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It often feels like holidays are becoming more jam-packed with things to do than the average workweek. If you’re tired of traipsing between monuments and mountains and feel in dire need of a long swig of rum punch - head to Jamaica. Aside from being a stunning island with lush jungles and beaches, Jamaica is a state of mind. People are happy, appreciative of life and quite literally ever-smiling. Things on the island operate at a pace that would drive any true-blue New Yorker half insane, but that's the charm.
Start out at the Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay. Let the lilting reggae, and breathtaking sunsets calm your nerves for a few days before you start exploring. There are umpteen beaches to tan on, Jet Ski’s and other water sports to enjoy and beach shacks to visit. A round of golf or a day at the spa could be just what the doctor ordered.
When you’re ready to venture out, drive down the island’s coast to Negril. Stop along the way and experience the ethos of the island. Try Jamaican patties and some traditional jerk chicken. Smoky, succulent and full of flavor, it’s a far cry from the jerk chicken imposters served outside the borders of the island. Stop off at Ocho Rios and the famed Dunn River Falls on the way. Be warned – it is rather touristy but enjoyable all the same. Once in Negril, there’s plenty to do. Walk down the 7 mile beach, go to the world famous Ricks Café and try your hand at cliff jumping, or simply laze on the beach some more.
Once you’ve soaked in all the sun you can get, you must visit the luminous lagoon. It looks plain enough at first, but the moment you touch the water, it lights up. For those of you who have seen the Life of Pi, this is somewhat easy to imagine, but for those of you who are still somewhat confused – the lagoon is home to the phenomenon known as ‘bioluminescence.’ Millions of microscopic organisms floating in the water light up on contact making the water turn an iridescent blue green.
You can’t leave the birthplace of reggae without paying homage to the king – visit Bob Marley’s house or attend a reggae concert by a bonfire on the beach. Impromptu and carefree, they capture the spirit of the island perfectly.
July 9, 2023
