Jamaica is far more than merely one of the finest vacation destinations in the Caribbean. It is a nation that has struggled through political, economic and social oppression. It has had a turbulent, troubled history, one that brought forth many people of strength and honor. This influence is seen in many ways, throughout all of the culture, particularly in the arts. There are many museums throughout the island, in which bits and pieces of this magnificent history can be explored and enjoyed.

Columbus Park Museum, found at Discovery Bay, is a remarkable open-air museum. Admission is free, and it is open every day, from 9am to 5pm. Here, visitors can wander through numerous exhibits of artifacts and relics, depicting the many cultural aspects and eras that have influenced the Jamaica of today. Sights include a reproduction of a wooden boat, of the style used by a native seafaring tribe, the Arawak, that inhabited the island when the Europeans arrived.

Hanover Museum, located in Lucea, is a must see location for those interested in Jamaican history and culture. It is run by the Hanover historical Society and contains numerous relics from the original Arawak inhabitants of the island, in addition to a variety of interesting items from well-known historical figures that frequented the area, including pirates. The site was once a prison and is an excellent place for children, as it offers a variety of hands-on educational experiences. A marvelous way to spend an afternoon, the museum prefers to operate by appointments, which are available from Monday through Saturday, except for on holidays, between the hours of 10am and 4pm.

Reggae is an internationally important music form that sprung up directly from the political, economic and social oppression experienced on the island. Thus, it is part of the essential rhythm and culture of the island, with several museums and historic sites devoted to its honor. Among these museums are the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston and the ReggaeXplosion in Ocho Rios.

The Bob Marley Museum is located at 56 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica. Once the home of the internationally known and loved music maker, it now serves as a museum. Open Monday through Saturday for guided tours that last about an hour, with the first tour taking place at 9:30 am and the last starting at 4pm, this museum houses a variety of artifacts, including a favored guitar. Photos and a remarkable mural provide insight into the life of this memorable performer and thinker.

Island Village in Ocho Rios is where the ReggaeXplosion Museum can be experienced. And, experienced is the word, as they use an exciting and informative audio and visual approach to their exhibits. In addition to special sections of the museum that are dedicated to reggae greats that include Peter Tosh, Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, there are displays that highlight ska, dancehall, dubmasters, and mento forms. For lovers of island music and culture, this will be a memorable experience and should be considered a must see destination.   

Jamaica is certainly a fun in the sun destination. However, it has a great deal more to offer than those more immediate pleasures. It has a wealth of history and culture to share, the perfect completion to any Jamaican vacation.

Lying approximately 30 kilometres north of Benidorm in eastern mainland Spain and within equal latitude as the Balearic Islands is the beautiful seaside fishing village of Moraira. It’s a great place to go by car — see prices at Car Hire Alicante which is the nearest airport 50km away.

Founded in Moorish times, it still remains its quaint Spanish charm, and has escaped much of the ravages of over development and mass tourism. The village centre has abundance of bars and shops and is overlooked by a stunning marina, which boasts fabulous yachts, afforded by the chosen few.

The geographical location of Moraira is almost perfect, the surrounding hills provide natural micro climate, with shelter from the harsh winter weather from the north and cooling sea breezes during summer. Moraira is located close to the towns of Javea, Calpe and Benissa in an area known as ‘Little Europe’ as many European nationalities have decided to settle in this little corner of paradise.

Moraira has very little in terms of apartment or high rise developments and is mainly consisted of expensive detached villas and typically Spanish pueblo style homes. It hosts a fabulous moors and Christians festival each year during 2^nd and 3^rd week in June and remains one of the most unspoilt places to visit, with a restored castle, good sports facilities (including diving), upmarket shops and one of the very best restaurants in Spain, Girasol.

Spending time on the beaches of Moraira can be a most rewarding experience, as they are truly superb, clean well serviced and un-crowded. Hiring a car is recommended to take advantage of the outlying areas for their scenic beauty and Spanish charm. Places also worth a visit within easy driving distance of Moraira, include Guadalest, Gandia and Oliva.

