OUR
JAMAICA 2015
OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE JAMAICA HOTEL & TOURIST ASSOCIATION
© D.YURMAN 2014
25 Shoppes at Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica Tel: 876-953-2242 4 Time Square Mall, Negril, Jamaica Tel: 876-957-9530 302 Falmouth Cruise Terminal, Falmouth, Jamaica Tel: 876-633-5200
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MINISTER’S LETTER 14
We’re very happy you decided to make it Jamaica and, on behalf of our people, I offer a commitment to do our best to make your experience memorable. Whatever you’re looking for and however you want to spend your stay, rest assured Jamaica will oblige. Whether you’re here for a family vacation, a honeymoon, a golf adventure or business event, you will quickly discover that you won’t ever be at a loss for things to do during your stay. No destination in the region can rival the range and number of attractions offered by Jamaica. If you’ve come in search of thrilling adventures and exciting nightlife you may head to one of our many clubs and restaurants to dine, dance, drink and play; take an exhilarating bobsled ride through the rainforest in Ocho Rios; or book a ride down the Black River — Jamaica’s largest navigable river — and see native birds, crocodiles and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors who prefer a tranquil vacation will enjoy traversing the fairways of the
island’s many world-championship golf courses; relaxing on a secluded beach in picturesque Portland, or “Porti” as we locals call it; or exploring the quiet beauty of the majestic Blue Mountains. Our island is multicultural and multiracial with a harmonious blend of lifestyles, cuisine, music and dance from around the world, and our tourism product is one of the most diverse in the world. It is no wonder that Jamaica has all the makings of an unforgettable vacation experience. On behalf of the Government and the people of Jamaica, I extend a very warm welcome to you. Enjoy your stay and do come again. Sincerely,
Hon. Dr. Wykeham McNeill Minister of Tourism and Entertainment
JHTA LETTER 16
Jamaica is an idyllic island — picturesque and adventure-filled. Our people, warm and generous, share their good fortune of sun-kissed beaches, warm blue seas and verdant mountains with all who may visit. Few destinations offer a better meld of tourist resorts and local experiences. From upscale five-star, world-renowned international and indigenous hotel brands, to rustic villas, all-inclusive or EP accommodations, Jamaica’s culture and history combine to create an atmosphere that is truly welcoming, interesting and enjoyable. Our famous reggae music, our delicious jerk cuisine and our reputation for developing fine athletes are no secret and contribute to a special vibe and characteristic that is found nowhere else. Then, we have some of the world’s most beautiful natural waterfalls, historic architecture, adventure-filled attractions and creative artisans, which combine to make the best place to live, work and visit. We share our good fortune with the world. This is OUR JAMAICA! Welcome! Sincerely,
Nicola Madden Greig President Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association
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DIRECTOR OF TOURISM’S LETTER 18
Welcome to Jamaica, the land of superlatives. The diversity of our tourism product belies our 235 kilometres in length and 35 kilometres in width. There are very few places in the world that offer the magic that exists in Jamaica, the Land of Wood and Water. In this land of All Right, the possibilities are endless. Boasting five distinct resort areas, each with its signature offerings, Jamaica is a traveller’s ideal playground. Irresistible charm and remarkable contrasts await. Lounge in our sparkling waters and enjoy our vibrant colours; experience our friendly people and pulsating rhythms; gaze at our magnificent vistas and relax on our pristine beaches. Our delectable cuisine will excite your taste buds while our interesting history will leave you mesmerised. Jamaicans are very proud people. We take pride in our accomplishments and in our heritage, and we invite you to share that with us. When you are here, we are all family, living true to our motto: Out of Many, One People. I know your visit to Jamaica will exceed your expectations. This knowledge
comes from my confidence in Jamaica’s excellent tourism product. You have come to Jamaica at a time when the destination is experiencing recordbreaking visitor arrivals, as last year we welcomed more than two million stopover visitors to our shores. We unreservedly invest in our awardwinning destination and we are happy to say it rivals many around the world. But don’t just take my word for it. I invite you to go out and explore the adventures that beckon. For example: climb our majestic waterfalls; enjoy the serenity of rafting down the river; score birdies on our championship golf courses; take a picturesque hike to the Blue Mountains; rock to the rhythm of our music; relish our phenomenal jerk cuisine; and visit the rum distillery and see how our world-class rum is made! Again, welcome to Jamaica — the Home of All Right!
Paul Pennicook Director of Tourism
CONTRIBUTORS 20
1. Kinisha Correia is a writer and entrepreneur living between the U.S. and Jamaica. She offers writing services for the yoga, wellness and social development industries, and is a freelancer for several publications. 2. Max Earle is passionate about the beauty of his homeland — Jamaica. Spending more than 40 years behind a lens, and 20 years as co-owner and creative director of Frame by Frame Productions, he says there is still no shortage of spectacular scenes that unfold every day. His images have graced the pages of numerous magazines, websites and commercial productions. He continues to pursue his passion and is in the final stages of publishing his first book. 3. Roland Henry as a young boy idolised Superman, not just for his otherworldly strength and flying abilities, but for his alter ego journalist Clark Kent. It’s what led him to study Media and Communication at the Caribbean Institute of Media and Communication (CARIMAC) before being employed with the Jamaica Observer. Whilst there, he amassed experience in both the advertising and editorial sides of the business, covering beats from finance to fashion. His work has appeared in the New York Post and SkyWritings, as well as several smaller publications on the island. 4. Dr. Brian Hudson was born and raised in England. He became a naturalised citizen of Jamaica after marrying a Jamaican woman. He is the author of many academic papers and books, including The Waterfalls of Jamaica. The title of his second memoir Whe’ Yu’ From? comes from a question often put to him in Jamaica. Dr. Brian Hudson is now an adjunct professor at Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. 5. Kristi Keller is an award-winning Jamaica travel blogger based in Calgary, Canada. In 2011, Kristi self-published her first eBook about leaving a corporate career to jump into freelancing. Aside from writing, she owns her own business providing social media management services in the Caribbean travel and tourism industry. A true island girl at heart, she has been rebelling against snow, socks and shoes since 2003.
6. Cookie Kinkead was born in Kingston, Jamaica. Cookie is inspired and innovative. Her low-key approach and infectious vitality bring out the best in her subjects whether she is photographing people, travel or interiors/style. 7. Bret Love is a veteran journalist whose work has been featured in over 100 publications. Along with his wife/business partner Mary Gabbett, he’s also the co-founder of ecotourism websites Green Global Travel and Green Travel Reviews, whose success has allowed him to travel to more than 30 countries in the last five years. He is especially fond of the Caribbean and covers the region’s culture, cuisine and natural attractions. 8. Kaili McDonnough Scott is the editor of KUYA magazine, a local luxury real estate and lifestyle magazine, as well as a real estate agent based in Kingston. In her free time Kaili enjoys long distance running and spending time with her family and friends, especially on a Friday afternoon once the week’s work has completed. 9. Sean Murray is an aspiring Jamaican entrepreneur and IT professional who has an all-consuming passion for photography and travel. This passion has led him on the journey of exploring and capturing the beauty of Jamaica. He specialises in capturing extreme sports, landscapes, interiors, food and resorts. 10. Donna M. Owens is an award-winning journalist whose work appears in leading media outlets in the U.S. and beyond. Her bylines include NPR, Chicago Tribune, O, The Oprah Magazine, Essence, Black Enterprise, NBC’s TheGrio.com and travel publications, amongst others. An avid globetrotter, Donna has spent time in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Kingston and Jamaica’s rural parishes. She loves Bob Marley, and her favourite local meal is jerk chicken, rice and peas, callaloo and festival with an ice-cold Ting. 11. Mina K. Robertson is a student at the University of the West Indies Faculty of Law. Pursuing a career in fashion, she is a contributor of the Style Observer and launched her own website, taure-
analphabet.com. She also interned at the National Gallery of Jamaica and styled for advertising campaigns. 12. Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau are the culinary hostesses for the web series “Island Potluck.” Former restaurateurs and award-winning caterers who have thrown parties for the Prime Minister of Jamaica and the Prince of Wales, the sisters have just finished airing the first season of their cooking show, “Two Sisters and a Meal,” and have recently published their first cookbook, Caribbean Potluck (Kyle Books, 2014). To view their recipes, videos and blogs, visit them at 2sistersandameal.com. 13. Emma Sharp Dalton-Brown is a native Jamaican with a B.A. in philosophy from the London School of Economics, a Food & Wine Diploma from Leith’s in London and a Certificate in Journalism from New York University. She currently lives with her husband and two sons in Kingston, where she is a regular contributor for the Jamaica Observer. Emma has also written extensively for MacoCaribbean.com, and has contributed to MACO and FRESH magazines and all Made in Jamaica Catalogues to date. 14. Jean Wilson is a Jamaican writer who has worked as a journalist at the Jamaican Daily Gleaner, and the Jamaica Daily News (no longer in publication). Specialising in feature articles covering various aspects of Jamaican life, she has written for several other publications, and has also worked as a communications consultant in advertising and public relations in both private and public sectors. Her poetry book No More 'Smalling' Up of Me was published by Ian Randle Publishers in 2003. 15. Leisha Wong is a journalist based in Jamaica who is dedicated to bringing an authenticity to her readers, whether she is writing about art, food, interior design or architecture. She is the editor for Kingston Kitchen magazine and has written for a host of international and local publications, including Pride magazine in London; Ocean Drive and Florida International Magazine in Miami; The Daily News in New York; and the Jamaica Observer, SkyWritings, KÚYA and MACO in the Caribbean.
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A subsidiary of The McClatchy Company 3511 NW 91 Avenue, Miami, Florida 33172 Tel: 305-376-2735; Fax: 305-995-8108 OurJamaicaMagazine.com President & Publisher Erin Zilis Chief Operating Officer Giovanna Sanchez Editorial Editorial Director Desirée Blanco Managing Editor Rosa Calderón Senior Editor Carolina Cardona Editor Soledad Sastre Associate Editors Jenny Acosta-Horta, Christine Borges Editorial Assistant Sonia Pérez Design Design Director Alfredo Añez Contributing Art Director John Michael Coto Senior Graphic Designer Carlos Martín Graphic Designers Jessica Becerra-Ortiz, Edwin Cruz, Ethan Duran, Rodrigo Nuño-Ruiz Photography J. Kevin Foltz Production and Distribution Production Director Luisa Zelaya-Morillo Advertising Services Coordinators Dayan Stephani Agudelo, dagudelo@hcpaboard.com Claudia Staeblein, cstaeblein@hcpaboard.com Distribution Manager Walter Franco Advertising Sales Senior Vice President of Advertising Ewald Fuchs Business Developers Andrew Berman, John Trabanco, Marc Ruehle Sales Operations Manager Jeanie Schoonmaker, jschoonmaker@hcpaboard.com Sales and Marketing Jamaica Elena Lynch 876-469-3123 elena@ourjamaicamagazine.com Accounting Director of Finance Thomas Bardon Accounting Supervisor Cecilia Roca Administrative Assistant Melinda Walker Our Jamaica is a publication of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) 2 Ardenne Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica Tel: 876-920-3482, 926-3635-6 / 2796; Fax: 876-929-1054 info@jhta.org Copyright ©2014 by HCP/Aboard Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only. Cover photo: © Doug Pearson/Getty Images
TABLE OF CONTENTS 24
38 36 38
Welcome to Jamaica
70
One People Jamaica’s unique history and culture
48
Kingston
62
Port Antonio
70
Ocho Rios
90
Falmouth
94
Montego Bay
116
Negril
128
South Coast
62
116
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 26
134 134
Make a Splash Top beaches and waterfalls
140
Sports Exciting activities and sports
148
Weddings & Spas Beautiful settings and relaxing treatments
154
Feeding the Soul Jamaica’s bountiful soil yeilds culinary delights
162
Arts & Culture The artistry of our people
170
Calendar of Events What’s happening during your stay
172
Useful Information Transportation, tipping and more
148
178
Map of Jamaica
180
JHTA Members
162
Scan this QR code with your smartphone to see the digital edition of Our Jamaica in a flash at ourjamaica.customtravelmags.com.
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From shore to shore, experience the beauty and uniqueness of Jamaica. Our rich traditions, exquisite food and soulful art meld Max Earle
into a feast for the senses you’ll cherish long after you’ve returned home. OurJamaicaMagazine.com
35
WELCOME TO
Max Earle
JAMAICA
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
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ONE PEOPLE 38
BY JEAN WILSON
From left to right: A colourful local flower; Tortoise shell combs and a drum on display at the Museums of History and Ethnography; Opposite page: A local girl proudly shows off her talents
Occupying a land space of just 4,243 square miles and home to some 2.8 million souls, Jamaica’s influence on world culture — especially in music and other performing arts, sports, food and fashion — belies its physical dimensions.
J. Kevin Foltz (4)
Whether it’s our history, language, music, food or movements, Jamaican culture is truly unique.
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ONE PEOPLE 40
From left to right: Military Guard of Honour of Jamaica Defence Force outside Parliament in Kingston; Statue of Marcus Garvey; Opposite page: Mural outside the Museums of History and Ethnography
SPEAKING THE LANGUAGE English is the official language, but most people speak the vibrant, expressive Jamaican Patois (also known as Patwa or Jamaican Creole), which is English-based but incorporates vocabulary and other elements of languages spoken by Africans, as well as borrowings from other sources.
ISLAND RHYTHMS Jamaican music has gone global. But today’s music and dance did not come out of nowhere; they have deep roots in the African folk culture. Traditional dances such as kumina, with its mesmerising drumming and movements,
gerreh and dinki-mini are still practised today. Mento was Jamaica’s first popular music, and up until the 1950s, mento bands could be found in most rural districts. Of course, Jamaica’s biggest contribution to music is reggae, Bob Marley and all those he inspired. Its swaying rhythms and laid-back vibe embody the heart and soul of Jamaica.
FAITH MOVEMENT Since the 1960s, Rastafarians have had a powerful impact on the culture. Their movement drew inspiration from the black liberation teachings of Marcus Garvey. Leonard Howell and other pioneers worked to build the early Rastafarian movement. With a black God, a Bible base and promotion of repatriation to Africa, it strongly appealed to the poor and racially oppressed. A healthy livity (lifestyle) was introduced by Rastafarians, who regard pork as unclean. Many are vegetarians, eating “ital,” food cooked without salt. Rastafarians are known for their African-inspired dress, which utilises the red, green and yellow of the Ethiopian flag extensively, and dreadlocks.
From left to right: Tim Graham/Robert Harding Picture Library; J. Kevin Foltz (2)
Today’s cultural expressions are a mash-up between African and European (mainly British) traditions that have been simultaneously confrontational and cooperative, driven by the forces of cultural retention, renewal and hybridisation. Over time, Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern and other ethnic strains were also integrated. Out of all of this, a uniquely Jamaican culture was born, with African heritage as its heartbeat.
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ONE PEOPLE 42
THE FRUIT FROM ACKEE TREES BROUGHT FROM AFRICA AND SALTED COD IMPORTED FROM CANADA TO FEED THE ENSLAVED WERE CREATIVELY UNITED IN A DISH CALLED ACKEE AND SALTFISH. THE DISH BECAME SO POPULAR THAT IT IS NOW JAMAICA’S NATIONAL DISH.
Many artists and writers have been inspired by Rastafarian teachings. Over time, the movement has attracted middle-class youth, many drawn by the music and livity. Bob Marley, the most famous Rasta, helped the religion spread its wings outside of Jamaica. Creating words is a strength of Rastafari. Perhaps the word most used is irie, which means “it’s all good.”
A bowl of ackee and saltfish with dumplings and fried plantains
Jamaican cuisine has humble beginnings. For example, the fruit from ackee trees brought from Africa and salted cod imported from Canada to feed the enslaved were creatively united in a dish called ackee and saltfish. The dish became so popular that it is now Jamaica’s national dish. Jerk cooking, which originated with the Coromantee hunters of West Africa, is a speciality of the Jamaican Maroons, who escaped enslavement and still live in the mountains. They prepared the meat of wild pigs with a secret blend of seasonings and spices and roasted it underground. Referred to as pan chicken or drum chicken, because it is prepared in barbecue pits made out of steel drums or pans, it is a popular jerk offering at roadside eateries.
© Simon Reddy/Alamy
TRADITIONAL CUISINE
WORDS OF PRIDE Jamaica’s national motto has a rich history. BY JEAN WILSON
J
amaica’s national motto, “Out of
to emerge. Differences remained, but
Many, One People,” came about
common ground existed. In the end,
despite the complexities of ethnic
the aspiration for unity prevailed in the
and class divisions in the country, the
national motto, which was announced
unhealed wounds of slavery and the
by the Chairman of the Independence
sobering realities of colonialism.
Celebrations Committee, Theodore
The peoples who would over centuries create the Jamaican nation came from faraway Africa, Europe, India and China.
Gleaner at the time. Both government and opposition
Of those who came, the overwhelming
decided that the original, colonial coat
majority were black Africans who were
of arms should be retained. It featured
enslaved and brought through the
a male and female Arawak Indian — the
notorious Middle Passage.
indigenous people of Jamaica — and was
After the Emancipation of the British West Indies in 1838, the island’s © Stuwdamdorp/Alamy
Sealy, who was editor of The Daily
granted under Royal Warrant in 1662. The existing Latin motto, Indus Uterque
inhabitants, which later came to include
Serviet Uni (“The two Indians will serve
Lebanese/Syrians fleeing religious
as one”), would be replaced by the
persecution, faced the challenge of
new national motto, “Out of Many, One
sharing space harmoniously. Over time,
People,” to reflect the multicultural roots of
a distinctive “Jamaican way” began
the nation.
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ONE PEOPLE 44
FOUNDING A NATION After a long history of colonial rule, Jamaicans joined together to turn their island into their own nation. Early in the 20th century Jamaica’s march towards political independence from Britain was already well under way. Almost a century after Emancipation, there was still great dissatisfaction amongst the vast majority of people at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder, and there were others in society who also felt they were stifled by the rigid colonial system.
VISIONARY LEADERS One of the earliest agents of change was Marcus Garvey, honoured today as Jamaica’s first National Hero. The political and cultural activist inspired his followers to develop self-confidence and to organise themselves in the fight against racial oppression and economic and social injustice. Garvey, the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association, formed the People’s Political Party in 1929.
The 1938 Upheaval, when workers on sugar plantations and Kingston docks rose up to demand more equitable wages and better working conditions, turned out to have far-reaching results, as two other 20thcentury heroes supported the workers in their struggles. The flamboyant and courageous Alexander Bustamante stepped in to become their steadfast spokesperson. Meanwhile his cousin, Norman Washington Manley — a brilliant lawyer— joined him to represent the workers. They would become the architects of independence, and from their collaboration came the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union and the birth of the trade union movement in Jamaica.
ORGANISING CHANGE The level of change needed would require political organisation, and so was born the national movement towards independence. In the New York–based Jamaica Progressive League, led by O.T. Fairclough, the seed was planted for the People’s National Party, which was formed in 1938 with Manley as its leader.
Sean Murray
National Heroes Park in Kingston
PARLEZ PATOIS? If you want to fit in here, try learning a few key phrases in Patois. BY SOLE SASTRE
F
rom the way they dress to the way they dance, Jamaicans are a colourful lot. That distinctive character is, of course, best illustrated in the way they speak. Here are a few common words and phrases you might hear as you travel across the island.
• All fruits ripe — Everything is great • Big up — A warm greeting or term of appreciation
• Broughtupsy — Good manners; proper upbringing
• Casco — Knock-off clothing and accessories
• Cris — Cool; in style • Darkers — Sunglasses • Drop legs — To dance • Ease–up — To relax • Frock — A dress; also part of the expression “fit ’n frock,” meaning all is well
• Gates — A person’s home, derived from the fact that many homes in Jamaica have gates
• Give tanks — A Rasta expression
Max Earle
of gratitude
• Irie — Everything is alright • Iron bird — Airplane • Kill mi dead — Expression of certainty
• Mash it up — Used to wish someone good luck, like “break a leg”
• Nyam — To eat • Pear — Avocado • Pickney — A child or children • Raggamuffin — A Jamaican ghetto dweller • Rhaatid — An exclamation of mild surprise or irritation
• Rope een — To join an activity • Salt — Unlucky • Stoosh — A rich person or an item or place that implies wealth; posh
• Ten toe turbo — To use your feet as your main source of transportation; walking
• Trash an ready — Stylish; fashionable • Upful — Positive; cheerful • Vex — Upset; angry • Waa’ppun — A popular greeting that means “what’s happening?”
• Whole heap — large quantities; a lot • Yaad — Yard; home; Jamaica as a whole OurJamaicaMagazine.com
45
From left to right: Princess Margaret shakes hands with Alexander Bustamante; Prince Harry playfully races against Jamaican Son Usain Bolt
The party’s first major objectives, securing universal adult suffrage — the right of every adult to vote — and self-government, were both achieved in 1944. Alexander Bustamante founded the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in 1943 and won the elections in 1944. The next big development would be the granting of full internal selfgovernment from Britain, but that would not come until 1959.
A NEW ERA At midnight on August 5, 1962, in the National Stadium, full independence finally came to Jamaica. Princess Margaret — who represented Queen Elizabeth II at the ceremony — stood witness as the British Union Jack was lowered for the last time and the Jamaican flag was unfurled. The official meaning of the flag’s colours is: “Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; gold, the natural wealth
and beauty of sunlight; and green, hope and agricultural resources.” The prayerful national anthem, “Eternal Father Bless Our Land,” was then performed publicly for the first time. The next day Princess Margaret formally presented the constitutional documents to Prime Minister Alexander Bustamante, and Jamaica set off on its new path as an independent nation within the Commonwealth — with Queen Elizabeth II as head of state. In its short time as an independent country, Jamaica has made a phenomenal impact on the rest of the world in several areas, particularly in music, sports and hospitality. Over the years, Jamaica has continued to be an important destination for many members of the Royal Family, including Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Princess Anne. Prince Harry represented Her Majesty in Jamaica in 2012 for the celebrations of her Diamond Jubilee.
© Daily Mail/Rex/Alamy (2)
ONE PEOPLE 46
A WELCOMING SMILE Chief Concierge of the Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Kingsley Blake, is an institution unto himself. BY JEAN WILSON
F
or over 41 years, a certain man in a turquoise jacket has guided guests into the luxurious Round Hill Hotel &
In his experience, “If the kids are happy,
Villas, becoming the face of the celebrated
the family will be happy… and it is the kids
resort. Kingsley Blake, chief concierge,
who bring families together.” The proudest
believes that as a destination, Jamaica’s
moment in his lengthy career happened
major selling point is “the people, not
when he was a bell captain. On one
the beach.” He passionately states,
particular day, he beckoned a frightened
“Round Hill is beautiful. Everything is
3-year-old girl over to him to say hello.
important, but it’s the people who work
Despite her unsteady gait, she walked to
here — kind and friendly people — who
him and held on to his jacket. On seeing
make it so appealing.” This insight inspires Blake to excel at
her there, her mother and father were in a state of shock. They told him that doctors
his duties, which include escorting
said that the little girl would not be able
guests to rooms and arranging tours,
to walk until she was 8 years old. But that
transportation and babysitting services.
day, she walked to Blake, and everyone at
Guests of all ages enjoy talking with the
Round Hill witnessed a real-life miracle.
fascinating storyteller. Born in Hopewell, Hanover, he learned
J. Kevin Foltz
A kind and affable man, Blake loves children; and they seem to be drawn to him.
A family man with three grown children, Blake continues to find joy in his work.
the hospitality business on the job. And with
“My daily prayer is that I will be able to
only five years of primary school education,
make even one person happy at work,” he
he educated himself by reading widely and
says. And that is what he does every day —
learning firsthand from his mentors.
make people happy.
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KI NGSTON 48
BY LEISHA WONG
From left to right: Details found at Port Royal and its surrounding buildings; Iron gate at front of Devon House; Opposite page: Coke Memorial Methodist Church
Kingston moves to its own drumbeat. It also has a touch of fine global cuisine and a stylish nightlife scene. New Kingston coexists alongside the historic Kingston — it’s a tale of two cities, really. It is this diversity that will provide an endless itinerary for all visitors. Whether in search of the roots of reggae music, drawn by the distinct natural beauty of the city or visiting for one of the island’s events, Kingston will be sure to satisfy each sensory requirement.
From left to right: Max Earle (2); J. Kevin Foltz (2)
The soul of Kingston is its eclectic mix of beautiful people, exquisite fare, vivacious nightlife and a bustling city set against a backdrop of towering green mountains and a picture-perfect ocean horizon.
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Iconic Shaare Shalom Synagogue
HISTORY BUFFS Kingston is a product of its past. The historical buildings that still stand tell stories of freedom, determination and survival. Start the journey downtown at National Heroes Park, the resting place of three of Jamaica’s national heroes — Marcus Garvey, Sir Alexander Bustamante and Norman Washington Manley — and enjoy the ceremonial changing of guards at 8 a.m. each day. Take in the magnificent architecture of the Shaare Shalom Synagogue (built in 1912) before visiting the site of the historic Ward Theatre. Head down King Street to the waterfront and look out over Kingston harbour, the seventh
deepest natural harbour in the world. Port Royal may not be as notorious as it was back in the day, but stop in at Fort Charles and Giddy House for a glimpse into the city’s pirate past. Devon House is another great landmark. The 11-acre property was the architectural dream of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel, and built in the late 1800s. Declared a national monument by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust in 1990, the great house demonstrates life lived during 19th-century Jamaica. The site of many local events, it is also home to the famous Devon House I Scream Shop, as well as a few shopping and dining establishments.
Sean Murray
KI NGSTON 50
THE BLUE MOUNTAINS Jamaica’s most famous natural sight boasts exciting trails and delicious culinary offerings. BY BRET LOVE
F
or an unspoilt taste of Jamaica’s
in 1841 by British Major General Sir William
for hiking, biking and camping. Those
Maynard Gomm, who was Lieutenant
to the Blue Mountains, one of the
interested in bike tours of the area can
Governor of Jamaica at the time, today
highest mountain ranges in the Caribbean.
contact Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours for a
it’s used a training ground for the Jamaica
Rising more than 7,000 feet within 10 miles
unique downhill riding tour. Meanwhile, the
Defence Force.
of the Kingston coast, these hills also offer
staff at local lodges and campgrounds,
a cool escape from the city, as well as
including Whitfield Hall, Wildflower Lodge
known as the home of Jamaican Blue
Internationally, the mountains are best
and the campground at the Portland Gap,
Mountain Coffee, one of the world’s most
can organise local guides to take you
prized single origin varietals. The area’s
National Park (BJCMNP) was established
around the grounds. A hike to the top of the
mixture of cool air, high rainfall, rich soil
in 1992 and encompasses 4.5 percent of
7,402-foot Blue Mountain Peak may prove
and excellent drainage creates the perfect
Jamaica’s total land surface. Nominated
to be elusive, but if you reach out to tour
climate, producing a coffee beloved for
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in
operators like Jamaica Explorations, they
its mild, sweet flavour. Numerous coffee
2011, the park features a stunning array of
can also help you make arrangements.
plantations offer tours and tastings.
spectacular scenic vistas. The Blue and John Crow Mountains
Located within BJCMNP is the popular
Real foodies will want to go the extra mile
such as the giant swallowtail butterfly
200,000-acre Holywell Recreational Park.
and visit the cafés and restaurants up here
(the biggest butterfly in the Western
A quiet retreat that’s only a 90-minute drive
that feature not only the homegrown beans
Hemisphere), the endangered Jamaican
outside of Kingston, the park boasts four
on their menus but also classic Jamaican
blackbird and the Jamaican boa. In all,
hiking trails and a waterfall trail. Visitors
fare. Must-stop places on a culinary tour
the Blue Mountains provide a protected
can choose to take a guided tour or
include Café Blue, Gap Café Bed &
habitat for more than 200 species of
explore the natural beauty on their own.
