Jamaica

The third largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica is a sizeable destination that takes time to explore. Keep that in mind when you’re planning your trip including daily itineraries and hotel bookings. Prioritize the activities you want to do, and, depending on your timeframe and interests, pick two to three spots to use as home bases during your stay so you have an opportunity to experience different regions. For example, you may want to spend a couple of nights in Kingston, a couple of nights in Negril, and a couple of nights in Montego Bay. 

It’s understandable to want to make a beeline for Jamaica’s beaches the moment you land. The white sands and turquoise waters are postcards of paradise. Don’t skip out on Kingston either at the beginning or end of your trip, though. The island’s capital city is where its cultural scene thrives and is much of Jamaica’s heart and soul. Vivid street murals, food festivals, reggae clubs, the Bob Marley Museum, and Emancipation Park are some of the highlights that bring Jamaica’s historic and contemporary stories to life.

Having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom to explore Jamaica on your own time. Unrestrained from public transport routes and tour bus schedules, you can cruise through lush terrain, seek out coffee plantations and rum distilleries, visit waterfalls, remote beaches, trails in the Blue Mountains, and Rastafarian villages. Renting a car will set you up for a thrilling adventure and allow you to experience as much of Jamaica as possible, including the lesser-frequented interior of the island. Keep in mind that the rules of the road can be different. You’ll be driving on the left side and navigating winding and sometimes potholed roads.

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear about Jamaican food is likely jerk chicken. Second might be oxtail or goat curry. While you shouldn’t skip out on these famous dishes, Jamaican cuisine is incredibly diverse thanks to the many cultures that have crossed paths with the island over the centuries. West African, Indian, Irish, Portuguese, English, and Chinese are some of the cultures inspiring favorite Jamaican flavors and dishes. Don’t forget to try ital food, a plant-based food movement rooted in Rastafarian culture.

Jamaica is home to some incredible talent and creativity, much of which is reflected in the island’s music scene and energetic nightlife. From reggae to dancehall, ska to rocksteady, music is intertwined in Jamaica’s identity and one of its greatest pride and joy. While the songs of legendary names like Bob Marley live on, new musicians continue to create infectious tunes. Check out dance halls and reggae clubs, among other spaces, that draw crowds every night of the week.