What Does All Inclusive Mean in Jamaica? When planning a vacation to Jamaica, you may come across the term “all-inclusive” quite frequently. But what exactly does it mean? In this blog post, we will explore the concept of all inclusive resorts in Jamaica and what they offer to travellers.
All Inclusive. Understanding All Inclusive Resorts
An all inclusive resort is a type of accommodation that includes everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. From accommodations to meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment, all inclusive resorts aim to provide a hassle-free experience where you can simply unwind and indulge in the offerings without worrying about additional costs.
In Jamaica, all inclusive resorts are particularly popular due to the country’s stunning beaches, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture. These resorts are often located in prime beachfront locations, offering breathtaking views and easy access to the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
What’s Included in an All Inclusive Package?
When you book an all-inclusive package in Jamaica, you can expect a wide range of amenities and services to be included in the price. Here are some common inclusions:
Accommodations: Comfortable rooms or suites with modern amenities and often a private balcony or terrace.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks are typically provided at the resort’s restaurants and cafes. Some resorts may also offer specialty dining options.
Drinks: Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are usually included, ranging from local favorites to international brands.
Activities: Many all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica offer a variety of activities such as water sports, fitness classes, tennis, golf, and evening entertainment.
Facilities: Access to pools, spas, gyms, and other recreational facilities is often included.
Childcare: Some resorts provide supervised kids’ clubs or activities, allowing parents to enjoy some relaxation time.
Transportation: Certain all-inclusive packages may include airport transfers or shuttle services.
The Benefits of Choosing an All Inclusive Resort
Opting for an all inclusive resort in Jamaica offers several advantages:
Convenience: With everything included, you don’t have to worry about carrying cash or constantly reaching for your wallet. It allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without any financial stress.
Value for Money: All-inclusive packages often provide excellent value for money, as you get to enjoy a wide range of amenities and services without additional costs.
Variety: From gourmet dining experiences to thrilling water sports and spa treatments, all-inclusive resorts offer a diverse range of activities and options to cater to different interests and preferences.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your accommodations, meals, and entertainment are taken care of allows you to focus on creating lasting memories and enjoying your time in Jamaica.
Community and Safety: All-inclusive resorts provide a secure and controlled environment, making them an ideal choice for families, solo travelers, or those looking to socialize and meet new people.
Choosing the Right All Inclusive Resort in Jamaica
With numerous all inclusive resorts to choose from in Jamaica, it’s important to consider your preferences and priorities. Research different resorts, read reviews, and compare offerings to find the one that best suits your needs.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly vacation, or an adventurous retreat, Jamaica’s all-inclusive resorts have something for everyone. So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to experience the beauty and warmth of this Caribbean paradise.
Carnival. Where is Carnival Celebrated? Carnival is a vibrant and lively celebration that is observed in various parts of the world. This festive event, known for its colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and energetic music, brings communities together in a spirit of joy and revelry. Let’s explore some of the most popular destinations where Carnival is celebrated.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When it comes to Carnival, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is undoubtedly one of the most famous and iconic locations. The city comes alive with samba music, dazzling floats, and extravagant costumes during the week-long festivities. The highlight of Rio Carnival is the Sambadrome parade, where samba schools compete for the title of the best performance.
Venice, Italy
Venice Carnival is renowned for its elegant and mysterious atmosphere. Dating back to the 12th century, this carnival is a unique blend of tradition and extravagance. Participants don elaborate masks and costumes, adding an air of intrigue to the city’s narrow streets and picturesque canals. The grand finale of the Venice Carnival is the “Flight of the Angel,” where a chosen guest descends from the bell tower of St. Mark’s Square.
New Orleans, United States
In the United States, New Orleans is the epicenter of Carnival celebrations. Known as Mardi Gras, this festival is a vibrant mix of French, Spanish, and African influences. The streets of the French Quarter come alive with colorful parades, street performances, and traditional jazz music. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is famous for its “throws,” where parade participants toss beads, trinkets, and doubloons to the cheering crowds.