Breakfast located near Holywell, EITS Café
biodiversity: It’s home to endemic species
Max Earle (2)
There are also ample opportunities
natural beauty, savvy travellers head
at Mount Edge Guesthouse in Newcastle
birds — making it an excellent destination
On the way up to Holywell, visitors
for bird-watching — and in excess of 500
will pass right by the army barracks at
and Miss Winsom Hall’s popular Crystal
species of flowering plants.
the Newcastle Training Camp. Established
Edge restaurant.
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
51
KI NGSTON 52
From left to right: Newly renovated Hope Zoo; “Redemption Song Monument” by Laura Facey at Emancipation Park
CULTURISTS UNITE
LOVE OF NATURE
The cultural identity of the island is so diverse. To start your cultural journey, stop in at the Institute of Jamaica on East Street. Whilst you are downtown, visit the National Gallery of Jamaica, home to Jamaica’s premiere art collection. This is perhaps one of Kingston’s most important jewels. It tells the story of Jamaica’s visual culture, from as early as A.D. 1000 through to young, up-and-coming artists. Reggae music is part of the island’s DNA, so paying tribute to the man who started it all is essential. Fans flock to the statue of the singer — located by the National Stadium and sculpted by Jamaican artist Alvin Marriott — and his former home on Hope Road. Known as the Bob Marley Museum, it’s where Marley recorded and lived until his death in 1981. His simple bedroom has been left untouched, as have the bullet holes left from a failed assassination attempt in 1976.
The beautiful Blue Mountains dominate a third of the island. Rising to more than 7,000 feet, on a clear day you can see Cuba from its peak, 130 miles away. Back on the flat, more Jamaican vegetation can be admired at Hope Botanical Gardens. At 2,000 acres, it’s the largest botanical gardens in the Caribbean and home to numerous indigenous plants and flora. It is also home to Lucas the lion, one of the newest residents at the newly renovated Hope Zoo. He is joined by a host of other exotic animals, including zebras, crocodiles, monkeys, snakes and flamingoes. Kingston may not have the tranquil beaches and stunning sunsets Negril and our other resort towns have, but a short boat ride will get you to Lime Cay. This secluded spot is one of the most serene destinations for sun seekers. You can hire a water taxi in Morgan’s Harbour for some of the best snorkelling on this side of the island. continued on pg. 56
From left to right: Sean Murray; J. Kevin Foltz
BEST PLACE FOR JOGGERS: Emancipation Park offers manicured lawns, water features and an open track that can be used by walkers and joggers.
DOWNTOWN REVITALISATION Booming Downtown Kingston continues to thrive and breathe new life into the city. BY JEAN WILSON
D
owntown comes to a breezy, beautiful end at the Kingston Harbour, one of the world’s finest
natural harbours.
Daily it attracts thousands to its stores
There are several historic places of worship in downtown Kingston, like the
and markets, including the historic
splendid Cathedral of the Most Holy
Coronation Market and Kingston Craft
Trinity on North Street. The Shaare Shalom
This part of Kingston, below North Street,
Market. People also visit Government
Synagogue and St. Andrew Scots Kirk
was once the country’s main commercial and
Ministries and institutions such as the
United Church are both on Duke Street.
business centre, as well as a fun place to be.
Houses of Parliament, Bank of Jamaica,
At East Parade is the Coke Memorial
In the 1950s and 1960s, strolling down King
Institute of Jamaica, National Gallery
Methodist Church, and nearby is the East
Street — the main thoroughfare and home to
of Jamaica and Kingston & St. Andrew
Queen Street Baptist Church, one of the
the finest stores — was a major social activity,
Corporation in the area.
oldest Baptist churches in Jamaica. Tours
especially on a Saturday afternoon.
Recently there has been increased
of the historic Kingston churches may be arranged with Olde Jamaica Tours.
By the mid 1960s, a modern port was
focus by UDC on accelerating the
constructed at Newport West and a new
area’s redevelopment. Downtown
commercial and industrial complex was
business people, including market
created there. Uptown, New Kingston
vendors and corporate residents like
in 1912. It was the premier venue for
became a major new commercial centre,
GraceKennedy, Scotiabank, NEM
the annual pantomime, plays, concerts,
and various shopping malls began
Insurance, Gleaner Company and others
Broadway shows and political events.
taking away downtown’s businesses and
are committed to a downtown renaissance.
customers. Redevelopment work on the
Telecommunications company Digicel
Multimedia Museum, which is in the restored
waterfront by the Urban Development
moved its offices downtown in 2014.
Liberty Hall, the Legacy of Marcus Garvey
Corporation (UDC) resulted in the Sean Murray (2)
VISIT TODAY
Swiss Stores jewellers have operated on
The beautiful blue-and-white Ward Theatre building at North Parade opened
A must-visit is the Marcus Garvey
building located on King Street. Here one
construction of Ocean Boulevard, a mall,
Harbour Street since 1958 and have fast-
can explore the life and work of the late
offices and apartments. Later came the
tracked food service development plans.
Jamaican National Hero, whose spirit
nearby Oceana Hotel and impressive
The company’s F&B Downtown is now in its
lives on in Rastafari, reggae music and the
Jamaica Conference Centre.
creatively renovated space and offers food.
aspirations of a people.
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
53
KI NGSTON 54
JAMAICA MEANS BUSINESS When it comes to holding meetings, conferences and other corporate events, the island’s professionals and facilities will turn your work into a day at the beach. BY EMMA SHARP DALTON-BROWN
Harbour and a five-story parking garage,
adds that the array of entertainment op-
natural beauty. It is also the ideal
and it can accommodate 2,000 people. “It
tions at Terra Nova include the property’s
place to host any event.
was built in 1983 to the specifications of the
award-winning restaurants, its gaming
Dittie Guise, general manager of The
United Nations and is home to the Interna-
lounge, high fashion boutiques and the Re-
Montego Bay Convention Centre — which
tional Seabed Authority’s annual summer
gency Bar & Lounge as part of its appeal.
accommodates up to 10,000 people —
meetings and many other international
states, “Room nights, customs, immigration
organisations,” McKoy says.
and air flights come into consideration
“Jamaica has been making strides to
“We have special accommodation rates for clients hosting meetings here, dependent on occupancy level, duration
when planning an event; and the new VIP
improve its offerings and to be more attrac-
of stay and number of guests; and we offer
Attractions Lounges at both airports have
tive for meetings and travel,” says McKoy.
discounts on meeting rooms,” Reservations
been a big plus. Our facility can give all the
He indicated that Jamaica’s climate,
& Front Office Manager Suzanne Lawton-
needed information, and we can organise
diverse culture, phenomenal sporting suc-
Lewis says.
the entire setup, including catering.”
cesses and resource endowments are all
Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston
incentives for international corporations. “It
also houses several meeting rooms and
ommend one another, no matter who gets
is the perfect opportunity to mix business
offers banqueting services, accommodat-
the lead. “It brings in a positive economical
with pleasure,” he concludes.
ing up to 200 persons. In addition, they
Guise explains that local businesses rec-
impact for Jamaica, with people spending
Various hotels make their properties
offer group room rates to international
their money on room nights, restaurants
available for smaller seminars as well.
corporations hosting sessions there.
and entertainment,” continues Guise.
“For over 30 years, Sandals Resorts
MAC Cosmetics is one entity that keeps
has hosted many of the fastest-growing
returning, according to General Manager
ference Centre offers the kinds of facilities
companies in the world, from Fortune 500
Lee-Ann Godfrey.
that support meetings and conferences,
corporations to successful privately held
according to General Manager Frank
companies,” says Vice President of Group
the ability to explore different things,” says
McKoy. The centre has many resources,
Sales James Bullock.
Godfrey. “As with life, everything should be
In downtown Kingston, the Jamaica Con-
including interpretation and recording in
Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel, with capacity
“What makes the island so appealing is
about balance,” she points out. Business
up to six languages, public and press gal-
for up to 300 guests, hosts a number of
associates sit in a meeting room all day, but
leries, 24-hour comprehensive security ser-
international groups. Marketing & Com-
they can still interface when stepping out to
vice, dining, a lounge overlooking Kingston
munications Consultant Nicole Pandohie
do something fun in the sun.
J. Kevin Foltz
T
here is more to Jamaica than just
True Jamaican warmth for discerning world citizens
W W W. S P A N I S H C O U R T H O T E L . C O M 1 St Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica • 876 926 0000
KI NGSTON 56 continued from pg. 52
WHERE TO GET THE BEST PAN CHICKEN: Declaring the best pan chicken man is impossible, but Wally in Manor Park is the most popular. His chicken boasts the perfect balance of spice and tenderness.
Fine dining at Rojo Restaurant
FOODIE HEAVEN Truly embracing our national motto, food lovers will be drawn to Jamaica’s melting pot of flavours, ingredients and spices. From the street corner to the fanciest gourmet spot, Kingston has some of the best offerings. It’s essential to start at the heart of it all: Coronation Market. The meeting point for farmers and higglers (market traders), Coronation Market offers an authentic look into the island’s agricultural hub, whether it is the pan chicken man or the crab ladies at Heroes Circle. Popular with the locals, Fort Clarence beach’s white sands and clean waters are always filled with food vendors beckoning seafood lovers. In the hills, the organic farm movement is gaining momentum, and a number of local farms are opening their gates to those who want a farm-to-table experience. EITS Café is a breezy respite from the rush of the city, churning out some of the tastiest and freshest food around. Be sure to stop in at Café Blue for real coffee on your way back down the hill. Gap Café Bed & Breakfast, located at the entrance of Holywell Recreational Park, offers weary travellers a beautiful spot to rest and enjoy drinks, afternoon high tea and a delicious lunch.
DINING OPTIONS A global food experience in Kingston makes way for the city’s best dining experiences. Guilt Restaurant Devon House, 26 Hope Road 876-754-1381 Bold aromas, out-of-the-box pairings and striking plating set Chef Colin Hylton’s new spot apart. Majestic Sushi & Grill Villa Ronai, Old Stony Hill Road 876-564-1334 Set in the lush hills of Kingston, this hip eatery serves up quality sushi and sashimi alongside local specialty rolls. OPA! Greek Restaurant & Lounge 75 Hope Road 876-631-2000 The city’s newest food offering
brings an authentic Greek experience to the island. Strawberry Hill The Restaurant New Castle Road B1, St. Andrew 800-232-4972 Regarded as one of the island’s finest dining experiences, they offer a subtle twist on local favourites. Tamarind Shop 28, Orchid Plaza 18–22 Barbican Road 876-977-0695 Authentic aromas and spices fill this intimate space, as they deliver arguably the best Indian and Asian fusion food on the island.
Kingston always has a vibrant nightlife. Blend Bar & Lounge at the newly renovated Jamaica Pegasus Hotel delivers a stylish spot to enjoy signature menu items and an extensive cocktail menu. Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel has also had a stylish makeover, and it now includes the Regency Bar & Lounge. This city hot spot hosts rotating DJs and other entertainment. Journey above the city to Drinks on the Rock at Villa Ronai, where the fashionable set start their weekend off with drinks. Or head over to newly renovated Fiction Lounge, as they host international and local DJs, celebrity nights, and a host of other events. For a real dancehall experience, venture to Famous, which lies just outside the city limits in Portmore. For a more laid-back drinking experience, make your way to Bin26 at Devon House or Uncork’d for some of the city’s best wine lists. Red Bones Blues Café, an icon for alternative music and culture, is also a city staple, whilst CRU Bar and Kitchen has the best rooftop setting in the city. For a luxurious stay in the heart of New Kingston, opt for the Spanish Court Hotel. With its modern, Asian aesthetic, this boutique hotel offers ultra-comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, fine dining at Rojo Restaurant and the indulgent Spa. Other high-end options include Strawberry Hill Hotel & Spa, the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel, The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites and The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. The budget conscious can choose from The Knutsford Court Hotel, Altamont Court Hotel and Hotel Four Seasons.
J. Kevin Foltz
NIGHT OWLS
KI NGSTON 58
Bijoux Jewellers
The Bob Marley Museum, known as the home of reggae legend Bob Mar-
Various Locations — Kingston, 7 Dominica Drive, New Kingston: 876-926-
ley, offers a guided tour of his former home, recording studio, a viewing at
7449; Montego Bay, Shoppes at Rose Hall: 876-953-9618; Sangster Interna-
the Bob Marley Theater and on-site shopping at the gift shop.
tional Airport: 876-952-6718; Falmouth, 107 & 108 Historic Port of Falmouth: 876-632-5163; Ocho Rios, Taj Mahal Shopping Centre: 876-974-5446
The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites
Specialising in the world’s best brands of watches from the most popu-
85 Knutsford Blvd., New Kingston
lar Swiss brands such as, Breitling and Breitling for Bentley, Omega,
Tel: 876-929-9000
Chopard, Tag Heuer, Hublot, Raymond Weil and several others.
E-mail: sales@courtleigh.com
Fashion brands such as Michael Kors, Guess and Michele watches and
Website: courtleigh.com
jewellery brands. Dealers for Pandora, Roberto Coin, John Hardy, and
The only address you will ever need to make the right impression
Marah Lago.
in Kingston. The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites offers discerning guests unparalleled personalised service with deluxe rooms, suites and our
Bob Marley Museum
ultra-luxurious penthouse floor.
56 Hope Road, Kingston 6 Tel: 876-927-9152 / 876-978-2929
Island Car Rentals
Fax: 876-978-4906
Kingston & Montego Bay, Jamaica W.I.
Website: bobmarleymuseum.com
Reservations Centre Tel: 876-929-5875
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
J
K
M
N
O
P
Kings House A1
1
Hope Botanical Gardens
Jamaica House
Kingston
1
Bob Marley Museum
Devon House
2
2 Emancipation Park
3
3
Tinson Pen Airport National Heroes Park
4
4
HUNTS B AY
5
5 A4
6
6
KINGSTON HARBOUR
Royal Jamaica Yacht Club
7 PORT
7
Norman Manley International Airport
Fort Charles
R OYA L
8 A
B
8 C
D
E
F
G
H
J
K
M
N
O
P
Fax: 876-929-6987
the grounds of the Bob Marley Musuem, is a
Website: islandcarrentals.com
Roots Café serving up a wide array of food
General Manager: Dulcie Moody. Over 800
and juices for both vegetarians and non-
vehicles.
vegetarians.
Jamaica Tourist Board
Red Stripe
64 Knutsford Blvd., Kingston 5
214 Spanish Town Road
Tel: 876-929-9200; Fax: 876-929-9375
Tel: 876-923-9291
E-mail: info@visitjamaica.com
Website: facebook.com/redstripejamaica
Website: visitjamaica.com
Red Stripe’s core business is the manufac-
As Jamaica’s national tourism organisation,
ture and sale of quality alcoholic bever-
the Jamaica Tourist Board is responsible
ages, with equal regard for adequate
for the worldwide marketing of Jamaica
return to our shareholders, the welfare for
as a premier vacation destination. It is
our employees, value and service to our
dedicated to supporting activities which
customers and responsibility to the com-
will positively impact growth in the tourist
munities in which we operate.
industry and in the economy. Spanish Court Hotel The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel
1 St. Lucia Ave., Kingston 5
81 Knutsford Blvd., New Kingston
Tel: 876-926-0000
Tel: 876-926-3690-9 / 876-926-3691
E-mail: info@spanishcourthotel.com
E-mail: reservations@jamaicapegasus.com
Website: spanishcourthotel.com
Website: jamaicapegasus.com
Spanish Court Hotel is located in Kingston, the
The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel has an enviable
“heartbeat” of Jamaica. This is a modern and
reputation as the Caribbean’s premier busi-
chic hotel that is the home of The Restaurant
ness and leisure hotel. Kingston’s Preferred
at Spanish Court, The Café, The Sky Terrace
Hotel offers deluxe rooms and prestigious luxury
and The Spa.
suites in a lively, upscale atmosphere. Tuff Gong Studios The Knutsford Court Hotel
220 Marcus Garvey Drive, Kingston 11
16 Chelsea Ave., New Kingston
Tel: 876-923-9380-4; Website: tuffgong.com
Tel: 876-929-1000
The world-renowned Tuff Gong Studio,
E-mail: sales@knutsfordcourt.com
founded by the great Bob Marley, is one of
Website: knutsfordcourt.com
the largest audio recording facilities in the
The Knutsford Court Hotel offers the best
Caribbean offering a guided tour, recording
of both worlds, whether you’re travelling
studio and rehearsal sessions.
for business or leisure. You’ll find a selection of standard, superior and junior suites,
JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS
one-bedroom suites and townhouses in a lush
Altamont Court Hotel
garden courtyard.
1–3 Altamont Terrace, Kingston 5 876-929-4497-8 / 5931
One Love Café 56 Hope Road, Kingston 6
Christar Villas Limited
Tel: 876-927-9152 / 876-978-2929
99A Hope Road
Fax: 876-978-4906
Kingston 6
The Love Café, conveniently located on
876-978-3933 / 7864 / 8066-71
The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites 85 Knutsford Blvd., Kingston 5 876-929-9000 Eden Gardens Wellness Resort & Spa 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 10 876-946-9981 Hotel Four Seasons 18 Ruthven Road, Kingston 10 876-926-0682 / 8805 The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel 81 Knutsford Blvd., P.O. Box 333 Kingston 5 876-926-3690-9 Kircamp Properties / The Gardens 23 Liguanea Ave., Kingston 10 876-927-8275 Knutsford Court Hotel 16 Chelsea Ave., Kingston 10 876-929-1000 / 3407 Liguanea Club 80 Knutsford Blvd., Kingston 5 876-926-8144 / 5 or 6 Medallion Hall Hotel 53 Hope Road Kingston 6 876-927-5721 / 5866 / 6116 Spanish Court Hotel 1 St. Lucia Ave. Kingston 5 876-926-0000 Strawberry Hill Hotel & Spa P.O. Box 590, Liguanea, Kingston 6 876-944-8400 Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel 17 Waterloo Road, Kingston 10 876-926-2211-3 / 9334-9
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
61
PORT ANTONIO 62
BY KAILI MCDONNOUGH-SCOTT
One of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets, Port Antonio is lush, tropical and truly one of the most breathtakingly beautiful parts of the island. Naturally protected by mountains on one side and the sea on the other, it is literally a world unto itself. Port Antonio’s initial claim to fame was as a shipping port for bananas. The famous Caribbean tune “Day-O” (The Banana Boat Song) — sung most famously by Harry Belafonte in 1956 — was inspired by the town and its export.
From left to right: J. Kevin Foltz; ® Cookie Kinkead (2); Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
From left to right: DeMontevin Lodge Hotel; Anchor at the Errol Flynn Marina; Jamaica’s quintessential bird of paradise; Opposite page: River rafting down the Rio Grande
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63
PORT ANTONIO 64
BEST PLACE TO ENJOY A COLD RED STRIPE: Boston Bay, a popular spot with surfers.
Goblin Hill Villas at San San San San Estate, San San Port Antonio Tel: 876-993-7443 / 618-1865 / 618-1866 E-mail: frontdesk@goblinhill.com Website: goblinhill.com One of the most unspoilt corners of Jamaica, Port Antonio is an insider’s glimpse into the Caribbean of yesteryear. In its heart, Goblin Hill’s villa vacation lifestyle offers the most potent relaxation around. JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS Bay View Eco Resort & Spa Anchovy, Williamsfield Port Antonio, Portland 876-993-3118 Geejam Hotel Port Antonio, Portland 876-993-7000 / 7246 Goblin Hill Villas P.O. Box 26, Port Antonio 876-993-7443 / 5737 / 7549 Trident Hotel Anchovy, Port Antonio P.O. 876-633-7000 / 7100
EXPLORING THE SIGHTS Port Antonio is known for its untouched beauty, especially when it comes to its waterfalls. Whilst here, make sure to visit Reach Falls, an eco-attraction with a waterfall and an emerald-coloured natural pool. The property boasts a variety of exotic plants and birds and is an ideal retreat for nature lovers, who might also enjoy spending time at Somerset Falls, just outside of Port Antonio. This 97-acre property also has an exquisite waterfall, along with pools and gardens, and it is served by the Garden Restaurant and the Rhythm and Booze bar. One of the most unique things to do in Port Antonio is take a slow ride on a raft on the Rio Grande. The trips typically depart from the town of Berrydale and can run from one to three hours, ending at Rafter’s Rest on the coast. The 30-foot bamboo rafts seat two, not counting the captain who steers the raft. Settle back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery of forest and farmland and the colourful birds flying past, as your captain tells you stories about the area, including how Hollywood legend Errol Flynn popularised rafting as a leisure activity. Flynn didn’t just take up rafting on the river; he became one of Port Antonio’s most famous residents, making the seaside town his home in the late 1940s after his yacht was shipwrecked there. Flynn and his actress wife Patrice Wymore
were instrumental in putting Port Antonio on the map, so it was only natural that the Jamaican government name an important landmark after him. The Errol Flynn Marina is open year-round and offers shipyard and fuelling jetty facilities. It also has a beach club with a restaurant and a chain location of the famous Devon House I Scream Shop. No visit to Port Antonio is complete without a day trip to Frenchman’s Cove, one of Jamaica’s most celebrated resorts. Located on a 45-acre private estate, the property includes a freshwater stream and a beautiful whitesand beach. Home to some of Jamaica’s most famous jerk huts, Boston Beach is popular with surfers and a beautiful sight when the sea is calm. Stay all day and enjoy some local fare. Those looking for some more watersports should head to Turtle Crawl Bay located across from Bay View Eco Resort Hotel. Newly implemented for 2015, they now offer guests and visitors rentals for sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and other fun pursuits. From the shores to the mountains, the heights of Port Antonio open a window to the local Maroon history and culture. Maroons are descendants of escaped slaves who established free communities in the rugged mountains of the northern part of the island in the 17th century. Nanny, sometimes referred to as Queen Nanny, led the Maroons in the mountains of
Max Earle
Exciting Boston Bay Beach
STAYING JOLLY The Jolly Boys open a window into Port Antonio’s past as they lay down the modern mento beats of yesterday and today. BY KAILI MCDONNOUGH-SCOTT
T
he Jolly Boys are by no means a boy
in St. James, but the death of key founding
the studio and produced the album Great
band. For nearly 60 years they have
members brought the band back to Port
Expectation, a compilation of rock covers
made music, and despite the fact
Antonio. In the 1980s, percussionist Alan
done in a modern mento style.
Swymmer, banjo and guitar player Moses
70s, the music hasn’t stopped. For the Boys,
Deans and rum-box player Joseph “Powda”
Club, the Jolly Boys are seasoned musicians
the show is still on the road, and just this past
Bennett reunited and started performing
and have seen it all from Port Antonio’s
summer the Jolly Boys toured overseas,
at Trident Hotel. That’s where they were
glamorous past to the renaissance that is
performing for mento lovers in Europe.
discovered by singer/songwriter Jules
firmly under way in the area,” says Baker.
Shear in 1989. Under Shear’s guidance,
“They are endeared by many music lovers,
to the early 1950s in Port Antonio during
the Jolly Boys went on to make four albums,
especially those overseas where their unique
the heyday of movie star and local legend
tour several countries and even make an
mento sound and their natural swagger have
Errol Flynn. As the local band, the Navy
appearance in the movie The Mighty Quinn,
been embraced.”
Island Swamp Boys — as they were called
featuring Denzel Washington.
The formation of the Jolly Boys dates back
then — performed for Flynn and his wife
Courtesy of GeeJam Group
“Similar to Cuba’s Buena Vista Social
that most of the group’s members are in their
As luck would have it, when music producer
In August 2014, sadness loomed in the Jolly Boys camp with the passing of Joseph
Patrice Wymore at their grand parties. By the
Jon Baker of Gee Street Records opened
“Powda” Bennett. “His cheeky and playful way
1960s the Jolly Boys had made a name for
Geejam Hotel, a luxury resort in San San,
was loved by audiences throughout the world.
themselves locally, often performing on the
Portland, the Jolly Boys became their in-house
This is the end of a Jolly Boys chapter, but the
North Coast hotel circuit.
band. In 2010, Baker, who has a knack for
beginning of a new one for their long history
recognising talent (P.M. Dawn, Queen Latifah
spanning 70 years,” remarked Jon Baker in an
and The Stereo MCs), took the Boys into
interview with the Jamaica Observer.
The 1970s found them working between St. Ann’s Bay and the Round Hill Hotel & Villas
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65
PORT ANTONIO 66
From left to right: Mike’s Supper Club; Mille Fleurs
DINING OPTIONS Most of Port Antonio’s dining offerings feature casual fare that embrace the best of down-home cooking. Belinda’s Rio Grande This riverside canteen serves up dishes like crayfish stew, brown fish stew and chicken fricassee that are cooked over heated rocks. It’s a stop you must make on your river raft ride. Dickie’s Best-Kept Secret Bryan’s Bay, Main Road 876-809-6276 Delicious Caribbean dishes and warm service are offered at this unlikely location with impossibly beautiful views. Timeout Sports Bar & Grill Royal Mall, Fort George Street 876-537-0869 This laid-back establishment
dishes out standard sports bar fare, such as hamburgers and chicken wings, whilst offering a view of the harbour. Woody’s Low Bridge Place Drapers, between Trident Castle and Frenchman’s Cove 876-436-5624 Visit Woody’s to taste some of the most delicious hamburgers and veggie burgers made from local ingredients. Yosch Café New Craft Market 876-993-3053 Beef patties, pizza, doner kebab and sandwiches are all served in a friendly atmosphere, where the coffee is also first-rate.
Portland for many years, managing the growing community and organising slave-freeing raids. Her work eventually led to the 1739 peace treaty offered by the Jamaican governor that included 2,500 acres of land for her people. All Maroons fought hard to preserve their freedom and heritage, and self-governing Maroon settlements exist on the same land to this day. Travellers can get to know a little more about their vibrant story at the Charles Town Museum and Safu Yard. Maroon history, artefacts, traditional herbalism and musical performances are presented regularly.
