10 Things That Attracts Tourist To The Island Of Jamaica

everything from the music to the fashion and lingo. Jamaican culture has also gone international, seen in the most significant way on the entertainment scene, with international musical acts being influenced by Jamaican Dancehall and Reggae.

10 Things That Attracts Tourist To The Island Of Jamaica

Jamaica is a land with a veryv distinct personality, so much so that much of its culture has filtered down to some of the smaller islands of the Caribbean

10. Reggae

Jamaica is home to so many big names in Reggae including Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Greggory Issacs, Shaggy, and Sean Paul, that you might even say Reggae music was born in Jamaica. Reggae legend Bob Marley for example has many popular international hits such as ‘One Love’, ‘Three Little Birds’, and ‘Redemption Song’. Reggae music has always served as a tool for empowerment, and expression of political and social views. It is connected to the Rastafari movement, which began in the 1930s in Jamaica.

While in Jamaica, visitors have a chance to learn about the beginnings of Reggae music, to experience the entertainment scene of which Reggae is a huge part, and even to embark on rum and Reggae tours, or visit the popular Bob Marley Museum where there are opportunities to take a closer look at the life of the revered Jamaican musician.

9. Luxurious all-inclusive resorts

Options abound in Jamaica when it comes to finding the perfect all-inclusive resort. Staying at the resorts is generally seen as a relaxing and fun way to experience Jamaica.

There are three major areas that feature the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril. In Montego Bay you’ll be able to experience some nightlife in the city, in Negril most parties happen within the resorts. Ocho Rios is located conveniently near to some of the most popular attractions, but can’t compete with the amazing beaches in Negril.

Visiting Jamaica for the first time? Start with Negril! 

Tip: Not all all-inclusive resorts are equal. Make sure the resort of your choice truly serves high quality food and premium liquors 24/7. Getting day drunk in the sun, might give you a nasty headache if the resort is serving low-quality alcohol. Beaches (family friendly) and Sandals Resorts in Jamaica (adults-only) are a good example of serving a wide variety of gourmet food and premium liquors. Even watersports, scuba diving trips, golf and airport transfers are included in your stay!

8. Ackee and saltfish

Almost every country has its own national dish, and Ackee & Saltfish is that of Jamaica. This traditional dish is made with the ackee fruit, and salted codfish, with assorted spices for added flavor. While various versions of this dish exist on the international scale, there’s no better place to try it for yourself than in Jamaica. The dish was once ranked by National Geographic as the second-best national dish in the world, directly under the United States hamburger! 

7. Jamaican slang

Jamaican Elderly Man

There are hundreds of videos on the internet which claim they can teach a person to speak The Jamaican Language, also known as Patois. These videos are popular with people who want to learn to speak like a Jamaican, whether for the purposes of throwing in a word here or there within their conversations for comedic effect, or simply to know more about the language of the destination before travelling there.
It is surprising to many people to find though, that Jamaicans don’t always speak ‘Patois’, and that most can speak as ‘eloquently’ as the average Joe, in some cases even more so.

Even being hugely popular around the world, Jamaican Patois is not a written language. However, if you really want to learn it won’t be hard to pick up a few words during your Jamaica vacation; the locals will be happy to teach you. Read our blog post for some popular Jamaican sayings and phrases!

6. Blue Mountain Coffee

Blue Mountain Coffee Jamaica

Jamaica is known for its exceptional Blue Mountain Coffee, which is grown in the Blue Mountains, the highest mountains in the Caribbean. Blue Mountain Coffee can be a little pricey, depending on when and where you buy it, but it is one of the most sought-after coffee brands in the world. The coffee is handpicked, and locally roasted, and its creation is part of a very intricate process. Overall, it is one of those things you just must try while in Jamaica!

5. Jamaican Rum

                           

Rum connoisseurs will be happy to know that Jamaica has one of the highest numbers of rum bars, or rum shops as they are called in the Caribbean, per square mile.

The island is also known for being the place that refined the already established rum making process, making it into its own resulting in the creation of numerous full-bodied and rich rums.

Jamaica takes credit for having the most expensive rum in the world, in the form of Jamaican distiller J. Wray & Nephew’s product bottled in 1940, you can find lots of options of great local rums to take back home after your vacation.

Don’t forget to try out some Appleton Rum. Great as a mixer in tropical cocktails or drink it ‘neat’ to enjoy its full flavors

   

4. Spectacular waterfalls

People who live in the islands sometimes take for granted that there are so many natural wonders all around them, including waterfalls. Visitors however, who are often only on island for a week at a time, for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity do not.

In Jamaica there are several waterfalls just waiting for a refreshing dive including the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls where you can embark on a wet hike and dry hike, the Ocho Rios Blue Hole, Mayfield Falls, Reach falls, YS falls, and Konoko Falls. All these waterfalls offer natural pools that you can dip into for a refreshing splash, and Dunn’s River even has its own beach! Checking out at least one waterfall should be a priority while in Jamaica, as the breathtaking falls are one of those things Jamaica is most known for.

3. Jerk Chicken & Sauce

Jerk sauce is something you’ll hear a lot about while in Jamaica, because plain and simple – Jamaicans love spicy food! Pretty much anything can be spiced up with jerk sauce, from pork and ribs, to fish tacos and chicken. The recipes for jerk sauces vary, as does the application to meats, fish, and other dishes, but the name and effect remains the same. If you try a good jerk spot in Jamaica, it is almost guaranteed that you’re going to want to take some jerk sauce back homewith you to try to recreate your meal!

Tip: Don’t be afraid to try out the local Jerk Shacks along the road but know that every Beaches and Sandals Resort has a Jerk Shack as well - and it’s all included. In fact, the Jerk Shack is one of the more popular restaurants on-site.

2. Beautiful beaches

Jamaica is such a beautiful island, that it would be surprising if it didn’t have gorgeous beaches to complete its tropical paradise profile.

Across Jamaica you’ll find at least 50 public beaches, including the sprawling Seven Mile Beach, and Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay. Much like the island has its own personality, every beach is a little different, and knowing the kind of experience you’re looking for will help you choose the right one.

When beach hopping in Jamaica, keep in mind that most of the popular beaches charge a small admission fee, so bring along a small amount of cash just in case. The most spectacular beach is without a doubt Seven Mile Beach in Negril, so that’s a good place to start!

 

1. Bamboo River rafting

Both peaceful and exciting, Bamboo River Rafting is a must while in Jamaica. Some of the best spots to try this are on the Marta Brae, Black River, or Rio Grande River.

You don’t need to have any experience to be able to go river rafting, but it is imperative that you have a love for adventure. As part of the tour, you’ll be led by a guide along the placid river, who will use a pole to navigate from the launch area. You can choose to go with a group, or have a more private affair, which honeymooners enjoy.

During the Island Routes River Rafting Tour you’ll get to hop onto a 30-foot bamboo raft where you will be greeted with a fruit drink on arrival. Colorful birds, exotic flowers, and a river glimmering in the sunshine, all of it encapsulated in greenery, will surely be reason enough for you to fall more in love with Jamaica.