Cadiz, Spain
The Carnival of Cadiz in Spain is a lively and humorous celebration that dates back to the 16th century. The streets of this coastal city are filled with laughter, music, and satirical performances known as “chirigotas.” Participants dress up in witty costumes and engage in humorous competitions, showcasing their creativity and wit.
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
In Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival is a major cultural event that showcases the country’s rich heritage. The festivities are a fusion of African, Indian, and European traditions, resulting in a colorful and vibrant celebration. The highlight of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is the extravagant parade of bands, where participants adorned in extravagant costumes dance to the infectious rhythms of soca and calypso music.
Notting Hill, London
Notting Hill Carnival in London is a vibrant and multicultural event that celebrates Caribbean culture. This two-day festival attracts millions of visitors who come to witness the colorful costumes, pulsating music, and mouth-watering Caribbean cuisine. The streets of Notting Hill come alive with steel bands, sound systems, and energetic dancers, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and unity.
Carnival is a universal celebration that transcends borders and brings people together in a spirit of fun and camaraderie. Whether it’s the samba rhythms of Rio de Janeiro or the masked elegance of Venice, Carnival offers a unique glimpse into the cultural diversity and creativity of different regions around the world. So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of color, music, and festivities, make sure to experience Carnival in one of these incredible destinations.
What is Jerk Chicken? When it comes to mouth-watering and flavorful dishes, few can compare to the deliciousness of jerk chicken. Originating from Jamaica, jerk chicken has become a popular dish around the world for its unique blend of spices and smoky flavor. In this blog post, we will explore what exactly jerk chicken is and why it has gained such a devoted following.
The Origins of Jerk Chicken
Jerk chicken can be traced back to the indigenous people of Jamaica, the Taino. They used a cooking technique called “jerking” to preserve and flavor their meats. The process involved marinating the meat in a mixture of spices and then slow-cooking it over a fire made from pimento wood, which gave the meat its distinct smoky flavor.
Over time, the cooking technique and flavors of jerk chicken were influenced by the arrival of African slaves and the introduction of new spices and ingredients from different cultures. Today, jerk chicken is a delicious fusion of African, European, and Caribbean flavors.
The Ingredients and Preparation
The key to making authentic jerk chicken lies in the marinade. The marinade typically includes a combination of scotch bonnet peppers, allspice berries, thyme, garlic, ginger, and other spices. The ingredients are blended together to create a thick paste that is then rubbed onto the chicken, allowing it to absorb all the flavors.
Traditionally, the chicken is cooked over a charcoal grill or open fire, which gives it that unmistakable smoky taste. However, modern versions of jerk chicken can also be prepared in an oven or on a stovetop grill pan, making it accessible to those without access to outdoor cooking facilities.
The Flavors and Heat
One of the defining characteristics of jerk chicken is its bold and spicy flavor. The scotch bonnet peppers used in the marinade provide a fiery kick that is balanced by the sweetness of the allspice and the earthiness of the thyme. The combination of flavors creates a tantalizing taste experience that keeps you coming back for more.
It’s worth noting that jerk chicken can vary in terms of spiciness, as the heat level can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the number of scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds, which contain most of the heat.
Serving and Pairing
Jerk chicken is often served with traditional Jamaican side dishes such as rice and peas, plantains, and festival (a type of fried bread). The combination of the smoky chicken with the fragrant rice and the sweet plantains creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.
For those looking to pair jerk chicken with a refreshing beverage, traditional Jamaican ginger beer or a tropical fruit punch can complement the flavors perfectly. The sweetness of the drinks helps to balance out the spiciness of the chicken.
What is Jerk Chicken?.Conclusion
What is Jerk Chicken?. Jerk chicken is a culinary delight that brings together a rich history and a tantalizing blend of flavors. Whether you’re a spice lover or simply someone who appreciates good food, jerk chicken is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a dish that packs a punch, give jerk chicken a try!
Things to do in Jamaica. But the island’s allure extends well beyond nature – when it comes to music, sports and culture, Jamaica has even more to offer. Here are the must-do experiences you can’t miss when you get there.
