Visit these 5 Island Treasures
A peek through the Eyes of a Native Islander
Jamaica has always been one of the world’s most memorizing destinations, with beautiful flora and fauna that captivate those who witness it. Millions of people from the seven continents of the world journey yearly to discover the breathtaking paradise we call home, sweet sweet Jamdung!
As a native islander, Jamaica has some of the most beautiful, picture-perfect places ranging from the north to south of the island. Let’s journey to some of these exotic places. They will definitely help to solidify your decision to visit – if you have not yet booked your trip 😉.
1. Farm-to-Table Cooking Show Experiences
Nestled in the cool hilly terrains of the Canaan Mountain, lies the Zimbali Culinary Retreat. Home to Mark and Alecia Swainbank and their adorable children, the Zimbali Family, they create a home-away-from-home ambiance serving purely organic, local and freshly prepared meals on their open air terrace. Take a walk along the plains of their backyard farm where most of their produce is grown. It is described as nature in its purest form. Be delightfully entertained at your table overlooking the open kitchen where your meal of up to 5 courses is prepared. Best of all; be enlightened as your chef walks you through all the nutrient-filled ingredients carefully selected from their gardens to enhance the quality of these dishes.
Local islanders are very supportive of Zimbali because all persons employed there are from the surrounding areas of the community. They are also heavily involved in community tourism and actively giving back.
2. Another great place to visit is the Rose Hall Great House.
Journey back in time by visiting the Rose Hall Great House, and learn about life of the master of what was once a vast sugar plantation. It is said that the house is haunted by her, Annie Palmer. Listen keenly as the story tellers walk you through the different rooms of the house and explain how the famed “White Witch” murdered her three husbands. The house dates back to the colonial era and was restored in the 1960s. This tour is unique to islanders because it showcases the British lifestyle in Jamaica. Islanders grew up hearing of the story of Annie Palmer and her murdering ways. This tour experience actually brings those stories to life! Especially at night when played out by the actors at the Great House.
3. Go for the Glow at the Luminous Lagoon
This extraordinary lagoon, surrounded by mangroves, is where microscopic organisms can be found. They emit a bio-luminescent light when agitated. The water glows a beautiful blue and becomes illuminated when these organisms are disturbed. When the fishes in the lagoon dart around you can see their outlines glow a bright luminous blue. This tour begins at sunset daily. This tour is loved by islanders because it is one of a kind, cost effective and it showcases Jamaica in its natural authentic form. This is the only place on the island that these microscopic organisms are found. No matter how many times as an islander you take this tour, each and every time you are amazed at how beautiful the water glows and the colour its emits.
4. Journey from Cane to Cup at Joy Spence’s Appleton Rum Experience on the South Coast
Follow the roads along the south coast of Jamaica to the picturesque Nassau Valley; a rich fertile land where sugar cane grows. Learn about the different stages the sugar cane goes through before it is manufactured into one of the finest rums in the world – Appleton Estate. The guides will walk you through the rich history and culture of rum production dubbed the Rum Experience, named after the first female master blender and Appleton’s very own Joy Spence.
On this tour you will learn the intricate process of rum making from cane to cup and visit one of the Estate’s barrel houses where rums age to excellence. Put all your newly learnt expertise to use at the rum tasting finale, before getting a chance to purchase a few bottles of your own.
This is a great experience for persons who just cannot get enough of that liquid sunshine, our Jamaican Appleton Rum – just like us islanders.
5. Bicycle Tour in the Jamaican Blue Mountains
Try the bicycle tours in the hills of the Jamaican Blue Mountain, located on the eastern side of the island in Portland. This tour offers a downhill ride along the mountainsides and rolling hills – a grand and refreshing view of our lush Jamaica.
While riding by you will see several coffee plants and other different plant species. Ideal for singles, couples or families who are nature centric, enjoy views of mountains, rivers and waterfalls among the tropical countryside. High in the Blue Mountains, inhale the fresh pure and crisp mountain air at each stop. Following your journey, take a splash at the nearby waterfall.
Be one with the islanders, as you traverse through local communities and enjoy a delicious local meal alongside a cup of freshly brewed Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee.
Overall, Jamaica is paradise to anyone who wants to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives. As we say in Jamaica, no problem. There is a plethora of activities to choose from, whether high adrenaline or calm and relaxing.
Jamaica needs to be ticked off your bucket list this year! Let’s take you home to paradise. We look forward to welcoming you to our island, your adventure
