Jamaica's cultural diversity and stunning scenery lures travellers

Described as the perfect travel location, Jamaica is ancentral area, Downtown, and New Kingston, the city
island paradise, offering the traveller a vibrant mixtureis a historical metropolis of 17th century architecture
of laidback culture and stunning natural scenery.and lively Jamaican culture.
Located in the West Indies, it is the third largestAttractions include the Hellshire beach, well known for
island in the Caribbean, spanning 4,400 square miles,its fried fish, the ruins of Port Royal, and Devon
with Cuba lying to its south and Haiti to its west.House - a mansion with an adjacent park, once
The Spanish were Jamaica's first known settlers, untilbelonging to Jamaica's first black millionaire. Kingston
the British conquered it in 1655. For many years, itsalso plays host to several annual festivals. The Bob
economy depended on the sugar plantations; theMarley Museum (Mr Marley's old recording studio) is
introduction of bananas, however, helped to alleviateone of the city's top attractions, as is the National
that reliance.Art Gallery and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
In the early 1930s, a new religious movementFor those looking to indulge in a little adventure,
emerged - Rastafarianism - which served to shapeJamaica offers a plethora of activities, ranging from
the nation's identity and culture, and is reflected in itsriver rafts down the Rio Grande, to golfing holidays
art and music today. Very much renowned for itsat the championship golf course in Montego Bay and
musical influences, the genres of reggae, ska, dubdiving trips off of one of its many reefs.
and ragga, among others, originated in Jamaica.Of particular beauty is Jamaica's Long Bay Beach in
Internationally known reggae artist, Bob Marley wasNegrill. Located in the west, it stretches for seven
born there, as were many other significant musicians.miles and is set against a stunning Caribbean
The island is also recognised for its unique tropicalbackdrop of white sand, swaying palm trees and
beauty, fiery local cuisine and surrounding clear blueazure seas.
waters, which serve to attract over one millionBecause of its intense charm and breathtaking
visitors annually. Indeed, in recent years, Jamaica hasbeauty, holidays in Jamaica are a popular option. The
been ranked within the top five of the world's mostisland has a long history built upon a diverse and
favoured travel destinations.vibrant culture, and this has given rise to a proud
Most of the island's major towns and cities arenation; placed as one of the top global destinations to
dotted along its coastline, with the famous Bluetravel to in the world.
Mountains situated further inland. Not only can you goDisclaimer:
hiking through its forested areas, but the mountainsThe information contained within this article is the
also house Jamaica's well-known coffee plantations.opinion of the author and is intended purely for
Kingston - the capital city and Jamaica's culturalinformation and interest purposes only. It should not
centre - is located on the south eastern coast of thebe used to make any decisions or take any actions.
island and faces a natural harbour. Comprised of theAny links are included for information purposes only.