1. Splash about at Reach Falls
On Jamaica’s remote east coast, Reach Falls are arguably the most spectacular on the island and receive a fraction of the visitors who flock to the more accessible Dunn’s River Falls.
Local guides will help you as you walk up the river, keeping your belongings safe and dry while pointing out the best places to snap photos as you splash in jade-colored pools shaded by jungle vegetation, climb up limestone crags and get pummelled by jets of water in the “washing machine.” The more adventurous have the option of climbing up to the Bat Cave.
2. Vibe with locals at Winnifred Beach
East of Port Antonio on Jamaica’s north coast, a steep road leads down to the public beach, which is, as yet, mercifully undeveloped and one of the island’s best beaches.Winnifred Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand, popular with Jamaicans, particularly on weekends, when the bass booms from competing sound systems. Food and drink stands supply nourishment in the form of curry goat, brown stew fish and jerk chicken.
Planning tip: The beach is maintained by the local community, so bring some cash and make a donation if you can.
As befitting any capital worth its salt, Kingston never sleeps, and its nightlife is second to none. You can try out the latest moves on the dance floor alongside the locals dressed in their best jeans and “batty riders” (short shorts) at uptown nightclubs such as Taboo, Fiction and Kingston Dub Club.
Planning tip: Look out for posters advertising all-night reggae music fests, taking place near Half Way Tree, featuring a dozen or so big-name performers who sometimes hang out with the audience after their set.
4. Fill your belly with jerk pork
One of Jamaica’s most iconic dishes, jerk pork, is cooked in oil drum grills by street vendors in Kingston and elsewhere, smoked in roadside cookshops and even served at high-end restaurants.
Jerk pork harkens back to the traditional Maroon way of preserving the meat: it’s marinated with Scotch bonnet chilies, allspice, garlic, thyme and spring onion and smoked slowly over pimento (allspice) wood fire for that unique taste. It’s quite dry and smoky, with a spice and sweetness to it. The slabs of dark meat are precision-chopped by the cook and typically served with homemade hot sauce drizzled on top.
Planning tip: Every Jamaican has their own opinion regarding the best recipe and the best place to sample it. Our tip is to head for the roadside grills in Boston Cay on the east coast, where you can try some of the most authentic jerk pork on the island.
Imagine rocking out with musicians like Beenie Man, Damian “Jr Gong” Marley, The Mighty Diamonds, Capleton and Alicia Keys at night, then catching a nap on the sand at sunrise.
If you’re looking for pure, old-school roots reggae by the likes of Burning Spear and Toots and the Maytals, then don’t miss the two-day Rebel Salute festival in mid-January near St Ann’s Bay at Plantation Cove. Much of the action takes place at night, with the whole atmosphere wreathed in the fragrant smoke of “di herb.”
The antithesis to the brash beach resorts of Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios, Treasure Beach on Jamaica’s south coast is a timeless, offbeat village spread out across four coves – Billy’s Bay, Frenchman’s Bay, Calabash Bay and Great Bay – a community of fishers, artists and other bohemians. A mellow vibe prevails; there are no hustlers here, and largely deserted beaches greet you. Locally owned guesthouses are the norm.
For activities, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Take a boat ride out to sea to the Pelican Bar, a drinking establishment housed in a thatched hut on a sandbar 1km (0.62 miles) from shore. Dine on I-tal food (natural foods) at Rasta-owned cookshops. Go to nearby Alligator Pond for some of Jamaica’s best seafood. Take a walking tour with local historian Lilieth Lynch or partake in the biannual Calabash Festival, celebrating some of the brightest literary talents in Jamaica and beyond.
7. Tour the Bob Marley Museum
For Marley aficionados, no trip to Jamaica is complete without paying homage to Bob at his former home on Hope Rd in Uptown Kingston. The spacious, creaky wooden house is kept largely as it was when Marley lived there from 1975 until his death in 1981.
You can see the gold and platinum records lining the walls, clippings from his last tour, his rather austere bedroom and favorite stage shirt, and the bullet holes in the back wall from an assassination attempt in 1976. Don’t miss the former recording studio turned into an exhibition hall, where a short video is played at the end of the visit.