For those who shop, either out of necessity or for sport, the Bahamas’ Great Abaco will provide a shopping experience that is sure to satisfy. There are a wide variety of shops and fine stores, with many unique offerings.

Great Abaco Island is home to many stores selling quality perfumes, ranging from fine, classic scents to fabulous island originals. Abaco Treasures, found right at the Marsh Harbor stop light, is one of these stores. In addition to an array of perfumes, Abaco Treasures also carries fine china, crystal and a selection of gift items. John Bull sells quality perfume and cosmetics, including products by Iman and Lancome, in addition to Rolex watches and fine jewelry. Solomon’s Mines, a duty-free shop, found right by the entrance to Abaco Beach Resort, carries high quality perfumes and cosmetics, in addition to better watches, including those by Tag Heuer and Patek Philippe and fine china.  

Abaco Ceramics sells a broad range of pottery items, including their trademark design, white clay pots with blue fish. Iggy Biggy , easy to find, as it is housed in two bright pink cottages in Marsh Harbor on Queens Highway, offers a variety of island flavored clothing, sandals, jewelry and souvenir items. Island-style gifts, located in Royal harbor Village. Offers classic straw hats and woven baskets, in addition to household items, such as coasters and candlesticks ornamented with seashells and beautiful bed linens in quality natural fibers. 

Java in Acabo is an enjoyable shopping experience. It’s meant to be a comfortable place, it’s meant for browsing. They even have a paperback book exchange. Shoppers can enjoy a good cup of coffee or an iced latte as they take their time in examining the broad array of beautiful, artistic craftwork. There are many useful and unique items to be found in this shop in the Royal Harbor Village. There are pieced quilts with artistically wrought patterns in vibrant, rich colors, and several styles of pillows. There are ceramics and hand carved goods. Some of these are for practical use and others are more artistic in nature, but all are beautifully crafted, a pleasure to see and a pleasure to touch. There is also a variety of works created by local artists. The staff is knowledgeable about the inventory and happy to provide information about the local artists and crafters. 

Johnston Studios Art Gallery is another good place to stop and browse for those in pursuit of art, though the works displayed and sold here are of a different nature. The gallery is a little less than an hour’s drive away from Marsh Harbor, and features original creations in bronze, which are the works of the Johnston’s. The gallery also carries a line of gift items and art prints.

Shopping on Great Acabo Island is a pleasant experience, particularly in the smaller establishments where there is the opportunity for interesting conversations with local residents. The range of products available throughout the island is immense, from internationally known brands and designers at bargain prices to one-of-a-kind items produced by locals. It’s a lovely way to spend the day.

No vacation in Jamaica is complete without a little bit of shopping to bring home a souvenir or two from your Jamaican journey. Aside from souvenirs, there are a great number of local products that are available nowhere else. In addition, the local art community is famous for creations that can grace the collection of any art enthusiast. The first step to enjoying a successful shopping experience is to know where to look for those special, unique items that will allow you to bring home a little piece of island culture.

Harbour Street, in Montego Bay, Jamaica, features an open-air craft market, where locals come to sell their wares. Among the many varied offerings, you’ll find hand-made jewelry of beads and semi-precious stones, textile products, including clothing of varying style and quality, some of which are richly colored cottons and sturdy natural fibers. There are often hand carved, wooden household items and small wood sculptures, created by some of the island’s many skilled artisans.

Island Village, at the Turtle beach Complex in Ocho Rios, is the perfect shopping area for those interested in reggae and island music culture. With more than 30 shops offering a variety of Bob Marley souvenir items, reggae culture inspired clothing, books, posters, and, of course, music, you’ll need a full day to explore this village. Staying the day, though, will be no problem. There are many cafes and restaurants, and an assortment of sights to be seen, including a museum devoted to reggae and island culture. 

