Jamaica Luxury Holidays
The third largest island in the Caribbean was declared by Columbus to be "the fairest isle that eyes beheld", and indeed it derives its name from its geographical attributes: Jamaica - land of wood and water.
From the vast flat beaches of the northern coast, the country undulates through the west's limestone landscapes honeycombed with caves, swelling to the peak of the Blue Mountainsat 7,402 feet in the east and settling at its capital of Kingston in the south.
Formerly home to Noel Coward, Errol Flynn, Ian Flemming and of course, Bob Marley, this root of reggae and Rastafarians is alive with music and art: from the petroglyphs of Arawak Amerindian ancestors to the vibrant strains of soca, Jamaica's rich cultural heritage remains as diverse as its topography.
Beaches and water sports
Ocho Rios: Several fascinating underwater worlds make this coast an ideal place to learn to dive or snorkel.
Runaway Bay: Between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, offers some of the best scuba diving on the island.
Reggae Beach in Ocho Rios: Beautiful and secluded.
Montego Bay: Most of the best beaches are at the hotels.
Sport
Golf: There are over eleven courses on Jamaica. Favourites include: The 18-hole Championship Course at Half Moon, par 72 and designed by Robert Trent Jones is well known for the challenges of the 535 yard 3rd hole and relatively short 363 yard 4th hole. 18-hole Tryall Golf, Tennis and Beach Club, par 71. Negril Hills Golf Club known for its panoramic views, par 72.
Dish of the day
Jamaica's cuisine fuses Arawak Indian, African, Indian, Spanish and British influences. Ackee and salt fish is a popular breakfast dish, Ackee being a fruit similar to scrambled egg. Jerk food has been barbecued slowly over a fire in an outdoor pit.
Town House in Montego Bay: Fine wines and a sumptuous atmosphere attract guests including Sean Connery and Dustin Hoffman.
The Ruins at the Falls Restaurant: Set beside a 40ft waterfall in Ocho Rios.
Evita's: Good Italian food, and views over Ocho Rios.
Family fun
Half Moon is particularly good for families of all ages, who can select from a variety of accommodation ranging from suites to villas. For younger members of the family, there is a Children's Activity Centre at Sunset Beach, featuring a duck pond, kiddie's pool, sand boxes, play house and small raft; for teenagers, a comprehensive range of sporting facilities can be found there.
A word of advice
Jamiaca's reputation for safety has suffered in recent years, and there are still 'no-go' areas in Kingston as with most capital cities. However, the beautiful resort areas of Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril lie on the far side of the island and remain unaffected by these problems; flight connections to Montego Bay mean the capital is easily avoided.
Climate:
Luxury Hotels in Jamaica
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Luxury Villas in Jamaica
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