Jamaica, land of lush rainforests, Red Stripe, reggae and reefs is just over 200 miles away from Grand Cayman.
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To the north coast, with their British-colonial architecture, all inclusive resorts line the beaches of Montego Bay. To the west of Jamaica lies the town of Negril, famed for its diving and snorkelling sites, shallow bays and aquamarine waters.
While on the south east coast in Jamaica’s capital, Kingston, lies the Blue Mountains – a region renowned for its coffee, majestic waterfalls and wonderful hiking trails. Kingston is also the birthplace of reggae music and home to the Bob Marley Museum.
Cayman Airways flies non-stop to Kingston in an hour and 5 minutes and Montego Bay in 55 minutes, and once in Jamaica, domestic flights are relatively inexpensive which makes it easy to move around.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay offers something for every type of traveller.
Its vibrant nightlife appeals to those seeking to socialise, while its tranquil waters and serene resort–lined beaches attract those seeking to unwind.
The adventure seekers are treated to underwater exploration and coral reef discoveries in the protected waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park, while signature Jamaican handicrafts and artwork can be found at the open-air craft market, Harbour Street.
Sights & Activities: The Rose Hall Estate, horse riding, river rafting, zipline canopy tours, golf and Dunn’s River Falls.
Hotel Suggestions: Half Moon Club and the Round Hill Hotel.
All-inclusive resorts: Sandals, Beaches, Couples Resorts (www.couples.com) and Sunset Beach Resorts. For families with children try the FDR Resort.
Blue Mountains
These mountains are regularly covered in mist, giving them their bluish colour. In July 2015 they were designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Due to the area’s humid and cooler environment, plant and bird life thrive here, making it an spectacular place to hike and enjoy the breathtaking views. This part of the Island is also home to the famous Blue Mountain Coffee Plantation. Many Cayman residents love visiting during Cayman’s hot summer months when the Blue Mountains offer a cool and refreshing getaway.
We highly recommend Strawberry Hill (Tel: (876) 944 8400, email: reservations@islandoutpost.com or visit www.strawberryhillhotel.com) as a place to stay in the Blue Mountains. Perched on a mountaintop 3,100 feet up, the property features 13 Georgian-styled rooms and cottages overlooking the Blue Mountains or Kingston city. As well as an infinity edge fresh water pool, there is a spa, sauna with plunge pool, yoga pavilion and library. Activities on offer include mountain and nature hikes, bird watching, coffee plantation tours and local eco and cultural excursions. Don’t forget to book a walk from the hotel to Gordon Town which takes you past streams and paths overhanging with tropical fruit.
Check with Cayman Airways, as they offer special packages to Strawberry Hill. Visit www.caymanairways.com for details.
Negril
With nice sandy beaches, clear blue sea and ruggedly beautiful cliffs, Negril is not only visually spectacular but culturally rich as well.
Although serene and calm during the day, the nightlife in Negril is bustling. The Negril Lighthouse, built in 1894, boasts breath-taking views of the coast.
Only 25 minutes southeast of Negril lies the unique Blue Hole Natural Mineral Spring. Jump into this invigorating top tourist spot and take in the magical warm bubbling springs surrounded by the gorgeous grounds of flowers and plants.