For those who prefer a more upscale shopping atmosphere, Gloucester Avenue in Montego Bay is sure to satisfy. This busy thoroughfare hosts an eclectic blend of boutiques and strip malls, set amongst some of the best hotels and eating establishments on the island. Taj Mahal in Ocho Rios is a shopping mall built on a grand scale, featuring a variety of upscale products, and also offers some of the best coffees, rums, and cigars on the island. Kingston is one of the best places in Jamaica to buy quality artwork by some of the nation’s best artists. Frame Center Gallery and the Mutual Life Gallery are among the best known, and are recognized even beyond the island for the quality of art made available for viewing and purchase.

Those desiring a degree of authenticity, something representative of the culture beyond the tourist industries would do well to pay attention to the small shops and stands to be found throughout the island. The further away from the tourist centers the better when it comes to finding those special, unique items that reflect native culture. Some of the unusual take home items to be found in this way include the spices used in native cuisine and home items that are both artistic and practical.

There are many wonderful areas for shopping in Jamaica, whether it is local crafts and creations or upscale bargains that interest you. It is important to note that a certain degree of haggling over prices is expected, and is just a part of the experience.

During the colonization period of Jamaica, particularly in the early years, the building of forts was an important aspect in both protecting the island nation from external enemies and plunderers and keeping the enslaved and working classes under control. Several of these forts have crumbled and lie in ruins, while many others have been restored and put to other uses. Touring the forts of Jamaica offers a glance back into an interesting and often troubling history, as well as provides insight into the Jamaican culture of today.

Fort Charles, which was originally named Fort Cromwell, is the first of the six forts to be built for the protection of Port Royal, Jamaica. The building of the structure was begun in 1655, not long after the British assumed control of the island. Towards the end of the 17^th century it had 500 men and had 104 big guns, and was well stocked and prepared to defend. In later years the fort served as a prison. Today, it is home to a museum and is open for tours.

Ocho Rios Fort was built in the late 1600’s. In 1780, it was strengthened and partially rebuilt in anticipation of French invasion during one of many periods of unrest between France and Britain. The fort, periodically rebuilt through the years, recently went through another renovation and still contains two of the cannons it had centuries ago. Through the years, it has served many uses, including that of slaughterhouse.

The Morant Bay Fort is another one of the numerous forts to be found throughout Jamaica. Built just after the middle of the 1700’s, it is located behind the Morant Bay Courthouse. Three of the big guns that were added during the period of the fear of French attack during the late 18^th century still remain. There are historical statues and memorials nearby, honoring those who lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom in Jamaica.

Named for an intimate female companion of King George III, Fort Charlotte was built in the mid 1700’s. Though small, housing only 50 men, it was heavily armed and fortified, having 23 guns and a devise allowing some to be rotated to fire in any direction necessary. Part of the fort is home to a local high school, but the site is worth visiting simply because of the impressive view.

Fort Haldane is another fort known for its lovely view. Located at Port Maria, and named for the General who also, at one point, served as governor of the island, this structure was built in 1759. It placement, on a hill facing the water, made it a true asset for defense in that era. Today, its placement is what makes the view from the grounds so spectacular.

The many forts that dot the coastal areas of Jamaica are a reminder of the past, solid pieces of history that demonstrate something of the many cultures and peoples that have shaped the Jamaica of today. Some of these forts have been the sites moments of great import to Jamaican history. All of these forts have something to share with those who choose to visit their grounds.

Jamaica, with its mountains and wild areas, is a wonderful place for birdwatchers. The island is home to 200 species of birds, more than 20 of which are found only in Jamaica, as well as the many varieties that have made Jamaica part of their migratory routine.

For up close and personal bird experiences, Rockland’s Bird Sanctuary is hard to beat. Also known as Rockland’s Feeding Station, it is located just a few miles outside of Montego Bay, close to a town called Anchovy. The main attraction is the feeding of the birds, which allows for an up close view of lovely hummingbirds and other varieties. There is an $8 entrance fee, and a guided tour through the grounds, where numerous birds can be seen, costs a bit extra. The hours are from 2pm to 5pm daily, which is when the birds are fed.

