Things not to miss

author photo
Andy Turner
7/20/2019

#01 Firefly

Left just as it was when he died, Noël Coward’s former home offers a poignant insight into his life, and with a spectacular location above the St Mary coastline, Firefly has the ultimate “room with a view”.

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#02 Nightlife

From stageshows like Rebel Salute or Reggae Sumfest, to legendary street dances and the best clubs in Kingston, Montego Bay and Negril, Jamaica’s nightlife scene is unforgettable.

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#03 Kingston

The cultural heart of the nation, Jamaica’s atmospheric capital holds museums to Marley, galleries galore, blissful public parks and some simply brilliant bars, restaurants and clubs.

#04 Ackee and saltfish

Sample the national dish, a delectable and addictive combination of salt cod and the little-known ackee fruit.

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#05 Take a boat cruise

The catamarans, sail-swathed pirate boats and souped-up pirogues that cruise Jamaica’s coastline offer a wonderful perspective of the island as well as access to some of its best snorkelling spots.

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#06 Blue Lagoon

Jamaica abounds with turquoise swimming holes, but their king is undoubtedly Portland’s Blue Lagoon, where deliciously cool spring water layers over salty seawater from the blue depths below.

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#07 Hiking in the Blue Mountains

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Cool, misty and fragrant with coffee and wild ginger flowers, the Blue Mountains are perfect hiking territory, the ultimate challenge being the highest point in Jamaica, Blue Mountain Peak.

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#08 Beaches

From the north coast’s strips of fine white sand to the wind-whipped breakers and black volcanic sand in the south, Jamaica’s shoreline is immensely varied – but the Caribbean sea is always warm and inviting.

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#09 Port Royal

This former pirate haunt bristles with character, and is also the jumping-off point for the clear waters of nearby Lime Cay.

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#10 National Gallery

This Kingston institution offers the country’s premier collection of work by Jamaican artists.

#11 River rafting

A glide through the cool waters of one of Jamaica’s rivers is a beguiling way to see the countryside.

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#12 Negril sunsets

Right at the island’s western tip, Negril is in pole position for the best sunset-watching in Jamaica.

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#13 Treasure Beach

With its laid-back atmosphere, Treasure Beach offers a restorative antidote to the north coast resorts.

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#14 Waterfalls

Jamaica’s waterfalls are a delight: clamber up Dunn’s River, swing over the water at YS or enjoy a natural jacuzzi at Reach.

#15 Pelican Bar

Perched on stilts 1km from the shore, this ramshackle bar is a unique place to catch the sunset.

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