DIGGING IN The choices for dining in Port Antonio are slim, but there is some good food to be had in the right spots. Mike’s Supper Club at Trident Hotel is a cabaret lounge with a speakeasy vibe, complete with a band on Friday and Saturday nights. This is easily one of the coolest restaurants on the island. You never know who you may sit next to at the Bushbar restaurant at Geejam, a boutique hotel in the hills of San San. Geejam has been known to host famous celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Gwen Stefani and Grace Jones, just to name a few. Jerk is a traditional Jamaican method of seasoning and cooking pork, chicken and sometimes fish. The most popular jerk spot in Port Antonio is not a single spot at all. In Boston Bay, jerk huts are lined up side by side overlooking the sea. The numerous vendors sell jerked meats in foil with sides of local staples such as roasted yam, sweet festivals, bammy or breadfruit. Al fresco dining is just a short drive away at Mille Fleurs Restaurant, located at the eco-friendly Hotel Mockingbird Hill. The restaurant offers classic Caribbean cuisine set on a terrace with the backdrop of the Blue Mountains and views of Port Antonio harbour and the sea.
UNIQUE FINDS The retail scene in Port Antonio isn’t expansive, but there are a few places where tourists can pick up special items. The Royal Mall houses a variety of boutiques and shops selling stylish beachwear, Blue Mountain coffee, premium rums, cigars, jewellery and Jamaican handicrafts. The Musgrave Market also features a fine selection of Jamaican products, from fresh produce and local delicacies to woodcarvings and hand-woven straw items. Market Square is at the heart of town, where you’ll also find Musgrave Market. Here you can browse through stalls flaunting bright fruits and vegetables, as well as handicrafts. As you explore the town, keep an eye out for the Victorian Clock Tower and the 19th-century DeMontevin Lodge Hotel, a Jamaican National Heritage site.
From left to right: J. Kevin Foltz; © Cookie Kinkead; Opposite page: © Cookie Kinkead
BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE SUNSET: The “lookout” at Goblin Hill boasts beautiful sunsets and views of famous Monkey Island nearby.
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PORT ANTONIO 68
KING TRIDENT Swanky Trident Hotel brings high-end service and style to Port Antonio. BY KAILI MCDONNOUGH-SCOTT
Dowding, the trio have re-created the
reopened its doors in the winter
splendor of the hotel’s glorious past with a
of 2013 to much fanfare within
fresh twist.
the international travel market for its
What exists today are 13 classic seaside
contemporary feel and sleek modern
villas with oceanfront porticos and soaking
design. Originally conceptualised in the
pools. The hotel is laid out across an
1950s by Jamaican architect Earl Levy, the
expansive property, complete with a private
original Trident Hotel & Villas was a popular
beach, an infinity pool, a gym, a spa, a
romping ground for the jet set, royalty and
lounge, a bar and two restaurants, including
many Hollywood stars.
Mike’s Supper Club, one of Jamaica’s most
The allure of Trident was not only the
vibrant live music venues. The Trident is
beauty of the seven-acre cliff-side property
prospering, and the quaint town of Port
but also the white-glove service. Here in
Antonio is experiencing a renaissance
this remote seaside town opulence reigned
of sorts, with increased interest from the
and allowed guests an escape from it all,
new global elite and those guests straying
whilst maintaining a level of sophistication
away from the all-inclusive resorts in Negril,
on par with any other top-rated hotel in the
Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
world. For decades, the hotel maintained a
“Both Jon Baker’s and Michael Lee-Chin’s
high standard of luxury and was eventually
commitment to Port Antonio is unparalleled,”
sold in 2003 to Jamaican millionaire Michael
says South Coast hotelier and owner of
Lee-Chin. Nine years later, he set out to
Jakes Hotel, Jason Henzell. “Port Antonio
reestablish Trident in the luxury market.
is without a doubt one of the most beautiful
Along with a dream team of Port Antonio
areas in Jamaica, and I am happy to see it
aficionado Jon Baker and designer Vidal
returning to its roots.”
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
T
he Trident Hotel in Port Antonio
OCHO RIOS 70
BY DONNA M. OWENS
From left to right: A beautiful lotus flower; Fun signage and a colourful parrot at Dolphin Cove; Opposite page: Wet kisses from a friendly dolphin at Dolphin Cove
From a bevy of world-class beaches to myriad sightseeing, shopping, dining and nightlife options, there is no shortage of activities for travellers to relax and rejuvenate.
hotel developments and condominium complexes,” says Sandra Scott, deputy director of tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board. Scott feels it’s the area’s natural beauty that has helped spur its growth in the last five decades and which distinguishes it from the rest of the country. “Ocho Rios is located in what we call the Garden Parish, which means that it is rich in flora and fauna, as seen on a drive through Fern Gully,” she says, referring to the area’s dense canopy of ferns and trees. “The town has developed around a beautiful crescent beach, which has its own appeal,” she adds. “It continues to be a viable resort region because of the variety of its offerings.”
J. Kevin Foltz (3); Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
“There has been tremendous growth with a busy cruise shipping port and a number of
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OCHO RIOS 72
From left to right: Thrilling activities at Rainforest Adventures at Mystic Mountain include the Jamaican bobsled ride and zip lining. Opposite page: Stunning Dunn’s River Falls
MANY SIGHTS Indeed, there’s much to see and do in Ocho Rios, including its well-regarded adventure activities. Rainforest Adventures at Mystic Mountain, a 100-acre, eco-friendly complex located within a tropical rain forest, opened in 2008. Here, the daring can hop aboard a Jamaican bobsled ride or go zip lining through the canopy. Should you fancy sailing the high seas instead, Chukka Caribbean Adventures offers various tours, such as their Catamaran Experience, which includes lunch, and their unique Horseback Ride ’N’ Swim adventure. For those who wish to stay on land as they commune with Mother Nature, Dunn’s River
Falls is wildly popular. This is the only natural waterfall in the world that can be climbed, and it flows just feet away from the main road. As if the main attraction’s 600 feet of cascading water wasn’t enough, visitors can pick up one-of-akind craftwork and souvenirs on the compound, then grab lunch and a cold Red Stripe. Exciting Dolphin Cove is also a great option for nature lovers. This attraction appeals to all age groups, as you can watch the playful dolphins and eerie shark shows, meet and touch these new friends or go swimming with them in the deep. True adrenaline junkies must take the Wild Fun Jet to Dunn’s River Falls or go underwater with the mammals on the Dolphin Trek.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts (2); Opposite page: J. Kevin Foltz
MOST PHOTOGRAPHIC SPOT: Tranquil Turtle River Park in the centre of Ocho Rios is a welcome respite from the constant movement of day-to-day life.
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OCHO RIOS 74
From left to right: Colourful coral reef; Unique camel rides available; Opposite page: Sunset Jamaica Grande’s private beach
The less adventurous can relax on the gorgeous beach or take a stroll on the Jungle Trail walk to interact with snakes, iguanas and a variety of colourful birds. Those looking to combine an educational and cultural experience with fun activities for the whole family can’t miss Prospect Plantation. Still a working farm, a tour of the grounds takes you through growing sugarcane, allspice, coffee, banana trees and more.
The historical great house was built in the early 18th century and boasts a gorgeous bird’s-eye view of the island below. Activities include horseback riding, camel rides, feeding the ostriches and more. The fun continues underground at the Green Grotto Caves. Walk through natural limestone architecture, once a hiding place for pirate and runaway slaves, and be blown away by the eerie yet magnificent Grotto Lake.
From left to right: Shutterstock, Courtesy of Sandals Resorts; Opposite page: © Ian Dagnall/Alamy
OCHO RIOS’ HIDDEN GEM: Jump or swing into the pristine blue waters of the Blue Hole, a natural swimming pool and waterfall. This relatively unknown spot is an unspoilt getaway.
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OCHO RIOS 76
FOR A MORE UPSCALE DINING EXPERIENCE, CONSIDER POPULAR RESORTS AND
NIGHTLIFE HOT SPOTS: Local favourite Margaritaville is always hopping with resident DJs filling the night with pounding beats.
EATS AND BEATS If you’re hungry after a day full of activity, it doesn’t get much more authentic than local watering hole Faith’s Pen outside of Ocho Rios. You have to stop at this cluster of huts to experience the distinct smoke from the pans as they sear the food to intoxicating perfection. Stop at Cherry’s One Stop, where cook and owner Miss Cherry has been serving up roasted yam, saltfish and other favourites for as long as anyone can remember.
Also check in at the Ocho Rios Jerk Centre, where the music can be heard from a mile away. In town you’ll find a variety of fast-food spots and Chinese restaurants, as well as the perennially fantastic Devon House I Scream Shop. For a more upscale dining experience, consider popular resorts and hotels in the area, like Couples Tower Isle and Sans Souci resorts, and Sandals Grande Riviera and Royal Plantation all-inclusives.
J. Kevin Foltz
HOTELS IN THE AREA, LIKE COUPLES TOWER ISLE AND SANS SOUCI RESORTS.
OCHO RIOS 78
Dining experience at Woolery Kitchen
For a Jamaican culinary experience in a private home, consider Woolery Kitchen, which serves up a delicious five-course meal. “Our guests are people who are actively seeking to experience Jamaican culture and love food,” says eatery founder Tanayia Woolery. She runs the operation along with her mother-in-law, Cynthia Woolery, who was born and raised in Chalky Hill.
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
MUST-SIP DRINK: The Frozen Dirty Banana Cocktail — with bananas, dark rum and other ingredients — as made by Jamaica Inn’s legendary bartender, Teddy.
OCHO RIOS 80
From left to right: Mouthwatering plates from Couples Resort, Miss T’s and a traditional dish called blue drawers
DINING OPTIONS Many chefs and restaurateurs in Ocho Rios serve authentic Jamaican dishes with modern-day flair.
Miss T’s Kitchen 65 Main Street 876-795-0099 Savour authentic, healthy, home-style Jamaican dishes and drinks in a garden setting. Using only the freshest ingredients, including exotic island spices from local farmers, Miss T creates mouthwatering flavours. Passage to India 50 Main Street, Soni’s Plaza 876-795-3182 The Indian cuisine here encompasses the cooking
techniques of many nationalities and cultures. A vast spectrum of flavours is created by the judicious and inventive use of spices. Spring Garden Café and Seafood Grill Ocho Rios Bypass Road 876-795-3149 An incredibly popular restaurant, Spring Garden is a top-class restaurant with fair prices and great service, and the seafood here gets rave reviews. Toscanini Restaurant Harmony Hall, Tower Isles 876-975-4785 Chef Toscanini serves authentic northern Italian and vegetarian cuisine — all prepared with bio-organic vegetables — in a beautiful villa that was once part of a pimento plantation.
Evita’s Italian Restaurant — right up the road from Mystic Mountain — has the most beautiful views and quaint décor. The real intrigue of Evita’s, however, is that it manages to slip in a little scotch bonnet pepper in almost all of its traditional Italian dishes. It’s no wonder celebrities always make a stop there whilst in Ocho Rios. At night, one of Ocho Rios’ best-kept secrets is Bamboo Blu. Located in Mammee Bay, it is about five minutes outside of Ocho Rios and right on the beach. The music and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to forget all your cares as you sip on an Appleton cocktail. Along Main Street, you’re bound to come across DJs playing on the street or in restaurants. After hours the town goes into party mode. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville is a local favourite. But just about anywhere you go, the great energy and easygoing vibe of Ocho Rios makes for some of the best experiences. continued on pg. 84
From left to right: J. Kevin Foltz; © Cookie Kinkead; J. Kevin Foltz
Evita’s Italian Restaurant Eden Bower Road 876-974-2333 In business since 1989, Evita’s serves up Jamaican and Italian fare in an authentic gingerbread house. It is especially known for its magnificent views.
OCHO RIOS 82
GOLDEN MUSE England’s thoroughly British 007 spy was born in Jamaica. BY SOLE SASTRE
sunshine outside,” said Fleming. “Would
Bond is particularly famous for his
these books have been born if I had not
romantic exploits. But whilst the
been living in the gorgeous vacuum of a
super spy’s ardent escapades became part of his ethos, a more constant affair
Jamaican holiday? I doubt it.” A lover of the island’s natural beauty,
was responsible for his existence: Sir Ian
Fleming was knowledgeable about its
Fleming’s love for Jamaica.
native bird and marine life. After joining
Head north to picturesque Oracabessa
one of Jacques Cousteau’s underwater
Bay and you’ll find the Goldeneye resort.
expeditions, he became a snorkelling
One- and two-bedroom villas and cosy
enthusiast, and many of his books contain
cottages are nestled in the foliage of
detailed descriptions of the tropical fish
what was once a donkey race course.
and coral reefs that thrive off the
Fleming, who had visited Jamaica briefly
Jamaican coast.
for a U-boat conference during the war, vowed that he would build a house there,
Three Bond books — Live and Let Die, Dr. No and The Man with the Golden Gun
and in 1946 he did. The 15 acres of land
— feature prominent scenes in Jamaica.
he acquired became his sanctuary. He
Perhaps the most memorable scene was
constructed a plain bungalow on the land
shot in 1961, when Ursula Andress, playing
and christened it. This simple winter retreat
Honey Ryder in the film version of Dr. No,
became the epicentre of all things Bond.
emerged from the Caribbean wearing a
“I wrote every one of the Bond thrillers here with the jalousies closed around me so that I would not be distracted by the birds and the flowers and the
white bikini that would forever alter cinema and fashion history. Fleming may be gone, but his fans can still visit the island that inspired so much.
From left to right: © Everett Collection Inc/Alamy; © AF Archive/Alamy
R
efined, clever and irresistible, James
FINE ITALIAN DINING OVERLOOKING OCHO RIOS
Enjoy fine dining in Ocho Rios, Jamaica in the setting of an authentic 1860's Gingerbread house with wooden floors and mahogany bar. You can enjoy lunch or dinner indoors or outdoors, on our verandah overlooking the cruise ship piers and Ocho Rios.
Open 7 days, 11am to 11pm. Eden Bower Rd. opposite Taj Mahal Shopping Center. www. evitasjamaica.com
876 - 974 - 2333
OCHO RIOS 84
continued from pg. 80
TAJ MAHAL SHOPPING CENTER IS A MUST FOR THE MOST EN VOGUE DUTY-FREE BUYS, INCLUDING SUNGLASSES, JEWELLERY AND WATCHES, LIQUOR, SPICES, PERFUMES AND CLOTHING.
SHOPS AND STALLS There’s no way you can leave Jamaica without taking a piece of it with you. The most unique and cost-effective souvenirs can be found at the Original Ocho Rios Craft Park. The vendors welcome you with warm smiles and jokes whilst displaying their handmade jewellery, woodwork, paintings and more. For a taste of
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old time Ocho Rios, take a stroll down Main Street, where you will find hidden treasures. Taj Mahal Shopping Center is a must for the most en vogue duty-free buys, including sunglasses, jewellery and watches, liquor, spices, perfumes and clothing. Island Village is also a place where you can find great gifts for yourself or your friends and family back home.
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OCHO RIOS 86
DUTY-FREE SHOPPING Jamaica is an unknown haven for duty-free prices. BY MINA ROBERTSON
pier is Island Village. With its open-air setting
some unique memorabilia
right on the beach, it’s a great spot to have
home with you. In this town, where culture
lunch, go shopping and walk around. In this
meets adventure, you’ll find special
shopping village is Casa de Oro Jewelers,
trinkets, jewellery and accessories in
which has a stunning display of designer
one of the many duty-free stores, where
jewellery and luxury watches. Here you’ll
prices range from 15 to 50 percent
find luxury brands such as Cartier, Roberto
lower than retail price. TAJ MAHAL SHOPPING CENTRE 4 Main Street 876-974-2414 Bijoux Jewellers 876-974-5446 ISLAND VILLAGE Turtle Beach Road Casa de Oro Jewelers 876-675-8998 Tropicana Jewelers 876-953-2290 HARBOUR SHOPS 2 Main Street Diamonds International 876-974-4287
Just minutes away from the cruise ship
can’t leave without taking
In the Taj Mahal Shopping Centre on Main Street there are several duty-free
Coin, Tag Heuer, Gucci and Dior. Tropicana Jewelers also carries designer jewellery lines, including Bvlagri, Chopard and David
stores filled with top brands at the most
Yurman, but is known for exclusively carrying
competitive prices. Everything from fine
the “One Love” Jamaican Bracelet, truly one
jewellery and sterling silver to perfumes
of the best mementos of Jamaica a visitor
and sunglasses will make the perfect gift
could take home.
for others or a great addition to your own
Right next to Island Village is the Harbour
luxury collection. Bijoux Jewellers
Shops plaza, another top destination
is known for carrying some of the best
for high-end, duty-free shopping. A new
brand names in watches and jewellery,
addition to these shops is Diamonds
including Breitling, Movado, Hublot,
International, known worldwide for their
Marah Lago and Michael Kors. The
stellar gems and amazing prices. Brands
conveniently located plaza complements
carried here include Safi Lilima, Crown
your shopping experience with free
of Light, Movado, Fendi, Bulova and
Wi-Fi and an ATM on-site.
so many more.
J. Kevin Foltz
W
hen visiting Ocho Rios, you
Chukka Caribbean Adventures
Couples Resorts Jamaica
Shop #2 Harbour Shops, Main Street,
Tel: 877-424-8552 / 876-979-8500
Tel: 800-COUPLES / 876-979-8960
Ocho Rios; Tel: 876-322-5716
Website: chukka.com
Website: couples.com
Website: daimondsinternational.com
If you want to play in Jamaica, then we
With two of our resorts in Travel + Leisure’s
Diamonds International is one of the largest
have you covered! With more locations,
Top 5 world’s best and all four in the
jewellery retailers in the world. With over
more tours and more variety, Chukka is
top 20, family-owned Couples Resorts
125 locations we provide our customers
sure to please everyone in your group.
welcomes you to our unique brand of
with luxury jewellery, elegant timepieces,
We offer transportation from Negril,
barefoot elegance. From world-class
and the finest gemstone products.
Sandy Bay, Montego Bay, Runaway Bay,
activities to island-to-table cuisine, award-
Discovery Bay, Ocho Rios and Boscobel.
winning spas to rooms with dreamy views,
Dolphin Cove — Ocho Rios
Our exclusive locations across the
a world full of blissful indulgences awaits
Tel: 876-974-5335
island offer active adventures, relaxing
at each of our four boutique all-inclusive
Swim and enjoy various activities with
leisure time and authentic cultural
Couples Resorts.
friendly dolphins in their natural habitat.
experiences. Visit your resort tour desk
Also pet and snorkel with stingrays, swim
or contact us directly to find the perfect
Diamonds International
with and feed the sharks, and have photos
experience for you. At Chukka It’s Time
Various locations:
taken with birds, snakes and iguanas. Relax
to Play!
205–208 Terminal Plaza, Falmouth;
on 80 feet of pearly white-sand beach.
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OCHO RIOS 88
Take a glass-bottom boat ride to Dunn’s
Sandals Golf & Country Club
Couples Tower Isle
River Falls. Includes Pirates’ Village with
Upton, Ocho Rios
P.O. Box 330, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
boardwalk, cafés and shops. US$49.50
Tel: 876-975-0119-21
876-975-4271-5
adults; $33 ages 6–11 years.
Website: sandals.com Fisherman’s Point
Jewel Resorts
Swiss Stores
Turtle Beach Road
Website: jewelresorts.com
Island Village Tel: 876-675-8975
P.O. Box 6201, Ocho Rios
Discover paradise at Jewel Resorts! Choose
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
876-974-4147 / 973-4809
from three all-inclusive gems: the distin-
Website: swissstoresjamaica.com
guished, adults-only Jewel Dunn’s River
Time-honoured tradition of excellence and
Franklyn D. Resort
Beach Resort and Spa; upscale Jewel Run-
dedication since 1935. Exclusive Rolex and
P.O. Box 201
away Bay Beach & Golf Resort for all-ages;
Tudor dealer for over 75 years. Swiss Stores
Runaway Bay, St. Ann
and Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort &
Ltd., is also the agent for Victorinox Swiss
876-973-4591-8
Spa, offering a luxurious healthy lifestyle for
Army and Citizen.
adults-only. Surrounded by lush landscap-
Goldeneye (Affiliate)
ing, the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea and
Walkerswood /
Oracabessa, St. Mary
sun-kissed beaches, Jewel Resorts has ev-
Associated Manufacturers Ltd.
876-622-9007
erything you need for a brilliant all-inclusive
Beechwood Ave., Kingston 5
vacation, a professional meeting venue or an
Website: walkerswood.com
Gran Bahia Principe Jamaica Hotel
unforgettable wedding destination!
E-mail: info@walkerswood.com
Salt Coppers, P.O. Box 106
Walkerwswood is the name of a village
Runaway Bay, St. Ann
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa
in rural Jamaica. We are famous for our
876-973-7000 / 7655
Mammee Bay, St. Ann; Tel: 876-972-7400
Jerk Seasoning and over 20 innovative
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa
and traditional products, essential for the
Hermosa Cove Villa Resort & Suites
creation of Caribbean dishes.
Hermosa Street, Pineapple
Paradise Cove Drive, Runaway Bay, St. Ann Tel: 876-973-4520
Ocho Rios, St. Ann JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS
876-974-3699
Beaches Boscobel Resort & Golf Club Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
Oracabessa, P.O. Box 63, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Hibiscus Lodge Hotel
North Coast Hwy., Runaway Bay, St. Ann Tel:
876-975-7777 / 7666
83 Main Street, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
876-633-4000
876-974-2676 / 2594 / 2813 The Cardiff Hotel & Spa
Rainforest Adventures Bobsled
P.O. Box 98, Runaway Bay, St. Ann
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica at Mystic Mountain
876-973-6671-4
P.O. Box 1, Main Street, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Tel: 876-974-3990
876-974-2514-8
This environmentally friendly attraction
Club Ambiance
boasts over 100 acres of land. Great for all
P.O. Box 20, Runaway Bay, St. Ann
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa
ages and provides ample opportunities to
876-973-6167 / 4705-6
P.O. Box 858, Mammee Bay
view and explore the unique seaside, tropical
Ocho Rios, St. Ann; 876-972-7400
forest ecosystem through four unique and
Columbus Heights
exhilarating adventure tours, including the
(Tourism Consultants Ltd.)
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa
Sky Explorer, Bobsled Jamaica, the canopy
P.O. Box 383, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Silver Spray Road, Runaway Bay P.O.
zip line and a unique waterslide. Special
876-974-1921
876-973-4520
Nighttime festivals showcase Jamaica’s music
Couples Sans Souci
Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
scene. Wedding packages lift couples up to
P.O. Box 103, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Main Street, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
say “I Do” at 700 feet.
876-994-1206-14
876-633-4000
events are set atop majestic Mystic Mountain.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Main Street, Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-795-1694 / 974-6405 Mystic Ridge Jamaica Ltd. 17 DaCosta Drive, Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-431-8685 Prospect Plantation Villas P.O. Box 38, Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-994-1373 / 1452 RIU Club Ocho Rios Mammee Bay, St. Ann 876-972-2200 Rooms On The Beach Ocho Rios P.O. Box 280, Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2008 / 6632 Royal Decameron Club Caribbean P.O. Box 65 Runaway Bay, St. Ann 876-973-4675 / 6348 / 4802 Sandals Grande Riviera Beach & Villa Golf Resort P.O. Box 77, Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-5486-9 / 5691-6 Sandals Royal Plantation Golf Club & Spa P.O. Box 2, 142 Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-5601-2 Sunflower Beach Resort Villas / Leisure Holiday P.O. Box 150, Runaway Bay
Overlooking Ocho Rios Number one for Romance, Ambience, Good Food and Great Value. Enjoy fine dining in Ocho Rios, Jamaica in the setting of an authentic 1860's Gingerbread house with wooden floors and mahogany bar. You can enjoy lunch or dinner indoors or outdoors, on our verandah overlooking the cruise ship piers and Ocho Rios. The menu, specializing in Northern Italian food, also has an extensive selection of creative Jam-Italian fusion dishes of fresh pasta, seafood, vegetarian, and meat entrees.
876-973-4809
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Shaw Park Beach Hotel
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P.O. Box 17, Cutlass Bay Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2552-4
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FALMOUTH 90
BY SOLE SASTRE
From left to right: Delicious Jamaican patties; Ruins at Columbus Park; Stained glass window in St. Peter’s; Opposite page: St. Peter’s Anglican Church
The quiet area of Falmouth is steeped in history and boasts natural beauty.
caught a glimpse of it as they zipped between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Being a port city, local products — predominantly sugar and rum — were the cornerstone of its economic boom in the 1800s. Its affluent past lives on in the town’s well-preserved collection of Georgian structures, most notably St. Peter’s Anglican Church and the Falmouth Court House. It is fitting that a new cruise ship terminal would put Falmouth back on the map. The world-class Historic Falmouth Cruise Port, a two-berth port ample enough to accommodate some of the largest ships in the industry, brought with it a renewed interest in the town and reinvigorated local businesses.
From left to right: J. Kevin Foltz; © Cookie Kinkead; J. Kevin Foltz (2)
For years, Falmouth registered nary a blip on tourist itineraries. At most, travellers
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FALMOUTH 92
From left to right: Good Hope Estate and a quaint horse and carriage ride
THE TOURS HERE CAN BE THRILLING OR MORE RELAXED AFFAIRS, LIKE A HIGH TEA
SIGHTSEEING Several tours operate in and around Falmouth. Falmouth Heritage Walks leads tours that cater to different interests: the Falmouth Heritage Walking Tour, the Falmouth Food Tour and the Falmouth Jewish Cemetery visit. For those who prefer a less strenuous outing, Falmouth Tours by Trolley guides provide information and fun facts as they drive guests comfortably around town. Seasoned operators, such as Chukka Caribbean Adventures and Island Routes Caribbean Adventure Tours, run a number of varied outings throughout the area. Many of Chukka’s activities are held in and around Good
Hope Estate, located approximately six miles outside of Falmouth. The tours around the estate can be thrilling — think river tubing and zip lining — or more relaxed affairs, like a tour of the Great House, a high tea service or a horse and carriage ride through the property. Additionally, guests may visit an artist-in-residence at the Pottery House; access Chukka’s new pool and leisure area, the Colonial Village; and sample some of Jamaica’s best-known culinary products, including Appleton Estate rum and Walkerswood jerk seasoning and sauces. Nearby, the fun continues underground at the Green Grotto Caves. Walk through natural
© Cookie Kinkead (2)
SERVICE OR A HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDE THROUGH THE PROPERTY.
J. Kevin Foltz
A gift shop found in Falmouth
limestone architecture, once a hiding place for pirate and runaway slaves, and be blown away by the eerie yet magnificent Grotto Lake. This world-class attraction gained a Green Globe 21 Certification in 2003 and in 2009 achieved platinum-status certification. For a full day of fun, head to Glistening Waters Restaurant & Marina. Start your day in the full-service marina, where you can charter a boat to take you and a group of friends out for deep-sea fishing. The bountiful waters off Falmouth are home to a great variety of game fish, including kingfish, tuna, barracuda, wahoo, red snapper, marlin, mahi-mahi and tarpon. After hooking “the big one,” take your catch to the Glistening Waters Restaurant. Creative chefs here can prepare your freshly caught fish just the way you like it, including fried, jerked, steamed or stewed. Other fresh offerings include lobster, shrimp and conch, plus chicken pork and steak. Enjoy the taste of victory while sipping on fine wines, refreshing fruit drinks, cocktails or, of course, a cold Red Stripe. With a full stomach, it’s time for the evening’s adventure to begin. At sunset, tour boats head out to the famous Luminous Lagoon, where microscopic organisms emit a phosphorescent light called bioluminescence. Their light sets
the waters aglow and creates a spectacular, must-see light show. Guests are even invited to jump in the lagoon’s mineral-rich waters and swim around with these wondourous creatures.