Planning tip: Fair warning, this is a really popular tourist spot, so expect crowds and inflated tourist prices.
8. Climb Dunn’s River Falls
A nearly 3km (2-mile) taxi ride west of Ocho Rios takes you to one of Jamaica’s most famous attractions. Popular with Jamaicans, cruise ship crowds and everyone in between, Dunn’s River Falls (originally called Xayamaca – land of rivers and springs – by the Arawak) is a truly stunning sight.
Start at the bottom of the falls, flanked by the jungle on both sides, and work your way up numerous tiers of limestone, splashing in clear blue pools and clambering up slippery, rocky outcrops amidst pounding spray. The currents are quite strong in places, so it’s best to go with friends.
Planning tip: Day-trippers clog the trails when a cruise ship is in town, so try to avoid visiting on those days if you can.
Floating downriver at a sedate pace on rafts made of bamboo was made popular by actor Errol Flynn in the 1950s and is still one of the most popular experiences on Jamaica’s north coast – both on the Rio Grande and the Martha Brae. The rafts accommodate two passengers and a “captain” who propels the raft through green tunnels of verdant vegetation using a long pole. Along the way, you can stop at popular swimming spots or slip off the raft to float alongside it.
Planning tip: The water is refreshingly cold, and the experience can be romantic or boisterous, depending on how crowded the river is at the time.
10. Celebrate the Accompong Maroon Festival
Witness a unique slice of Jamaican history by celebrating the unofficial Maroon New Year in Accompong. This village on the edge of the Cockpits – Jamaica’s no-man’s-land of sinkholes, limestone cliffs and impenetrable jungle – is populated by the proud descendants of runaway enslaved people who successfully waged a guerrilla war against the British.
January 6 marks the signing of the 1739 Peace Treaty, in which the British committed to leaving the Maroons alone. The day is celebrated with a procession up the main street, chanting in Coromantee (a West African language), the beating of traditional goombeh drums and the blowing of abeng cow horns (like those once blown by runaway enslaved people as a call to arms).
Following the procession come the 21st-century festivities – sound systems blast out dancehall music till dawn, and young people show off their best moves as the fragrant smoke from the jerk chicken and pork stalls entices hungry revelers.
Love it or hate it, the west coast beach town of Negril is hard to ignore. It’s by no means the fishing village it was in the 1970s, yet it still retains pockets of serenity in its southern half – West End – where boutique hotels sit atop precipitous limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea and local-run guesthouses nestle in the jungle.
The northern half of Negril – beach resorts and restaurants – is spread out along the misnamed, white-sand Seven Mile Beach (just over four miles long) and home to beach parties several nights a week.
Despite the commotion, there’s no denying the beauty of the setting. And whether you’re looking to jump off cliffs at Rick’s Cafe in the West End, try a plethora of water sports or watch the sunset while digging your toes in the sand at a beachside cookshop, Negril is all things to all people.
12. Admire the art at the National Gallery of Jamaica
This superb art gallery in Downtown Kingston is the definitive, unmissable collection of Jamaican art through the ages. Works run the gamut from centuries-old stone carvings by the Taino people – Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants – to bucolic Caribbean landscapes by 18th-century British artists and the abstract and surrealist art movements of the 20th century. Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions showcasing the best of contemporary Jamaican art.
A rite of passage for outdoorsy Kingstonians and a must for any hiker is the ascent of Blue Mountain Peak (2256m/7401ft), Jamaica’s highest mountain. First, you’ll overnight at Whitfield Hall, a hamlet in the foothills of the Blue Mountain range, where you’re fed a home-cooked dinner of curry goat, oxtail and beans. That night, attempt to grab a few hours of sleep before being woken up by the hiking guide at around 2am to reach the peak in time for sunrise.
