JamaicaG U I D E T O

Travel CounsellorsInsider Guide to Jamaica

Introducing Jamaica

HistoryOriginally inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Taíno people, Jamaica came under Spanish rule following the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1494 and from them was known as Santiago. When the indigenous people on the island began to die out, the Spanish sent over African slaves as labourers.

It remained a possession of Spain until 1655 when England conquered it and renamed it Jamaica. As part of the British Empire, the country became a leading exporter of sugar – which is still its largest agricultural export today and the base ingredient of its famous produce, rum.

The British fully emancipated slaves in the 19th century, with many choosing to remain and own subsistence farms to provide for their families, rather than continuing to work on plantations.

Jamaica finally gained its independence from Great Britain in 1962 and their government became a democracy, with a Prime Minister and a cabinet taking the reins. Today the island economy relies mostly on tourism and agriculture to generate income.

CultureThe impact of Jamaica’s cultural presence can be felt worldwide with the country leaving its mark on music, food and religion.

Music has deep roots in Jamaica and is where genres like ska, rocksteady and reggae originated. Some of the country’s most notable people have been musicians including Bob Marley, who popularised Jamaican music and in 1981 was hailed by then-Prime Minister Edward Seaga as “part of the collective consciousness of the nation.”

Jamaica is also the birthplace of Rastafarianism, a religion adopted by groups across the globe who regard Haile Selassie I, former leader of Ethiopia, as a religious symbol for God incarnate. The cultural power of the Rastafari movement has been reflected in fashion, art and music.

Kingston – Ocho Rios: 1 hour, (33 miles)

Ocho Rios – Montego Bay: 1 hour, 35 minutes (64 miles)

Montego Bay – Negril: 1 hour, 30 minutes (50 miles)

Negril – Kingston: 3 hours 35 minutes (118 miles)

Map of Jamaica

Ocho RiosMontego Bay

Negril

Kingston

Yardie, Yard man – Jamaican

Jamrock – Jamaica

Bredren (male), Sistren (female) – Friend

Wah gwaan – What’s up?

Big up, Respect – Well done

Nyam – To eat

Ova deh – Over there

Yah mon – Yes

Irie – Okay

Tenk yuh – Thank you

Likkle more, walk good – See you later

Skin dem teeth - Smile

Local language

Jamaican – Meaning

Although Jamaica’s official language is English, a great benefit of travelling to the island, many Jamaican people communicate in Patois.

So, to help you feel like a local while you’re exploring Jamaica, here are a few phrases of Jamaican Patois to try!

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Average Monthly Temperature: Jamaica

30° 31°30° 31° 31° 32° 32° 33° 33° 32° 32° 31°

ClimateJamaica has a tropical climate, with a wet and a dry season, but is generally warm and sunny all year round. Hurricane season usually runs from June to November.

Interesting facts...Population: 2.6 million

Capital: Kingston

National Anthem: Jamaica, Land We Love

National motto: Out of Many, One People

Currency: Jamaican dollar

Official Language: English

There are 290 bird species in Jamaica, more than on any other island in the Caribbean

Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica on 5th May 1494 and the first Spanish colonists arrived in 1509. On 10th May 1655, Britain defeated the Spanish, granting Jamaica independence in 1962

The first James Bond film, Dr No, released in 1962, was filmed in Ocho Rios, and Cocktail, starring Tom Cruise, was filmed in Port Antonio

Jamaica is home to the largest botanical gardens in the Caribbean, Hope Gardens, at 200 acres in size

The mongoose was introduced to the island, from India, to kill snakes in the sugar cane fields

Did you know...

Club Mobay Lounge

Avoid the airport crowds and indulge in luxury at the Club Mobay Lounge at Montego Bay International Airport.

Regardless of your class or airline, you can enjoy complimentary food and drink in comfortable surroundings including Red Stripe – one of Jamaica’s signature beverages.

Whether you’re there for business or pleasure, Club Mobay’s lounge experience is enhanced with a visual journey through Jamaica’s history, giving you one last slice of the island nation before you depart.

