Jamaica is renowned for its beauty and culture.

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Known for its stunning beauty, friendly people, vibrant culture and rich history, there's no better word to describe the jamaican experience other than, well... IRIE

Jamaica is a destination so dynamic and multifaceted you could make hundreds of visits and have a unique experience every single time.

Home of the legendary Bob Marley, arguably reggae’s most iconic and globally recognised face, the island’s most popular musical export is an eclectic mix of infectious beats and enchanting — if sometimes scathing — lyrics. It can be heard throughout the island, and is celebrated with annual festivals such as Reggae Sumfest and Rebel Salute, where you could also indulge in Jamaica’s renowned culinary treats.

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To visit Jamaica and not try jerked chicken, pork, fish, conch or sausage — or any kind of meat or seafood — is almost sacrilegious. The technique involves smoking meat or seafood that has been seasoned with an abundance of traditional spices and herbs either in a metal drum or barrel, or over flavoured wood. Though the method has evolved over time and varies by chef, the flavour remains the same:undeniably Jamaican and unquestionably delicious.

Traditional Jamaican patties are also a must-try, as are curried goat, mannish water, oxtail and, of course, the national dish, ackee and saltfish.

Lined with powdery white sand and the most inviting aquamarine waters,Jamaica’s beaches are listed amongst the world’s best. From the world-famous Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay to the equally popular Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Frenchman’s Cove in Portland, Treasure Beach on the South Coast or the unique Dunn’s River Falls and Beach in Ocho Rios, there’s a beach for everyone.

But if lounging on the sand all day is not your style, a visit to Jamaica may be just what the doctor ordered. With hundreds of fitness facilities and countless running and exercise groups, the global thrust towards health and wellness has spawned annual events such as the Reggae Marathon and the Kingston City Run. The get-fit movement has also influenced the creation of several health and wellness bars, as well as spa, fitness and yoga retreats at upscale resorts.

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Jamaica has dominated the destination wedding market for years. From boutique resorts to private estates and villas across the island, couples have many options. All-inclusive resorts offer an array of wedding packages, complete with dedicated wedding planners and options to customise your experience.

And the island is quickly building its reputation as an ideal destination for corporate retreats, meetings and incentive groups, too. Though the Jamaica Conference Centre and the Montego Bay Convention Centre remain the most popular venues for these gatherings, many resorts have added or upgraded their conference spaces, positioning the island as a popular venue for large groups.With increasing transportation services and a newly completed highway linking Kingston to the North Coast, you can have your meeting in paradise!

Did You Know?

The traditional cooking technique known as jerk is said to have been invented by the island’s Maroons, or runaway slaves

The capital's mountainous landscape is a dramatic backdrop for a thoroughly modern city.

Nestled between the famed Blue Mountains and one of the world’s largest natural harbours is Jamaica’s vibrant capital. A city of two halves, Kingston will excite you with its distinct natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair. Whether it’s cultural pursuits, nature activities,exquisite fare or fabulous shopping, Kingston has it all.

North of Kingston, the Blue Mountains are a glorious backdrop.The majestic range is part of the Blue & John Crow Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best known as the source of Blue Mountain coffee, the mountains are a favourited estination with adventure travellers and nature enthusiasts.

Back in the city, you can take in the wonders of nature at Hope Botanical Gardens. Laid out on 2,000 acres of land, not only is it the largest open green space within the city’s urban boundaries,but it’s the largest botanical garden in the Caribbean, as well as being home to the Hope Zoo.

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Kingston may not be known for its beaches, but locals flock to the shores of Fort Clarence. It features amenities like changing rooms, showers, toilets and lifeguards, plus two nearby restaurants serve up fresh fish and much more. For big waves,surfing enthusiasts head to Jamnesia Surf Camp in Bull Bay, just a20-minute drive east. It’s Jamaica’s first and only surf camp, andit’s also home to some of the island’s top surfers.

Reggae music is part of the island’s DNA. To pay tribute to the man who started it all, fans make their pilgrimage to the Bob Marley Museum, situated on the site of the legendary musician’s home, which he purchased in 1975. It is where Marley recorded and lived until his death in 1981. Make sure to take a few selfies with the famous statue of the singer in the courtyard.