As you climb higher, jungle vegetation gives way to pine trees, “old man’s beard” lichen, ferns and evergreens, and you’ll see sparks flying all around you – fireflies, locally known as “kittyboo” or “peenie-wallies.” The ascent takes around four hours. There’s something otherworldly about watching the sun rise above the mist-shrouded Blue Mountains. Returning to Whitfield Hall means you’ve earned the breakfast of champions: Jamaican staples such as ackee, saltfish, or mackerel rundown accompanied by Blue Mountain coffee (of course). The range is part of a national park, just one of Jamaica’s wonderful green spaces.
Planning tip: If you’re lucky enough to be at the peak on a particularly clear day, look carefully, and you can see the faint outline of Cuba in the distance.
14. Get a history lesson at Port Royal
The buccaneer capital of the Caribbean was the “wickedest city on earth” for much of the 17th century, with brothels, free-flowing rum and frequent pirate raids on merchant ships and Spanish territories until the great earthquake of 1692 wrecked the place.
Today, it’s a small village with a tremendous history, easily reachable from Kingston by bus and one of the best places to put on your Jamaican itinerary. You can tour historic buildings like Fort Charles, the Old Naval Hospital and the Old Gaol or hire a local fisher to give you a boat ride to the nearby bucolic white-sand sliver of Lime Cay.
Planning tip: Here on a Sunday? Have lunch at Gloria’s, a seafood establishment much loved by Kingstonians.
15. Spot a croc on the Black River Great Morass
Small boats departing from the former 19th-century port of Black River on the south coast take you deep into the salt marsh and mangrove maze of the Great Morass, home to several hundred American crocodiles.
This unique ecosystem is also home to over 100 bird species, from herons to whistling ducks. Tours depart from the bridge and last an hour or longer, with the boat guides pointing out the best swimming holes where you can splash without being eaten by crocs. You might even see locals tending to their bamboo crayfish traps the way they’ve done for centuries.
16. Sample rum at the Hampden Great House Estate
The sweet smell of molasses greets you as you set foot on the palm-fringed, landscaped grounds of the centuries-old Hampden Great House Estate, complete with wandering peacocks.
Reachable via back roads from Falmouth towards the village of Wakefield, the estate introduces visitors to the world of rum distillation. Guides take you inside the rum factory and fermentation house and explain the distillation process. Tours include Jamaican standards for lunch and rum tastings.
17. Explore the history of Falmouth
It’s hard to believe that between 1769 and the 1840s, this north-coast town was Jamaica’s busiest port. The Tropical-Georgian architecture lining the grid of quiet streets was paid for with wealth amassed from the labor of enslaved people through the sugar plantation.
A rather soporific town today, somewhat marred by the massive, brash cruise ship pier, Falmouth nevertheless makes for essential visiting for visitors with an interest in history and architecture.
Take a walking tour of the town and learn about various historic landmarks, such as the church where the abolitionist William Knibb used to preach or the wharf where enslaved Africans were brought to the Americas. There’s also an early-19th-century British fort and a Jewish cemetery, where some of Jamaica’s earliest Jewish inhabitants are buried.
18. Cool off at Mayfield Falls
Popular with locals as well as visitors and tricky to reach (via a potholed minor road either from Savannah-la-Mar or Lucea Harbour), Mayfield Falls is a wonderful water playground.
Thickets of bamboo frame the cool, clear river, and as your guide leads you upstream, you plunge from outcrops into natural pools, traverse an underwater tunnel (if you’re feeling brave), and splash around in the foam churned up by a natural “jacuzzi.”
The best Restaurants in Jamaica. “Mon” cannot live by roadside jerk chicken alone, so here’s a list of favorites that includes other Jamaican treats like pepper shrimp, bammy, Ital vegetarian food, and, of course, the fine-dining, white-tablecloth iterations of those addictive dishes.
The best nightlife in Jamaica is unmatched – reggae, a peaceful vibe, and plenty of dancing. Whether it’s bar hopping down the famous Hip Strip in Montego Bay, visiting unique beach bars in Negril, or dancing the night away in Kingston, there’s something for everyone in Jamaica. But to narrow it down, here are some of the best places to go for nightlife in Jamaica.