If you’d like to take your relaxation to the next level, then try a treatment at the spa and unwind as you get a pedicure, manicure or massage. There are also shower facilities for those wanting to freshen up before they fly.

Little ones will love the children’s area for play and entertainment, while working travellers are taken care of with the business centre, where you can use your laptop, tablet and phone while taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi.

Upper Class Upper class is the pinnacle of travelling with Virgin Atlantic. Travel in luxury with a chauffer car transfer service available at more destinations with selected Upper Class, private security channel, exclusive clubhouses around the world, the longest flat bed in its class and much more which makes flying as much of a pleasure as the holiday itself.

Premium There’s a big, wide leather seat with 38-inch pitch, a complimentary glass of welcome bubbly and an in-seat power supply which will keep your gadgets charging throughout the flight. Premium is ideal for passengers who like extra flexibility, space and comfort.

Economy You can enjoy tasty, seasonal meals, complimentary drinks, an amenity kit and Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning in-flight entertainment system, with extra legroom options also available.

Fly to the exotic Montego Bay with Virgin Atlantic

With direct flights departing daily from London to Montego Bay, taking less than 10 hours, Jamaica has never been so close.

For over 30 years, Virgin Atlantic has been one of the world’s favourite long haul airlines. Every year they fly over six million passengers to over 30 of the world’s favourite destinations, including Jamaica, while helping to make memorable journeys for passengers with innovative products and welcoming service in every cabin.

6 must-try flavours of Jamaica

1. Jerk chickenOf course, we couldn’t indulge in Jamaican cuisine without covering the famous dish that is jerk. Jerk is a style of cooking originating from Jamaica in which meat is dry rubbed or marinated in a special blend of jerk spices, including Scotch bonnet peppers and allspice. This seasoning was traditionally applied to pork and chicken but can just about be added to any meat or fish. We definitely recommend sampling this vibrant delicacy during your stay and it’s available at traditional jerk shacks as well as restaurants all around the island.

2. Ackee and saltfishJamaica’s national dish, ackee and saltfish, is a mouthwatering concoction of salted cod and ackee, a fruit originally imported from Ghana but cooked and used as a vegetable. This is a delicious sweet and salty treat that can be enjoyed both at breakfast and dinner!

3. Curried lobsterWhat better way to have a true Jamaican experience than sampling fresh flavours straight from the sea? From fine dining to the quirky and authentic marketplaces, Jamaica’s seafood dishes are aplenty. Infused with local spices, we recommend trying curried lobster or coconut shrimp. Bursting with flavour, these dishes are a perfect blend of fresh crustaceans and seasoning.

4. RumFirst distilled on the sugarcane plantations of the Caribbean in the 17th century, Jamaica holds great pride in the divine rum available across the island, and rightly so. From light to gold, dark to spiced, you are guaranteed to find a flavour you love. Whether you sip rum neat or in a cooling cocktail on the beach, you’ll probably find yourself seeking a rum souvenir to take home!

5. BreadfruitThe name is something of a giveaway with this unusual yet delicious fruit. One of Jamaica’s most versatile fruits, this exotic delicacy actually tastes of bread! The potato-like consistency of this carbohydrate means breadfruit can be used in all sorts of dishes. You’ll see it baked, fried and boiled, making breadfruit chips, puddings, and even porridge!

6. Jamaica Blue Mountain CoffeeCaffeine fiends will delight in the chance to sample the most expensive bean in the world - Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee. With a mellow, sweet, aromatic and mild flavour, the blue-green bean is extremely rare as it’s only grown in the Blue Mountains and the prestigious plantations produce very small quantities, regulated by the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica. If you love a cup of joe, don’t miss the chance to sip this exceptional coffee in its native environment.

Here, we’ve compiled our six favourite nibbles and tipples to inspire you to take a foodie journey around Jamaica. If you don’t have time to sample all of the specialties this Caribbean island has to offer, make sure you taste the tingling, mouthwatering flavours of jerk chicken!

