The Best of Jamaica on a Budget

Our Local Expert Says:

For those with stamina, the scenic Blue Mountain hike is the perfect activity

Description:

Challenge yourself with this truly breathtaking hike to Jamaica's highest point. Traverse the undulating and sometimes risqué foot path that leads to the Blue Mountain peak. Starting at Gordon Town and passing through Newcastle, this at times demanding hike takes you deep into the flora of the Blue Mountain with streams gushing from the most unexpected places. The exhilarating feeling of being high up in the clouds and away from civilization makes the burn well worth it. Be sure to arm yourself with the hiking basics and you may just want to overnight at the rustic cabins at Portland Gap before setting off for the peak in time for sunrise. Alternatively, you could try the downhill bicycle ride which involves no pedalling!

Description:

This fun restaurant claims to serve the "Caribbean's best Baby Back Ribs." The Rib Kage offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere that gives welcome relief from the urban chaos that goes on outside. The room is cozy and spacious, with tables and chairs designed for comfort. Ribs and steaks dominate the menu, but some fascinating specialties are also available. This popular spot is located on a major thoroughfare, so handling the traffic can be a hassle but the entrance is on Saxthorpe Avenue offers greater convenience.

Our Local Expert Says:

A risque ride in a fishing boat take you to the unspoilt beaches of this tiny cay.

Description:

If you happen to be in Kingston and still want a taste of Jamaica's lovely beaches, take a ride over to Lime Cay, a small islet just off the coast of Port Royal. A short and exciting ride in a fishing boat or chartered yacht takes you across to the unspoilt beach where you can wade, swim or relax and read a book. You may just want to pack lunch and make a picnic of it or try lunch at nearby Morgan's Harbour before or after your trip as the food selection and amenities on the cay may be a bit limited.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nightlife mecca of Jamaica

Description:

New Kingston is the nightlife mecca of Jamaica. There is a restaurant on every corner running the gamut from casual to five star dining. At day time, New Kingston is business central and is home to most major offices and a few shopping centers but at night it becomes party central. You may want to check out the bar at the Hilton Hotel or swing by Christopher's at the Quad – a four level nightclub which is always swinging. If these are not to your taste, there is plenty to choose from, just ask the concierge at your hotel for suggestions.

Description:

Here is a local franchise that has survived the competition from an influx of North American giants. The dining areas are welcoming, attractive and comfortable. Mother's has become a household name for its patties and burgers. With good food and with efficient service from a staff that is obviously trained and motivated, it has remained a favourite source of fast food over the years. There are eight locations in Kingston: Cross Roads, Downtown, York Plaza, Park Plaza and Liguanea

Our Local Expert Says:

Ice cream in the gardens, popular with lovers and great for the kids

Description:

Replete with old world colonial charm, Devon House is a mansion built by Jamaica's first black millionaire. Devon House features antique furnishings and paintings but its current claim to fame is its gardens which are ever popular with young lovers, its one of a kind ice cream with flavors unique to Devon House, its pastry shop which is also an antique brick oven aptly named The Brick Oven and its restaurants and craft shops. Just about anything you want can be had on the grounds of this beautiful mansion.