SHOPPING The Craft Market right in the port houses a series of carefully reconstructed Georgian-design buildings with plenty of local vendors selling Jamaican mementoes, as well as larger chain retailers, including Del Sol, Piraña Joe and Tropicana Jewelers. Water Square, in the centre of town, is where you can find the Albert George Shopping and Historical Centre. Vendors there sell all manner of handmade crafts, jewellery, paintings and clothing. The Trading House, located within Good Hope Estate, is a great place to pick up authentic Jamaican art, carvings, books and other tasteful gifts.
DINING Spice Kitchen and Bar is an open-air restaurant that’s within walking distance of several local attractions. A full menu of authentic Jamaican dishes done right keeps the customers coming back. Pepper’s Jerk Centre is a little more rustic but offers local fare that is also delicious.
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MONTEGO BAY 94
BY DONNA M. OWENS
Both tourists and Jamaicans have developed a love affair with Montego Bay and its endless possibilities and incessant beat. Although it has only been a city officially since 1980, Montego Bay is recognised internationally as a vacation destination. Named Golfo de Buen Tiempo (the gulf of good weather) by Christopher Columbus after his 1494 visit, the area quickly became an important shipping port. It is thought that the city’s present-day name began as a corruption of the Spanish word manteca (lard), as exports of the food rivalled leather and beef in the region during Jamaica’s era of Spanish rule from 1511 to 1655.
From left to right: © Rolf Nussbaumer Photography/Alamy; J. Kevin Foltz; Courtesy of Sandals Resorts; Opposite page: J. Kevin Foltz
From left to right: A red-billed streamertail hummingbird; The swimming pool at Round Hill Hotel & Villas; Kayakers in MoBay; Opposite page: The statue on Doctor’s Cave Beach
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MONTEGO BAY 96
After the Oliver Cromwell–led Brits drove the Spanish out, Montego Bay became a sugar port and remained so for the ensuing 307 years of British rule. Profits from the bustling sugar trade funded many of the city’s landmark buildings, including historic St. James Parish Church and multiple plantations like the Greenwood Great House and Rose Hall. These days Montego Bay — referred to as MoBay by locals — is primarily a mecca for tourists seeking sun, sand and the “no problem” philosophy that informs Jamaican hospitality. The city offers an extensive array of activities and attractions.
IT’S ALL ABOUT FUN Jamaica’s gorgeous weather makes it a haven for those who enjoy active pursuits. The protected waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park are a favourite amongst snorkellers and scuba divers. The park encompasses 10 square miles of coral reef systems populated by thousands of colourful tropical fish. Yachting is also quite popular. You can meet like-minded folks at the Montego Bay Yacht Club. Likewise, myriad charter companies take deep-sea fishermen out in search of prized game fish such as blue marlin.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
Snorkellers jumping into the protected waters of Montego Bay Marine Park
Discover Jamaica’s Shining Stars
IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall
IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Suites
IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach
Few destinations offer the spectacular service and stunning surroundings of IBEROSTAR. Gracing one of Jamaica’s most breathtaking shores, IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach & Spa Complex offers the best in gourmet dining, spacious rooms and a range of activities to please every interest. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious, romantic getaway in an adults-only setting at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall, or looking to please every member of the family at IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Suites or IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach, you’ll enjoy the all-inclusive vacation of your dreams. Sparkling pools, stunning beaches, challenging golf and a relaxing spa, it’s all here and waiting to treat you like the star you are.
Montego Bay, JAMAICA Contact your favorite travel professional or visit iberostar.com
MONTEGO BAY 98
CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES RUNS A NUMBER OF EXCITING ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING THE JEEP SAFARI THROUGH THE RAIN FOREST, JUNGLE RIVER TUBING, ATV SAFARI AND MORE.
Chukka Caribbean Adventures’ excursions are a favourite amongst adventure lovers. The well-established outfitter offers around 100 horses for its incredibly popular Horseback Ride ’N’ Swim adventure. It also runs a number of other exciting activities, including the Jeep Safari through the rain forest, Jungle River Tubing, ATV Safari and more. MoBay also boasts five 18-hole championship golf courses with prime oceanside locations, including Cinnamon Hill Golf Club, Half Moon
Golf Club and White Witch Golf Course at Rose Hall, SuperClubs Ironshore Golf & Country Club and The Tryall Club. Each offers its own unique challenges and stunning scenery. For those who prefer to relax, MoBay’s famous beaches offer all the sun, sand and surf a vacationer could want. The most famous of these strands is Doctor’s Cave Beach, which developed an international reputation in the early 20th century for the remarkable healing powers of its waters.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
BEST OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH ATTRACTION: The Croydon Plantation is a working farm where you can sample various fruits, as well as the coffee that’s grown there.
MONTEGO BAY 100
Trelawny’s Martha Brae River is the definition of a lazy river, and Jamaica Rafting’s bamboo raft excursion offers a perfect opportunity to savour its serene ambience. Start your day with a cool dip in the pool at Rafters’ Village and a visit to Miss Martha’s Herb Garden, then let your captain guide you on a three-mile tour that includes vivid stories of Jamaica’s rich history, as well as stops for swimming and a ridiculously fun rope swing at Tarzan’s Corner. Finish the trip with a cool tropical drink or a bite to eat at Martha’s Rest, a charming bar, restaurant and souvenir shop.
Numerous family-oriented attractions are also available. Aquasol Beach Park offers a small, quiet, protected beach that’s great for snorkelling with kids, banana boat rides and parasailing. The Animal Farm & Nature Reserve in the Montpelier Hills is a tranquil slice of nature featuring exotic birds, a butterfly house, botanical gardens, a petting zoo and hiking trails. And, for all adrenaline junkies, Jamaica Zipline Adventure Tours features fives zip lines, including the 1,600foot Big Timba — the longest in the Caribbean — which treats riders to bird’s-eye views of the Lethe Estates farming community.
From left to right: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts; © Cookie Kinkead
Get in touch with nature at scenic waterfalls and the Animal Farm & Nature Reserve
Welcome to Jamaica. Relax and Enjoy!
STOP & SHOP at over 70 Airport retail outlets and restaurants before you HOP home. STOP!SHOP!HOP!
SANGSTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OPERATED BY
MONTEGO BAY 102
Helpful staff and beautiful watches and jewellery in Tropicana Jewelers
BARGAIN HUNTING The three most popular shopping areas in MoBay are City Centre, with its vast array of duty-free shops; the Holiday Village Shopping Centre on Rose Hall Road en route to Ocho Rios; and Montego Freeport, near the city’s pier. But you can find great deals in a number of other places as well. The downtown Crafts Market is an excellent place for handmade items ranging from straw hats and bags to carved objects and musical instruments. The Old Fort Craft Park offers a broad variety of handicrafts hawked by 180
highly competitive vendors — all licensed by the Jamaica Tourist Board — who are quite open to haggling. From small souvenirs to more substantial items, this is a good place to land a great bargain. Tropical Treasures, located on MoBay’s Hip Strip along Gloucester Avenue, is more laid back and specialises in Jamaican CDs, cigars, coffee, clothing, spices and more. For those seeking more luxurious offerings, the Half Moon Plaza mini-mall caters to the guests at the Half Moon resort with about 25 upscale boutiques. continued on pg. 106
J. Kevin Foltz
BEST PLACE FOR PEOPLE WATCHING: Downtown’s Sam Sharpe Square features colourful Georgian architecture, a slice of Jamaican history and an endless parade of interesting people.
BRINGING THE FAMILY TOGETHER IS
MUCH MORE FUN! Get ready to live your best vacations in family in our Resort. Take the opportunity to sunbathe and take a refreshing dip in the pool, enjoy delicious international cuisine in our a la carte restaurants, relax in our complete Spa or enjoy our daily and evening shows for all ages… Everything, in an extraordinary vacation Resort by the sea.
Feel Free – It’s included
SPAIN | ITALY | MEXICO | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | JAMAICA | BRAZIL
Palladium Hotels and Resor ts Palladium Hotels
Ph: 876-620-0000 salesmanager.jamaica@palladiumhotelgroup.com
MONTEGO BAY 104
A MONTEGO BAY INSTITUTION The Pelican Grill celebrates 50 years in the community. BY KINISHA CORREIA
According to Peter Scudamore, amongst
Montego Bay visitors who want to
the small team of family members
dive into Jamaican fare and dabble
currently at the helm of operations, the
in tasty international eats all in the same
restaurant’s stamina and success is due
spot. The cosy restaurant is warmed by both
to a firm focus on customer service;
its friendly staff and freshly prepared daily
dedicated, longstanding staff members
food offerings, which span from homegrown
and consistency. “I would attribute our
dishes such as oxtail, stewed peas and jerk
longevity to hard work,” Scudamore says.
chicken to steaks, burgers, milk shakes and
“As a family business, the ownership is at
banana splits fresh out of the restaurant’s
work every single day.”
old-time soda fountain. This eatery is
The family also believes in playing
praised by many Jamaicans as the place to
their part in the growth of the local
eat whilst in Montego Bay — a testament to
community. Not only does The Pelican
travellers that The Pelican Grill won’t leave
Grill seek to support and develop its staff,
you disappointed.
but the business also contributes to the
In 2014, this family-owned business feted its 50th year in operation. Boasting both
local economy by purchasing from a variety of small farmers and local manufacturers.
multi-generational family ownership and a
Consequentially, food at The Pelican
customer base that includes grandparents,
Grill oozes with the kind of mouthwatering
their children and their children’s children,
freshness that can only be created from
The Pelican Grill is a celebrated fixture on
clean ingredients made by a happy and
Montego Bay’s Hip Strip.
contented team.
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
T
he Pelican Grill is a must-go for
TOWER ISLE
NEGRIL
SANS SOUCI
SWEPT AWAY
®
MONTEGO BAY 106
From left to right: Mouthwatering dishes from Marguerite’s Seafood by the Bay and Round Hill’s Seaside Terrace; Cocktails flow at Blue Beat
MUST TASTE PRODUCT: Oblong or pear-shaped, with a dark red skin and white flesh, the otaheite apple (aka Malay apple) is a remarkably refreshing local fruit that’s ideal for cooling down on a hot day.
DINING OPTIONS
The Day-O Plantation Restaurant & Bar Lot 1 Fairfield 876-952-1825 Located in the hills three miles west of Montego Bay, this upscale restaurant features a refined blend of Jamaican and international culinary traditions. The HouseBoat Grill Southern Cross Blvd., Freeport 876-979-8845 This one-of-a-kind establishment is a true house boat moored in the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary. Enjoy freshly-caught fish and a beautiful setting. Pier 1 on the Waterfront Howard Cooke Blvd. 876-952-2452
Voted Montego Bay’s No. 1 restaurant for dining and entertainment by TripAdvisor, this iconic open-air seafood restaurant and bar is one of MoBay’s most bustling spots. The Pork Pit Bar & Grill Gloucester Ave. 876-940-3008 A legend amongst tourists and locals, this no-frills joint offers some of the best jerk-seasoned meats you’ll find in all of Jamaica. Sugar Mill Rose Hall, Half Moon 888-830-5974 Chef Christopher Golding has crafted an exceptional menu that draws upon Caribbean, African, Asian and European influences.
continued from pg. 102
DINE AND DANCE Trelawney Parish’s Time ’N’ Place is a beloved beachside spot that offers laid-back dining on classic Jamaican fare, such as coconut shrimp and fresh-caught lobster. For first-class setting and service, look no further than the Grill at Round Hill, the acclaimed seaside terrace restaurant where Executive Chef Martin Maginley’s farm-to-table fare offers an upscale fusion of traditional and modern Caribbean culinary influences. No Caribbean country has made more of an impact on international culture than Jamaica. From ska and reggae to dancehall and dub, the island has inexorably changed the face of music. So it’s no surprise that the nightlife here is as lively as it is diverse. The Hip Strip is MoBay’s answer to Bourbon Street, with bars such as Margaritaville’s Blue Beat and Pier 1 on the Waterfront, each offering its own twist on the music/drinking/ dancing trifecta. For a real treat, visit during the Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival in January or the Reggae Sumfest in July, when many of the world’s finest artists descend on MoBay for a long weekend of music and revelry.
J. Kevin Foltz (3)
Whether you seek a quick bite or multi-course fine dining, MoBay’s food scene is sure to satisfy.
MONTEGO BAY 108
Casa de Oro Jewelers
welcomes you to our unique brand of
Jewels in Paradise, your tax- and duty-
Suite 7C, Shoppes at Rose Hall
barefoot elegance. From world-class
free retailer, has been the embodiment of
Tel: 876-953-3371; E-mail: info@casadeoro.com
activities to island-to-table cuisine, award-
luxury brands for over 50 years in Jamaica.
Website: casadeoro.com; Casa de Oro Jewel-
winning spas to rooms with dreamy views,
Representing elaborate timepieces,
ers has been and continues to be the pinnacle
a world full of blissful indulgences awaits
accessories and exquisite jewellery at
of duty-free shopping in Jamaica, selling the
at each of our four boutique all-inclusive
substantial savings. We have built an
top names in luxury watches, jewellery and ac-
Couples resorts.
extensive rapport with our partners, allowing
cessories. CDO has one of the largest selec-
us to bring you the foremost from the brands
tions of brands in Jamaica and is the exclusive
Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton
such as: A.Lange & Söhne, Jaeger-LeCoultre,
agent for top-name companies, including
and Jamaica Resort & Spa
Audemars Piguet, IWC, Bell & Ross, Oris,
Cartier, Tag Heuer, Vacheron Constantin, Dior
Point Lucea, Hanover
Longines, Citizen, Swatch and now — new to
and more. Visit one of our stores in Ocho Rios,
Tel: 876-620-0000
our family — Mont Blanc. Come visit us and
Negril and Rose Hall Montego Bay.
Website: palladiumhotelgroup.com
allow us to roll out the red carpet and we will
This exclusive resort and spa 5-star hotel is
transform your very special moments into
Chukka Caribbean Adventures
located right on the beach on the north coast
memories that will last a lifetime.
Tel: 877-424-8552 / 876-979-8500
of Jamaica, near the small town of Lucea and
Website: chukka.com
35 minutes from Montego Bay and its airport.
MBJ Airports Limited
If you want to play in Jamaica, then we have
It has modern facilities and services, includ-
Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay
you covered! With more locations, more
ing international restaurants, swimming pools,
Website: mbjairport.com
tours and more variety, Chukka is sure to
a spa and leisure activities throughout the
Sharon Hislop-Holt, Manager, Commercial
please everyone in your group. We offer
day and night.
Business Development & Marketing
transportation from Negril, Sandy Bay,
MBJ Airports Limited is a private company
Montego Bay, Runaway Bay, Discovery Bay,
Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort and Spa
assigned the management, operation and
Ocho Rios and Boscobel. Our exclusive
P.O. Box 480, Montego Bay; Tel: 876-953-2485
maintenance of the Sangster International
locations across the island offer active ad-
E-mail: reservations@hiresortjamaica.com
Airport, by way of a 30-year Concession
ventures, relaxing leisure time and authen-
Website: caribbeanhi.com/jamaica
Agreement with the Airports Authority of Jamaica.
tour desk or contact us directly to find the
Iberostar Rose Hall Beach & Spa Resort
Montego Bay Convention Centre
perfect experience for you. At Chukka It’s
Rose Hall Main Road, Montego Bay
Half Moon, Rose Hall, St. James
Time to Play!
Little River PO, St. James; Tel: 876-680-0000
Tel: 876-622-9330-2
Fax: 876-953-8019; Website: iberostar.com
Website: mobaycentre.com
tic cultural experiences. Visit your resort
Couples Resorts Jamaica
The new Montego Bay Convention Centre,
Tel: 800-COUPLES / 876-979-8960
Jewels in Paradise
with 142,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor event
Website: couples.com
#26, Shoppes at Rose Hall, Montego Bay
space, is the first of its kind in the English-
With two of our resorts in Travel + Leisure’s
Tel: 876-953-9372 / 305-735-3076
speaking Caribbean. It boasts an exhibit space
Top 5 world’s best and all four in the
E-mail: info@jewelsinparadise.com
that is divisible into two halls, accommodating
top 20, family-owned Couples Resorts
Website: jewelsinparadise.com
up to 6,000 persons theatre style.
The Oasis at Sunset P.O. Box 1168, Montego Freeport Tel: 876-979-8800 Website: sunsetresortsjamaica.com Rejuvenate in this charming beachside inn offering concierge check-in, free wifi, stocked mini fridges, private beach with bar service, exclusive a la carte dining and premium bars, all part of the all-inclusive value for discerning guests of all ages. As a bonus, Oasis guests have full use of all facilities at Sunset Beach. Round Hill Hotel and Villas John Pringle Drive P.O. Box 64, Montego Bay Tel: 800-972-2159 / 876-956-7050 Website: roundhill.com Round Hill Hotel and Villas, located within 20 minutes of the Montego Bay Airport, includes 36 Ralph Lauren-designed oceanfront rooms, 27 private villas and a range of resort amenities.
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MONTEGO BAY 112 Sandals® Resorts
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
fantastic adventures in the Marine Sanctuary
Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Bahamas,
A59 Montego Freeport; Tel: 876-953-6600
right off the beach. Age appropriate kids
Grenada and Barbados
Website: secretsresorts.com/wild-orchid-
activities are offered throughout the year and
Tel: 800-SANDALS
montego-bay
summer time brings the Sunrise Adventure
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is an
Camp-all included.
Website: sandals.com ®
Sandals Luxury Included Resorts
adults-only, AAA Four Diamond resort
offer more quality and choices — the
made for the youthful soul and the young
Tropicana Jewelers
Caribbean’s best beaches, award-
at heart. This vibrant oceanfront getaway
25 Shoppes at Rose Hall, Montego Bay
wining service, uniquely designed suites,
offers Unlimited Luxury privileges. Stylish.
Tel: 876-953-2242
Discovery Dining, premium- brand liquors,
Radiant. Fun.
303 Falmouth Cruise Terminal, Falmouth Tel: 876-952-6982
thrilling sports and more. All included, all Sunset Beach Resort, Spa and Waterpark
4 Time Square Mall, Negril
P.O. Box 1168, Montego Freeport
Tel: 876-957-9530
Secrets St. James, Montego Bay
Tel: 876-979-8800
Island Village, Ocho Rios
A59 Montego Freeport; Tel: 876-953-6600
Website: sunsetresortsjamaica.com
Tel: 876-953-2290 / 305-395-6253
Website: secretsresorts.com/st-james-
Located on a private beach and boasting
Website: tropicanajewelers.com
montego-bay
the largest hotel waterpark in Jamaica,
Luxury duty-free retailer for over 35 years.
Secrets St. James Montego Bay is an adults-
Sunset Beach offers all-inclusive value and
Luxury watch brands offered are Patek
only, AAA Four Diamond resort that presents
fun for everyone. Only 15 minutes from the
Philippe, Chopard, Bvlgari, Panerai, Gucci,
guests with a quiet, relaxing oceanfront
Montego Bay airport, guests enjoy dining
Piaget and Baume & Mercier. Designer
getaway complete with Unlimited-Luxury
choices, multiple bars, 24 hour café, nightly
jewelry from David Yurman, Chopard,
privileges. Peaceful. Sophisticated. Paradise.
live entertainment, weekly pirate party and
Bvlgari, Gucci and Marco Bicego.
unlimited, all the time!
JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS Altamont West Hotel 33 Gloucester Ave. Montego Bay, St. James 876-952-9087 / 929-4497-8 / 979-9378 Coyaba Beach Resort & Spa 22 Mahoe Bay, Little River P.O., St. James 876-953-9150-3 Doctor’s Cave Beach Hotel Gloucester Ave., P.O. Box 94, Montego Bay 876-952-4355-9 El Greco Resort 11 Queens Drive P.O. Box 1624, Montego Bay 876-940-6116 / 940-6120 Gloucestershire Hotel 92 Gloucester Ave. P.O. Box 86, Montego Bay 876-971-4095 / 952-4420 Half Moon, a RockResort P.O. Box 80, Montego Bay 876-953-2211 / 2344-93
Tel: (876) 974-5335 www.dolphincoveja.com
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Take us with you as you explore Our Jamaica from coast to coast!
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa P.O. Box 9, Rose Hall, Montego Bay 876-953-2650 Holiday Inn
• Fun things to do and see • Top shops and restaurants • Maps and tips • Events and special offers
SunSpree Resort P.O. Box 480, Montego Bay 876-953-2485-9 / 2499 Hotel Gloriana 1–2 Sunset Blvd., Montego Bay 876-979-0669 Hyatt Ziva Rosa Hall Rose Hall Main Road, Half Moon P.O. 2537 Montego Bay, St. James; 876-953-2800
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
Iberostar Rose Hall Beach & Spa Resort Rose Hall Main Road, Little River P.O. Montego Bay, St. James; 876-680-0000 N Resort P.O. Box 1933, Falmouth, Trelawny 876-617-2500 / 5900 Palm View Resort & Conference Centre 22 Delisser Drive, Montego Bay 876-952-1738 / 8321 / 1800 Relax Resort 26 Hobbs Ave., White Sands Beach P.O. Montego Bay; 876-952-6944 / 979-0656 Richmond Hill Inn Union Street, P.O. Box 362, Montego Bay 876-952-3859 / 5432 / 6107 RIU Montego Bay Mahoe Bay, Rose Hall; 876-940-8010 Round Hill Hotel John Pringle Drive, P.O. Box 64 Montego Bay 1; 876-956-7050 Royalton White Sands 1A Mountain Spring Road, Trelawny 876-632-7410
Sandals Carlyle Kent Ave., P.O. Box 412, Montego Bay 876-952-4140 Sandals Montego Bay Kent Ave., P.O. Box 100, Montego Bay 876-952-5510-5 Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island P.O. Box 167, Mahoe Bay, Rose Hall Montego Bay; 876-953-2301-8 SeaGarden Beach Resort
Your Playful Escape in Paradise
8 Kent Ave., Montego Bay, St. James 876-979-7761
For Reservations and information, call 1-800-234-1707. www.sunsetresortsjamaica.com
Secrets St. James Montego Bay Montego Freeport, St. James 876-953-6600 Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay Montego Freeport, St. James 876-953-6600 Silent Waters Villas White Sands Beach P.O., Montego Bay 876-971-9119-21 Sunset Beach Resort & Spa P.O. Box 1168, Montego FreeportMontego Bay 876-979-8800 Toby’s Resort 1 Kent Ave., P.O. Box 467, Montego Bay 876-952-4370 The Tryall Club Sandy Bay Main Road, Hanover 876-956-5660-3 The Wexford Hotel 39 Gloucester Ave.
AN OASIS FILLED WITH CHARMING JAMAICAN ELEGANCE For Reservations and information, call 1-800-234-1707. www.sunsetresortsjamaica.com
P.O. Box 108, Montego Bay 876-952-2854-5
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NEGRIL 116
BY KINISHA CORREIA
From left to right: Scenic terrace overlooking the sea; Handcrafted statue; Negril’s picture-perfect sunset; Opposite page: The Caves Resort & Spa
From its balmy beaches to the spectacular sunsets, Jamaica’s most westerly point is famous for its rustic and naturally beautiful allure. Negril is Jamaica’s laid-back beach town, where vacationers ease through the “one love” essence of reggae music is palpable — a feeling that is amplified by the stunning backdrop of white-sand beaches and the crystal-clear sea.
Max Earle (4)
days and nights happily hypnotised by its unique tranquillising energy. In Negril,
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NEGRIL 118
THE WEST END BOASTS A LINEUP OF HOTELS, VILLAS, RESTAURANTS AND ATTRACTIONS THAT SIT ON
From left to right: Quirky and comfortable Hotel Samsara; The unique pool at Grand Palladium Resort; Opposite page: The all-inclusive Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
GROWING POPULARITY Before the 1960s, Negril was largely underdeveloped and sparsely occupied. Once a sleepy fisherman’s village and shipping town, hippies began flocking to Negril after discovering its earthy sensibilities, turning the location into a free spirit scene, ideal for those who didn’t mind tents, cottages and communing with Mother Nature. Soon after, affluent travellers descended upon the land and facilitated the growth of luxury accommodations. By the 1980s, Negril became an effervescent tourist destination, with Seven Mile Beach — a stretch of unspoilt coastline — gaining global adoration. Negril’s West End was soon to be discovered as well. The West End boasts a lineup of hotels, villas, restaurants and attractions that sit on gorgeous cliffs overlooking swimming-friendly waters below. Today,
a balanced mix of all-inclusive resorts, small boutique hotels and villas can be found in and around Negril. Must-try boutique hotels include Tensing Pen Hotel, a cabana chic property situated atop the cliffs; Hotel Samsara, an oceanfront hotel offering a wide array of activities; picturesque Idle Awhile conveniently situated on Seven Mile Beach; and the larger Couples Negril and Couples Swept Away hotels, both romantic getaways with a casual and intimate ambience. Nearby Grand Palladium Resort in Lucea boasts suites, restaurants, bars and the largest pool in Jamaica. All-inclusive resorts usually offer great watersports activities, top dining options and luxurious accommodations, including Beaches Negril, RIU properties and Sandals properties, which provide guests with five-star service. continued on pg. 122
From left to right: Max Earle; Sean Murray; Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
GORGEOUS CLIFFS OVERLOOKING SWIMMING-FRIENDLY WATERS BELOW.
BEST VACATION WORKOUT: Run or walk along Seven Mile Beach for a low-impact, high-calorie-burning, yet scenic workout.
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NEGRIL 120
A NIGHT OUT One man’s commitment to his town and his culture has turned the One Love Bus Bar Crawl into an act of love. BY KINISHA CORREIA
HOW IT WORKS
free, thoroughly Jamaican tour
Call 876-874-6631 or shoot a quick e-mail
experience in Negril that takes
to bananaznegril@hotmail.com to book your
riders to seven or so locally owned and
One Love Bus Bar Crawl reservation. Tours
patronised bars and attractions across
are available on Wednesdays, Fridays and
Negril’s West End. The aim, according to
Sundays, but the fine folks that run the crawl
chief guide, owner and actual bus driver,
will work with your schedule if you have a
Lenbert Williams, is simply to expose visitors
group of eight or more. On the day of your
to the real Jamaica whilst supporting and
crawl, Williams will pick you up in a bright
providing opportunities for the small
Rasta-coloured bus — that’s red, green and
businesses that are largely overlooked by
gold — from wherever you are in Negril. He
tourists. Williams makes every effort to
will then drive you, along with a load of other
make his crawl guests feel completely
visitors, down One Love Drive — the main
safe and stops at places where they can
road that runs through Negril’s West End,
get a true taste of local culture whilst also
where both tourism and local businesses
experiencing the sincere warmth of the
converge against a cliff-side seascape.
Jamaican people. As a result, the One Love
Shortly after sunset, Williams will drop you
Bus Bar Crawl has received rave reviews
off right back at your front door, safe and
from guests who were both touched by
thoroughly satisfied. Though there’s no
the tour owner’s selfless mission and the
obligation, if you enjoyed your afternoon
captivating culturally infused tour itself.
getaway, you are welcome to leave a tip.