A new museum that opened in 2016 honours Peter Tosh, another iconic reggae musician and one of the founding members of The Wailers. Tosh was an equal rights activist who was tragically killed in 1987. The Tosh Museum celebrates his life and accomplishments, and includes exhibits like his guitar — which is shaped like an AK-47 — and his unicycle.

Take in the wonders of nature at hope botanical gardens, the largest botanical garden in the caribbean.

Another popular attraction is Devon House, an elegant,Georgian-style Great House built in 1881 by George Stiebel, the Caribbean’s first black millionaire. The property — with its lush,sprawling landscapes — has been beautifully restored by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. Whilst you’re there, make sure you stop by the famous Devon House I Scream Shop.

Venture farther east to reach the old pirate enclave of PortRoyal, the original city of sin. Resting on Kingston Harbour, PortRoyal was once vital to Jamaica’s trade and commerce. Thoughthe decadence and debauchery that ensued have become thestuff of legend, the seaside town is now more of a curiosity. Withits cobblestone roads, Spanish architecture, moats and forts,Port Royal makes for an intriguing getaway, just a 45-minutedrive from Kingston.

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Food lovers will be drawn to Jamaica’s melting pot of flavour sand spices. From the street corner tothe fanciest gourmet spots, Kingston has some of the best offerings. For a glimpse into the island’s agricultural dynamic, it’s essential to start at the heart of it all: Coronation Market. If you’re in the mood for a seaside feast,head to the Festival Marketplace,right on the waterfront in downtown Kingston. If you are seeking out an authentic jerk experience, Scotchies Jerk Centre on Chelsea Avenue is widely celebrated for jerk chicken prepared to perfection.

Kingston is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The Regency Bar &Lounge is an upbeat lounge with chic cosmopolitan décor. The Blend Bar &Lounge is also a trendy hot spot that could easily rival the best bars in New York City and Miami.

The rooftop bar at CRU Bar and Kitchen has a more laid-back ambience but offers killer views of the city, not to mention excellent cocktails and a fine selection of wine. Located in the centre of New Kingston, Sky Bar also boasts stunning views and a must-try 50-foot lap pool.

For a night of dancing, visit Fiction Fantasy, an upscale nightclub frequented by Kingston’s hottest party-goers and home to some of the island’s best DJs.

The Jamaica Food & Drink Festival, a five-day festival of the finest food and drink Jamaica has to offer, is a must-do come October.Featuring 30 celebrated chefs and culinary personalities, eight scrumptious gourmet events and live entertainment, the event is Jamaica’s equivalent to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

Also held in October is the Kingston Jerk Gospel Music Festival, which mixes traditional Jamaican fare and celebrity chefs with the Caribbean’s leading gospel acts. In November, Restaurant Week — which spans Kingston, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios— features specially selected three course, fixed-price dinner menus and lunch specials at dozens of Kingston’s top restaurants at significantly discounted prices.

Kingston fashion balances the trends of today with a tropical flair that has become its own brand.Events like Jamaica’s Fashion’s Night Out — during which stores offer deep discounts — is a testament to the country’s love affair with style.

Like the fashion scene, the world of locally made products is also flourishing in Kingston. Jamaican-made soaps,candles, T-shirts, jams and jellies,sauces, and jewellery can be found throughout the capital. They make for perfect souvenirs and unique gifts. For arts and crafts, a handful of outlets such as Grosvenor Galleries, Island Art and Framing, Craft Cottage and the National Gallery of Jamaica can suit your needs. Impressive pieces can also be found along Kingston’s streets.

Shoppers should also visit Kingston’s many fairs. A popular fair held at Devon House several times a yearis Market on The Lawn. It features art, crafts, jewellery, fashion, food and all manner of items in between.Aside from being a shopper’s retreat,Kingston fairs are also a hub for relaxed socialising.

Did you know?

Laura Facey’s 11-foot bronze sculpture, Redemption Song, was the finalist selected to grace the main entrance of Emancipation Park from an array of entries.

