Jamaica
Some 90 miles south of Cuba is the island of Jamaica – Xamayca as the Indians called it – ‘land of streams and forests.’ Today it remains one of the most unique islands of the Caribbean, its landscape varying from lush tropical rainforests and sun-drenched beaches to cascades running from cool mountain heights.
Taken from the Spanish by the English in 1655, Jamaica soon became a base for English privateers who roamed the Caribbean from their base in Port Royal near present Kingston hunting gold and silver laden Spanish galleons. A plantation economy founded on sugar, rum, and coffee soon developed, bringing prosperity to the island until the abolition of slavery in the 1800’s. Today near Kingston, the site of the pirate haven Port Royal can be seen and explored.
Nearby are the Royal Botanical Gardens – two hundred acres of tropical trees and flowers – and the extensive Castleton Gardens. The focus of the tourist industry is on the northern coast with its fine beaches. Long a tourist favorite, Port Antonio and Ocho Rios are popular for all water sports, as well as deep-sea fishing. Rafting on the swift turbulent rivers here is a thrilling experience. With its own international airport, the Montego Bay area stretching along the northwestern coast is the long established capital of tourism with its myriad of hotels and resorts.
Whether you would prefer the large resort facilities or the inimite guesthouses, Jamaica has an excellent choice of Hotels, Resorts, condominiums, small, intimate guesthouses, timeshares and apartments. There is a property to suit every taste.On the western end of the island is the relatively new resort of Negril whose beaches make it ideal for swimming, diving, snorkeling, and sailing. For those wanting to explore the interior of the country, there is Mandeville, 65 miles west of Kingston. With its English ambience, cooler climate, and groves of citrus trees, it is popular for visitors wishing to experience horseback riding, hiking, tennis, and golf. Numerous old plantation homes dot the area. Jamaica offers something to please any taste. Accommodations, from luxury resorts to small inns, assure the visitor of comfortable lodgings. A host of restaurants offers the traveler a variety of local and international cuisine.
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