Sean Murray (2)
T
he One Love Bus Bar Crawl is a
“Perhaps Negril’s best cuisine. . .” – Lonely Planet
& THE LODGE RESTAURANT “Excellent cuisine, spectacular sunsets, cliffs and ocean views.”
Toll free USA and Canada: 1.800.957.0387 • Tel: 876.957.0387 • Fax: 876.957.0161 • E-mail: reservations@tensingpen.com • www.tensingpen.com
Take us with you as you explore Our Jamaica from coast to coast! • Fun things to do and see • Top shops and restaurants • Maps and tips • Events and special offers
OurJamaicaMagazine.com
West End’s Most Enchanting Spot! Guests and visitors alike are ZHOFRPH WR H[SORUH WKH ÀYH caves of the Gods. Sunbathe on our cliffs, swim or snorkel in our crystal coves. Stay and take in our breathtaking sunsets! You owe this to yourself!
Negril’s Favorite Restaurant Sample our wonderful lobster dishes along with a unique view of the cliffs and sea in our cliffside restaurant. Great prime meats, chicken and pork - fresh Jamaican ÀVK DQG VHD IRRG DOO DYDLODEOH chargrilled or any special way you like! Try our lobster Benedict, conch burger... or one of our many Island Specials.
e-mail: xtabiresort@cwjamaica.com web: www.Xtabi-negril.com Tel: 876-957-0524n 0121 Fax: 876-957-0827 XTABI RESORT, P.O. Box 3019, LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, WESTEND NEGRIL OurJamaicaMagazine.com
121
continued from pg. 118
ACTIVITIES TO SPARE Negril’s primary attraction is Seven Mile Beach, where many visitors spend most of their time indulging in this breathtaking shoreline. The cliffs on the West End of Negril probably come in second place as a mustdo component of a Negril vacation. Daring guests and locals can ďŹ nd several designated cliffs to jump off of. The Negril Lighthouse, built in 1894, is a popular spot. Sitting on the farthest tip of Negril’s West End, the Negril Lighthouse Park has stunning panoramic views of Westmoreland, the parish in which Negril is situated. Negril also has its very own water park called Kool Runnings Adventure Park, a carefree place that includes massive waterslides and relaxing river tubing experiences. Whether you are a daredevil or more relaxed, Kool Runnings has something to suit you. True water and nature lovers can't miss YS Falls. Used to supply logwood in the early
Jamaica’s Hidden Gem For Reservations and information, call 1-800-234-1707. www.sunsetresortsjamaica.com
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1800s, in 1992 the YS Estate opened its stunning seven-tiered cascading falls to the public. Visitors from all around come to enjoy the wading pools that are fed by underground springs that have received a number of awards, including Attraction of the Year and Outstanding Environmental Stewardship. Sitting above Seven Mile Beach is the Negril Hills Golf Club. This golf course is unassuming and delightful, with the course laid out within the curvatures of the hilly terrain overlooking the sand and sea below. This golf outing is also relatively inexpensive and offers the opportunity for quieter outdoor enjoyment. Held each December, the annual Reggae Marathon has been voted one of the top 10 best marathons in the world. If you’re not a marathon runner, the event also includes a 10K and half marathon. Pre- and post-race parties and the opportunities to soak in the sea water as soon as you complete the race are unique highlights of the event.
UNIQUE FINDS Before you leave Negril, you must pick up a few reminders of your stay and trinkets for loved ones. Arts and crafts are always viable options, and in Negril artsy items can be found along the beach or street-side from craft vendors, or at the local open-air craft market in the middle of town. There are many souvenir shops in Negril, but a good one-stop spot is the Time Square Shopping Mall. Local sauces, jams, jellies, coffee and snacks can be purchased at the shops here. Handmade local jewellery is also an easy find, both in shops and on the Negril streets.
Andrew Blair
DELECTABLE DINING Of course, with all the sunbathing, sea dipping, shopping and outdoor frolicking you’re bound to be doing in Negril, your gut is sure to need some hearty, delicious fare. If hunger hits whilst you’re on Seven Mile Beach, there’s a convenient cluster of
YS FALLS A Jamaican Utopia Imagine cooling off in majestic waterfalls and pools, picnicking in natural gardens and ziplining over a lush paradise. Nestled in the hills of St. Elizabeth, visitors can enjoy a tractor-drawn jitney ride through a working farm and sign up for a Chukka zipline ride. Get an intimate look at the stunning natural beauty of Jamaica with YS Falls. Y.S. Estate. Middle Quarters, St. Elizabeth (876) 997-6360 • ysfalls.com • ysfalls@cwjamaica.com Opening hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm Closed on Mondays and ALL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
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NEGRIL 124 From left to right: Pasta and a juicy steak from Ciao Jamaica; Rockhouse Hotel houses Pushcart Restaurant & Rum Bar and Rockhouse Restaurant
MOST UNEXPECTED WONDER: Dolphin watching! Visitors who come to Negril over the winter months can stop at Bloody Bay for beautiful views of the playful creatures.
From fine dining to beachside huts, satisfy your appetite in Negril. Blue Mahoe Restaurant The Spa Retreat, West End Road 876-957-4329 Fine dining with beautiful scenery, Blue Mahoe caters to those craving the new and the traditional in their dishes. The Lodge at Tensing Pen Tensing Pen, West End Road 876-957-0387 Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu at The Lodge changes with the seasons, guaranteeing the freshest ingredients and flavours. Rockhouse Restaurant Rockhouse Hotel, West End Road 876-957-4373 This chic yet ultra-relaxed dining experience serves New Jamaican
cuisine, a lighter, more modern take on traditional Jamaican dishes. Seastar Inn Restaurant Seastar Inn, West End Road 876-957-0553 Seastar Inn offers not only delicious chicken, fish, lobster, conch, pork and beef selections but also mouthwatering pasta dishes and homemade soups. Le Vendome Restaurant Charela Inn Hotel, West End Road 876-957-4486 Uniquely pairing Jamaican and French cuisine, Le Vendome serves quality food with a healthy twist. Don’t miss their nightly “five-course gourmet menu” for cutting-edge cuisine.
NIGHT OWLS After you’ve filled your belly, you may want to venture out to the many entertainment offerings in Negril. Bars abound in this town, and live music and reggae sessions can be found every night of the week. Simply stroll down the bar and hotel–lined Seven Mile Beach and you’ll surely find vivacious night activity. Truly Jamaican entertainment experiences, like local street dances, are also always available if you step a wee bit outside the tourism area and venture to a local street party.
From left to right: Courtesy of Ciao Jamaica (2); Sean Murray
DINING OPTIONS
restaurants nearby, including Cosmo’s, which serves up the perfect blend of Jamaican cuisine and fresh seafood. Ciao Jamaica is another Negril food oasis that offers the spice and adventure of traditional, local flavours paired with the classic elegance of Italian cuisine. Located on West End Road, their freshest seafood is the “catch of the day,” and their pizza is simply mouthwatering. High-end dining can be had at restaurants affiliated with larger hotels and resorts in the area. Pushcart Restaurant & Rum Bar is a Negril favourite for mouthwatering food in a quintessentially casual Negril setting. This eatery was opened by Rockhouse Hotel, a chic cliff-side hotel neighbouring the restaurant, and was built around the concept of bringing street vendor food from across the island to one location. Bongos Restaurant in Sandy Haven Resort offers an exceptional fusion of Caribbean and continental cuisine, plus an exquisite selection of world-class wines. If you’re not staying in a hotel by the cliff, visit one of the bars or restaurants on the cliffside to get a true picture of its magnificence. Rick’s Café is one of the most revered spots that offers patrons the opportunity to plunge — or dive, rather — into the sea from a 35-foothigh platform. On most days Rick’s Café is bubbling with activity.
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Ciao Jamaica Restaurant West End Road (across from Samsara), Negril Tel: 876-957-4395 / 957-0633 E-mail: eat@ciaojamaica.com Website: ciaojamaica.com
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Located on the West End offering ItalianJamaican cuisine, including dishes such as thin crust pizza, USDA steaks, calzones, shrimp scampi spaghetti, West Indies seafood linguine, scotch bonnet snapper, and jerk chicken alfredo. Free hotel pickup! Couples Resorts Jamaica Tel: 800-COUPLES / 876-979-8960 Website: couples.com With two of our resorts in Travel + Leisureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 5 worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best and all four in the top 20, family-owned Couples Resorts welcomes you to our unique brand of barefoot elegance. From world-class activities to island-to-table cuisine, award-winning spas to rooms with dreamy views, a world full
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of blissful indulgences awaits at each of our four boutique all-inclusive Couples resorts. Dream Entertainment Ltd. 15 Hope Road, Winchester Business Centre, Suite 30, Kingston 10 Tel: 876-631-6623 Website: jamaicadreamweekend.com E-mail: info@jamaicadreamweekend.com Redefining Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment industry, honing its global appeal as the premier entertainment destination of the Caribbean, Dream Entertainment Ltd. has organised and produced the largest party weekend experience on the island, Dream Weekend (Negril)! Idle Awhile Hotel Norman Manley Blvd., Negril Tel: 876-957-9566 / 877-243-5352 E-mail: stay@idleawhile.com Website: idleawhile.com Idle Awhile is a boutique hotel with eight rooms and six suites. On a prime location on Negrilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous Seven Mile Beach, guests can stroll in either direction and find cafés, bars and nightlife. The hotel has a beach-chic ambience
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125
NEGRIL 126
with gracious staff and comfortable
YS Falls
Gardenia Resort
accommodations. For action a little
Hours: 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril P.O.
farther afield, they can arrange for a taxi
Tel: 876-997-6360
876-957-4394 / 616-1811
to the town of Negril (eight minutes) or
Closed Mondays and public holidays.
to the West End Cliffs (15 minutes), where
US$15 for adults and $7.50 for children.
you can find a variety of restaurants, bars
Grand Palladium Resort Point District, Lucea
and shopping. Negril is one hour’s drive from
JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS
P.O. Box 4779, Hanover
Sangster International Airport.
Azul Sensatori Jamaica
876-619-0000-9
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril; 876-620-0100 Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa
Grand Pineapple Beach Resort
Norman Manely Blvd., Negril
Beach House
Norman Manley Blvd.
Tel: 876-957-5216-7
Villas Jamaica Ltd.
P.O. Box 3058, Negril
Website: sandals.com
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 481, Negril
876-957-4408 / 4475
Relax and enjoy Negril's longest, best stretch
876-957-4731 / 4647 / 9162
of white sand. Here, no building is taller
Hedonism II
than the highest palm tree and every detail
Beaches Negril
soars far beyond expectations, including the
P.O. Box 12, Negril, Westmoreland
incomparable Swim-up and Millionaire Suites
876-957-9270-4
complete with butler service.
P.O. Box 25, Negril; 876-957-5200 Hotel Samsara Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 23, Negril
The Caves Resort & Spa (Affiliate) Sunset at the Palms Resort and Spa
Lighthouse Road, P.O. Box 3113, Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
876-957-0270
Tel: 876-957-5350 / 5360
876-957-4395 Merrils Beach Resort Norman Manley Blvd., Box 75, Negril P.O.
Website: sunsetresortsjamaica.com
Charela Inn Hotel
This adults-only, boutique all-inclusive resort
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 3033, Negril
features treehouse-style accommodations
876-957-4277 / 4648-50
set amid tropical gardens with only a two-
876-957-4751 / 3122 Negril Palms Hotel Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
minute walk to the private beach bar and
Cocolapalm Resort
grill located on the white sands of the Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 2576, Negril
beach. Featuring two a la carte restaurants,
876-957-4227 / 3455-7
as well as buffet dining, this 84-unit, intimate
876-957-4375 Negril Tree House Resort Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 29, Negril
resort is the recipient of the 2013 TripAdvisor
Country Country Ltd.
Certificate of Excellence.
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril; 876-957-4273
876-957-4287-8
Tensing Pen Hotel
Couples Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
West End Road, Negril, Westmoreland
P.O. Box 35, Negril; 876-957-5960-9
876-957-3302 / 3303
Fax: 876-957-0161
Couples Swept Away
Rayon Hotel Ltd.
Website: tensingpen.com
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 3077, Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 3388, Negril
E-mail: reservations@tensingpen.com
876-957-4062-6 / 957-4061
876-957-9166
beautiful hand-carved wood, thatch and
Foote Prints On The Sand
RIU Club Negril
cut-stone cottages of varying sizes for the
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 100, Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
ultimate secluded and relaxing vacation.
876-957-4300 / 3152
876-957-5700 / 5985
Caribbean Sea, spa services and yoga are
Fun Holiday Beach Resort
RIU Palace Tropical Bay
also available.
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril P.O.; 876-957-3585
Bloody Bay, Negril; 876-957-5900
Negril’s Idle Awhile Ltd.
Tel: 876-957-0387 / 800-957-0387
Tensing Pen offers a unique collection of
An open-air restaurant overlooking the
Rockhouse Hotel
Seastar Inn
Sunset at The Palms Resort & Spa
Lighthouse Road, West End
Seastar Road, West End
Norman Manley Blvd.
P.O. Box 24, Negril; 876-957-4373 / 0621-6
P.O. Box 2653, Negril
P.O. Box 118, Negril
876-957-0553
876-957-5350 / 5360
Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 96, Negril
Sea Wind Resort
Tensing Pen Hotel
876-957-4413 / 4651-2
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
West End Road
876-957-9018
P.O. Box 3013, Negril
Rondel Village
Rooms On The Beach Negril
876-957-0387
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
Shields Negril Villas
876-957-3500
Norman Manley Blvd.
Travellers Beach Resort
Negril P.O.
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
876-957-3112 / 9001 / 9006
876-957-9308 / 3039
The Spa Retreat
White Sands Cottages Ltd.
Boutique Hotel
P.O. Box 60
Sandy Haven Resort
48 West End Road, Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril
Norman Manley Blvd., Negril; 876-957-3200
876-399-3772
876-957-4291 / 4445
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa Norman Manley Blvd., P.O. Box 12, Negril 876-957-5216-7 / 5230-1 / 5254-5
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SOUTH COAST 128
BY KRISTI KELLER
From left to right: Striking details found throughout the Treasure Coast; Statue and lighthouse at Lovers Leap; Opposite page: Villa at Jakes Hotel
Located a three-hour drive from Montego Bay’s airport, the South Coast is quite removed from the touristy hub towns of the island, yet its quiet and historical presence can’t be overlooked. With no shortage of seaside ambience spanning three parishes — Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth and Manchester — there are many vast stretches of beach that are completely deserted. Visitors will find that even the public beaches aren’t crowded.
From left to right: Max Earle; J. Kevin Foltz (3)
For those who think they have the relaxed lifestyle of Jamaica figured out, one visit to the South Coast will have them re-evaluating the term laid-back.
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SOUTH COAST 130
TOURS ABOUND
JHTA HOTEL / RESORT MEMBERS Golf View Hotel & Conference Centre 5 1/2 Caledonia Road P.O. Box 189, Mandeville 876-962-4471 / 4474 Jakes Hotel, Villas & Spa Calabash Bay P.A. Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth 876-965-3000 / 0635 / 3185 Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa P.O. Box 5000 Whitehouse, Westmoreland 876-640-3000-9 Treasure Beach Hotel Frenchman’s Bay Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth 876-965-0110-1 / 965-2305
Although the South Coast isn’t a tourism hot spot, there are enough awe-inspiring sights that the common day trip here won’t be enough time to take it all in. Aside from Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa you won’t find any typical all-inclusive resorts in the south, so plan to stay a few days in one of many quaint and affordable seaside hotels, guest houses and villas. The town of Black River is a centre point for many South Coast activities. A great way to get familiarised with the town itself is to take the Way Back When walking tour led by local Allison Morris. The tour is a virtual time machine of fascinating historical wisdom and charming Georgian architecture that distinguishes High Street through the town. Notable points of interest covered in the tour are the 176-year-old St. John’s Anglican Church and the Waterloo Guest House, which is the first building in all of Jamaica to be powered by electricity. The Black River Safari Tour’s starting point is in the centre of town near many marketplace vendors selling fresh produce. It covers seven of the 44 serene and breathtaking miles of the
Black River. This is Jamaica’s largest wetland area, also known as the Black River lower morass. Eco-tourists will be in their element, learning about more than 90 plant species, 42 bird species and — if you’re lucky enough — will also witness crocodiles sunning themselves just below the water’s surface. The Treasure Beach area of St. Elizabeth is comprised of several quiet fishing villages on the South Coast and offers a more off the beaten path form of tourism. The area boasts six miles of sandy beaches, private coves and four public beaches ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Visitors to Treasure Beach will enjoy a quiet and relaxed vacation in one of many boutique hotels, guest houses and villas in this community-based tourism destination. Perhaps the most popular tour offered in the south is the Appleton Estate Rum Tour. Located in the Nassau Valley of St. Elizabeth, the guided tour takes visitors on a journey through more than 260 years of crafting the finest Jamaican rums. Samples of luxurious rum blends are provided throughout the tour and the gift shop gives guests the opportunity to purchase their favourite Appleton spirits and products after the tour.
Sean Murray
BEST PLACE TO TAKE A SELFIE: Hands down, the best place to take a selfie is Pelican Bar in the middle of the sea. Up your game and capture a 360-degree video selfie!
SOUTH COAST 132
SEE THESE SIGHTS
DINING OPTIONS South Coast may not have high-end restaurants, but the flavours and fresh seafood found here will knock the socks off any culinary snob. Andrea’s Steakhouse at Marblue Calabash Bay, Treasure Beach 876-965-3408 Jerk pork with a German influence or curry goat with a Thai twist are just two of the mouthwatering delicacies you’ll encounter at Andrea’s. Bridgehouse Inn 14 Crane Road, Black River 876-965-2361 An upscale Jamaican eatery offering a variety of seafood and traditional Jamaican dishes such as curry goat. Wash down your meal with healthy juices made with such ingredients as beet root and Irish moss. Jack Sprat Restaurant Calabash Bay, Treasure Beach 876-965-3000 Located in Jakes Hotel, Jack
Sprat not only serves great seafood but is known throughout for its pizza! A must-try for travellers staying in the Treasure Beach area. Little Ochi Seafood Restaurant Alligator Pond 876-852-6430 Offering everything from the sea: lobster, shrimp and fish, in addition to their annual seafood festival that is essential for seafood lovers! Paradise Ocean View Cocktail Bar & Restaurant 74 Crane Road, Parottee Beach 876-379-5224 Feast on the best baked or fried chicken and blender drinks in Black River. The splendid hospitality and the laid-back ambience can’t be beat!
CULINARY DELIGHTS Take a splendid drive through Bamboo Avenue, a two-anda-half-mile stretch of road lined with giant bamboo stalks on either side that canopy the road. Located between Lacovia and Middle Quarters, from one end of the “avenue” to the other, it’s as if the shady bamboo arch never ends. Plan to make a stop or two whilst driving through at one of many fresh fruit vendors — or even test your taste buds and find a spot offering spicy peppered shrimp, as these are a South Coast speciality. The Little Ochi Seafood Carnival at Alligator Pond in the parish of Manchester is held every summer in July. It is a celebration of culinary delights from the South Coast, such as curried lobster, jerked crab, steamed, fried or jerked fish and grilled conch. These are just a few of the many mouthwatering dishes available to indulge in whilst enjoying island music and activities at the festival, which attracts thousands of guests from around the island.
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
Fresh seafood and refreshing desserts from Jack Sprat Restaurant
Lovers Leap is located in Southfield, St. Elizabeth. The 1,700foot point overlooks the Caribbean Sea and is so high that the horizon in the distance actually appears round. This site is home to a tragic mythical Romeo and Juliet story dating back to slavery in the 1800s, and it is also a popular Jamaican wedding venue. The photo opportunities are endless with breathtaking views and a lighthouse perched in the yard upon entering the grounds. Visitors can choose to wander the site on their own or pay a small fee for a guide who will share plenty of stories and facts about Lovers Leap. It’s easy to find boat captains that will motor visitors out to the renowned Pelican Bar to spend an afternoon in the middle of the sea at any point along Parottee Beach. Built on a sand bar, this is a curious little must-see spot perched above crystal-clear waters. This weathered structure inspires a true island feel, built with random pieces of driftwood into the spectacle that it is. The bar is decorated with flags from several countries and offers ice-cold beverages, great swimming and snorkelling options, and an ideal atmosphere for spending a casual day in the sun. If you stay long enough, you can capture brilliant views of the sun sinking into the sea at dusk. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of interest at the beautifully cascading YS Falls, a 120-foot waterfall amidst 2,000 acres of a privately owned estate. This natural haven encourages visitors to climb the falls, swing from ropes, plunge into the fresh pools at the base or just relax somewhere in between. The YS Estate also offers river tubing and zip-lining for the more adventurous at heart. Guests will arrive at the falls by means of a tractor-pulled jitney through the fields of the estate.
BAKING WITH APPLETON RUM Sweet treats prove Appleton is perfect for drinking and eating. BY EMMA SHARP DALTON-BROWN
A
ppleton rum is about as iconic as you can get in Jamaica, but there is so much more one can make with it than just delicious cocktails. Appleton rum has a distinct flavour that makes it the star ingredient in any dish. Pair it with a cream
sauce that contains chicken or fish or use it in place of vanilla or milk in your chocolate,
Appleton Estate Rum Tour
orange or banana cakes. There is a plethora of possibilities — and here’s one:
Northwest of Mandeville near Siloah
J. Kevin Foltz
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. ORANGE & APPLETON RUM CAKE
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease and line a
Tel: 876-963-9215
• 1 cup butter • 2 cups granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons orange zest • 5 eggs • 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) • 1 tablespoon baking powder • 3 cups flour • pinch of salt • 2 fl. oz. milk • 4 fl. oz. Appleton rum
loaf tin, Bundt cake tin or round tin, with greaseproof
Take an air-conditioned bus ride to tour
or parchment paper. Beat the butter until light and
the rum factory and estate. Tour explains
fluffy, then add the sugar and continue beating.
the fermentation and distillation process.
Add the orange zest, and beat in well. Sift the flour,
See the mini-museum, artefacts, wishing
salt and baking powder into a large bowl. Add the
well, Italian café and gift shop. Enjoy taste
eggs, one at a time, along with 1 tablespoon or so
samples and take home a complimentary
of flour to prevent the mixture from curdling. Add
bottle of rum. Groups of up to 150. Lunch
the remaining flour to the mixture, alternatively with
available on request.
the milk and the rum. Pour into a greased lined tin and bake at 350°F for about an hour. (Check after
Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa
50 minutes; a skewer should come out clean when
Tel: 876-640-3000
GLAZE (feel free to double
pressed into the centre, and the top of the cake
Website: sandals.com
these ingredients, as it makes
should have a slight bounce to it. Make the glaze
Sandals Whitehouse presents three distinct
a delicious sauce)
by heating all the ingredients together. You can
European villages — Italian, French and
• 1/2 cup butter • 2/3 cup sugar • 2 fl. oz. rum • 2 fl. oz. freshly squeezed
add more orange zest if a stronger orange flavour
Dutch — each offering fine dining, a grand
is desired — or more rum! Cool the cake for about 2
pool and magnificent gardens. Set along
minutes, then turn out and pour some of the glaze on
two miles of a horseshoe-shaped beach, this
top. The remaining glaze may be used to pour over
resort boasts ocean views from every room.
individual slices.
Seven restaurants, six bars and three pools.
orange juice
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MAKE A SPLASH 134
BY DR. BRIAN HUDSON
Jamaica is a land rich with breathtaking waterfalls, beaches and lagoons that have inspired legends and lured thousands. Jamaica’s tree-shaded rivers and beach-fringed bays are scenic beauties. Its cascading streams and tropical coast are amongst the many attractions of this Caribbean island. They are also where locals and visitors delight in making a splash. In the mountains, many rivers tumble over falls where the streams have carved their way through naked rock, their courses littered with boulders and stones that bear witness to the power of these waters. Whether you’re down by the shore or high in the mountains, visiting Jamaica’s many beaches and waterfalls is the perfect way to get to know the island. Dive right in!
From left to right: J. Kevin Foltz; Courtesy of Sandals Resorts; Max Earle; Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
From left to right: Picturesque Cornwall Beach in Montego Bay; Playful Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios; The Negril Lighthouse; Opposite page: Snorkellers walking through Jamaica’s crystal-blue waters
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MAKE A SPLASH 136
From left to right: Beautiful waters and cliffs of Negril; Fun slide and infinity pool at Rainforest Adventures at Mystic Mountain
Ocho Rios has been described as “the bay of waterfalls,” and there are certainly enough falls in the district to justify it. Visitors to Dunn’s River Falls can enjoy the thrill of climbing the series of falls that cascade down the forested hillside overlooking the whitesand beach. Picturesque cascades enhance the tropical landscapes of Shaw Park Gardens and Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls. At The Ruins restaurant, visitors can enjoy a meal and drink at the foot of a natural waterfall that is illuminated at night. But if you prefer a lesser-populated watery oasis, make your way to the Laughing Waters property, a private beach that has a waterfall and a stream that create an estuary.
MONTEGO BAY West of Ocho Rios is Montego Bay, long known as Jamaica’s leading seaside resort town. Here, modern development has added to the number of bathing beaches that fringe the beautiful bay. The original
Doctor’s Cave Beach is still there to enjoy, but Cornwall Beach is now a popular alternative. A little-known waterfall named Silver Shower is not far from Rose Hall, the magnificent great house east of Montego Bay. It is one of the wedding venues offered by the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, with two other venues at nearby secluded beaches.
NEGRIL At the western tip of Jamaica, Negril boasts some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean. Lapped by a gentle sea, the beaches of Long Bay and Bloody Bay are separated by Rutland Point, off which lies the picturesque island of Booby Cay. This is a good place for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving — and even for a lazy picnic by the sea. The slow-moving Negril River enters the sea through the Great Morass, a nature reserve with wooden boardwalks. No waterfall enlivens this river, but visitors to Negril who wish to experience Jamaica’s cascading streams need travel no further than Mayfield Falls.
From left to right: Max Earle; J. Kevin Foltz; Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
OCHO RIOS
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Thrilling swing at YS Falls
Mayfield Falls is a series of 21 widely spaced little cascades in a setting of tropical flora at Glenbrook, a scenic 90-minute drive from Negril. Accompanied by a guide, visitors can walk up the river, to the uppermost fall, known as The Washing Machine. Here you can enjoy an invigorating natural aquatic massage behind the tumbling stream. For those that enjoy a little entertainment with their waterplay, head to Kool Runnings Adventure Park, a waterslide-filled water park that’s great for groups and parties.