“Ochi,” as the locals call it, makes an excellent base for active travellers who wish to partake in myriad adventures.

Ocho Rios is more than just a popular cruise ship port; it’s a mesmerising, colourful town with a variety of offerings. The town and nearby districts boast breathtakingly lush vegetation and a dramatically varied landscape of magnificent mountains and impeccable beaches.

Ocho Rios is a nature lover’s paradise. Rainforest Adventures at Mystic Mountain offers visitors several expeditions that delve into the area’s diverse ecosystem. From way up high to down below, the Green Grotto Caves feature large rock formations, distinct ceiling pockets and covert waterways.

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The most famed of Ocho Rios’ outdoor attractions is undoubtedly Dunn’s River Falls. Each day, guides lead visitors up and back down the waterfall, which flows into the sea and adjoins a beach where visitors can relax, get a bite or shop. Near Dunn’s River Falls is Dolphin Cove, which is considered the Caribbean’s number one attraction. Whilst its main offering is swimming and interacting with dolphins, it also showcases the Caribbean’s one and only Night Dolphin and Shark Extravagant Show in the ocean.

YAAMAN, Adventure Park offers several unique tours out of Prospect Estate, an 18th-century property featuring a great house. Visitors can tour the grounds in a number of ways. Chukka Caribbean Adventures also organises exciting tours, as do Island Routes and Jamaica Tours.

Did you know?

The 1962 James Bond movie, Dr. No, was the first of the popular film series, and it was shot on location in Ocho Rios.

Vendors welcome you with warm smiles and jokes whilst displaying their handmade jewellery, paintings and more.

Ocho Rios is known for its active nightlife scene. A stroll down Main Street is enough to experience the town’s raw night-time entertainment. Another great option for drinks and dancing are the bars and lounges at the hotels and resorts.

Don’t leave Jamaica without taking a piece of it with you. Unique and cost-effective souvenirs can be found at the Original Ocho Rios Craft Park, Island Village, down Main Street and at the Taj Mahal Shopping Center — whose design was inspired by the actual Taj Mahal in India.

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You can get a glimpse of old-time Ocho Rios by simply taking a stroll down Main Street. The array of shops and boutiques offer a treasure trove of goodies.

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Whether you’re looking for white-sand beaches or fast-paced activities in mountain landscapes, tourists and jamaicans have developed a love affair with montego bay.

Affectionately referred to as “MoBay,” this tropical city in the northwest coast pulsates with the raw vibrancy of everyday Jamaican life.

MoBay is home to some of the island’s most scenic beaches. Ever popular Doctor’s Cave Beach is a great place to meet and mingle with tourists whilst enjoying the warm waters. Another seaside retreat is Cornwall Beach.

Animal lovers can head south to Dolphin Cove in Lucea, Hanover, just 40 minutes outside of MoBay. Like its Ocho Rios counterpart, the marine attraction offers close encounters with dolphins and other aquatic creatures.

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Lovers of history and legends should visit the Bellefield Great House and Gardens, one of the oldest sugar plantations in Jamaica. Steeped in history, mystery and magic, Rose Hall Great House offers a slice of colonial life that harkens back to the 1770s. Legend has it that the ghost of Annie Palmer still haunts the mansion.

St. James Parish Church was built between 1775 and 1782 in the shape of a Greek cross and is regarded as one of Jamaica’s finest churches. Nearby Good Hope Estate offers tours of the property that can be thrilling — think river tubing and zip lining — or more relaxed affairs, like a high tea service. Chukka Caribbean Adventures also offers a wide variety of activities and excursions.

Did you know?

According to legend, Rose Hall Great House mistress Annie Palmer practised voodoo, tortured slaves and committed murder before being killed.

Whilst all of jamaica’s beaches are postcard worthy, travel+leisurelists doctor’s cave beach as one of the best beaches on the island.

If you are looking to pick up a few items, you can find everything at The Shoppes at Rose Hall. Half Moon Shopping Village is also worth visiting, and the downtown Craft Market houses homemade items like straw hats and bags. The Old Fort Craft Park offers a broad variety of handicrafts hawked by 180 highly competitive vendors.