Three of the four varieties of hummingbird in Jamaica reside at Rockland’s Bird Santuary. These tiny birds will come right up to visitors when offered a bottle of sugar water. Some will even sit on a finger as they eat. Black-faced Grassquits, Yellow-faced Grassquits and Orangequits will eat seed from the hands of visitors.

Near the outside birdfeeders, there are benches available for people to sit and watch as various species come to feed. Among these are Jamaican Orioles, Common Ground-doves, Caribbean Doves, Banaquits, and Greater Antillean Bullfinch. The guided tour wanders through a nearby forest, which is home to such birds as the Jamaican Woodpecker, White-chinned Thrush, Rufous-tailed Flycatcher, Jamaican Tody, Jamaican Euphonia, Jamaican Vireo, Jamaican Becard, Vervain Hummingbird, Loggerhead Kingbird and Sad Flycatcher. This area is also a migratory visiting spot to several types of birds. These include the Black-throated Blue Warbler, American Redstart and Northern Parula.

For those who prefer to see their birds in a more natural setting, there are plenty of opportunities for bird watching in the many national parks and nature reserves of Jamaica. Early morning is the prime viewing time for most species.

The numerous hiking tours available in the area of the Blue Mountains and the John Crow Mountains, as well as those available to explore parts of Cockpit Country, will allow the birdwatcher to see a wide variety of birds in their natural settings. For those interested in less strenuous bird watching, the many parks and gardens attract birds throughout the island. Hope Gardens and Castleton are a good place to catch sight of some of the larger, more colorful varieties. Exploring the shores of the Black River and in the area of Saint Elizabeth’s Parrottee Bay will often allow the bird watcher to encounter native water bird species.

The birds of Jamaica are many and varied, and for this reason, the wilderness areas of Jamaica have attracted bird watchers from all over the world. In addition to species of birds that are found only in Jamaica, there is a fascinating array of birds that pass through on their annual migratory flights. The bird sanctuary offers an uncommon degree of interaction, and is the perfect preparation for bird watching in the wild. Relaxing or adventurous, Jamaica has the perfect bird watching setting for you.

Water is a major feature of the lovely island nation of Jamaica. While most well known for the joys of its amazing beaches, Jamaica is also home to a number of equally amazing rivers. With river activities that range from peacefully gliding along by boat, taking in sights of the widely varied flora and fauna, to the exciting and exhilarating experience of white water rafting, a vacation to Jamaica is not complete without a visit to one or more of its fine rivers. Tours are widely available and easy to arrange.

Operating out of Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica, J. Charles Swaby’s Black River Safari offers an unforgettable experience of the largest river in Jamaica, the Black River. Traveling upriver for six miles, through wetlands that are home to more than 100 species of birds, visitors will see a wide variety of wildlife, including an endangered species of crocodile that has chosen to make this special river area its home. The plant life is varied, with all three of Jamaica’s mangrove types in abundance, along with a couple varieties of palm trees and other natural forest vegetation. A delightful highlight of the tour is a visit to one of the most natural waterfalls in Jamaica, the Y.S. Waterfalls, which have been unmarred by tourist industry excesses. The experienced guide will provide detailed information on the flora and fauna, as well as the local history.

Chukka Cove Adventure Tours, located a short distance outside of Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offers a variety of adventure and tour packages. Among these many fascination exploration opportunities is the River Tubing Safari. Adults and children over 6 years of age can enjoy a three-mile long trip down the White River in a tube. This trip is preceded by a tubing and water safety presentation and takes a little under four hours to complete. There are many sights to be seen along the river’s banks, including coconut plantations, bamboo groves and other lush and natural riverbank vegetation. Guides are knowledgeable and well-trained, parents can feel confident in the safety of the tour, but, of course, should exercise common sense and caution. 

For a more relaxing river tour, in Port Antonio a delightful tour by raft of the Rio Grande can be arranged at reasonable rates. For $40, two people can enjoy a three-hour journey by bamboo raft, and will be accompanied by a local guide to steer the raft along. A perfect setting for an afternoon picnic, the rafting trip will pass through a variety of sights with a local flavor, drifting through beautiful, tropical rural areas. 

