Island Profile: Jamaica
By Daniel Santos | Published on August 3, 2017
Island Profile: Jamaica
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In 1494, this island came under Spanish rule following the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Named Santiago, the island remained under possession of Spain until 1655, when England conquered it and renamed it Jamaica. Today, Jamaica is home to 2.8-million people and is the third-most populous anglophone country in the Americas, as well as the fourth-most populous country in the Caribbean. Jamaica is a tropical island of happy days and vivid nights. It can be a paradise of whatever you want it to be, a place to lose yourself in adventure and take it all in.

The climate in Jamaica is tropical, with hot and humid weather, although higher inland regions such as Dolphin Head are more temperate. While you’re out enjoying the sun, you’ll want to enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer. From hiking to the Blue Mountains, to horseback riding on the beach and swimming in the warm river, anyone can explore Jamaica the way they want.

A potential place to stay is the Royalton White Sands Resort, located in Falmouth. This beachfront hotel is next to a golf course, and set near some great tourist spots such as Luminous Lagoon and the Rose Hall Great House. You can catch some rays at the beach, hit one of their three swimming pools or spend time relaxing in the Royalton White Sands full-service spa. If you’re trying to get a meal, be sure to try one of the resort’s 11 available restaurants.

Another great vacation spot to enjoy on the island is Montego Bay, on the North side of Jamaica, 18 miles from Falmouth. As Jamaica’s second largest city, it’s an excellent tourist destination featuring shopping, a cruise line terminal and several exotic beaches — a great place to spend a day or two.

Island Profile: Jamaica© Robert Whitefield

If you’re going for on a shopping adventure, be sure to check out the Hip Strip. Lined with various shops and boutiques selling souvenirs, it provides an inside look at the everyday hustle and bustle of the busy tourist town. It’s not for everyone though, the strip can be noisy and chaotic, getting only busier as the day progresses. For beach goers, Montego Bay’s main beach, Doctor’s Cave Beach, is a must, but be sure to go early to avoid the crowds!

As for food and drink, a great place to check out while you’re in Montego Bay is Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. This spot is a ideal for those staying in nearby hotels to meet and socialize over some drinks and food. Good food, service and atmosphere, Margaritaville is great place for enjoying the view and sounds of the ocean. Another good place to try out is the Pork Pit, providing tasty varieties of jerked, barbecued, fried and roasted meats, like sausage, pork and chicken. It’s affordable, and you can either dine in or take out.

Island Profile: Jamaica© Droidicus

When the day has finally come to an end, be sure to check out the sunset on the beach. The beauty of Jamaica cannot be contained in just a few days so be sure to make the most of your time there. Next time you’re interested in a Caribbean getaway, let the beautiful island of Jamaica take you away on the adventure of a lifetime.

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Cover photo © Peter Quesla

About The Writer
Daniel Santos

By: Daniel Santos | Published on August 3, 2017

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