The sunny island of Jamaica is set in the centre of the Caribbean and along with the other Caribbean islands it offers the same mix of fantastic sunshine, beautiful beaches and stunning resorts. However, Jamaica is somewhat different from the other islands with its unique culture and history.
Jamaica has much to offer the visitor besides its friendly people; the Blue Mountains produce the world’s best coffee and visitors can sample a cup at the century old factory at Mavis Bank. Jamaica is also renowned for its world class reefs. Ochos Rios and Runaway Bay are just two options and there are also the palm-fringed beaches at Frenchman’s Cove near Port Antonio or at Treasure Beach. Other attractions include bush-medicine hiking tours, cosmopolitan cities, wetlands that are home to endangered crocodiles and manatees and the beautiful sunsets.
The connection to Africa is felt most strongly in Jamaica and the Maroons who were runaway slaves have safeguarded many of their African traditions. They have also had a significant effect on the culinary traditions of the island, contributing ‘jerk’ seasoning to the distinctive Jamaican cuisine.
Ian Fleming who wrote the James Bond novels had a home on the island. He used his Caribbean getaway for almost two decades, writing best-sellers such as The Man with the Golden Gun, Dr No and Live and Let Die. The Man with the Golden Gun and Octopussy are partially set in Jamaica. There is also a James Bond Beach which lies to the east of Ocho Rios and unlike other Jamaican beaches it tends to be quiet, ideal as a place to get away from it all and relax.
For those wishing to rent a villa in Jamaica the island has many options from luxury villas to cottage resorts and condos. They also come in various sizes and a range of locations. Visitors can choose villas close to local golf courses or with a nanny service or with spa services.
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