Places to visit in Jamaica:
by Margaret Bailey
A
trip to Jamaica should be on everyone's wish list, not because
it's my birthplace, but because I truly believe that Jamaica has
earned its place, as one of the most sophisticated and exotic
islands in the Caribbean. The beaches in Jamaica are considered
among the World's most pure and beautiful. No matter which beach
you may choose to visit, you are sure to have a positive experience.
The crystal blue waters and white sand make a visit to the beach
a delightful experience.
Jamaica has approximately 14 parishes, each
having its own flavor. The most picturesque being Portland, St.
Ann's, Mandeville and Westmoreland. While traveling on the roads
to many of these places, one can experience casual culinary fun
while indulging in a small snack of roast corn, or roast fish
from the vendors on the roadside.
Boston, which is located in Portland, is well
known for its Jamaican Jerk Pork.
Jamaica is also renowned for its culinary arts and recipes such
as curried goat, stew peas and rice, and the national dish, ackee
and saltfish.
On one of your daily excursions, you may ask your guide to take
you to a mango grove or fruit stand. There you can experience
the several types of mangos and fruits Jamaica has to offer. Some
of the mangos are, Julie, East Indian, Bombay and Hairy mangos.
Other fruits such as naseberries, june plums and etioti apples
are refreshing on a warm day.
The North Coast of Jamaica is one of the meccas
for shopping, sightseeing and lodging. Some of the country's finest
and most established hotels are located there. A visit to the
North Coast is imperative if you enjoy fine dining, and have an
appreciation for a more cosmopolitan environment.
Dunn's River Falls, which is located in Ocho Rios, is a great
time for all. Climbing the falls is not an easy feat, and gives
the climber a sense of accomplishment.
If you possess an appetite for the ghoulish and elusive then a
trip to Rose Hall is a must! It is the former home of Annie Palmer.
The mansion sits on several acres of lush Jamaican greenery. It
now serves as a tourist attraction, as well as a place to host
special occasions. Legend has it, that Ms. Palmer came to Jamaica
to seek her fortune, and eventually married a wealthy man. It
is rumoured that her husband passed away mysteriously, and that
her helpers disappeared as well.
After visiting Rose hall if you are left exasperated
and frazzled, then stop by the local pub for some dominoes, aerated
water or a drink of Jamaican White Rum. An elixir to cure any
jitters.
Also recommended for unwinding from all of
your sightseeing adventures, and to soothe any ailments is a trip
to Milk River Bath in St. Elizabeth. It is the perfect panacea.
Jamaica had natural therapeutic spas before they became trendy,
in other parts of the World.
If your desire is for much cooler temperatures,
then a journey to Blue Mountain Peak is the ultimate respite.
Home of the famous Blue Mountain Coffee, sold worldwide in gourmet
shops and restaurants.
After a cup of this Jamaican java you are ready
for your night out! Nightlife in Jamaica is always a pleasant
and enchanting experience because Jamaica has a dazzling array
of reggae artists and calypso kings. The esmerizing grooves of
reggae and calypso music along with the sumptuous food that is
served at these soirées, makes for an enjoyable evening.
No trip to Jamaica is complete without rafting on the Rio Grande,
watching the sunset at Rick's Cafe or perusing the Montego Bay
Yacht Club. By the way, before jetting off to Jamaica, practice
your patois (Jamaican Slang). It will help you to negotiate some
fantastic bargains in the local market place.
Mi gawn an a hope yu like yu trip a Jamaica.
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