 |
Jamaica |
|
|
|
|
|
Jamaica
Think of the most idyllic Caribbean scene you can imagine. Go ahead and throw everything in: white-sand beaches, umbrella drinks, hibiscus flowers, lush jungle, and lacy waterfalls draining into limpid pools. Chances are you’re imagining places that really exist in Jamaica.
Activities and Attractions:
Most people come to Jamaica for the beaches, and the island doesn’t disappoint. Looking for soft sand and glassy water? Head to world-famous Doctors Cave Beach in Montego Bay. You’ll be greeted by five miles of powder fringing bathtub-calm water. For something a little racier, try Seven Mile Beach in Negril, which has several clothing-optional sections. For privacy (but maybe no actual swimming), trek to isolated but undertow-prone Treasure Beach on the South Coast. Surfers like Boston Bay Beach, in Port Antonio—it’s got the biggest waves on the island.
You can easily make a relaxing vacation out of exploring Jamaica’s resorts and beaches, but if you have time, don’t neglect the island’s inland attractions. Dunn’s River Falls gets most of the ink, but make your way to lesser-known Reach Falls or Somerset Falls to climb rocks less traveled and to splash in less crowded pools.
On the South Coast, a boat tour up the Black River is a wildlife adventure including alligators and dozens of birds for your life list. Discovery Bay’s stalactite-filled Green Grotto Caves once sheltered runaway slaves. Today spelunkers can tour the eerie caverns and subterranean Grotto Lake. And the Blue Mountains, outside of Kingston, aren’t just for coffee anymore. They offer rugged hiking and spectacular scenery for nature lovers.
Insider Tip:
Outside of resort areas, couples—especially same-sex couples--are well advised to scale back public displays of affection. And don’t even think about sunbathing topless outside of resort areas. You don’t want to learn the hard way about the normally friendly and welcoming island’s underlying Victorian bent.
-Exclusively for Perfect Escapes by Nicole Clausing |
|
|
|
|
|
|