Our favourite sightsRose Hall Great House The Rose Hall Great House is one of many attractions on the 6,600-acre Rose Hall plantation, which includes mountain villages, cane fields and well-manicured golf courses. This 18th century mansion is where wealthy plantation owner John Palmer lived. It was used to host elaborate social gatherings and is said to be haunted by John’s wife Annie, who murdered him and two subsequent husbands in the house. For those brave enough, candle-lit evening tours of the house are available, where you can find out more about the history of this grand building.

Negril Beach (Seven Mile Beach)If you dream of dazzling white sand stretching as far as the eye can see, escape here. Seven miles of glorious white sand awaits, gently sloping into an azure blue sea that’s so clear you won’t want to leave. The beach is always busy as it’s popular with locals and tourists – it’s a popular choice for families - but the buzzing atmosphere adds to the charm of this tropical paradise.

Hope Royal Botanical Gardens Known as Hope Gardens, this delightful 200-acre site was established in 1873, on land from the estate of one of the original English colonisers of Jamaica, Major Richard Hope. Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1953 and permission was granted to change the name to include Royal Botanical Gardens. Wandering around these gardens, you’ll come across rare and tropical plants and trees, including cacti, orchids and the Hibiscus elatus (blue mahoe), the national tree of Jamaica.

Greenwood Great House Step back in time to the 19th Century and explore Jamaica from over 200 years ago at this fascinating sugar plantation. Perched on a hill, Greenwood Great House was owned by poet Elizabeth Barratt-Browning’s family and the house is surrounded by beautiful grounds. Learn about life on a sugar plantation, explore artefacts that have survived the years (including the library filled with rare books), and sip a drink in the quaint pub in the gardens.

Gaze at hidden waterfalls Jamaica’s mountainous interior, along with plenty of rainfall, have created magnificent waterfalls for visitors to marvel at.

Head just nine miles outside of Kingston to discover Cane River Falls, nestled inside Cane River Falls Park. This secluded waterfall is popular with locals and was reputedly frequented by Bob Marley who would go there to wash his dreadlocks!

In Ocho Rios, take a trip to Turtle River Falls and Gardens. Located within the 15-acre tropical garden lies Turtle River Falls, a combination of 14 cascading waterfalls surrounded by an abundance of exotic birds and plants.

For panoramic views of Ocho Ricos and the Caribbean Sea, visit Mahoe Falls. Situated within the spectacular Coyaba River Gardens, it’s a delightful spot to head to after taking a relaxing swim in the sparkling pools.

Explore underground caves Head off the beaten track and explore Jamaica’s scenic northern coast and its intriguing underground world.

Delve into the Green Grotto Caves, which take their name from green algae that covers the walls, and learn about their fascinating and diverse history as shelter, hideout, and rum storehouse!

Located near Runaway Bay, on a trip to the caves you’ll be guided through a maze of stalactites and stalagmites, passageways and chambers until you reach the grotto, where you’ll find translucent water in the mesmerising underground lake.

Hike to the highest point on the islandLace up your hiking boots and set yourself a challenge – to hike up the Blue Mountain Peak to Jamaica’s highest point. This giant peak stands inside the dramatic Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2015.

At 2,256m (7,402ft) above sea level, it takes about four hours to make the seven-mile climb to the top of Blue Mountain Peak - plus another three or so for the journey down. The path is narrow, rugged, and steep but the view at the top is unbeatable, not to mention the incredible scenery you’ll clamber past. Make sure to keep your camera handy as you walk through the brilliant green canopy, it’s a perfect opportunity to spot a Jamaican Tody or swallow-tailed hummingbird.

Try something different

TC Recommended: JamaicaTake a look at some of our Travel Counsellors’ recommendations for a unique, once in a

lifetime experience in Jamaica. To share your special holiday memories, please upload your images to your social media account using #TCexperience

“We stayed at Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa and had a great time. Negril is located on the west of the island and we were based on seven mile beach. Pristine white powdery sand that leads to a beautiful turquoise calm sea…picture-postcard stuff!”