There are many guided river tours available throughout Jamaica. While some are meant for the casual tourist looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience, there are many geared for those with an interest in eco-tourism, seeking a serous look at the flora and fauna of Jamaica, which is known for several rare species of plant and animal life. There are also a variety of tours that are meant for those whose taste runs towards the more extreme water sport adventures. Local tourist information stations and hotel staff are able to provide information on the best tours for you.

While there are many things that Jamaica is known for, it is perhaps best known internationally for its association with the very roots of reggae music. Kingston, Jamaica, is known the world over for being home to some of the biggest names in reggae history. The best known of all, of course, is Bob Marley, whose music continues to be heard around the globe, not only via personal collections and radio play, but also in mainstream commercial advertisements, which is a testament to the effect Bob Marley had on music and culture.

The Bob Marley Museum is a favorite tourist attraction. Located at 56 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica, the museum is open Monday through Saturday, from 9:30am to 4pm. Admission prices are just over $8 for adults, just under $7 for people 13 to 18 and a little over $3 for children 4 to 12. The museum is housed in what was once Bob Marley’s home and recording studio, and is brightly painted in the traditional Rastafarian hues of red, yellow and green.

Among the featured attractions there are a mural by Jah Bobby, which is an artistic representation of the life of Bob Marley, beginning with his birth and including highlights from his life and musical career. Visitors can see his living space, view a short documentary about his life and enjoy wandering through a nearby medicinal herb garden. Also on site is the Queen of Sheba restaurant. The building itself is remarkable in that it preserves many architectural details from earlier periods, such as latticework and moldings, an arched doorway and even includes rear servant’s quarters.

Another important historical reggae related site, officially opened in 1999 as Trench Town Culture Yard, as Jamaica’s first site dedicated to the urban culture that saw the blossoming of reggae music. Prince Charles of England was among those who attended the February 6 opening.

Located in Kingston, Jamaica, at the lower end of First Street, in the midst of what was once government housing projects, and where Bob Marley and many other reggae greats – including Peter Tosh, The Wailing Souls, and Toots and the Maytals – found inspiration for the songs they wrote, as well as gave public performances, this cultural center celebrates the history of reggae. There are many artistic and cultural displays, including sculptures, murals, and other works of art. There is also a small museum on site and a gift shop. Guided tours are available.

Island Car Rentals, of Kingston, offers what they call a Bob Marley Tour, for which they charge $48 per person. They require at least two people to sign up for the tour, and then their knowledgeable tour guides pick up the tourists at their hotel and take them through the various Kingston spots associated with Bob Marley’s life and history.

Reggae music has touched countless lives throughout the world. The historical sites associated with the beginning of the reggae musical and cultural movements attract an international blend of tourists seeking to pay their respects to those who’ve meant so much to them.

Travelers to destinations in the Bahamas, in addition to enjoying the many fascinating activities offered by the islands, ranging from the traditional attractions of sun, sand and surf to the culture attractions of museums and historical sight to the simply amazing zoos and aquariums, have the opportunity to enjoy a vibrant nightlife in the company of an international mix of tourists and residence. There’s always something interesting to do or to see in the nightlife scene of the Bahamas.

The Wyndham Nassau Resort and Crystal Palace Casino is one of the largest casinos in the Bahamas. It features all of the casino favorites, including more than 700 slot machines and 51 blackjack tables. Visitors can also try their luck at the roulette wheels and the craps tables, and there is even a baccarat table for those so inclined. There’s a theater with an 800-person capacity, with a variety of entertainment offered through the week.

There are two other major casinos in the Bahamas. These are the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort and Casino and the Crowne Plaza Golf Resort and Casino at the Royal Oasis in Freeport While opinion varies as to which of the three are the best, most people do manage to try out all three.

However, nightlife in the Bahamas isn’t just about gambling the night away in the glitter and gleam of the casinos. There are a variety of nightclubs, discos and bars, some open all night long.

