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Jamaica

Jamaica, one of Caribbean’s most iconic destinations, needs no introduction. The spectacular scenery here is overwhelming: coral reefs, white-sand beaches, scintillating waterfalls and cloud-shrouded rainforests. Everywhere you look, nature seems to have cast its spell. If the scenery is beautiful, the music is infectious. Jamaica is the birthplace of Bob Marley and it goes without saying that reggae occupies a unique position in the island's musical heart. Jamaica is a potpourri of inhabitants from African, Chinese, Indian, British and German heritage.

Things to see and do in Jamaica

• Spanish Town: Stroll around the ancient streets of Jamaica's former capital and see the beautiful historic buildings. It was once a magnificent and impressive metropolis. You can marvel some fine stately red-brick homes and grand monuments belonging to an era gone by.
• Hiking, biking and trekking: Hike up the trails on the Blue Mountains and reach heights above 2,100m (7,000ft). The peaks are shrouded by mists that give it the bluish tinge and hence the name. The Blue Mountains are inhabited by more than 200 bird species and 800 species of plants. There are also some beautiful paths around Newcastle on the Kingston to Buff Bay Road that lead to Catherine's Peak and Mount Horeb.
• Doctor's Cave Beach: This is a beautiful beach with exquisite white sands. Bask in the sun, play beach games or lazily admire the sparkling waters.
• Milk River Spa: You can take a rejuvenating dip in the curative waters. The Milk River Spa is a naturally radioactive mineral bath fed by therapeutic waters that reach temperatures of 33°C (86°F).
• Underwater activities: Jamaica has some interesting diving spots. You can spot sponges, coloured fish and corals.
• Limestone caves: Jamaica's north coast has a huge labyrinth of limestone caves with stalactites, stalagmites, overhead crags, and tunnels light hole. There is a subterranean lake, the Green Grotto in the depths of the cave which was once used as shelter by the Arawak Indians.

Dining in Jamaica

Jamaica has a wide array of dining options. You can choose from the finest restaurants at 5-star resorts or savour the local flavors in open-air Jerk shacks. Dining in Jamaica is relatively cheaper than in other Caribbean destinations but prices can be higher for items shipped in from the USA and Canada. If you are a budget traveler you can stick to the local specialties or fresh seafood. You'll be required to pay a15 percent general consumption tax in restaurants and hotels. It is also customary to leave an additional tip for good service.

Entertainment and nightlife in Jamaica

Jamaica's greatest gift to the world is its music. The island's musical diversity goes beyond reggae. Other musical variations you'll hear are ska, rocksteady, and mento. The folk dances here are a visual delight and a vibrant expression of the rich cultural heritage of the island. The National Theater Company is an important venue for experiencing the powerful, and beautiful culture of the island. There is plenty of action when the sun goes down. There is something for everyone; nightclubs, street dances and laid-back hangout spots alive with the laughter of the tourists and the locals.

Golfing in Jamaica

Jamaica is the ultimate golfing destination in the Caribbean. The courses here have bunkers as big as beaches, water hazards stretching to the horizon, and wind blowing fresh off the sea to add pleasure to the game.

• SuperClubs Golf Club, Runaway Bay: The course is situated 42 miles from Montego Bay.
• Caymanas Golf Club: The golf course is located six miles from Kingston. This course was Jamaica’s first championship track.
• Constant Spring Golf Club: The course is located in one of Kingston’s beautiful residential settings.
• Half Moon Golf Club: The golf course is part of a 400-acre resort near Montego Bay.