Jamaica
Jamaica
Capital city description
Kingston, the city, capital, and chief port of Jamaica, sprawling along the island's southeastern coast, backed by the Blue Mountains. It is famous for its fine natural harbor, which protects by the Palisadoes, a narrow peninsula developed as a recreational and tourist resort. Modern buildings contrast sharply with the decaying architectural relics of former centuries in the city's main streets. On King Street, the Church of St. Thomas, the chief thoroughfare, was first built before 1699 but was rebuilt after the earthquake in 1907. At the eastern limits of the town stands Rockfort, a moated fortress dating from the late 17th century and last manned in 1865. On Duke Street stands Headquarters House, built by Thomas Hibbert, an 18th-century merchant; it is one of the few remaining architectural showpieces of a city once renowned for its fine houses. The Institute of Jamaica on East Street maintains a public library, museum, and art gallery primarily devoted to local interests. The University of the West Indies (founded 1948) is at Mona, 5 miles (8 km) from Kingston's city center. The Royal Botanical Gardens are at nearby Hope.
Climate
Jamaica has a tropical climate that brings warmth all year round, but the winter and spring are classed as the dry season.
Languages spoken
English is the official language of Jamaica.
Fun/Fascinating Facts
Jamaica has the fastest runners on Earth. The USA and China are the only two countries with more Olympic medals than Jamaica. They come from a genetic pool of Africans that are naturally athletic. Jamaicans mainly feed on ground provisions such as yams and many fruits.
Jamaica is probably one of the most famous Caribbean destinations, and it’s only the third-largest island in the region. The top three largest Caribbean islands are Cuba and Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica.
- Jamaica is probably one of the most famous Caribbean destinations, and it’s only the third-largest island in the region. The top three largest Caribbean islands are Cuba and Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica.
- Alongside its large Caribbean island brethren, Cuba and Hispaniola, Jamaica is part of the Greater Antilles. The two other island states which make up the archipelago are the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico.
- A fantastic fun fact about Jamaica is that it sits on the summit of a vast underwater mountain. The submarine range that supports the island is unsurprisingly known as the Jamaica Ridge. This extensive underwater range separates the Cayman Trench and Cayman Basin from the Columbian Basin.
Unique Customs/Traditions
- As is the style of worship, the Revivalist ritual involves lots of singing, drumming, dancing, hand-clapping, and foot-stomping. It does to invite possession, and once the spirit is inside its physical host, it becomes an adviser to the ‘flock,’ interpreting messages in tongues.
- Jamaican death rituals are dying out nowadays; the ‘Nine Nights’ tradition is still going strong; it’s an extended wake that lasts nine days and traditionally involves music, anecdotes, lots of food, and plenty of rum. Friends and relatives will meet and celebrate the life of the person who has passed, and the gatherings usually are very lively and fun. Traditionally, the person will be buried after the ninth night, once the celebrations have finished.
- Obeah is an officially outlawed belief system, although it's rare for anyone convicted for adhering to the practices nowadays. It's a form of black magic, and people will turn to obeah to put a curse on an enemy, to bring themselves luck, and heals. It can hear Obeah practitioners use their spells and rituals to bring good or bad luck.
- Kumina is a Jamaican religious ceremony involving music, dance, and spirit possession and is a way of celebrating and appeasing ancestors. Perhaps the tradition most closely rooted in African cultures – the Kumina religious group came originally from the Congo.
- Jamaican superstition believes in protecting against trouble at night by preventing a duppy from following you home. Use this to your advantage by dropping stones and matches along as you walk along a darkened, lonely road. When the duppy tries to follow you, it will immediately be confused once it counts the fourth one, leaving you to get home ghoul-free while the duppy remains permanently on the spot trying to work out where to go next.
Popular universities
| Name | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| The University of the West Indies, Mona | The University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona campus offers world-class, accredited higher education programs to Jamaica, the region, and the globe. We engage in research and development designed to support the social and economic growth of the Caribbean region, the provision of community service, and the enrichment of the academic experience. Mission Statement: Our Mission Statement reflects the primary purpose of our University, that is, the reason for its existence. To advance education and create knowledge through excellence in teaching, research, innovation, public service, intellectual leadership, and outreach to support the Caribbean region's inclusive (social, economic, political, cultural, environmental) development and beyond. The Vision of the UWI is as follows: By 2017, the University will be globally recognized as a regionally integrated, innovative, internationally competitive university, deeply rooted in all aspects of Caribbean development and committed to serving the diverse people of the region beyond. | |
| University of Technology, Jamaica | The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) dates its beginning in 1958, initially as the Jamaica Institute of Technology. In 1959 the name of the institution was changed to the College of Arts, Science, and Technology and became incorporated into the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) Scheme of 1959. An Act of Parliament validated it in 1964. Syllabuses are modeled on the English polytechnic system, emphasizing the flexibility of approach, work-based learning, and professional linkages. Flexibility in its academic programs is reflected in the various course delivery modes, including full-time and part-time (day release and evening) and cooperative work-based programs. Credit and non-credit courses are offered during the Summer Session from mid-May to August. In addition, several programs are franchised through links with community colleges, and most programs are linked to national and international professional organizations. | |
