Fun and festivities in Jamaica - celebrations, festivals and cultural events

From sunrise and until sunset, Jamaica is a fantastic kaleidoscope of colors and beauty that make the island a true treasure of the Caribbean. No other place in the world has so many landmarks and such rich cultural diversity that one can find in this country. No other place in the world is similar to it. Jamaica is a country of unique experiences, interesting events, breathtaking landscapes, and hospitable people.

Jamaica is also a fantastic choice for all foodies because new gastronomic discoveries wait for tourists right at every step on this small island. Juicy seasonal fruits that lure with their inimitable smell, exotic spices with interesting culinary traditions make Jamaica an Eden for gourmets. Luxurious restaurants, village shops, fruit gardens, and food stalls are always ready to offer everything they got to guests of the island. Just like soft white sand and reggae music, Jamaican cuisine is famous around the world. Jerk – the national way of cooking food, a harmonious combination of spices and exotic fruits that grow in Jamaica. For tourists, it is a unique gastronomic experience and a fantastic opportunity to try exotic local cuisine that they might have never heard of but will remember for years to come.

People who call Jamaica their home are the true beauty of this country. Jamaica’s national motto, “Out of Many, One People” only underlines the multiracial roots of the country’s population. Tourists arriving in Jamaica will see friendly and smiling people who are inherently hospitable. Local people are loud, lively, and energetic. They have their unique culture and music running through their veins. Jamaicans are great storytellers, writers, bobsledders, sprinters, and public activists. The country became internationally famous because of efforts of such legendary personalities as singer Harry Belafonte and reggae superstar Bob Marley. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Christopher Columbus arrived in Jamaica in 1494. In his log, he called it “the most beautiful island that eyes have ever seen: mountains and ground look like they are touching heaven. The land has gorgeous valleys and velvety fields”. In 1509, the Spanish founded a capital, New Seville, not far from Ocho Rios. Actually, the Spanish called this area Las Chorreras, which means “waterfalls”. Brits mistakenly translated Las Chorreras as “eight rivers” and hence named the nearby town Ocho Rios. Nowadays, the ruins of New Seville are an archaeological site. Scientists also try to find two ships that were lost not far from Columbus.

There are attempts to identify the location of the first Spanish settlement in this area because it would help to understand when the young country was founded. During a century and a half, the Spanish delivered sugar cane to Europe. Later, slaves from Africa were growing sugar cane. When the British appeared on the island, the Spanish escaped to the nearby islands. As a result of the emancipation and the following economic chaos, an uprising took place in Morant Bay. Politics was born in Jamaica in the 30s of the 20th century. Two very different men, Michael Manley and Alexander Bustamante (who turned out to be cousins), founded main political parties of the island. Soon, the new Jamaican flag was raised proudly, and a new independent country was born.

In Jamaica, tourists will find comfortable hotels for any taste and budget. After a long day of sunbathing, surfing, visiting local markets, or simply chilling outside, it is particularly pleasant to return to a comfortable and air-conditioned hotel room. For two years in a row, Bridge Palm has been called the most popular resort destination among tourists. It is a true oasis in the countryside that is located close to May Pen city in the parish of Clarendon. Negril Beaches resort is located on the widest part of the famous seven-mile-long Negril Beach. This is the right destination for a “dream vacation”, so no wonder why many tourists choose it for their wedding ceremonies or honeymoon. Pirate's Island Aqua Park is perfectly suitable for a family adventure. Visitors can enjoy 9 restaurants of international level that offer a broad range of dishes, from everyday food to the finest delicacies.

It is hard to get bored in Jamaica. Regardless of taste and likes, every tourist can find something interesting to do and to see. It is always a good idea to get acquainted with the beauty, culture, and history of the friendly country through numerous events, festivals, concerts, and amusements. Consider exploring tourist trails or trying bobsleighing in a tropical forest to understand why locals are fond of sport. Or you can simply spend a whole day relaxing on a beach and sipping cool cocktails to understand why beach recreation is so special here. Jamaica Independence Festival and Reggae Sumfest are great opportunities to see local talents and some of the biggest international stars. Reggae Marathon is one of the most famous races in the world, during which runners are cheered with reggae music. Tourists need to visit local carnival that features many interesting activities, including a street parade with dancers in fancy costumes. Jamaica is more than sun and beach – it is an endless chain of energetic holidays and celebrations.