SOUTH COAST Flowing through the YS Estate, the YS River cascades down the YS Falls before joining the Black River. For many years, this part of Jamaica was relatively unknown to visitors. Amongst locals, a popular place for relaxing holidays was Treasure Beach, southeast of the town of Black River. In recent years, more overseas tourists have discovered this peaceful corner of the island. Here the sandy beaches are far less crowded than
those on the North Coast, and visitors enjoy relaxing seaside vacations with opportunities to explore the unspoilt Jamaican countryside on their doorstep. More recent luxury beachfront development has occurred northwest of Black River at Whitehouse, which now also boasts the all-inclusive Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa. YS Falls are within easy reach of Whitehouse, Treasure Beach and Black River. You can bathe and frolic in the several pools that lie at the foot of each step in the series of falls or by swinging, Tarzan-like, from the rope suspended over one of the natural water basins. For those willing to go a bit farther, Maggotty Falls, near the southern edge of Cockpit Country, is worth a visit. Before most of its water was diverted to generate hydroelectricity, this waterfall was a wellknown tourist attraction. It can still be an impressive sight, particularly when the Black River is at an advanced flood stage. The waterfall takes its name from the nearby market town of Maggotty.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
MAKE A SPLASH 138
VISITORS TO DUNN’S RIVER FALLS CAN ENJOY THE THRILL OF CLIMBING THE SERIES OF FALLS THAT CASCADE DOWN THE FORESTED HILLSIDE OVERLOOKING THE WHITE-SAND BEACH.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
KINGSTON AND EASTERN JAMAICA Kingston is better known for its cultural and nightlife attractions than for beaches and waterfalls. But these natural features abound on its doorstep, too. Kingstonians flock to the beaches of the nearby Hellshire Hills, where stalls selling a range of local food add to the fun. In the mountains that form Kingston’s dramatic backdrop are innumerable waterfalls, one of which, Cane River Falls, was a favourite bathing place of reggae star Bob Marley. Reggae Falls is the name of another waterfall in this part of the island. Set in a spectacular mountain valley, Reggae Falls is not a natural feature but a dam that was built as part of a hydroelectricity plant long since disused. Today, this artificial waterfall at Hillside is enjoyed as a picnic and bathing place by locals and visitors alike. The beaches on the coast of the parish of St. Thomas, east of Kingston, are not well known; but they appeal to visitors who prefer an authentic Jamaican environment. One of
them, at Rozelle, has a roadside waterfall where bathers can enjoy a natural shower after a dip in the sea. Inland, the Blue Mountains rise where many rivers cascade over waterfalls on their torrential descent to the coast. These are most easily reached from the Portland side of the mountain range. Somerset Falls is conveniently close to the coast road that gives access to the idyllic beaches near Port Antonio. Farther inland is Reach Falls, another beautiful spot where visitors can enjoy an invigorating splash in a cascading mountain river or just relax in an enchanting tropical setting. Other waterfalls in the area include Fishdone Falls, Jupiter Falls and Nanny Falls; but these, like others in the more remote mountain valleys, are probably best reached in the company of local guides. Jamaica’s beaches and waterfalls are some of the country’s most prized natural treasures, a point of pride for locals — and a must-see for travellers.
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SPORTS 140
BY ROLAND HENRY
From left to right: Top Jamaican sports include soccer, fishing and golf; Opposite page: A snorkeller explores Jamaica’s underwater treasures
Usain Bolt’s lightning-fast prowess on the track might be what comes to many people’s minds when they think of Jamaica and sports these days, but perhaps a point the world often misses is that Jamaicans love all types of sports.
Shutterstock (4)
Whilst visitors will find plenty of ways to enjoy their favourite sports —whether land- or sea-based — they’ll also find a few surprises along the way.
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Cricket, often considered “the gentleman’s game” largely due to its appeal amongst the upper class, is now commonplace in all parts of the island. Though perhaps not the strongest association, strangers to the game could consider cricket “the baseball of the Caribbean,” since it is played using a bat and a ball. At the regional level, games involving the West Indies (comprising several players from across the Caribbean) are sometimes hosted at Sabina Park, the nation’s largest cricket stadium. There are several smaller cricketing clubs such as Melbourne, Kensington and Lucas, where fans of the sport can enjoy games regularly. The Jamaica Cricket Association hosts the annual Senior Cup, a two-day event chock-full of nail biting excitement and sportsmanship. Summer is an exciting time for the games as well, since it means that the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) will be the highlight in Sabina Park for roughly a week. It’s also a national pastime to spend some time at “The Office” — a term of endearment for the National Stadium, but only when the Reggae Boyz are there playing football. An array of black, green and gold worn by thousands of supporters who file into the stadium eager to experience brilliant goal after brilliant goal is usually the scene here. The National Stadium is also home to the Caribbean’s largest track and field tournament, the annual GraceKennedy/ISSA Boys and Girls Championships, which sees schools across the island putting their star athletes on show with the hope of copping the coveted titles. It’s serious business, since international scouts join more than 35,000 Jamaicans every year looking for potential greats whom they can entice with college scholarships and the chance to have access to first-rate training facilities. It’s where Bolt was discovered and is still the island’s most fascinating sporting event. At the Caymanas Track, spectators can enjoy the “Sport of Kings” or horseracing, which, like cricket is a retention from British colonialism. Though it’s not quite the pomp and pageantry of England’s world-famous Royal Ascot,
here, visitors have a chance to experience an authentic Jamaican favourite.
ANNUAL EVENTS Dedicated sports enthusiasts — whether you want to cheer from the stands or compete on your own — can amp up the adrenaline rush of their vacation by scheduling their visit to coincide with some of the island’s most popular annual sports tournaments. In February, mountain biking fans are treated to a week of spills and thrills. The Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival takes participants through challenging biking trails found throughout Ocho Rios. Those looking for a high-speed adrenalin rush will not be disappointed at Rally Jamaica, the region’s biggest motorsports event. This threeday event sends top race cars winding through gravel-topped courses in New Kingston at top speeds. Gaining international recognition, Rally Jamaica is now slated as the final round of the NACAM Regional Rally Championship, which includes rallies across North and Central America with legs being held in Colombia, Mexico and Costa Rica, amongst others. The Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament has taken place every October since 1959. The event reels in plenty of competitive fishermen from around the world manoeuvring to land the largest marlin. Jamaica’s golf paradise is the perfect setting for top golf tournaments. In Montego Bay, Annie’s Revenge Golf Tournament — also known as the Jamaica Pro-Am Championship — challenges golfers to take on two of Jamaica’s best championship golf courses: Cinnamon Hill and White Witch. The event also includes evening receptions, tee prizes for all players and a championship trophy for the winning team.
TOP FOR TOURISTS Jamaica’s unrelenting beat inspires movement and action. Beginners will discover a welcoming atmosphere where they can comfortably try something new, whilst sports aficionados will feel challenged by the championship golf courses and spirited fishing tournaments.
Opposite page: Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
LOCAL FAVOURITES
Chukka Caribbean Adventures offers visitors a chance to take a dip whilst riding a horse
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Tee off at one of Jamaica’s scenic golf courses
Those looking to get down and dirty — or who just want to explore the various landscapes throughout Jamaica — should contact Chukka Caribbean Adventures. Their ATV Safaris in Ocho Rios take riders on an exciting tour of the vibrant countryside. The wet and wild Horseback Ride ’N’ Swim along the beaches of Sandy Bay incorporates the best of both worlds, with an excursion through the countryside culminating in a refreshing cooldown in the sea. For the ultimate in relaxation, try the Jungle River Tubing trip, which sends guests ages 6 and up drifting down a scenic river. Maybe you haven’t found the right place or time to learn how to scuba dive. No problem. In Jamaica, you can easily take a resort course that, in a couple of days, will have you exploring
the depths. If you already have a certification, there are plenty of pristine dive sites on hand. Montego Bay Marine Park is a primo site for scuba diving. An array of dive operators can be found at Doctor’s Cave Beach. For a thrill, dive 80 feet below the surface to explore Widowmaker’s Cave. Farther east in Ocho Rios, you can dive an artificial reef on a sunken minesweeper. Negril Marine Park also offers plenty of underwater adventure. Anglers can arrange a charter and take advantage of the company of experienced fishermen who know where the prise catches lurk, including marlin, wahoo and dorado. Time your visit for one of the island’s annual fishing tournaments and you’ll be in for exciting memories that will last a lifetime.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
SPORTS 144
SURF’S UP IN JAMDOWN Bull Bay Beach is home to Jamaica’s surfing royalty. BY ROLAND HENRY
H
organisation has churned out national
locks flashing as he rides the azure
teams that represent Jamaica at the World
who don’t put on too many airs. “We’re
waves, Icah Wilmot is the epitome of
Juniors, World Championships, the Masters
not fussy people who look for top-class
cool atop his surfboard. It’s a windy day on
and the Pan-American Championships,
accommodations and so on. We just want
Bull Bay Beach, and the 20-something-year-
to name a few.
good waves,” he laughs.
old Jamnesia Surf Club principal pauses
His Rastafari roots aside, Wilmot believes
To this end, Bull Bay offers humble but
from his aquatic gliding to discuss why he
that surfing is one of two main practices
comfortable bed-and-breakfast lodgings
loves this sport, its growing popularity and
in Jamaica that help its devotees stay in
that are close to the water’s edge and
where he, through the efforts of his club,
touch with nature.
promote the kind of easy, breezy, indie
intends to take it.
“You’re one with the sea out there; surfing
lifestyle Wilmot believes most surfers are
“Though Jamaica isn’t widely known for
keeps you fit and makes you aware of the
attracted to. In this space, it’s perfectly
surfing, the wave quality here is very high,”
environmental effects of man and how we
normal to grab a meal from a roadside
Wilmot shares, adding that, though only two
need to be doing our part in preserving our
stop, wash it all down with an ice-cold
generations of surfers are on the island,
country and world,” he shares. “And besides
jelly coconut — perhaps even one picked
there’s plenty of potential for development
that, it keeps you levelled and promotes a
from a tree on that very beach — and hang
within the sport.
calm, laid-back personality.”
out in the more rustic regions of the country,
“We continue to train and produce high-
Despite its niche positioning, surfing is a
because “that’s where the waves are.” So, for travellers who want to experience
quality surfers because we have strong
great attraction for fans of the sport, and
waves that are consistently high, so they get
the island’s tropical conditions (read: sunny
the island’s proverbial fourth “s” — sun,
a chance to hone their skills at international
days and massive waves) are near perfect.
sand, sea and surfing — they may
standards,” he says.
The club is eager to promote Jamaica as
increasingly choose to do so on the edge
a surfing destination, comparing the island’s
of Kingston. And for those who’ve said
Bay, a seafront town along the southeast
offerings to more established locales
one should never go overboard whilst on
coast of Jamaica, just 10 miles to east of
already well associated with the sport, like
vacation, they really ought to take a trip to
Kingston. Since its creation in 1999, the
Hawaii and California.
Bull Bay.
The Jamnesia Surf Club is located in Bull Sean Murray
Wilmot identifies surfers as people
is tawny, shoulder-length blonde
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SPORTS 146
ALMOST EVERY BEACHSIDE RESORT OFFERS AN ARRAY OF NON-MOTORISED WATERSPORTS. MOST, IF NOT ALL, OF THESE ARE FREE OF CHARGE TO OVERNIGHT GUESTS.
Those interested in serene surroundings may opt to tee off on the green. Jamaica’s golf paradise is an expanse along the North Coast on either side of Montego Bay. This area boasts the island’s A-list of links, with championship courses that keep dedicated players coming back for more. At Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, golfers can enjoy views of the sea whilst teeing off at the on-site Cinnamon Hill Course, where the popular 17th hole rises 350 feet above the sea, and nearby White Witch Golf Course. The Trent Jones Sr.–designed, par-72 course at Half Moon, a RockResort, is a must-try for golf lovers. And the golf course at the Tryall Club, designed by Ralph Plummer, challenges players with tricky winds. Other courses throughout the island include Negril Hills in Negril, Sandals Golf & Country Club in Ocho Rios, Manchester Country Club in Mandeville, and Caymanas and Constant Spring Golf Clubs in Kingston.
BE ONE WITH THE WATER Almost every beachside resort offers an array of non-motorised watersports. Most, if not all, of these are free of charge to overnight guests. Vacationers can go from one to another, trying their hand at kayaking, windsurfing, sailing in a Sunfish or Hobie Cat, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and boogie boarding. Don’t be shy if you don’t catch on at first. Just flag down a member of the resort’s activities team and ask for a lesson. The Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio is one of the most heralded marinas on the island. Other standouts include the Royal Jamaica Yacht Club in Kingston and the Montego Bay Yacht Club. If you don’t have the means to own a yacht, no worries. There are plenty of charter companies providing bareboat, skippered and fully crewed rental options. For a romantic evening in Jamaica, you can’t beat a sunset sail upon a sleek catamaran.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
Kayaking in Jamaica’s beautiful waters
ON THE RUN Marathons in Jamaica are far from traditional, with music, nightlife and local celebrities at the forefront. BY ROLAND HENRY
T
he strains of season five “The Voice”
as a welcome party, health fair and expo,
popping up all across the island. Those
winner Tessanne Chin’s rendition of
and a pre-race party. Hosted by the JHTA
seeking more rigorous activity can opt to
the Jamaican national anthem met
Kingston Chapter, the Kingston City Run
partake in the Jakes Off-Road Triathlon,
the crisp February morning air this past
may be one of the most scenic races on the
held annually in the seafront town of
year, as more than 20,000 gather along
island, guiding participants through Devon
Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth, along
the streets of New Kingston — the island’s
House, the Bob Marley Museum, Hope
the island’s South Coast.
business district — for the popular annual
Gardens and other historic sites. This year’s
Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run.
events will be held March 13–15, and funds
Championship, created by the Jamdam-
raised will go towards providing sustainable
mers Club, features both a five- and
any held in Jamaica, it’s now certainly
support to the homeless community in
10-kilometre course run to the sound of
one among many. For starters, there are
Kingston and Jamaica. In previous years,
booming reggae jams. It takes place each
other big Kingston runs: the Guardian
the run has raised over JA$4 million that
year in Negril, and always on the first
Group’s Keep it Alive Night Run and the
went to valuable charities, including Food
Saturday of December. The organisation
Norman Manley International Airport
for the Poor, Marie Atkins Night Shelter and
is also responsible for a series of road
(NMIA) Palisadoes Charity 5K Run/Walk,
Alpha Boys School.
races throughout the island covering
Though this marathon’s the largest of
where competitors run or walk along the
The marathons, like their international
picturesque harbour for a worthy cause,
counterparts, will see runners of varying
since proceeds from the event go to the
competencies but categorised in classes:
Kingston Public Hospital Cancer Unit.
professional or amateur.
Another popular event is the Kingston Shutterstock
The Reggae Marathon Grand Prix
With health and fitness trending high
parishes like Kingston, St. Catherine and St. Elizabeth. Jamaica is an island known for producing legendary sprinters, so it’s no surprise that fitness buffs — with the help
City Run, a weekend filled with not only
amongst Jamaicans, especially those
of several corporate entities and clubs —
great races — a half marathon, 10K and
within the professional sector, runs and
are taking one of the nation’s sporting
5K Walk/Run— but also fun events such
other physical challenges of sorts are
pastimes to the streets.
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WEDDINGS & SPAS 148
BY MINA ROBERTSON
From left to right: Beautiful details will complete your destination wedding; Opposite Page: A couple walks down the aisle after reciting their vows
Whether reciting your vows by a romantic waterfall or getting pampered on a scenic cliff, Jamaica is the place to turn your fantasies into reality.
awe-inspiring landscape as a backdrop to some of the most memorable and intimate weddings every year. The diversity of settings for these ceremonies (and parties, of course) is unparalleled â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from the mystical stillness of the Blue Mountains and the sensuality of Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many coves to the warmth of its sunsets and the waves sizzling onto white sands.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts (4)
With its international reputation of being synonymous with love, Jamaica offers an
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WEDDINGS & SPAS 150
Resorts islandwide are staffed with veteran wedding planners who can keep you focused on what matters most about the big day; handling everything from marriage licences to makeup artist appointments and any other detail required to realise your vision. Plus, whether or not you’re about to say your vows, you must experience the spas on the island. The “land of wood and water” is overflowing with natural healing resources and holistic treatments. Drift further into your escape by freeing your mind and healing your body with a riverside massage, tanenhancing facial or even an open-air yoga class with the sound of crashing waves leading your meditation.
THE BEACH WEDDING The collection of private beaches and coves along Jamaica’s coasts offer the warm, relaxed settings couples seek in their destination ceremonies. Tucked into the northeast coastline is the six-acre property of Geejam
Hotel that stretches from the John Crow and Blue Mountains to the seashore. This boutique hotel effortlessly links the lush landscape of the hills with the legendary beaches of Portland. Ten minutes away is Frenchman’s Cove (chosen as one of the top five beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveller), which can offer a simple but gorgeous backdrop to your celebration. Nestled in Ocho Rios is the Laughing Waters property. With a waterfall and stream creating an estuary right on the private beach, this is one of those Jamaican treasures you have to see to believe. The energy of the waterfall rushing from the cliff above into the Caribbean Sea is one of the most stunning details you could have in a ceremony. Nearby is the sophisticated Jamaica Inn with its Old World flair and secluded cove with romantic views. Round Hill Hotel in Montego Bay boasts a legacy of classic, understated luxury. Hosting an impressive list of guests each year, the staff is at the ready to ensure that
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts (2)
Rest and relaxation is called for after any wedding event
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Visual Ideas/Camilo Morales
no detail of your event is overlooked. Also in Montego Bay is the award-winning Half Moon, a RockResort, a property comprised of individual villas and suites that will make your wedding party feel like it’s in its own exclusive neighbourhood with a private beach, spa and golf course. With the most powerful energy and love flowing through its bohemian grounds is Jakes Hotel, Villas & Spa on the South Coast. With an inimitable style and effortless eye, Jakes pulls you into its spell, making it impossible to feel anything but absolute peace. On the western side of the island on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach is Sandy Haven Resort, which offers anything you could dream of in a beach wedding. Close by on the cliffside are Tensing Pen Hotel and Rockhouse Hotel, where the rhythm of the waves crashing on the rocks sets an intoxicating atmosphere.
THE ALL-INCLUSIVE AFFAIR All-inclusive resorts have a long-standing tradition of staging picturesque nuptials. You’re sure to find a package that satisfies your needs and desires at the Sandals Resorts, Couples Tower Isle, Secrets Resorts or Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa. “Destination” doesn’t always mean beach. There are so many scenic locations on the island — all ideal for a ceremony — that aren’t on the sand. Overlooking Kingston and the Caribbean Sea is Strawberry Hill Hotel & Spa, located up in the Blue Mountains. For those looking for luxury, The Tryall Club in Hanover and the Trident Castle (yes, it is a castle) in Portland will fulfil the fairytale fantasies you’ve been imagining. Take a step back in time at the classically elegant Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel. Its beautiful grounds strike the perfect balance between modernity and tradition and will add an authentic Jamaican vibe to your special day.
RENEW, HEAL, ESCAPE You cannot leave the island without treating yourself to its healing properties.
At the Driftwood Spa at Jakes Hotel, Villas & Spa, your treatment begins as you step onto the property. With packages for kids, weddings and honeymoons, a rooftop yoga deck and an extensive list of treatments including a coco-mango scrub and an Irish moss wrap, you’re bound to find the catalyst for renewal at this oasis. One of Kingston’s newest treasures is the Serendipity Holistic Resort & Spa hidden in the Blue Mountains. This is one of those “see to believe” spots, with natural pools, as well as a waterfall and river flowing through its grounds. Transform as the serenity of this space washes over you, and fall deeper into bliss as you get a massage, take a yoga class or just sit and meditate surrounded by nature. If you’re thinking about planning a retreat or taking a few days to yourself, this is where you need to be. And if you can’t make it up the hill, you can still find your escape in the heart of New Kingston at The Spa in the Spanish Court Hotel. Along with its reputation of exclusivity and understated luxury, Round Hill Hotel is known for its healing sanctuary. Diverse treatments take place in an 18th-century plantation house whose private outdoor treatment areas offer seaside views. To symbolise the release of your stress and acceptance of the flow of positive energy, you can make a wish whilst casting a gemstone into the Caribbean. The Fern Tree Spa at Half Moon, a RockResort features seductive suites, bungalows and treatment rooms where you can enjoy your customised services. The Hotel Samsara features cliff-side views in Negril. The resort harnesses island’s natural healing energy, particularly with treatments like the couple’s moonlight massage or the sea salt and apricot body scrub. Whilst here, you must sign up for a class at the top-notch Bikram Yoga Jamaica — the first hot yoga studio in the Englishspeaking Caribbean. You’ll fall for the vibe and return for the feeling you leave with after releasing toxins and connecting your mind and body.
Courtesy of the National Library of Jamaica (2)
WEDDINGS & SPAS 152
JAMAICAN WEDDING TRADITIONS Stemming from African traditions, early Jamaican weddings were a community event. BY JEAN WILSON
C
ountry weddings in old Jamaica
The all-important wedding feast usually
church and then returned to finish preparing
were often grand affairs involving
included curried goat and mannish water (a
the bridal party. She was also responsible
the entire community. This meant
soup made from certain parts of the goat),
for placing a sweet basil leaf in each of the
preparing enough food and drink to feed a
as well as other local favourites like roast
bride’s shoes for good luck. The wedden
village and not turning away anyone who
pork, rice and peas, and green bananas.
godfather could then lead the bridal party
showed up uninvited. In some cases, even
Contemporary weddings may reflect more
to the church. At the reception, guests would bid to
having a guest list was considered a slight
elaborate menus, but one tradition that has
against the community at large.
endured is that of the rich, dark, flavourful
have the cakes unveiled. Individuals would
Jamaican wedding cake. In the past, the
announce their bids and place money in
big day, an important first step was the
essential ingredients of dried fruit and nuts
the bidding plate. When the amount was
appointment of a wedden (wedding)
soaked in rum and port wine over a prolonged
considered acceptable, a cake was given
godfather and godmother. The wedden
period of time were sometimes sent to the
to the couple for unveiling.
godfather’s main responsibility was to build
couple prior to the wedding as gifts. At most
an outdoor booth for the reception. The
country weddings at least 12 cakes were
festivities to go on well into the next
structure was usually decorated with plants
made, and each was draped with white lace.
morning, but for traditional weddings, the
and flowers by various friends and family
Twelve young women, who were selected by
process continued on to the Sunday after
members. It fell to the wedden godmother
the wedden godmother, would parade these
the wedding day. This Thanks Day gave
to decorate the church, choose the bridal
cakes through the village before taking them
the couple the opportunity to return to the
party attire and organise the parade of
to the wedding booth.
church where they were wed to show their
To get everything organised for the
cakes — an event that sometimes took place on the wedding day or the day before.
On the wedding day, the wedden godmother escorted the groom to the
It’s common for Jamaican wedding
appreciation for all it took to make their wedding happen.
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FEEDING THE SOUL 154
BY SUZANNE AND MICHELLE ROUSSEAU
From left to right: Fruits and vegetables grown throughout the island; Opposite page: Stush in the Bush owners Chris and Lisa Binns give Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau a tour of the grounds
From Thailand to Tuscany, some of the best food you will ever taste is prepared in rural kitchens by experienced home cooks. Jamaica is no exception. A home-cooked meal is the perfect way to get a taste of culture, history, family dynamics and tradition.
J. Kevin Foltz (4)
Whether in a five-star restaurant or a humble seaside hut, the heart of Jamaican cuisine lives in the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural bounty.
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It comes as no surprise, therefore, that the latest trend in the rural food scene revolves around a reinvention of the home-cooked country meal. This exciting trend gives visitors and locals alike an opportunity to experience Jamaica from a new perspective, as they nibble on authentic country dishes. After all, what better way to get to know a place than around the dining tables of the families who live, love and play there? The first stop on our home-cooking journey takes us to the hills of St. Ann Parish, specifically an area called Free Hill, to Zionites Farm. Husband and wife team Chris and Lisa Binns of Stush in the Bush offer a modern and sophisticated take on rustic cooking. Everything about this couple epitomises the concept of handcrafted, heart-centred living. The Binns’ home fits into the environment so seamlessly that it actually looks like it grew straight out of the ground. Everything here is in tune with nature and connected to the land. All of the furniture is handmade — even the plates
were thrown by a local potter. As we meander through the property, picking fresh Otaheiti apples and gathering herbs and lettuces for our meal, we share a mango and Christopher chops us a fresh jelly coconut. Returning to the kitchen, we get ready for lunch with Lisa, a Brooklynite who made her way to Jamaica to be with the love of her life. Love informs everything here; the love and respect they hold for the land, the cycles of nature, the food they prepare and for each other is palpable. The handmade grilled pizzas with plantain, chimichurri, caramelised onions and freshly made, all-natural tomato sauce are mouthwatering. We top that off with fried breadfruit served with Stush in the Bush chimichurri and Blow Fiya pepper sauce, along with warm-from-theoven vegan banana, pineapple bread served with sorrel chutney and freshly squeezed lemongrass lemonade. It’s only a matter of time before we slip into an alternate universe of culinary bliss.
J. Kevin Foltz
Lisa Binns and Michelle and Suzanne Rousseau cook lunch using freshly picked ingredients
AN EDIBLE OASIS Jamaica’s food festivals offer up year-round options to dine and try the island’s best cuisine. BY CHRISTINE BORGES
J
which include Rising Star Chef of the Year,
Lovers of seafood should make their
cuisine. Whether you’re craving
Best Producer and Best Sunday Spot. Past
way to the Ocho Rios Seafood Festival
some local pan chicken, some
winners have included Stush in the Bush
(August). One of the main culinary shows
seafood or five-star dining at a discount,
for Best Producer; Chef Brian Lumley of
in the country, here you’ll sample dishes
Jamaica’s options truly are endless. If you
689 by Brian Lumley for Food Personality
from some of Jamaica’s leading seafood
find yourself in Jamaica in July, make your
of the Year; Café Eits for Best Ethical
chefs. Be sure to stay till the evening for
way to the All Jamaica Grill Off. The annual
Restaurant; and Sugar Mill Restaurant in
the concert.
competition, which takes place in Kingston,
Half Moon Hotel for Best Place for Dinner.
attracts grilling chefs — both professional
Jerk fans should make their way to the
Championship (November) provides
and recreational — that offer up unlimited
Portland Jerk Festival (also in July), which
locals the opportunity to show off their
samples along with live music and stage
serves up all things jerk, from fish and
jerk talents by creating mouthwatering
entertainment.
chicken to pork and lobster. This is truly a
recipes using only a jerk pan. The event is
family-friendly event, as there are plenty
free, with rides and other entertainment.
Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food
of activities like arts and crafts displays, a
Elimination rounds are held across the
Awards serves up a smorgasbord of
merry-go-round and face painting.
island, with the championship round held
amaica is known for its variety in
For cuisine with a cause, the annual
Courtesy of All Jamaica Grill Off (2)
culinary delights, tempting wines and
Those that prefer a little reggae with
Not to be outdone, the CB Pan Chicken
in Kingston. Jamaica’s fine-dining scene can be
scholarships for students of the University
their festival should make their way to the
of Technology's Hospitality and Tourism
International Reggae Wine Festival in
experienced for less during Jamaica
Management department. Taking place
Montego Bay (August). Wine purveyors
Restaurant Week (November), which
in May on the East Lawn of Devon House,
from around the world are always in
celebrates culinary offerings in Montego
dozens of chefs and restaurants are
attendance, along with some of the best
Bay, Kingston and Ocho Rios, with reduced
awarded as the best in their category,
reggae artists.
prices of up to 50 percent.
