Jamaica’s slogan is as enticing as can be. What do you know once you go? The music, the relaxed fun, the natural wonders… Jamaica as a whole is influenced by the flavor of the Caribbean and the roots of reggae music. You’ll find splashes of reggae every where you go, and the green tropical jungle, along with its humid climate, will be an active part of your vacation.
One of Jamaica’s most obvious legacies reggae-wise is Bob Marley. True reggae lovers must make a pilgrimage to the village of Nine Mile, the birth and final resting place of this musical legend. Rastafarian tour guides will usher fans into the life of Marley, tracing his childhood and adolescence. Even the casual Marley fan will be struck by the feeling of the Reggae King’s presence through his two-room house and the small mountain village. his culture, his passion, and the unique religion of Rastafarianism that made him the man he was. You will also get a chance to stand on Mount Zion Rock, Bob’s meditation spot. The highlight of the tour is walking through the beautiful mausoleum, Bob’s final resting place.
Among Jamaica’s most prominent natural and historic attractions are the Green Grotto Caves, situated on the beautiful north coast approximately 20 minutes from Ocho Rios. This place has a long history as a hiding place for everyone from fearsome pirates to runaway slaves to the Spanish Governor who was on the run from the British. The Green Grotto Caves are a natural wonder filled with stalagmites, stalactites, light holes and ceiling pockets. There is also a natural wishing well and hollow rocks that act as natural drums. The main feature is the Grotto, which has an underground lake that can be found at a depth of 36 meters below the surface. The lake is crystal clear and incredibly still. In fact, on first viewing the lake you may not even notice it is there as it provides a perfect reflection of the cave roof above!
Another great way enjoy your vacation is by taking a journey through Fern Gully, another of Jamaica’s showplaces. A three-mile stretch of road built in a riverbed winds through a lush valley with 600 varieties of ferns that form an archway over the road. Walk, take pictures and meet “Jack in the Bush,” a local dressed in flowers. Great shopping is also available as Fern Gully is lined with stalls offering wood carvings, straw work and other craft items.
As you can see, Jamaica has much more than beautiful beaches and astonishing sunsets… There is culture, music, history, and natural wonders everywhere you look. Explore our tours and give us a call or contact your Amstar rep at your hotel for some additional insights or to book an amazing experience that will take you to the real Jamaican roots. Because to really experience Jamaica, to really know it, you must go!
