Holiday in Jamaica
#1. Go spelunking in the Green Grotto Caves
Located halfway between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, the Green Grotto Caves, a largely unexplored complex of underground caverns surrounded by the lush vegetation of the jungle, are not only naturally enchanting but also deeply intertwined with Jamaica's rich history. Tours last just under an hour and each group has their own guide. Informative, witty, and highly knowledgeable, the guides truly make the tour through the caves a memorable experience for all ages.
#2. Hang out at The Beach and relax in the Ocean
Jamaica is home to some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, from standard oceanfront resorts to more hidden gems where you’ll find locals, reggae, and delicious food. There are countless waterfront treasures waiting to be discovered by travelers.
If relaxing on the beach isn’t really your thing, there are plenty of other options: go on a horseback ride along a white-sand beach where you can ride bareback into the sea with the horses; take a scuba diving or snorkeling tour to get up close to the colorful fish in Jamaica’s clear waters; rent a motorboat to explore the coastline or sail along it on a catamaran.
#3. Savor a cup of Blue Mountain Coffee
Grown in a small region in the mountains north of Kingston, Blue Mountain coffee is considered to be some of the world’s finest java. Of the island’s 23,000 acres of coffee trees, only 10,000 produce Blue Mountain coffee, which legally must be planted at a certain altitude to certify the designation. The mix of high altitude and volcanic soil conditions in this area yields a one-of-a-kind bean that is blue-green in color and takes about 10 months before it is ready to be harvested.
#4. Visit Columbus Park in Discovery Bay
Located on the outskirts of the little community of Discovery Bay, Columbus Park contains numerous artifacts that were recovered in the process of excavating in and around the town. The artifacts on display include a section of a sugar estate aqueduct, 18th century cannons, sugar boiling coppers, and a lime mill.
Discovery Bay was once thought to be the first place that Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica. Although this has been disputed by historians, it still remains the town’s claim to fame.
#5. Enjoy authentic jerk chicken & savor a red stripe
Jerk chicken is one of the first things that comes to mind when someone mentions Jamaica. A visit to this island nation isn’t complete without trying some jerk meat, which is prepared over a barbecue or wood fire. The seasoning is typically a fiery mix of as many as 20 spices, including Scotch bonnet peppers, pimento, and scallions.
The result is a spicy, savory meal that should be washed down with an ice-cold Red Stripe beer, another Jamaican staple. If you want some of the best jerk chicken, try one of the roadside stands.
