Jammin’ Jamaica . . . Naturally
Bamboo rafting in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.
Treasure Beach .
(Click photos for info.)
Nestled on Jamaica’s South Coast is Treasure Beach, a six-mile stretch of coral-colored and sometimes black sands with private coves and rocky shores. Treasure Beach’s main bays – Billy’s, Calabash, Fort Charles (also known as Starve Gut) Great and Frenchman’s are ideal for those seeking unspoiled beaches. With an abundance of beachfront cafes, visitors will fall in love and easily see the treasures at Treasure Beach.
Luminous Lagoon
A true natural wonder in Jamaica, the Luminous Lagoon glistens by night. Surrounded by mangroves, the waters of the lagoon are home to microscopic organisms that emit a phosphorescent blue light when disturbed, giving off a luminous effect. Once in the middle of the lagoon, visitors can jump in and experience the true beauty of this natural wonder. Go for a nighttime snorkeling tour for an unforgettable glowing experience. Private tours are available.
Ahhh Ras Natango Garden & Gallery
Located above the hills overlooking Montego Bay is Ahhh Ras Natango, a tropical retreat comprising a gallery and botanical garden. The garden is home to more than 50 species of fern, unique plants and beautiful trees in themed sections. Carved in the hillside, visitors can tour the garden and learn about the various plants while listening to the birds. After experiencing the tranquil gardens, visitors end the tour at the gallery, where there is a treasure for everyone to discover. The gallery features works by local artisans as well as resident artists – Ras Natango, Tamika and Ayale.
Dunn’s River Falls & Park
Dunn’s River Falls & Park in Ocho Rios, St Ann is a complex system of waterfalls and springs and one of Jamaica’s national treasures. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows over the falls. Visitors can climb the falls led by experienced guides, pausing to feel the soothing effects of the water. Guests can also simply lay on the beach or explore the lush foliage at the park. For the adventurous, there is Falls Flyer, a series of seven ziplines and four hanging bridges over the waterfall.
Rafting on the Martha Brae
A quintessential Jamaican experience, rafting on the Martha Brae is a must do for any visitor wishing to see the inner island and some of the unique flora and fauna. With a fleet of bamboo rafts, guided by local river captains, guests glide down the lazy river through the jungle. Departing from “Rafter’s Village,” the tour includes a visit to Miss Martha’s Herb Garden where guests can learn about Jamaica’s herbs, renowned for their medicinal and healing properties.
Green Grotto Caves.
A journey into underworld charm, Green Grotto Caves are surrounded by thick vegetation and supplied with pristine waters flowing from its secret depths. Visitors to this natural attraction can explore the large labyrinthine limestone cave with its unique rock formations, its stalactites, stalagmites and abundance of overhead ceiling pockets. The tour takes guests into the depths of the 1,525m long and 12m deep grotto for a fascinating underworld experience.
These select attractions, are compliant with the destination’s strict health protocols implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors as well as residents.
Exploring nature and the outdoors can be beneficial especially during this era of physical distancing and Jamaica offers that respite which can serve as an oasis of possibilities. To learn more, go to www.visitjamaica.com.
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam and Mumbai.
TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #1 Caribbean Destination and #14 Best Destination in the World in 2019. Also this year, the International Council of the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) named Jamaica the Destination of the Year and TravAlliance Media named JTB Best Tourism Board, and Jamaica as Best Culinary Destination, Best Wedding Destination and Best Honeymoon Destination. Additionally, the JTB has been declared the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) for thirteen consecutive years between 2006 and 2019. Jamaica also earned the WTA’s award for the Caribbean’s Leading Destination, Leading Cruise Destination and Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2018 for the Montego Bay Convention Centre. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that have won several awards throughout the years.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Web site at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at www.islandbuzzjamaica.com.
>
SpecialJ Jetsetters Magazine feature.