Travel Counsellor Derek

“My top tip is to make sure you visit Dunn's River Falls – it’s a must for everyone, as well as great fun! I also recommend the Jamaica Bobsled Tranopy, which is not for the fainthearted!”

Travel Counsellor Joanne

“My family and I visited Jamaica in January 2016. We absolutely loved it! The beauty that is Jamaica, the culture, the music and the food is not to be missed. It’s a wonderful part of the world.

My absolute must-do is a visit to the Blue Hole in Ocho Rios. It’s not overrun with tourists as yet as the cruise ships don't include it on their shore excursions, and you’ll find pristine waterfalls amidst a beautiful tropical backdrop. The guides at the Blue Hole are brilliant and will ensure that you take the best memories with you. They are also great with helping younger children make their way up the waterfall climb.

My other recommendations? Montego Bay would have to be on the list. Dr Caves beach has a cover charge, but is certainly beautiful, and Rose Hall is also an interesting visit.”

Travel Counsellor Donna

USD $92Meal for two

in a fine dining restaurant

USD $9Plate of jerk

chicken

Spending moneyWondering how much spending money you’ll need for your travels? To help you plan your trip, here’s a rough guide to the cost of some of the things you might be buying whilst you’re there!

US dollars are widely accepted in Jamaica

USD $7Rum cocktail

USD $2.50A single, short

taxi ride

USD $20Guided tour of

Greenwood Great House

Spending money...

Jamaica for couples

Jamaica is the perfect retreat for couples. Whether you are on your honeymoon, celebrating a special occasion or are just enjoying a relaxing break, there’s plenty you can get up to.

Experience the sights of Jamaica by sea on a Cool Runnings Catamaran and have a day of fun and sun on the Caribbean Sea. On the Cool Runnings Dunn’s River Snorkel, you’ll have the opportunity to go snorkelling and get up close and personal with beautiful marine life. You’ll also stop at Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica’s number one attraction, and head up a cascading waterfall and through lush rainforest. The evening Sunset Sail is a more relaxing affair, as you see the sun sink towards the horizon while enjoying and on-deck meal washed down with complimentary Red Stripe and rum!

Find hints of romantic Venice while rafting on the Martha Brae river. Let your licenced and experienced raft captain guide you from the pier and out along a three-mile stretch of water where you’ll be able to stop off for a swim, or simply enjoy from the comfort of your seat.

Or you can head to Reggae Style Mayfield Falls where you’ll discover a Rasta village with traditional huts, offering insight into and experience of rural Jamaican life’s rustic ambience. There are also 44 mineral pools and 21 natural hot tubs awaiting your presence, which can be enjoyed with homemade food and juice made from seasonal fruit.

Couples ResortsStay at a Couples resort to experience the splendour of adults-only luxury. Each Couples resort provides an all-inclusive offering including fine dining, premium drinks, excursions, room service, golf, licensed scuba diving and much more.

Couples Sans SouciPerched cliffside and cast against verdant surroundings, Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios has a range of rooms and suites which are perfect for that romantic getaway. Relax and enjoy the emerald mountains in the distance, a sumptuous private beach and glistening blue waters, with various secluded pavilions from which to catch these beautiful views.

Couples NegrilLying in 18 acres of tropical gardens, Couples Negril provides the perfect balance of tranquillity, romance and elegance. Choose from an extensive list of activities including snorkelling and scuba diving, enjoy a range of treatments at the Treehouse Spa or relax and warm up by a late-night beach bonfire under the Jamaican sky.

Couples Swept AwayWith seven miles of white sand and a secluded, unspoilt location, Couples Swept Away offers a paradise in which to relax and enjoy. It is also a hit with active guests thanks to its massive fitness complex, three pools and five Jacuzzis.

Jamaica for families

Jamaica is the perfect paradise for families to explore, with world-class attractions joined by safe and luxurious accommodation, ensuring that every member of the family is taken care of and catered for.

