Glow-in-the-dark lagoons, waterfalls you can climb and endless jerk chicken… How to travel Jamaica
There's a lot to love about the northern coast of this Caribbean island
DUNKING my hand into the dark water, I can’t quite believe the magical-looking blue light that reveals itself as I swirl my fingers around.
Billed as the only (natural) night-time attraction in Jamaica, Glistening Waters’ Luminous Lagoon lights up every time there’s movement.
The captain of our small boat informs us that it’s due to microscopic algae in the water and that there are only three places in the world that this phosphorescent phenomenon happens.
Luckily, here in Falmouth, in the north of Jamaica, it’s the brightest.
I pull my hand up before the boat turns and twists, leaving a blue trail behind us – to the gasps of everyone on the cruise.
Eventually we stop under the twinkling night sky and jump off the side of the boat into the cool waters, which turn turquoise with every stroke. .
It’s the perfect start to my first trip to Jamaica.
Known for Bob Marley, dancehall music, and the world’s greatest track athlete – Usain Bolt – the northern coast is a world of white sandy beach resorts, natural wonders and loads of history.
So once you’ve had your breath taken away at the lagoon, water babies and non-swimmers alike should pencil in a morning’s climb up the .
Yes, you read that right.
Located by the beach at Ocho Rios and flowing into the Caribbean Sea, the entrance fee of £15.50 will get you both a guide and the chance to climb 182m to the top of the waterfalls.
Water shoes are compulsory, though, and will cost you £8 for a pair if you don’t have your own.
As the guide helps you navigate around the huge boulders – some of which have been etched with messages from previous climbers – you’ll also have the chance to stop for pictures and marvel at how high you’ve climbed.
Jerk it
Of course, partaking in exhausting activities means the perfect excuse to refuel, so make the 10-minute journey to .
This garden-style diner and bar, which has Bob Marley pictures lining the walls and wine-barrel seats, serves authentic dishes that make it a firm favourite with tourists and locals alike.
The shrimp rundown – a juicy seafood dish cooked in coconut milk and served with rice and peas, £12.90 – is delicious.
Scotchie’s in Montego Bay – known affectionately as MoBay by locals – is another must-visit for foodies.
Here it’s all about the jerk-seasoned chicken, which is slow-smoked on an open fire and served in rustic wood-clad, straw-roofed surroundings. Half a chicken costs £3.80, plus if you pay just another 60p, you’ll get a side of delicious roast yam, too.
Sugar, sugar…
For a taste of the island’s history, head to the nearby .
Here you’ll learn about everything from the indigenous Taino people, who originally inhabited the island, to Columbus’ arrival in 1494.
Then there are the years of slavery, sugar-cane production and war between the Spaniards and British, all of which shaped Jamaica. Entry costs £6.50.
To continue exploring the darker side of Jamaica’s history, head to .
This ornately decorated Georgian mansion (think silk wallpaper, chandeliers and grand four-poster beds) was built in 1770 and is supposedly home to the ghost of Annie Palmer – aka the White Witch – a former owner who was known for murdering her husbands and slaves. Tours start from £15.50.
One Love
For a closer look at Jamaican culture, learn all about the Rastafari religion.
While the Montego Bay Cultural Centre will give you an introduction to former Ethiopia Emperor Haile Selassie – who followers believe to
be divine – a trip to the in Montego Bay will provide a true insight into the ways and teaching of the Rasta.
Find out how they use language, pick up handmade crafts or even take part in a music session. Entry costs £19.50.
Interested in Jamaica’s amazing fruits and tropical plants and herbs?
Head over to the Sun Valley Plantation in Ocho Rios.
On a 90-minute tour of this working plantation, you’ll learn about both the therapeutic and medicinal values of the trees, herbs, fruits and plants.
You’ll also get the chance to gulp down fresh coconut water and sample local otaheite apples, which taste like vanilla custard. Tours cost £12.
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The Jewel in the crown
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa in Runaway Bay, which is located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, is the perfect spot to rest your head.
Expect to find seven dining options and friendly staff.
Rooms are clean and comfortable, and Instagram fans will love all the snap-happy opportunities that are provided on site by way of coves, giant chess boards, hammocks and manicured gardens.
During selected Wellness weeks, you can also enjoy unlimited yoga sessions on either the beach or roof deck of the Sunset Bar.
The Holiday Place is offering seven nights at the Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort, including flights and transfers, from £1,519 per person, departing December 2016. or call 020 7644 1755.