Jamaicans on a whole do not always participate in "happy hours" unless they are celebrating a special occasion or sporting event. For those who have families, they would rather rush home to spend the evening with them as opposed to spending the night hours at a watering hole.

Jamaica's single population and the more cosmopolitan crowd can be seen at many of the trendy locations in the New Kingston area. If one is interested in socializing with the natives and experiencing a local "happy hour"  the following places are more than happy to oblige.

Jamrock Sports Bar and Grill, located at 69 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston. At Jamrock you can experience the soothing sounds of reggae or dance hall music while indulging in appetizers and drinks at the bar for a reduced rate. The staff there is willing to accommodate patrons by hosting special sporting events. The bar and grill is open from 9:00 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday to Saturday. The environment is family oriented, so it is quite alright to bring the kids.

Cuddy'z  Sports Bar and Restaurant, is a "happy hour" venue that boasts the best drinks  named after legendary Jamaican athletes.  At Cuddy'z, you can find the locals having a Red Stripe while watching cricket or football on the big screened televisions. Unlike most of the other drinking places, this bar/restaurant features non-alcoholic beverages for people who don't drink and drive. They also serve a full dinner and lunch menu.  It is possible to have a good time there without the fear of getting drunk.  Cuddy's Bar and Restaurant is located in the New Kingston Shopping Center,  in New Kingston.  It is open from 11:30 a.m until 11:00 p.m , Sundays to Thursdays,  and Friday to Saturday, from 9:a.m. until 2:00 a.m.

One of the most trendy hang-outs in Kingston is called Christopher's Jazz Cafe', It's name does not do it justice because inside of this cafe', one is greeted by a Grand piano, and there are multiple levels of fascinating activities. There "happy hour" includes jazz entertainment on one level with hors'douevres being served, as well as finger sandwiches. For the wine enthusiasts, they have a wine cellar that includes some of the country's finest vintages. This cafe' houses three discos in one. There is a floor where retro music and reggae can be enjoyed, and a floor that showcases a large Appleton Bar for rum drinkers. They also allow access to the Oxygen and Voodoo lounge for one entry price!  Christopher's Jazz cafe', is located at, 20-22 Trinidad Terrace, New Kingston,.  This bar prides itself on customer service, and is open until the last customer leaves.

On Friday evenings, The Grog Shoppe located at Devon House, begins their "happy hour" between 5:00 p.m and 7:00 p.m. They also host  a meet and greet for  singles, and a half-time Sports Bar. At the Grogge Shoppe one can listen to soothing island rhythms and partake in the prize fixed buffet.  "The Shoppe" is located at 61 Knutsford Blvd. in New Kingston, and they are open from 11 a.m. to until the last groggy person leaves.

For those social drinkers who want to enjoy open air fun, there is the Pool Bar at Le Meridien Pegasus which also serves coffee, tea and seasonal snacks. It is a treat to lounge poolside with a tropical drink in hand while watching the flow of interesting people sauntering by. On occasion, one might spot a celebrity or two.

Most of the "happy hour" establishments featured in this article offer reduced rates during their "happy hour" time slot; however, it is also flexible according to tourist season.

So, feel free to enter a "no judgment zone" where anyone can enjoy the ambience and the warmth of the city with cool, island relaxation. At these places, the phrase "No Worries" goes along way.

Tags: Find Your Happy Place in Kingston, jamaica