Dunn’s River Falls, the island’s number one attraction, will be a hit with the kids. This eye-catching attraction features 600 feet of cool mountain water cascading down over stone steps en route to the sea. Licenced guides will lead you up the falls and over into the surrounding tropical rainforest.

You can also take the family to Green Grotto Caves, which are said to have provided shelter for Jamaica’s first inhabitants. This hour-long tour will take you through a maze of majestic stalactites and stalagmites and 37 metres underground where you’ll discover a pool of translucent water.

If your little ones are thrill seekers they’ll love Mystic Mountain. High up on a mountain above Ocho Rios, you can go bobsledding down the mountainside, soaring through the forest on a zip wire or swimming in Jamaica’s ultimate infinity pool.

Half Moon, Montego BaySet on 400 acres of manicured grounds and two miles of beachfront, Half Moon Jamaica boasts comfortable and private accommodation with either a patio or balcony, so guests will be able to retreat to peaceful views of the gardens, beach or pools. The resort’s amenities, including an equestrian centre, golf course and children’s village are all within walking distance – perfect for little adventurers.

Hilton Rose Hall, Montego BayOne of the finest all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, Hilton Rose Hall has an exclusive oceanfront location with access to the country’s longest white sand beach. Enjoy a variety of fun watersports and splash around at their water park with cascading waterfalls, a lazy river and slides galore. There’s also the Kids Klub in addition to a full programme of child-friendly activities.

Beaches, Ocho RiosThis all-inclusive resort is set amongst 22-acres of lush tropical gardens and has a gorgeous private white-sand beach, seven gourmet restaurants three big, fantastic swimming pools and an entire turquoise ocean fit for the wide variety of watersports on offer. Go “surf-and-turf” with a huge action-adventure waterpark, as well as championship golf which everyone can get involved in.

Jamaican luxury

If you want to indulge in a spot of luxury and decadence on your Jamaica trip, there are plenty of options from which to choose.

The Land of Water and Wood is no stranger to exotic activities, and your Travel Counsellor will be able to build a retreat to suit your every need. Schedule a couples massage on the beach and feel the stress release from your body to the sound of rolling waves lapping up on the shore, or book a candlelit meal on your private terrace or a sunset dinner and usher in the nighttime with gourmet cuisine.

There’s also a whole catalogue of excursions available to book, allowing you to see more of the island in both comfort and style. Taste the nectar of Jamaica by sipping rum on a tour of the famous Appleton Estate, even having the chance to make some of your own, go on a glass bottom boat tour of the Caribbean Sea and have a window into the world of local marine life without getting your feet wet, or have a drink at Floyd’s Pelican Bar which is located a mile off the coast in the middle of the ocean!

Jamaica InnFamily-owned and operated for over half a century, staying at Jamaica Inn will feel like returning home. The hotel is on the more tranquil west coast and offers private access to 700 feet of white sand. Its cosy ambience makes it one of the most romantic places on the island and is where Marilyn Monroe famously toasted her honeymoon. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to enjoy an evening meal with a separate veranda for cocktails, as well as a live band on most nights.

Jewel Paradise CoveIf you’re looking for peace and serenity, head to Jewel Paradise Cove. Its secluded location and an all-inclusive, adults-only package with food, drink and green fees at the 18-hole Runaway Bay Golf Club included, creates an air of exclusivity. Accommodation is another treat, and all rooms are decorated in contemporary style with state-of-the-art technology.

Jewel Dunn’s RiverOnly steps away from Jamaica’s most popular attraction, Jewel Dunn’s River combines adults-only luxury with a premium all-inclusive offering. Whether you want to get active and use the on-site fitness centre, have a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, play a relaxing round of golf or sample top-notch Italian fare, this resort has you covered.

Here, we’ve chosen a few of the things we think you

should see, do and eat while you’re in Jamaica. We hope it inspires you to journey to Jamaica time and time again.

Get in touch to build a bespoke itinerary, tailor-made just for you! We’d love to see your photos and stories on

social media so please share your memories using #TCexperience