Experience it all on a Jamaica holiday

Wednesday, 04, Nov 2009 12:00

If you're looking for a luxury destination that can offer almost any kind of holiday you can think of, Jamaica may well be it.

The Caribbean island is home to an intoxicating culture formed after centuries of integration between Amerindians, Europeans, Africans, Indians, Asians and other peoples and also has a varied landscape considering its geographical position.

As well as its gorgeous sun-kissed beaches, Jamaica boasts mountains, valleys, wetlands, urban centres and remote fishing villages - each offering a distinct holiday experience.

The island's history is a fascinating one. Christopher Columbus called it the "fairest isle" he had ever seen, but it became an important location in the trading of African slaves some 300 to 400 years later.

Now independent and free of slavery, the country has much to offer holidaymakers looking for the ultimate Jamaica all inclusive break.

Capital city Kingston is packed with cultural and historical attractions, including the Bob Marley Museum, the shopper's paradise of the Half Way Tree area, Hope Botanical Gardens, Spanish Town and the famed market at Linstead.

Montego Bay, meanwhile, offers up sights such as the massive Morant Point Lighthouse, the resort town of Sandy Bay and the Rastafari Indigenous Village, as well as activities such as river rafting and plantation tours.

Elsewhere, Negril could be perfect for lovers of all things related to nature, with its beautiful coves and black cliffs and attractions such as the Royal Palm Reserve.

Those staying in Ochos Rios on their Jamaica holidays will again find much in the way of gorgeous scenery, as well as the battle site of Rio Nuevo - where Spanish forces led by governor Don Cristobal Ysassi are said to have been defeated - and the unique mountainside travel stop of Faith's Pen.

Port Antonio has yet more mountain views coupled with the famous Blue Lagoon, the relaxed shipping port of Manchioneal and Winnifred Beach - which is situated near the now closed beach where Tom Cruise movie Cocktail was filmed.

All in all, Jamaica has a holiday for everyone, whether they want an urban city break, an active getaway filled with mountain walks or a relaxing few days on the beach.

With the island also offering activities such as horse riding, watersports, golf and nature tours - as well as a buzzing nightlife and top-notch shopping - holidaymakers are unlikely to return home from their Jamaica holidays feeling disappointed.