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FEEDING THE SOUL 158
THIS EXCITING TREND GIVES VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE JAMAICA FROM A NEW PERSPECTIVE, AS THEY NIBBLE ON AUTHENTIC COUNTRY DISHES.
From left to right: The chef at Iberostar Rose Hall Beach & Spa Resort shows off locally grown ingredients in his kitchen; A hearty chowder from Woolery Kitchen; Opposite page: Chris Binns climbs a tree to pluck fresh otaheite apples
J. Kevin Foltz (2)
After that ethereal and sophisticated rustic dining experience, good old-fashioned, hearty Jamaican country cooking is what we crave, so we head to the community of Chalky Hill to a lovely spot called Woolery Kitchen. More than a simple eatery, Woolery Kitchen is an at-home dining concept that allows visitors to experience a traditional Jamaican meal as hosted by a Jamaican family. Set in Cynthia Woolery's home (aka Ms. Faye), this is Jamaican country living at its most authentic. Woolery Kitchen is the brainchild of Tanayia Woolery, Cynthia’s enthusiastic daughter-in-law. Inspired by a similar home-dining programme in Argentina, she wanted to replicate the model in Jamaica, knowing well that her mother-in-law could deliver the goods. Tanayia drew upon Ms. Faye’s well-established prowess in the kitchen and developed what can only be described as a unique Jamaican culinary experience. Guests are limited to eight and dine alongside the family, just as if they were relatives visiting from overseas.
J. Kevin Foltz
The experience begins with a patty taste test. Then a brief tour of the garden is followed by dinner on the verandah. Jamaican classics such as curry goat, oxtail, rice and peas (learned from her mother and arguably the best rice and peas in the Chalky Hill district), ackee and saltfish, escovitch fish, breadfruit, bammy, dukunu, and her acclaimed escovitch chicken will inspire cravings for years to come. The food hits all the right notes — comfort, simplicity, warmth and flavour. This is indeed food for the soul that embraces, nurtures and makes you feel good inside. Our final stop is at Bromley, a guesthouse and retreat located in St. Ann Parish that overlooks the Walkers Wood valley. The house is vast but warm. As we arrive at the bottom of a long driveway that leads to one of our favourite places in Jamaica, the landscape is reminiscent of Charlotte Brontë’s Wuthering Heights. This blend of homey Jamaica and proper English countryside is reflected in Bromley’s owners Johnathan and Alex Edwards. “Jonna” as he is fondly called, grew up at Bromley and
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can remember when Junkanoo dancers would make their way to the house from the village at Christmas. He is a country gentleman and a consummate host with a deep abiding love for his country and his family home. In stark contrast is his wife Alex, whose zany, bubbly energy hits you like a laser beam. This yin and yang couple have created a foodie haven of gourmet vegan and vegetarian cuisine chock-full of island flavour. Alex’s vibrant and highly energetic presence is felt everywhere as she constantly bustles around preparing, serving and feeding eager and hungry guests. The food is, simply put, sublime — all local, all fresh, all made by Alex herself. A spectacular cook with a knack for effortlessly throwing together simple but delicious dishes, she specialises in freshly made roasted almond butter flavoured with sea salt and Jamaican honey,
thick-cut marmalade, crunchy granola, curried saltfish pâté, Otaheiti apple crumble and coconut chocolate balls. Against the backdrop of Old World sophistication, Bromley’s vibe of all-natural vegan food, yoga and mediation is all the more potent. Even a few hours in this special place is like a big warm Jamaican hug that leaves you feeling centred, balanced, nurtured and loved. As we start our journey back to Kingston, we marvel at how an impromptu culinary experiment has brought back so many fond memories of home-cooked meals and family celebrations. We are reminded that this sacred celebration of life, love and laughter creates a space where we can connect with others, share a piece of ourselves and revel in the beauty and magnificence of our people, our land and our community. Ultimately, we are reminded of why we dine together.
Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau are the culinary hostesses for the web series “Island Potluck.” Former restaurateurs and award-winning caterers who thrown parties for the Prime Minister of Jamaica and the Prince of Wales, the sisters have just finished airing the first season of their cooking show, “Two Sisters and a Meal” and have recently published their first cookbook Caribbean Potluck (Kyle Books, 2014). To view their recipes, videos and blogs, visit them at 2sistersandameal.com.
J. Kevin Foltz
Mouthwatering pizza made with all organic ingredients
BOUNTIFUL SOIL From farm-to-table experiences to farmer’s markets and beyond, Jamaicans do organic with style. BY LEISHA WONG
J
amaica’s soil has given rise to
products are a true testament to the
bee colonies that provide a natural
some of the world’s most potent
dedication of gourmet artisans.
sweetener for the sauces. Belcour Estate
flavours. Jamaican ginger, coffee
recently partnered with one of the island’s
and pimento, as well as scotch bonnet
the Sligo family that resided at Tryall
certified organic farms, Woodford Market
peppers, are all renowned worldwide for
Estate, Busha Browne is a line of all-natural
Garden, which has been providing
their intensity and robust flavour. And, so
preserves, sauces and jellies that kick
Jamaicans with organic greens for 20
too, a group of Jamaican farmers has
authentic flavours up a gourmet notch.
years. Together they created Mountain
emerged that are truly dedicated to using
Drawing from the goodness of the earth
Blue Farms, a gourmet line of herb and
organic and sustainable practices to
at their St. Ann–based, 60,000-square-foot
spice rubs and salad dressings. “A blend
create products that draw from the island’s
facility, their jerk and barbecue marinades,
of good-quality herbs and spices is one
natural benefits.
fruit chutneys and pepper jellies evoke the
of the foundations for creating delicious
natural flavours of the island.
food,” says Donna Noble, founder of
Stush in the Bush is a line of organic
Courtesy of Blue Mountain Farms
Based on 200-year-old recipes from
Woodford Market Garden.
products that infuses a delectable gourmet
Belcour Blue Mountain Preserves has
essence into the rustic principles of Zionites
become a standard for naturally produced
Farm in St. Ann. A seasonal line of gourmet
sauces and condiments that draw from
farmers, Walkerswood Caribbean Foods
preserves, sauces and dressings, as
the fruit found on the Belcour Estate,
taps over 1,000 small farms to provide the
well as a variety of vegan delights, are
which is nestled in the foothills of the Blue
spices, fruits and vegetables that make
made from local fruits such as naseberry,
Mountains. Pineapples, guavas and
Walkerswood products so savoury. From
mango, lime and passion fruit — each
sorrel, along with the finest Jamaican
jerk seasoning and scotch bonnet sauce
grown according to specific organic
spices and herbs, are harvested into
to various chutneys and marmalades,
principles. With love and affection listed
chutneys, jams and marmalades. Belcour
Walkerswood condiments are Jamaica in
as the primary ingredients, these exquisite
Estate also has its own apiary, with 75
a bottle.
Another strong supporter of local
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ART & CULTURE 162
BY MINA ROBERTSON
Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arts and culture scenes will have you feeling irie. Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture is a magnet. Its bold, sensual, creative spirit has consistently drawn international audiences in and has held local patrons in its field for decades. The pillars of its inimitable culture are constantly evolving and renewing themselves, setting new trends that penetrate the arts and way of life around the world.
From left to right: JOE KLAMAR/Staff/Getty Images; Sean Murray (3)
From left to right: A photo collage of Bob Marley; Parade walker for Bacchanal Jamaica; Paint Jamaica artist; Opposite page: Paint Jamaica mural
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ART & CULTURE 164
From left to right: Tessanne Chin performs on "The Voice;" Signage by Bob Marley Museum; Opposite page: Paint Jamaica mural and artist
From left to right: Courtesy of Tyler Golden/NBC; Max Earle; Opposite page: Sean Murray
THE MUSIC THAT MOVES A NATION Acclaimed by many to be the most influential culture on music, Jamaica’s boundless creativity is dominating the music scene the world over. Becoming a legend in her own right is Kingstonian Tessanne Chin. Week after week on the US based talent competition, “The Voice,” Chin sparked the pride not only of Jamaicans on the Rock but of the diaspora whilst stunning all viewers with her incredible range and tone. Tessanne carries our flag with elegance and light, saying “anything I do will always have a Caribbean swag” but refuses to be put in a box and will explore a range of genres during her international career. Bringing his message forward and making waves, Chronixx released his first album, Dread
and Terrible, in 2014. The entire island of Jamaica was swelling with pride when the reggae star made his U.S. TV debut on “The Tonight Show.” A favourite on Radio Lilly in New York, as well as all stations back home, Chronixx has an infectious sound and mission behind it that are sure to make him one of the greats. Dancehall has some hard-hitting members on its team. The roster includes greats like Assassin (aka Agent Sasco) who was featured on Kanye West’s album, Yeezus; Popcaan, whose 2014 album, Where We Come From, was promoted by the likes of Drake; newcomer Alkaline, who keeps pushing out party anthems; and the force that is Major Lazer, which is changing the game and opening the flood gates to a new dancehall audience.
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EACH SPRING, BACCHANAL JAMAICA BRINGS TOGETHER ALL SOCA JUNKIES FOR CARNIVAL,
Celebrating carnival in a traditional eye-catching outfit
Year-round the island brings its musical talent together for intoxicating shows and events. Now held at Richmond Estate in St. Ann, Rebel Salute is the brainchild of reggae artist Patrick “Tony Rebel” Barrett. This roots reggae show is an alcohol- and drugfree event offering a strict vegetarian menu, and is centered around a mission to promote peace and positivity. Also on the annual events calendar is “the greatest reggae show on Earth,” Reggae Sumfest. This stage show pulls together the best of dancehall, reggae and international performers in Montego Bay to create an indescribable weekend worthy of planning your trip around. For the authentic dancehall stage
show experience, you must attend Bring the Sting on Boxing Day, where you’ll see artistes clash (challenge each other lyrically). For a more laid-back vibe, pack your chairs and coolers for Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, held in the last week of January. Every Sunday, Kingston Dub Club, which overlooks the city on Jacks Hill, sends out incredible vibrations featuring dub and roots reggae either performed live or spun by DJs with their fingers on the pulse. Reggae lovers must take a tour of the Bob Marley Museum and Tuff Gong Studio, where you’ll get chills as you walk through the legend’s home and feel the energy of the studio.
Sean Murray
WHO DANCE FOR HOURS IN THEIR BEJEWELLED COSTUMES AND FEATHERED HEADPIECES.
THE STATE OF THE ARTS
IN THE THEATRE
Kingston is the hub of the Jamaican art scene. The National Gallery Downtown has the largest collection of works by greats from Edna Manley to Colin Garland, as well as works from upcoming contemporary artists. This is where you have to start when gaining an appreciation for the island’s visual arts. Next on your tour should be Grosvenor Gallery, where you’ll get a glimpse of the intuitive and modern developments in local art. The partnership between distinguished curator Nicole Smythe-Johnson and acclaimed artist and curator Deborah Anzinger has given birth the to the NLS Gallery and initiative. The team at NLS is committed to put Jamaican and Caribbean contemporary art on the map, as well as have the value of the art contribute to economic growth and sustainability within the region. This is a modern space with a fresh perspective that houses artists in residence and encourages collaboration amongst artists to build the region’s repertoire. Look out for home-bred artists like Ebony Patterson — who has done extremely well internationally, having been recognised by Vogue Italia and The New York Times — as well as Storm Saulter and Leasho Johnson, to name a few. The Kingston On The Edge Arts Festival (KOTE) pulls the art initiatives of Kingston together and is held in June. This week of events shows off the work of visual artists, performers and musicians, as well as the places that house their creativity. The festival’s base is Red Bone’s Blues Café, whose stage hosts poets, musicians and dancers year-round. If you’d really like to experience Kingston coming alive, look for the work Paint Jamaica is doing for the community. The organisation is revolutionising the relationship between art, talent and society as a true community project, engaging volunteers of all backgrounds and residents to add colour to abandoned walls and buildings in the area. The initiative is the first of its kind in Jamaica, receiving support from the iconic music label Tuff Gong Worldwide and Ziggy Marley himself.
Jamaican dance is a unique hybrid that has become a robust yet graceful style of movement, blending African-Caribbean movement with modern dance and a touch of ballet. One of the masters of choreography here is Tony Wilson, artistic director of The Company Dance Theatre. The Company’s annual season of dance has consistently maintained a standard of technique and artistic innovation unlike any other season of dance. Plays are a major part of Jamaica’s culture. Enthusiastic audiences come to listen to the witty, metaphor-driven Jamaican sense of humour that uses satire to comment on Jamaica’s current social and political issues.
HAVING FUN, YEAR-ROUND Each spring, Bacchanal Jamaica brings together all soca junkies for Carnival: Bacchanal Fridays, Beach Jouvert in Ocho Rios, Town Jouvert and lots of other fêtes leading up to the final event, Road March. This is a level of partying you must be a part of at least once in your life. Come, jump, “drink a rum” and dance for hours in your bejewelled costume and feathered headpiece. If soca isn’t for you, come celebrate Emancipation Day at either SPF Weekend in Ocho Rios or Dream Week in Negril. Nonstop partying on the beach and poolside, live performances and insane DJs are waiting to take you over this August. The most special of all our cultural events is the Calabash International Literary Festival, in Treasure Beach. Held biennially, this festival has a reputation of bringing together distinguished writers and those who love words from all over the world. Brilliant writers read excerpts on stage with the sea crashing behind them and a mesmerised audience under a tent interacts with them. Endless praises are directed to the event’s creators: novelist Colin Channer, producer and filmmaker Justine Henzell and Jamaican playwright and poet Kwame Dawes. After the outstanding lineup and intimate readings of the 2014 staging, Calabash addicts can’t wait for 2016.
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ART & CULTURE 168
TOUCHED BY THE SEA Organic. Raw. Natural. Jamaican ceramist Victoria Leigh Silvera pays homage to an unlikely sea creature. BY LEISHA WONG
T
o Jamaican artist, Victoria Leigh
“an homage to the interestingly ugly and
Silvera, a piece of paper is not
beautiful sea egg,” and it has taken the
flat. Instead, it is a three-dimensional
local art world by storm.
object, with depth and motion — it is alive and breathing. “I can see everything
You speak about growing up at the Stony
in 3-D,” Silvera says. “I am drawn to
Hill Hotel, in Kingston, Jamaica, surrounded
sculpture because this is simply how
by art. What effect do you think this had on
my brain works. My hands, too.” And it is
your development as an artist? Man, to grow up around art is like being
ethereal and nautical-inspired collection
given educational toys, except it is a visual
of sculptures that embrace the organic
and tactile means of stimulating the mind.
essence of Jamaica.
It can instill in you, from an early age, a
Founder and creator of Touch by VLS,
dynamic sense or colour, composition, form
a ceramics studio launched in 2012,
and even story. Growing up, I loved the
30-year-old Silvera harnesses the power
primitive and chunky nature of the intuitive
of the sea in her most recent work, The
carvings at Stony Hill Hotel, but also a series
Urchin Collection. She is inspired by sea
of mosaics that chronicled our African and
urchins and uses local clay and earthenware
Arawak heritage, the Spaniards and the
to create distinctive, functional decorative
building of Kingston. I grew to love history,
pieces that embody the island’s innate
but, more than that, the way we can use art
beauty. Silvera says the collection is
to tell our stories.
J. Kevin Foltz
with her hands that she has created an
“WHAT MOTIVATES ME IS MY NEED TO BE CREATIVELY FILLED AND HAPPY IN MY PROCESSES. LOOK OUT FOR BRIGHT COLOURS AND EXTREME MODERNISM IN MY WORK. THIS NEXT PERIOD IS GOING TO BE A VERY, VERY HAPPY PERIOD FOR ME.
You make reference to the importance
What is the importance of being a
of honouring time-aged traditions and
sustainable and energy-efficient business?
techniques. Why is that so important? To me, art is like a language, a means
Ceramics is not the most eco-friendly business, especially when done on a
of communicating and telling our stories.
large scale. My goal is to go off the grid,
If you don’t use it, you lose it. I don’t want to
using solar power and batteries that will be
be one of only five ceramicists in Jamaica
able to power my 100-amp kiln. I think we
by the year 2050 — we’ll be like the last
have to really make the move away from
indigenous toothless women, arguing that
fossil fuels, gas and coal — any substance
we do not like each other in a language that
that produces carbon. Big bag of money
only we can understand. What’s more is that
or one beautiful planet? I choose both.
by not making art and keeping carving or pottery alive as a Jamaican idiom, we allow
What continues to inspire you on your
other cultures to dominate and consume
artistic journey?
us with their art and artisanal pieces. The
What motivates me is my need to
end result is not having a voice, either
be creatively filled and happy in my
economically or culturally.
processes. Look out for bright colours and extreme modernism in my work. This next
Where did you get the idea for the sea
period is going to be a very, very happy
urchins?
period for me. I used to be a starving artist,
I went to a summer art session once in North Carolina, and there was a woman
Touch by VLS pieces can be found at a number of stores and galleries in Kingston and Montego Bay, and at Couples Resorts throughout the island. Visit touchbyvls.com for the e-store, which will deliver to guests staying at any JHTA hotel.
and so I also wish to continue to do well financially.
who made beautiful miniature teapots using tiny dots that she pasted on the body
J. Kevin Foltz
of the pot. I had always collected dried
What does art and creativity mean to you? Without self-expression, my life has
sea urchins and knew this would make an
no direction or purpose. To create is to
exceptional design for a teapot. After my
vibrate, from the crown of my head to the
first teapot I began to make round forms
base of my spine; and it is in this moment
with flues, and I started to slip-decorate
of creation that I am most connected to
them and carve them.
my God.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 170
Clipper Round-the-World Yacht Race in Errol Flynn Marina
February 22nd Bob Marley Birthday Bash Islandwide; 876-978-2991-3 Caribbean Yoga Conference Montego Bay; 413-347-0151 Fi Wi Sinting Somerset Falls, Portland; 876-913-0103 Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival St. Mary, Ocho Rios; 876-975-3393 Misty Bliss Hollywell, Kingston; 876-960-2848-9 Official Reggae Month Islandwide; 876-924-3100 The Pineapple Cup Miami / MoBay Race Montego Bay; 876-979-8469 / 8262 Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run Kingston 876-929-5583-4 ext. 2353 or 2350 Sugar Cane Ball Round Hill Resort, Montego Bay 876-956-7050-5 / 940-2237 March Carnival / Bacchanal Islandwide Elasha Spring Fest Montego Bay; 876-413-7012
Make sure to check the calendar to see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening on Jamaica during your stay. Dates and venues are subject to change without notice. For more details and events, check visitjamaica.com/things-to-do/events-andculture/festivals.
ISSA Boys & Girls Champs National Stadium, Kingston; 876-969-5776 JAM Avant-Garde Fashion Face Weekend Kingston
January
JAMFEST Spring Break Concert Series
Accompong Maroon Festival
Negril; 410-787-9500 ext. 230
Accompong, St. Elizabeth
Kingston City Run
876-952-4546
Kingston; 876-929-9000
Bacchanal / Jamaica Carnival
Kingston Food, Wine and Spirits Festival
Kingston; 876-922-3840 / 923-9138-9
Kingston; 876-620-9753
Caribbean Travel Marketplace
Royal Jamaica Yacht Club Spring Tournament
Montego Bay; 876-952-0045 / 305-443-3040
Kingston; 876-924-8685 / 8686
Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival
Trelawny 10K Road Race
Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium,
Falmouth, Trelawny; 876-610-0818 / 393-6584
Falmouth; 876-953-8282 / 876-929-9200-19 JSP High Mountain Coffee 10K Road Race
April
Williamsfield, Manchester
Boston Jerk Festival
876-963-4211 / 4319
Boston Bay, Portland
Rebel Salute
Expo Jamaica
Richmond Estate, St. Ann
National Arena, Kingston
876-934-0827
876-922-8880-3 / 8869
Jamaica International Kite Festival
One Day International / Test Cricket
Jamaica International Synchronised
Richmond Estate, St. Ann; 876-974-6810
Kingston; 876-922-8423-4
Swimming Championships
MoBay Yacht Club Easter Regatta
Portland Jerk Festival
YMCA & Bournemouth Bath
Montego Bay; 876-979-8038
Folly Oval, Portland
Kingston
Treasure Beach Jakes Off-Road Triathalon
Reggae Sumfest
876-408-0150 / 816-0150
Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth
Montego Bay; 876-953-2933
Michael Holding Masters
876-978-9950 / 965-0635
The Seville Emancipation Jubilee
Cricket Tournament
Seville Heritage Park, St. Ann
Sabina Park, Kingston
876-922-1287-8
Trelawny Stadium
May Calabash International Literary Festival
246-228-4717 / 718-270-5300
Treasure Beach, South Coast
August
MoBay Yacht Club Annual
CB Pan Chicken Competition
Bath Food Festival
Fishing Tournament
Kingston; Montego Bay; Clarendon
Bath, St. Thomas; 876-860-2014
Montego Bay; 876-979-8083
876-924-6000 ext. 232
The Dream Weekend
Oktoberfest
Clipper Round-the-World Yacht Race
Negril; 876-631-6623
Alhambra Inn, Kingston
Errol Flynn Marina, Port Antonio
Denbigh Agri-Industrial Show
Port Antonio International
Style Week Jamaica / Fashion Block
May Pen, Clarendon; 876-922-0610-2
Marlin Tournament
Kingston; 876-969-9645 / 3829
International Reggae Wine Festival
Port Antonio, Portland
Montego Bay; 876-971-0814 / 899-9574
876-927-0145 / 925-0699
June
Mello-Go-Rounâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
Port Morant Banana Festival
All Jamaica Grill Off
Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre,
St. Mary
Kingston; 876-862-8070
Kingston; 876-926-5726-9
South Coast Hook & Line
AMCHAM / BMW Golf Classic
Ocho Rios Seafood Festival
Canoe Tournament
Montego Bay; 876-929-7866-7
Turtle River Park, Ocho Rios
Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth
Caribbean Fashion Week
876-336-8563
876-965-0635 / 3185
National Arena, Kingston; 876-968-1089
Reggae Film Series
Earthbound Jamaica Eco /
Ocho Rios; 876-536-1546
Green4Life Festival
November Annieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Revenge
River Falls, St. Elizabeth; 876-754-3381
September
Montego Bay; 305-665-0557
Kingston Pon Di River
CB Pan Chicken Competition
Jamaica Open & Pro-am
Kingston; 876-382-5624
Kingston; Montego Bay; Clarendon
Montego Bay; 876-906-7636-7
Jamaica International Ocho Rios
Jamaica Bridal Expo
Restaurant Week
Jazz Festival
Montego Bay Convention Centre
Kingston; 876-978-6245
Islandwide; 876-927-3544
876-376-1778
St. Elizabeth Homecoming Week
Kingston on the Edge Urban Art Festival
Jamaica Observer Food Awards
South Coast; 876-948-0292
Kingston; 876-412-4978
Devon House, Kingston 876-920-8136 / 926-7655
December
July
Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX)
Harbour Fest and Fireworks
International Reggae Day
Montego Bay; 876-926-3635-6
on the Waterfront
Kingston; 876-622-5986
Race for Hope 5K
Kingston; 876-362-6445
Jamaica Film Festival
Hope Gardens, Kingston; 876-967-4903
JMMC All Stages Rally
Kingston; 876-978-7755
876-924-6000 ext. 232
Bog Walk to New Kingston
Jamaica Festival
World Tourism Day
876-764-9904
Kingston; Montego Bay; 876-926-5726
Islandwide; 876-920-4926
LTM National Pantomime
Little Ochi Seafood Carnival
Kingston
Alligator Pond, Manchester; 876-381-4818
October
876-926-6129 / 906-4959
Makka Pro Surf Contest
Digicel Foundation 5K
Reggae Marathon
St. Thomas; 876-750-0103
Kingston
Negril; 876-922-8677
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INFORMATION 172
As you get to know Jamaica, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the culture and people who call this paradise home. But it is always good to have a little help — and a nice crash course — when exploring a new destination. Here is your guide to Jamaica to get you started on a memorable stay. Phone numbers and rates listed were correct at press time.
Airlines Air Canada 876-924-8211 Air Europa 800-238-7672 Air Jamaica 800-523-5585 Air Turks and Caicos 876-926-1762 American Airlines 800-433-7300 British Airways 800-247-9297 Caribbean Airlines 876-922-3460 Cayman Airways 800-422-9626 876-929-7778, 876-929-7779 Copa Airlines 876-968-5330 876-926-0326 Delta Airlines 800-221-1212 Fly Jamaica 855-933-5952 JetBlue Airways 800-JETBLUE Spirit Airlines 877-211-1546 United Airlines 800-231-0856 US Airways 800-428-4322 Virgin Atlantic 876-971-8917 WestJet Airlines 800-538-5696 Airports Norman Manley International Airport, Kingston 888-AIRPORT 876-924-8452-6
Donald Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay 876-952-3124 ATMs Most Jamaican ATMs (called ABMs) accept international bank cards with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus or Plus logos. Buses Buses are a cheap way to get around, although it will be an unfamiliar experience to most Westerners, since bus stands are rarely marked and vehicles do not follow a strict schedule. Some resorts offer bus excursions to different tourist sites. Check with your hotel’s concierge for more information. Climate Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, characterised by high temperatures and humid conditions year-round. Average temperature ranges from
66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius) to 99 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). Though it’s known for warmth and sunshine, the island sees two rainy seasons from May to June and September to November. Also, hurricanes may pass over the island primarily from June to September. If it rains during your stay, don’t worry. Most times, the short tropical showers provide a welcome break from the afternoon heat. Credit Cards Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted throughout the island. Currency The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaica Dollar. Licenced “cambio” (exchange) centres and commercial banks are accessible in all resort areas. Official currency exchange
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rates vary daily, so it’s advisable to shop around for the best rate before converting your cash. Customs and Duty United States residents who have been out of the country for 48 hours or more may take home items valued up to US$800 once every 30 days without incurring duty. Adults may include 200 cigarettes, 100 non-Cuban cigars and one litre of alcohol. A second litre of alcohol is allowed duty-free if it is produced by a Caribbean Basin country. Family members who return home together may combine their personal exemptions on a joint declaration. Visit cbp.gov/xp/cgov/ travel/id_visa/kbyg/customs_duty_ info.xml for more information. Canadian residents who have been out of the country for more than 48 hours can claim up to CAN$300 worth of goods without paying duty if they carry the goods with them.
After each absence of seven days or more, they can claim up to CAN$800 worth of goods without duty. Except for tobacco products and alcohol, they do not need to have the goods with them. Visit cbsa-asfc.gc.ca for more information. United Kingdom residents 17 or older may take home duty-free two litres of table wine and one litre of spirits or liquors, or two litres of fortified or sparkling wine or other liquors; 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco; 60 cc of perfume and 250 cc of eau de toilette; plus other goods worth up to £145. Travellers cannot group their allowances. Visit hmrc.gov.uk for more information. DepartureTax There is a $37 departure tax that must be paid upon departure. However, airlines include this tax in their airline tickets.