Other popular shopping areas include City Centre; the Holiday Village Shopping Centre on Rose Hall Road; Montego Freeport, near the pier; and the new Whitter Village in Ironshore. The Harbour Street Craft Market has the best deals on Jamaican memorabilia.

Did you know?

About 40 minutes east of Montego Bay is the Luminous Lagoon, which is said to be the largest and most brilliant of the bioluminescent bodies of water in the world.

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World-famous sunsets and a laid-back vibe make negril more than just an enchanting beach town.

Seven Mile Beach is certainly not the only beach worth visiting in Negril. Bloody Bay Beach — often called “the other Negril beach” — is popular amongst the locals and is equally beautiful and relaxing.

The Negril Marine Park located at the Negril Environmental Protection Area is a favourite amongst all nature lovers, especially those in love with marine life. The park is divided into several recreational zones and provides a unique opportunity to view the local marine ecosystem. The park encompasses the coastline, mangroves, offshore marine environments and coral reefs.

The majestic Mayfield Falls await about an hour away in Westmoreland. With 21 natural pools and over 52 varieties of ferns, this off-the-beaten-path natural spa is one of Jamaica’s hidden gems. An experienced guide leads your 45-minute climb through mineral-infused waters whilst revealing various secrets of the falls.

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Water lovers can’t miss YS Falls, located in nearby St. Elizabeth. Used to supply logwood in the early 1800s, the YS Estate opened its stunning seven-tiered cascading falls to the public in 1992. Visitors from around the world come to enjoy the wading pools fed by underground springs and swing into the waters.

Before you leave Negril, pick up a few reminders of your stay. Locally made crafts are always good options, and in Negril artsy items abound, along the beach or street-side from craft vendors. The local open-air craft market in the middle of town, the Negril Craft Market, has everything from wooden chess sets and hammocks to ital carvings.

There are many souvenir shops in Negril, but a good one-stop spot is the Time Square Shopping Mall. Local sauces, jellies, coffee and snacks can be purchased here. Other shopping districts include Plaza de Negril, Sunshine Village Plaza, Coral Seas Plaza and The Boardwalk Village on Seven Mile Beach.

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Negril is world famous for its nightlife. Whether on Norman Manley Boulevard itself or in one of the many clubs, the irresistible beats will keep you moving!

Two of Negril’s top restaurants are the Rockhouse Restaurant and Pushcart Restaurant & Rum Bar. At Rockhouse Restaurant, you can munch on new Caribbean cuisine — a lighter, modern interpretation of classic Caribbean cooking. Over at Pushcart Restaurant & Rum Bar, diners get to enjoy the vibrant spices and flavours of authentic Jamaican home cooking in a quintessentially casual Negril setting.

Another top spot is The Caves Restaurant, where you can savour authentic Jamaican cuisine with a twist. Don’t pass up the opportunity to sip their signature cocktail, the Cliffhanger, which includes freshly made watermelon juice, ginger and Appleton rum.

The highlight of Negril’s West End is the internationally renowned Rick’s Café. Situated on rocky cliffs about 35 feet above the ocean, the major highlight at Rick’s is watching others cliff dive or taking the plunge yourself.

Also in West End is Hungry Lion, an eclectic, brightly coloured café that features a changing menu of primarily fish and vegetarian dishes, like a satisfying vegetarian shepherd’s pie or quesadillas stuffed with shrimp and cheese.

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Being located on the western end of the island, negril enjoys a privileged view of some stellar sunsets.

After you’ve been reenergised with some delicious fare, you may want to venture out to explore Negril’s legendary nightlife offerings. Bars, colourful reggae joints and nightclubs are sprinkled all throughout the town.

Always abuzz with activity, The Jungle Nightclub is located right on lively Norman Manley Boulevard. It is Negril’s most popular nightclub, and it features the city’s best DJs spinning the latest hits. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville also offers an exciting time after hours. Located right on the beach, Alfred’s Ocean Palace features a live reggae band.

Did you know?

The Boardwalk Village on Seven Mile Beach is a shopping hub where you can enjoy a fun day of swimming and a number of dining options, too.