One of the all-nighters is Club Waterloo, located on East Bay Street on New Providence Island. Housed in what was once a grand colonial mansion, there is one main bar, and five smaller bars. Each of the smaller bars has its own specialty and style. Among these smaller bars is Shooters Sports Bar, a Bicardi Bar, which is self-explanatory, and an outdoor, poolside bar. The cover charge is high, up to $30 on weekend nights, but in reality, you’ll rarely pay that much. Many taxi drivers sell what are called visitors’ passes that reduce the cover charge to a much smaller $5. This spot attracts a mixed crowd that typically includes locals and vacationers from Europe and the Americas.   

Club 601 is another all-night spot on new Providence Island. It is a disco, and the music is usually of an international flavor, just like the crowd it attracts nightly. Other nightlife favorites in the Bahamas include the Blue Bee Bar on Great Abaco Island and Senor Frog’s at the British Colonial Hilton, at 1 Bay Street in Nassau, New Providence Island. Senor Frog’s tends to attract a young and energetic crown, though people of all ages enjoy the karaoke nights.

As in most of the most popular vacation destination, the nightlife scene in the Bahamas is interesting, exciting and active. You are sure to have a good time if you exercise a bit of common sense, caution and courtesy. Whether you choose a quiet bar tucked away in a lovely island corner, or dance all night at one of the discos or gamble until the dawn in one of the fabulous casinos, the Bahamas will offer you a memorable nightlife experience.

Nightlife in Jamaica showcases its rich and vibrant native culture and is flavored by the international blend of tourists that flock to this beautiful island nation. Whether your taste runs towards the quiet and secluded spot or towards wild, youth oriented clubs, towards tourist hot spots or the hang-outs favored by locals, you’re sure to find a nightlife scene that will leave you with lasting memories of your Jamaican vacation.

Naturally, in a nation that has left its mark on the international music scene with its own reggae style, music is an important part of the nightlife of Jamaica. There are numerous music clubs, nightclubs, bars and restaurants that feature live music of all sorts, including island favorites – reggae, ska, calypso, and soca.

Alfred’s Ocean Palace, located in Negril, is regularly features live music, with reggae bands three times per week and attracts both local and international performers. Situated on a beautiful seven-mile long white sand beach, the atmosphere is a delight, complemented by the fine food served at the restaurant and the eclectic blend of people in the bar. Guest rooms are also available on site.

Also located in Negril, Risky Business is a favorite among the college set, attracting spring breakers from all over. It features live music nightly, with some of the best reggae musicians in the area taking the stage. Rick’s Café, internationally acclaimed party spot, is known for nightly reggae, a fabulous view of the sunset, and cliff diving for the more adventurous of their clientele.

In Port Antonio, the Blue Lagoon Restaurant features live jazz on Saturday nights. At the Little Pub, in Ocho Rios, visitors can enjoy a variety of Caribbean flavored performances throughout the week. Ocho Rios is also home to BiBiBips, which features live reggae and sometimes rap performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. 

Dance clubs are numerous on the island. Jamaica, drawing tourists from all over the world, has a variety of dance club scenes, some having that Jamaican flavor, others being more American in flavor and still others having a decidedly high tech, international tone.

In Ocho Rios, Amnesia, at 70 Main Street, is a dance club with more of a Jamaican feel to it, and does attract a local crowd. In contrast, Jamaica’N Me Crazy, also on Main Street, uses high tech sound and light systems to create a definitely international type of club scene. Usually crowded, it tends to attract more tourists than locals.

Mingles, in Kingston, is known as one of the safest nightspots in Jamaica. It attracts a young and local crowd, and features primarily reggae and soca. Hedonism II, found in Negril, is counted among the wildest, attracting a rather uninhibited crowd of tourists who are definitely there to party.

Jamaica certainly offers a wide variety of nightlife options and adventures. Be sure to use common sense and good manners to keep your nightlife experiences pleasurable, memorable and safe. With that in mind, you’ll truly enjoy the best of the Jamaican nightlife scene.