the Jamaican adventure you’re about to encounter.

EAT and eat some more!

Jamaica’s air is filled with the spicy aroma of jerk chicken, patties, curried goat and other Caribbean culinary delights that originate from the island. Yes, it’s the birthplace of jerk spice, but Jamaica also has incredibly flavourful drinks: ginger beer, soursop juice and sorrel juice are all local favourites.

LISTEN to some reggae

A fusion of soca, calypso and African drums, some of the best reggae tracks come out of Jamaica. There’s something about actually being on this island that plummets you into a state of mind where you lose yourself in the sweet, addictive and spiritual music and your worries truly melt away.

HIKE high in the hills

The misty Blue Mountains that tower over Jamaica could force you to reconsider your resort-only, beach itinerary. Get out and trek through this bamboo-filled range of foggy hills and if you’re a caffeine junkie, you’ll find some of the finest coffee in the world growing here – it’s to die for.

PARTY on the beach, on a boat or at a fête

Jamaica is the island that never sleeps and locals aren’t shy about the fact that they know how to party – Caribbean style.

GET out in nature.

Rivers, waterfalls, sun-soaked beaches and lush forests… when it comes to nature, Jamaica has it all. Hike Dunns River Falls in Ocho Rios, Reach Falls in Portland and saunter along the shorelines in Negril. With every ray of sun that beats down onto the glimmering white sands, you feel further and further away from your worries.

IMMERSE yourself in the culture.

Jamaicans, besides their cool accent, are warm-hearted and welcoming. Proud of their country, they’re ecstatic to show you around and welcome you to their vibrant home.

BEST BEACHES

With over 560 miles of coastline, Jamaican beaches range from long sandy stretches to the more secluded and tucked away coves surrounded by cliffs. Here are my top five, go to beaches:
1. Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay
2. Boston Bay Beach, Port Antonio
3. Seven Mile Beach, Negril
4. Frenchman’s Cove Beach, Portland
5. Mammee Bay Beach, Ocho Rios

Words by www.monicawalton.com