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It only takes a few minutes in the Jamaican sun for us to realise that we’ve arrived in the cool capital of the world. It’s amazing how the spontaneous smiles of the locals and their calls of “Ya, man!” are enough to loosen up even the most uptight tourist on their Jamaican holiday.
Nine Mile, home of Bob Marley
We travel to Nine Mile, the birthplace of Bob Marley. Halfway there, the bus stops in front of a craft market. Curious, we get off the bus. Suddenly, amidst the abundance of goods for sale, we spot a statue that is, to put it mildly, exceptionally well endowed. “It’s the big bamboo!” the vendor shouts happily. We walk away from this first cultural encounter in Jamaica.
The road from Runaway Bay to Nine Mile is well worth the trip. As we wind our way through the mountains of Saint Ann, we take in the cabbage fields and the small huts made from bits and pieces. You can’t help but be struck by the poverty of this country. And yet, the horizon is painted in shades of green and the clouds seem to cling to the mountain peaks; it is all so peaceful…
“My name is Captain Crazy!” announces a dreadlocked character upon our arrival in Nine Mile (population: 300).
A perfect embodiment of the Marley spirit, the guide laughs and breaks into song throughout our visit. His anecdotes, all tinged with admiration for the reggae star, draw us deeper into his world. It’s the perfect introduction to the singer whose voice will accompany us throughout our trip to Jamaica.
The best beaches in Jamaica
Jamaica is also known for its many beautiful beaches. The most beautiful? “Seven Mile Beach in Negril,” says Claudia Cole, a former sales representative for the Jamaica Tourist Board. “It’s miles of perfect white sand. But you’ll find other beautiful beaches all over Jamaica. Negril is also home to one of the island’s most famous bars: Rick’s Café, often captured in pictures of divers jumping off the nearby cliff as the sun sets gloriously in the background. It may not be the small establishment it was in 1974, when Negril was still a small fishing village, but Rick’s Café is still the place to be for sipping multi-coloured drinks and listening to the latest hits. The place can get crowded, but it’s definitely a fun place to hang out.
If you’re looking for quiet beaches and the chance to do some water sports, head to the southwest of the country, where you’ll find the unspoilt Jamaica of old. However, even Jamaica’s more touristy attractions can provide some surprisingly wonderful moments.
Prospect Plantation in Ocho Rios
During our visit to Prospect Plantation in Ocho Rios, it soon became clear that there was much more to this 18th century estate than bananas, sugar cane and coffee. The guides stole the show with their deadpan humour and witty repartee!
A sense of humour is probably one of Jamaica’s greatest assets. We laughed so much during our seven days in Jamaica that our abs got a real workout, not to mention our attitude. Hearing “No problem!” several times a day made the hyperactive little hamsters in our heads trade in their bikes for parasols. Ya, man!
Have a look at these useful terms and phrases that will be of use to you on your trip to Jamaica:
- I feel irie: I feel good
- Da da wa: Peace and love in Amharic
- Zion: Paradise on earth
Of Bobsleds and Greenery
The film Cool Runnings, starring John Candy, tells the story of the Jamaicans who competed in the 1988 Calgary Olympics.
Since then, bobsledding has become part of the culture. At Mystic Mountain, not far from Dunn’s Falls, one of the Caribbean’s most famous tourist attractions, fans can bobsleigh through the forest. While not as wild as a roller coaster, this eco-friendly Jamaican attraction provides a serious adrenaline rush in the heart of nature!