“More beautiful than any woman I had ever known”— that was what Port Antonio was to Errol Flynn, a Hollywood legend and one of the city’s most famous residents. The sleepy town located just 60 miles from Kingston offers respite for many Kingstonians in search of peace.

There is something magical about waterfalls, and Port Antonio boasts two of the island’s most breathtaking. Reach Falls is located on Driver’s River and flows from the John Crow Mountains to form crystal-clear rock pools on its journey to the bottom. Its main pool was the location of that unforgettable waterfall scene in the movie Cocktail, with Tom Cruise. Surrounded by legends and myths, Blue Lagoon is the island’s largest spring-fed lagoon. Plunging to a depth of nearly 180 feet, ice-cold mountain spring water collides with warm tidal currents, making bathing in it a mystical experience.

From Blue Lagoon, you can hire a knowledgeable river rafting captain for another Portie experience: rafting on the Rio Grande. Passengers aboard these bamboo rafts garner a unique view of the island. You can even stop in at Belinda’s Riverside Canteen and enjoy great Jamaican fare right at the river’s edge.

Back on shore at the iconic Frenchman’s Cove, enjoy the unique merging of fresh river mineral spring water and the temperate ocean. For a “wilder” sea experience, head to Winnifred Beach and explore the reef just offshore. Shady trees, white sand and charismatic food vendors make this the perfect place. Heading east, Long Bay Beach offers one of the island’s longest uninterrupted stretches of coastline, as well as rolling surf, perfect for surfers.

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The heights of Port Antonio open a window to the local Maroon history and culture. Maroons are descendants of escaped slaves who established free communities in the rugged mountains in the 17th century. Travellers can get to know a little more about them at the Charles Town Museum and Safu Yard.

Somerset Falls is also steeped in history. This 97-acre property encompasses lush gardens and “Hidden Falls” accessible by boat. Visitors traverse a windy path through a rich tropical landscape before witnessing the Daniels River cascade into a 20-foot-deep pool.

Shopping in Port Antonio can be extremely rewarding, as fine jewellery and other high-quality fashion items can often be found at a much lower price point than in other parts of the island. The Royal Mall is a double-decker structure designed in a hodgepodge of architectural styles where you’ll find a variety of boutiques and shops selling stylish beachwear, Blue Mountain coffee, premium rum, cigars, jewellery and Jamaican handicrafts. Market Square is at the heart of town, where you’ll find Musgrave Market. Here you’ll come across a fine selection of Jamaican products, from woodcarvings to hand-woven straw items.

Also, keep an eye out for members of the Rio Grande Valley Craft co-op, an organisation comprised of Port Antonio’s local artisans who make and sell their handcrafted goods throughout the area.

The south coast offers an untouched piece of jamaica that is delightfully off the beaten path.

Located three hours from Montego Bay’s airport, South Coast is quite removed from the touristy hub towns of the island.

Characterised by rocky coves, black-sand beaches and secluded swimming spots, Treasure Beach offers a six-mile strand that is known for its four bays: Billy’s, Calabash, Fort Charles Great and Frenchman’s Bay.

Fonthill Beach Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is another natural refuge. Though realatively small, the park is well organised, offering visitors a number of amenities, including a roped-off swimming area, showers, changing facilities, restrooms, picnic tables and lifeguards within a larger wildlife sanctuary.

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YS Falls is one of the island’s most magnificent waterfalls. This seven-tiered waterfall, with vast wading pool fed by underground springs, offers a diverse selection of activities, from a canopy zip line to refreshing natural spring pools and acres of tropical gardens.

Black River is also a quintessential stop in the South Coast tour. The second longest river in Jamaica, it is the launching point for an exciting river tour through Jamaica’s morass landscape.

Visit Lover’s Leap, named after a pair of slaves who were so in love that they chose to leap to their deaths rather than be separated. A wooden carving stands vigil over the 1,700-foot cliff. Nearby, Lover’s Leap Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the Western Hemisphere.

Fishing and farming communities converge on the South Coast, as expanses of farmland stretch towards the horizon. St. Elizabeth is the island’s breadbasket and is home to 40,000 farmers.