Driving In Jamaica, drivers must keep to the left, although some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians and domestic animals. The speed limit is 30 mph (50 kmph) in urban areas and 50 mph (80 kmph) on highways. Given the mountainous terrain, rural roads are often winding, bumpy and narrow. Tourists can rent cars in most major towns and cities, and, usually, clients must be no less than 25 years old in order to rent. The driver and all passengers are required to wear safety belts, and children under 3 years old must travel in infant carriers or child safety seats. All drivers are required to carry a valid licence. Jamaica recognises valid international driver’s licences, but visitors from North America may use their country’s licence for up to three months per visit, and United Kingdom residents may use theirs for up to one year.
Courtesy of Sandals Resorts
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INFORMATION 176
BEST PLACE TO TAKE A SWIM IN PORT ANTONIO: Every visitor must take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. Legend has it that the lagoon is bottomless, but that's just a town fable. The Blue Lagoon is a great place for swimming and reveling in nature at it's best.
Drugs In Jamaica, the use, sale and possession of drugs such as marijuana (ganja), cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin and any other controlled substances is illegal. Offenders are subject to severe punishment, including arrest, fines and/ or imprisonment. Electricity Standard electrical service is similar to that of the United States and Canada: 110 volts, 50 cycles AC. However, there is 220 volts service available at some hotels. Holidays 2015 On public holidays, all government agencies, schools and most private businesses are closed, and much of the country celebrates. Please plan accordingly. New Year’s Day Ash Wednesday Good Friday Easter Monday Labour Day
January 1 February 8 April 3 April 6 May 23
Emancipation Day Independence Day Heroes’ Day Christmas Day Boxing Day
August 1 August 6 October 15 December 25 December 26
Language The official language of Jamaica is English, although most locals speak Patois, a colourful dialect. Safety As with any place in the world, you should always remember to follow basic precautions to avoid possible predicaments. Keep all luggage in view at all times and your personal effects close to your body; don’t carry large amounts of cash; and avoid wearing expensive jewellery outside of your resort. Taxis Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation, but they are not always the cheapest. All registered taxis in Jamaica are required by law to have red “PPV” licence plates. You
are advised not to board any taxi operating illegally. Although taxis have metres, drivers will rarely use them and will instead negotiate a fare with you. It is best to discuss this fare with the driver before boarding the taxi. The fastest and most economical taxis are those used by locals, called “route taxis” — cars that drive a designated course and pick up and drop off passengers at will. These are shared cabs that will usually pack several people willing to go on the same route. Tipping It is customary to leave a 10 to 15 percent gratuity at restaurants. Please make sure to check your bill, as some establishments will have already included the gratuity in your total. Water All piped water in Jamaica is treated and purified in accordance to international standards. You may drink it, bathe in it and brush your teeth with it.
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A1
Rose Hall Runaway Bay
Sandy Bay
Lucea A1
Green Island
MONTEGO BAY
Reading Lethe Copse
A1
B9
Duncans
Johns Hall
B8
Discovery Bay
Browns Town
Montpelier Shettlewood B6
B3
Catadupa Saint Leonards
Sheffield Negril
Falmouth
A2
Savanna la Mar
Cave Valley Bluefields
Appleton
B6
Christiana Spaldings
Whitehouse Middle Quarters A2
Black River
A2
Treasure Beach
MAP OF
JAMAICA
Mandeville
Alligator Pond
Frankfield
Llandovery Saint Anns Bay Oracabessa OCHO RIOS Prospect Higgin Town
PORT MARIA
A3
A3 A1
Annotto Bay
Moneague
A4
Buff Bay
A1
Hope Bay
B2
PORT ANTONIO Boston Bay
Linstead Bog Walk
Long Bay
A3
Chapelton A1 B3
SPANISH TOWN
MAY PEN
A2
A1
Newcastle Half Way Tree KINGSTON
Old Harbour
A4
Golden Grove
Port Royal Morant Bay A4
Lionel Town
MEMBERS 180
JHTA MEMBERS HOTELS / RESORTS KINGSTON Altamont Court Hotel 1–3 Altamont Terrace Kingston 5 876-929-4497-8 / 5931 Christar Villas Ltd. 99A Hope Road Kingston 6 876-478-3933 / 7864 The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites 85 Knutsford Blvd., Kingston 5 876-929-9000 Eden Gardens Wellness Resort & Spa 39 Lady Musgrave Road Kingston 10 876-946-9981 Hotel Four Seasons 18 Ruthven Road Kingston 10 876-926-0682 / 8805 The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel 81 Knutsford Blvd. P.O. Box 333 Kingston 5 876-926-3690-9 / 3100-8 Kircamp Properties / The Gardens 23 Liguanea Ave., Kingston 10 876-927-8275 Knutsford Court Hotel 16 Chelsea Ave., Kingston 10 876-929-1000 / 3407 Liguanea Club 80 Knutsford Blvd. Kingston 5 876-926-8144 / 5 or 6 Medallion Hall Hotel 53 Hope Road Kingston 6 876-927-5721 / 5866 / 6116 Spanish Court Hotel 1 St. Lucia Ave., Kingston 5 876-926-0000 Strawberry Hill Hotel & Spa P.O. Box 590 Liguanea, Kingston 6 876-944-8400 Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel 17 Waterloo Road Kingston 10 876-926-2211-3 / 9334-9
MONTEGO BAY (ST. JAMES) Altamont West Hotel 33 Gloucester Ave. Montego Bay, St. James 876-952-9087 / 929-4497-8 / 979-9378 Coyaba Beach Resort & Spa 22 Mahoe Bay Little River P.O., St. James 876-953-9150-3 Doctor’s Cave Beach Hotel Gloucester Ave. P.O. Box 94, Montego Bay 876-952-4355-9 El Greco Resort 11 Queens Drive P.O. Box 1624, Montego Bay 876-940-6116 / 940-6120 Gloucestershire Hotel 92 Gloucester Ave. P.O. Box 16 Montego Bay 876-971-4095 / 952-4420 Half Moon, a RockResort P.O. Box 80 Montego Bay 876-953-2211 / 2344-93
Palm View Resort & Conference Centre 22 Delisser Drive, Montego Bay 876-952-1738 / 8321 / 1800
Toby’s Resort 1 Kent Ave. P.O. Box 467, Montego Bay 876-952-4370
Relax Resort 26 Hobbs Ave., White Sands Beach 876-952-6944 / 979-0656
The Tryall Club Sandy Bay Main Road Hanover 876-956-5660-3
Richmond Hill Inn Union Street P.O. Box 362, Montego Bay 876-952-3859 / 5432 / 6107 RIU Montego Bay Mahoe Bay, Rose Hall 876-940-8010 Round Hill Hotel John Pringle Drive P.O. Box 64 Montego Bay 1 876-956-7050 Royalton White Sands 1A Mountain Spring Road Trelawny 876-632-7410 Sandals Carlyle Kent Avenue P.O. Box 412, Montego Bay 876-952-4140
The Wexford Hotel 39 Gloucester Ave. P.O. Box 108, Montego Bay 876-952-2854-5 NEGRIL (WESTMORELAND) Azul Sensatori Jamaica Norman Manley Blvd., Negril 876-620-0100 Beach House Villas Jamaica Ltd. Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 481, Negril 876-957-4731 / 4647 / 9162 Beaches Negril P.O. Box 12, Negril, Westmoreland 876-957-9270-4 The Caves Resort & Spa (Affiliate) Lighthouse Road P.O. Box 3113, Negril 876-957-0270
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa P.O. Box 9 Rose Hall, Montego Bay 876-953-2650
Sandals Montego Bay Kent Ave. P.O. Box 100, Montego Bay 876-952-5510-5
Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort P.O. Box 480 Montego Bay 876-953-2485-9 / 2499
Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island P.O. Box 167, Mahoe Bay Rose Hall, Montego Bay 876-953-2301-8
Hotel Gloriana 1–2 Sunset Blvd. Montego Bay 876-979-0669
SeaGarden Beach Resort 8 Kent Ave. Montego Bay, St. James 876-979-7761
Country Country Ltd. Norman Manley Blvd., Negril 876-957-4273
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Rose Hall Road Half Moon P.O. 2537 Montego Bay, St. James 876-953-2800
Secrets St. James Montego Bay Montego Freeport, St. James 876-953-6600
Couples Negril P.O. Box 35, Negril 876-957-5960-9
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay Montego Freeport St. James 876-953-6600
Couples Swept Away Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 3077, Negril 876-957-4062-6
Silent Waters Villas White Sands Beach P.O. Montego Bay 876-971-9119-21
Foote Prints On The Sand Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 100, Negril 876-957-4300 / 3152
Sunset Beach Resort & Spa P.O. Box 1168 Montego Freeport, Montego Bay 876-979-8800
Fun Holiday Beach Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Negril P.O. 876-957-3585
Iberostar Rose Hall Beach & Spa Resort Rose Hall Main Road Little River P.O. Montego Bay St. James 876-680-0000 N Resort P.O. Box 1933 Falmouth, Trelawny 876-617-2500 / 5900
Charela Inn Hotel Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 3033, Negril 876-957-4277 / 4648-50 Cocolapalm Resort Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 2576, Negril 876-957-4227 / 3455-7
Gardenia Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Negril P.O. 876-957-4394 / 616-1811
Rooms On The Beach Negril Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-3500
Grand Palladium Resort Point District, Lucea P.O. Box 4779, Hanover 876-619-0000-9
Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 12, Negril 876-957-5216-7 / 5230-1 / 5254-5
Grand Pineapple Beach Resort Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 3058, Negril 876-957-4408 / 4475 Hedonism II P.O. Box 25 Negril 876-957-5200 Hotel Samsara Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 23, Negril 876-957-4395 Merrils Beach Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Box 75, Negril P.O. 876-957-4751 / 3122 Negril Palms Hotel Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-4375 Negril Tree House Resort Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 29, Negril 876-957-4287-8 Negril’s Idle Awhile Ltd. Norman Manley Blvd., Negril 876-957-3302 / 3303 Rayon Hotel Ltd. Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 3388, Negril 876-957-9166 RIU Club Negril Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-5700 / 5985 RIU Palace Tropical Bay Bloody Bay, Negril 876-957-5900 Rockhouse Hotel Lighthouse Road West End P.O. Box 24, Negril 876-957-4373 / 0621-6 Rondel Village Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 96, Negril 876-957-4413 / 4651-2
Sandy Haven Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-3200 Seastar Inn Seastar Road, West End P.O. Box 2653, Negril 876-957-0553 Sea Wind Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-9018 Shields Negril Villas Norman Manley Blvd. Negril P.O. 876-957-3112 / 9001 / 9006 The Spa Retreat Boutique Hotel 48 West End Road Negril 876-399-3772 Sunset at The Palms Resort & Spa Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 118, Negril 876-957-5350 / 5360 Tensing Pen Hotel West End Road P.O. Box 3013 Negril 876-957-0387 Travellers Beach Resort Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-9308 / 3039 White Sands Cottages Ltd. P.O. Box 60 Norman Manley Blvd. Negril 876-957-4291 / 4445 OCHO RIOS (ST. ANN) Beaches Boscobel Resort & Golf Club Oracabessa P.O. Box 63 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-975-7777 / 7666
The Cardiff Hotel & Spa P.O. Box 98 Runaway Bay St. Ann 876-973-6671-4
The Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa P.O. Box 858 Mammee Bay, St. Ann 876-972-7400
Club Ambiance P.O. Box 20 Runaway Bay St. Ann 876-973-6167 / 4705-6
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa Silver Spray Road Runaway Bay P.O. 876-973-4520
Columbus Heights (Tourism Consultants Ltd.) P.O. Box 383 Ocho Rios St. Ann 876-974-1921
Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-633-4000
Couples Sans Souci P.O. Box 103 Ocho Rios St. Ann 876-994-1206-14 Couples Tower Isle P.O. Box 330 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-975-4271-5 Fisherman’s Point Turtle Beach Road P.O. Box 6201 Ocho Rios 876-974-4147 / 973-4809 Franklyn D. Resort P.O. Box 201 Runaway Bay, St. Ann 876-973-4591-8 Goldeneye (Affiliate) Oracabessa, St. Mary 876-622-9007 Gran Bahia Principe Jamaica Hotel Salt Coppers P.O. Box 106 Runaway Bay, St. Ann 876-973-7000 / 7655 Hermosa Cove Villa Resort & Suites Hermosa Street, Pineapple Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-3699 Hibiscus Lodge Hotel 83 Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2676 / 2594 / 2813 Jamaica Inn P.O. Box 1 Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2514-8
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-795-1694 / 974-6405 Mystic Ridge Jamaica Ltd. 17 DaCosta Drive Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-431-8685 Prospect Plantation Villas P.O. Box 28 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-994-1373 / 1452 RIU Club Ocho Rios Mammee Bay, St. Ann 876-972-2200 Rooms On The Beach Ocho Rios P.O. Box 280, Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2008 / 6632 Royal Decameron Club Caribbean P.O. Box 65 Runaway Bay, St. Ann 876-973-4675 / 6348 / 4802 Sandals Grande Riviera Beach & Villa Golf Resort P.O. Box 77, Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-5486-9 / 5691-6 Sandals Royal Plantation Golf Club & Spa P.O. Box 2, 142 Main Street Ocho Rios 876-974-5601-2 Shaw Park Beach Hotel P.O. Box 17, Cutlass Bay Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2552-4 Sunflower Beach Resort Villas / Leisure Holiday P.O. Box 150, Runaway Bay 876-973-4809
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MEMBERS 182
PORT ANTONIO (PORTLAND) Bay View Eco Resort & Spa Anchovy, Williamsfield Port Antonio, Portland 876-993-3118 Geejam Hotel Port Antonio, Portland 876-993-7000 / 7246 Goblin Hill Villas P.O. Box 26, Port Antonio 876-993-7443 / 5737 / 7549 Trident Hotel Anchovy, Port Antonio P.O. 876-633-7000 / 7100 SOUTH COAST Golf View Hotel & Conference Centre 51/2 Caledonia Road P.O. Box 189 Mandeville 876-962-4471 / 4474 Jakes Hotel, Villas & Spa Calabash Bay P.A. Treasure Beach St. Elizabeth 876-965-3000 / 0635 / 3185 Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa P.O. Box 5000 Whitehouse, Westmoreland 876-640-3000-9 Treasure Beach Hotel Frenchman’s Bay Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth 876-965-0110-1 / 965-2305 SERVICES AND ALLIED AIRLINES & AIRPORTS AUTHORITY Airports Authority of Jamaica Norman Manley International Airport Kingston 876-924-8452-6 British Airways Norman Manley International Airport Kingston 876-656-8961
ASSOCIATIONS The American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica Room 119, The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel 81 Knutsford Blvd. Kingston 5 876-929-7866-7 The Association of Jamaica Attractions Ltd. c/o Dolphin Cove, Dunn’s River P.O. Box 21, Ocho Rios; 876-795-2272 Culinary Federation of Jamaica L & M Meat Complex, P.O. Box 6429 Runaway Bay, St. Ann 876-871-4853 Jamaica Association of Villas & Apartments Pineapple Place, P.O. Box 298 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2508 / 975-5653 Jamaica Rent-A-Car Asscn. Ltd. 31 Hope Road, Kingston 10 876-920-5289 / 920-2872 ATTRACTIONS Appleton Estate Rum Tour c/o Appleton Estate Siloah P.O., St. Elizabeth 876-963-9215-7 Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours Ltd. Shops 15 & 16, Santa Maria Plaza 121 Main Street, Ocho Rios 876-974-7075 Bob Marley Group of Companies 56 Hope Road Kingston 6 876-978-2991 / 927-9152 Chukka Caribbean Adventure Tours Ltd. Shop #2, Freeport Shopping Centre Montego Bay, St. James 876-953-6699 / 684-9934 Devon House Development Co. Ltd. 26 Hope Road, Kingston 10 876-926-0815
Five Star Watersports Ltd. Shop #14, Santa Maria Shoppes 121 Main Street Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-2446 / 4593 / 6838 / 795-3984 Green Grotto Caves & Attractions St. Ann Development Company P.O. Box 205 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-973-3217 / 2841 Mystic Mountain Limited P.O. Box 259 Ocho Rios, St. Ann 876-974-3990 / 382-6124 Negril Hills Golf Club & Resort Negril P.O., Westmoreland 876-957-4638 / 4240 / 3614 Rose Hall Developments Ltd. P.O. Box 1 Rose Hall, St. James 876-953-2341 / 3855 / 2456 Sandals Golf & Country Club P.O. Box 771, Upton Ocho Rios 876-975-0119-21 VIP Attractions (Lost World Airport Attractions) 2A Hillcrest Ave., Kingston 6 876-618-3651 / 3652 Zipline Adventure Tours Lethe Estate, Hanover 876-366-0124 / 438-4994 AUDIO VISUAL COMPANIES Jamaica Audio Visual Company Ltd. (JAVCO) Shop #3, Half Moon Shopping Village Rose Hall, St. James 876-953-2546 AUDITORS Pricewaterhousecoopers 32 Market Street, P.O. Box 180 Montego Bay, St. James 876-952-5065 / 6151 CAR RENTALS Budget Rent-A-Car / International Rental 53 South Camp Road, Kingston 4 876-759-1793
Caribbean Airlines Norman Manley International Airport Kingston 876-924-8318 / 945-6322
Doctor’s Cave Bathing Club Gloucester Ave. White Sands Beach P.O. Montego Bay 876-952-2566
Delta Airlines Inc. Sangster International Airport Montego Bay 876-952-4033
Dolphin Cove Dunn’s River, P.O. Box 21 Ocho Rios 876-795-2272
Island Car Rentals Ltd. 17 Antigua Ave., Kingston 10 876-926-8861 / 5991
Fly Jamaica Airways 2 Holborn Road, Kingston 10 876-655-9832 / 619-3595
Falmouth Jamaica Land Company 6A Holborn Road Kingston 10 876-954-4321 / 305-539-6071
Sunsational Car Rental & Tours Ltd. Suite 206, Chatwick Plaza 10 Queens Drive, Montego Bay 876-952-1212
Fiesta Car Rentals (Ja) Ltd. 14 Waterloo Road, Kingston 10 876-926-0133 / 929-3832
CONFERENCE CENTRES Jamaica Conference Centre 14–20 Port Royal Street Kingston 876-922-9160-9 Montego Bay Convention Centre Rose Hall, Montego Bay St. James 876-622-9330 DUTY-FREE SHOPS B.D. Dadlani Jamaica Ltd. DBA The Casa de Oro, Suite 7C Shoppes at Rose Hall Montego Bay 1 876-953-3371
CGM Gallagher Insurance Brokers 27 Harbour Street, Kingston 876-948-6995 Fraser Fontaine & Kong Ltd. Insurance Brokers 28 Pawsey Place, Kingston 5 876-926-1140-4 MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Business Recovery Services Ltd. 11 Connolley Ave., Kingston 4 876-948-0012-15 Evelyn Smith & Associates P.O. Box 3272, Negril 876-869-8156
Swiss Stores Ltd. 107 Harbour Street, Box 171 Kingston P.O. 876-922-8050-4
Time Square Plaza Norman Manley Blvd. P.O. Box 2989, Negril 876-957-9263
Tropicana Duty Free Jewellers 42–44 City Centre Building P.O. Box 538, Montego Bay 876-952-6982
MARKETING, PROMOTION & PUBLIC RELATIONS COMPANIES Amstar DMC Jamaica 1214 Providence Drive Ironshore Industrial Estate Rose Hall, Half Moon Montego Bay, St. James 876-971-9887
ENTERTAINMENT Dream Entertainment Ltd. Unit 28, Winchester Business Centre 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10 876-631-6623 Headline Entertainment Ltd. 8 Haughton Ave., Kingston 10 876-754-1526 Summerfest Productions Ltd. Shops 9 & 10, Parkway Plaza P.O. Box 1178 Montego Bay, St. James 876-953-2933 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Jamaica National Building Society 2–4 Constant Spring Road Kingston 10 876-926-1344-9 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Consolidated Tourism & Investment Consultants Ltd. Fairview Office Park, Block C3, Units 21–22 Montego Bay, St. James 876-620-4263 Echos Consulting Ltd. Technology Innovation Centre 237 Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-512-2558 INSURANCE BROKERAGES Billy Craig Insurance Brokers 28–30 Portsville Plaza Montego Freeport P.O. Box 214, Montego Bay 1, St. James 876-952-5070-1
Caribbean World Enterprises Ltd. 28 Queen’s Drive Montego Bay, St. James 876-952-6404 Jamaica Trade & Investment (JAMPRO) 18 Trafalgar Road P.O. Box 8658 C.S.O., Kingston 876-978-7755 / 3337 MEDICAL SERVICES Hospiten Jamaica Ltd. Half Moon Shopping Village P.O. Box 2025 Half Moon, Rose Hall Montego Bay 876-618-0290 Omega Medical Services Ltd. Norman Manley Blvd. Negril, Westmoreland 876-957-9223 / 0307 PURVEYORS Appliance Traders Limited 35 Half Way Tree Road, Kingston 5 876-926-3371-5 Caribbean Producers (Jamaica) Ltd. Unit #2, L.O.J. Freeport Centre 1 Guinep Way, Montego Bay 876-979-8725-8 / 8134-6 Cool Connection Ltd. / X-Pose Services 65 Red Hills Road, Kingston 20 876-924-5828 / 3436
Creative Industries Ltd. 97 Mannings Hill Road Kingston 5 876-925-3577 Diversey Jamaica Ltd. 83 Hagley Park Road P.O. Box 230, Kingston 11 876-926-8678 Earthwise Plastics, Inc. (Overseas) 2703 West 9th Street Marion, Indiana 765-673-0308 Ecolab 6 Elgin Road, Kingston 5 876-926-0750 / 0755 GraceKennedy Ltd. 73–751/2 Harbour Street P.O. Box 86, Kingston 876-922-3440-9 / 3540-5 Heart Institute of the Caribbean 23 Balmoral Ave., Kingston 10 876-906-2105-8 Humiclima Jamaica Limited 77 Claude Clarke Ave., Flanker Montego Bay 876-564-2959 J. Wray & Nephew Ltd. 234 Spanish Town Road P.O. Box 191, Kingston 11 876-923-7331-5 / 6670 Jamaica Broilers Group McCooks Pen, St. Catherine 876-943-4370 Jamaica Collections & Recovery Services Ltd. 56 Montgomery Ave. Kingston 10 876-908-2077 Jamaica Fibreglass Products Ltd. 155 Spanish Town Road Kingston 11 876-758-7966 La Maison Property Services Ltd. Suite 42A, New Kingston Business Centre 30 Dominica Drive, Kingston 5 876-906-0856 / 60 Lets Limited Shop #2 Freeport Shopping Centre P.O. Box 120 Montego Bay, St. James 876-684-9934 Matahari Enterprises Ltd. Lot 34 Bogue Industrial Estate St. James 876-971-2763
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Perry’s Manufacturing Co. Ltd. 82 Hagley Park Road Kingston 10 876-923-4810 / 4340
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES Columbus Business Solutions (FLOW) 6 St. Lucia Ave., Ground Floor Courtleigh Corporate Centre, Kingston 5 876-620-2200 / 3111
Johns Hall Adventure Tours 26 Hobbs Ave. Montego Bay, St. James 876-971-7776
Rainforest Seafoods Ltd. 23–25 Coconut Way Montego Freeport Montego Bay 876-953-6688
Jamaica Core Media 48 Constant Spring Road Kingston 10 876-906-2673
Kiuki Tours & Transportation Shop #1 Bisco Mall, Embassy Place 6–8 Union Street Montego Bay, St. James 876-940-0521
Red Stripe 214 Spanish Town Road Kingston 11 876-923-9291
LIME (Cable & Wireless) 2–6 Carlton Crescent Kingston 10 876-926-9455 / 936-2725
Knutsford Express Services Ltd. 69 Gloucester Ave. Montego Bay 876-971-1822
Schatzie Ltd. P.O. Box 61 Fontana Bogue Montego Bay, St. James 876-953-6269
Strobe (E-Tech) Communications Limited 33 St. James Street Box 402, Montego Bay P.O. 876-979-0325 / 940-5424
Leisure For Pleasure Holiday & Tours Ltd. 9 Linstar Close, Kingston 19 876-924-7027 / 7330 / 876-833-6186 / 453-8117
TOUR COMPANIES & TOUR OPERATORS Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours Ltd. Shops 15 & 16, Santa Maria Plaza 121 Main Street Ocho Rios 876-974-7075
Nexus Tours Shop EU4, Whitter Village Ironshore, Montego Bay, St. James 876-953-0509
Sealy Mattress Co. (W.I.) Ltd. 519 Spanish Town Road P.O. Box 229 Kingston 11 876-923-8420 / 0363 or 765-2225 / 2233 Select Brands Ltd. 379 Spanish Town Road Kingston 11 876-758-3777 Smith & Stewart Distributors Ltd. 2–10 McArthur Ave., Kingston 11 876-923-3020 / 5610 Therapedic Caribbean Co. Ltd. 68 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 10 876-927-7307 / 9466 / 5439 RESTAURANTS & BARS Cosmo’s Restaurant Norman Manley Blvd., Negril 876-957-9072 / 4784 / 4330 Evita’s Italian Restaurant Eden Bower Road P.O. Box 118, Ocho Rios 876-974-2333 / 1718 / 1012
Caribbean and Latin Travel Consultant Limited 23 Haining Road Kingston 5 876-906-3414 / 472-2127 Caribic Vacations Ltd. 1310 Providence Drive Ironshore Estates White Sands Beach P.O., St. James 876-953-9895 / 9878 GO! Jamaica Travel Company 1–3 Worthington Terrace, Kingston 5 876-920-7051 Island Routes Caribbean Adventure Tours 5 Kent Ave. Montego Bay 876-684-8672
Prestige Leasing & Tours Ltd. 3–5 Victory Bldg., Shop 10A Fourth Street Montego Bay 876-952-8495 / 9363 Rapsody Tours, Cruises & Charters Ltd. Cornwall Beach Complex Gloucester Ave., White Sands P.O. Montego Bay, St. James 876-979-0102-4 Sun Holiday Tours Holiday Village P.O. Box 531, Rose Hall St. James 876-953-3144 / 2937 / 2762 Sunshine Adventure Jamaica Ltd. Providence Drive White Sands Beach P.O. St. James 876-953-2919
Jamaica Cooperative Automobile Limousine Tours Ltd. 80B Claude Clarke Ave. P.O. Box 265 Montego Bay 876-952-7574 / 8277
Tourwise Ltd. 103 Main Street P.O. Box 17 Ocho Rios 876-974-2344 / 2323
Margaritaville White Sands P.O., Montego Bay 876-952-4777 / 3290
Jamaica Cultural Enterprises 7 Charlton Way Kingston 8 876-549-8570 / 374-6370
Tropical Tours Ltd. 28 Queens Drive P.O. Box 85, Montego Bay 876-952-1126
SPORTS COMPANIES Caymanas Track Limited Gregory Park P.O. St. Catherine 876-988-2523-6
Jamaica Tours Limited 1207 Providence Drive, Ironshore P.O. Box 227 Montego Bay 876-953-3700
TRAINING & EDUCATION University of Technology, Jamaica School of Hospitality & Tourism Management 237 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-927-1680-8
Goddard Catering Group (Ja) Ltd. Norman Manley International Airport Kingston 876-924-8131-6
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