Jamaica holidays

What are the best things to do in Jamaica?

1. Have you gotten spoiled by the gorgeous beaches around the island? Mix up your swimming routine with a trip to one of Jamaica’s blue holes, near Ocho Rios. Take off for Irie Blue Hole in the morning before it rains, and reward yourself post-trek with a refreshing plunge into the teal pool. Some visitors jump in from a rocky ledge or drop from a rope swing – but you can descend more gently. Cash will come in handy if you would like to purchase water shoes, order food from vendors or hire a local guide.

2. Bob Marley’s wife converted the musician’s former home into a museum – and it's unsurprisingly the most frequented site in Kingston. Fans of the world-famous icon can cram in knowledge about his life and career during an hour-long Bob Marley Home tour, which will take you past his gold and platinum records and media clippings. You’ll also get to see his bedroom, left as he kept it, and his personal effects. Before you go, stop in the museum’s gift shop, record shop and One Love Café.

3. Sometimes drinking is associated with silliness, but clever spirits enthusiasts can get clued in on rum at Appleton Rum Estate – the nation’s largest and oldest distillery. Head to Nassau Valley for the lowdown. You can inspect everything from the sugar cane fields and the molasses they yield to the rum’s aging barrels. After a trip to the tasting room, savour a cocktail with a meal at the lounge and bar. Alternatively, grab a limited-edition rum from the gift shop.

4. Yes, you can bobsled in tropical climes, a la ‘Cool Runnings’. The Jamaican Mystic Mountain Adventure Park gives you a chance to careen down a thrilling 1000-metre track amidst the treetops. Race full-throttle or hit the handbrake to slow your speed. You’ll take a 15-minute chairlift ride with astounding views of the forest and Caribbean Sea to arrive at the attraction. Once you finish your trip down the track, catch your breath at the infinity pool, hummingbird garden and cultural centre.

5. Kickstart your day by summiting Jamaica’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak. (It’s more than just a coffee brand.) The prominent geological feature stands 2256 metres tall, so you’ll have to start early if you want to arrive in time for sunrise, since the seven-mile ascent takes roughly four hours. Still, you can hike any time of day. You’ll be rewarded with views of Buff Bay and Kingston on a clear day – as well as a shadowy indication of Cuba.

What are the best places to visit in Jamaica?

When in Jamaica, you’ve got to experience Kingston. It’s blessed with a captivating coastline, as well as inviting views of the Blue Mountains. Like most capital cities, Kingston offers opportunities to experience the best of the nation’s art and culture. Hang out Downtown to peek at the historic buildings and artwork within the National Gallery of Jamaica – or head Uptown for a breezier vibe.

It’s no secret that you’ll find the very best beaches in Negril, including the famous Seven Mile Beach. Venture to the very western tip of the island to chill out among brilliant white sands and turquoise waters. You can stay right on the beach or stop in at one of many beach bars for sundowners. Port Antonio, on the other side of the island, offers swimmers the unique Blue Lagoon, an oasis of piercing aquamarine waters, surrounded by greenery.

The formerly quiet port town of Montego Bay is not far from Negril. It is frequented by travellers for its harbour and beautiful beaches. Golf courses and nightlife have become part of the tourist scene, too. Try to time your visit with a yacht race – or the massive Sunsplash reggae festival in August – for extra fun.

Ocho Rios is another village that has bloomed in popularity throughout the years. The rainforest surrounding Fern Gully offers a nice shady respite – and tours often pair it with a trip to the impressive 600-foot Dunn’s River Falls. (James Bond fans will recognise this as a scene where ‘Dr. No’ was filmed.