| Northern Caribbean University | Northern Caribbean University is a private liberal arts institution owned and operated by the Jamaica Union Conference (JAMU) and the Atlantic Caribbean Union Mission (ACUM) of Seventh-day Adventists. Occupying a 200-acre property located 2 miles south of Mandeville town in Manchester, Jamaica, this university offers many professional, pre-professional, and vocational programs in a spiritually wholesome and physically aesthetic atmosphere. NCU currently enjoys an average yearly enrollment of over five thousand students from approximately 34 countries and is one of the world's largest Seventh-day Adventist tertiary institutions. ] Vision Statement: Strategically located, Northern Caribbean University aspires to be the center of wholistic higher education, upholding Christian Values in an intellectually stimulating environment. Mission Statement: Northern Caribbean University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, has as its mission quality Christ-centred education achieved through academic excellence, social interaction, spiritual & physical development, and a strong work ethic, thereby fitting each student for committed professional service to the country and God. Northern Caribbean University is a private liberal arts institution. It is owned and operated by the Jamaica Union Conference (JAMU) and the Atlantic Caribbean Union Mission (ACUM) of Seventh-day Adventists. Occupying a 200-acre property located 2 miles south of Mandeville town in Manchester, Jamaica, this university offers many professional, pre-professional, and vocational programs in a spiritually wholesome and physically aesthetic atmosphere. NCU currently enjoys an average yearly enrollment of over five thousand students from approximately 34 countries and is one of the world's largest Seventh-day Adventist tertiary institutions. ] Vision Statement: Strategically located, Northern Caribbean University aspires to be the center of wholistic higher education, upholding Christian Values in an intellectually stimulating environment. Mission Statement: Northern Caribbean University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, has as its mission quality Christ-centred education achieved through academic excellence, social interaction, spiritual & physical development, and a strong work ethic, thereby fitting each student for committed professional service to the country and God. | |
| University of the Commonwealth Caribbean | The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) is Jamaica's largest privately-held premier higher educational institution providing students with world-class academic programs and highly trained and qualified local & international faculty. The institution currently offers professional certificate, diploma, associate, bachelor, and master's degree programs and customized corporate training programs in Jamaica. UCC's headquarter is in Kingston, Jamaica. It was formed in 2004 due to the merger in 2002 of the Institute of Management Sciences (IMS), incorporated in 1992, and the Institute of Management & Production (IMP), incorporated in 1976. The University has eight campuses across the island, including locations in Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Mandeville, Savannah-la-mar, and May Pen, and an enrollment averaging 4,500 students annually, inclusive of online learning. | |
| Mico University College | The Mico is an institution of higher education in Kingston, Jamaica. Its mission is "to offer its students academic success and professional advancement opportunities through a rich and diverse curriculum. The college was founded in 1835 through the Lady Mico Charity, one of four teacher training institutions established during this period in the British colonies and the only one to survive until the present. Mico College is thus the oldest teacher training institution in the Western Hemisphere. Mico College was established as a non-denominational Christian institution that caters to male and female students. Over the years, the institution has undergone physical expansion and development in its academic programs. Bachelors and Master's degree programs in Language and Literacy, Information Studies, Literature and Literacy, Guidance and Counselling, Physical Education, Social Studies, School Management and Leadership, Special Education, Early Childhood Education, geography And Environmental Studies, Heritage Studies, History and Culture, Arts in Education, Science Education, Mathematics Education, Industrial Technology and Family and Consumer Science. | |
| College of Agriculture Science and Education | The College of Agriculture, Science, and Education (CASE) settled on a 254-hectare campus caressed by the lush green hillsides and pristine coastline of the parish of Portland in eastern Jamaica. CASE is a multi-disciplinary institution offering training in education, agriculture, management sciences, and natural sciences to young men and women in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. Imbued with the caring and dedication of its predecessors, the Government Farm School, the Jamaica School of Agriculture, and later the College of Agriculture and the Passley Gardens Teachers’ College, CASE hopes to train a new generation of Jamaicans dedicated to a healthy, prosperous and productive Jamaica. | |
Festivals & Events
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Port Royal Seafood Festival
Date: October
Jamaica’s food is as famous as its white-sand beaches. For food lovers on vacation, the delicious all-day Seafood Festival in Port Royal in Kingston offers a unique way to experience fresh, traditionally prepared seafood and other local staples and mix with locals. All while enjoying strolling along in the historical setting of the original ‘Sin City, home of pirates of days gone by. The vendors are a delight to engage with as they serve up dishes that give you an authentic taste of Jamaica with the warmth and are known for the friendliness of the island. You’ll see children smiling and dancing as they enjoy the rides throughout the day and evening when music and laughter fill the night air. This festival is a family-friendly gathering. It features live entertainment from some of the most famous artists throughout the islands, with performances by local favorites.
Bob Marley Week
Date: February
Every year, between the fifth and twelfth of February, Jamaica celebrates Bob Marley Week. Thousands of fans worldwide congregate at the birthplace of reggae and the international cultural icon. Fairs, concerts, exhibitions, fashion shows, lectures, symposiums, and even karaoke contests are held around the city with much jubilation. In Kingston, most events take place at the Bob Marley Museum. The museum has its little center that sells authentic African arts and crafts and assorted Marley memorabilia. There is also a cafe that serves Ethiopian cuisine.
Trelawny Yam Festival
Date: Easter Monday
Trelawny Yam Festival is Celebrated every Easter Monday in the main square of Albert Town, and the Trelawny Yam Festival honors yam. Yam is a popular ground provision in Jamaica and believes to be one of the island's most popular foods. Trelawny accounts for about 60% of yam production, so the festival hosts in the parish make sense. The festival started in 1997 to fundraise to support the local community. It attracts thousands wanting to learn more about the ground provision and have fun in the process. With over 18 varieties in Jamaica, the festival showcases how versatile and innovative yam can be. Patrons enjoy yam cakes, puddings, and even wine; it's yam everything utilizing yam and its by-products. The festival includes other exciting activities like the culinary competition, the best-dressed donkey, and the crowning of the Yam King and Queen.
Ocho Rios Jazz Festival
Date: June
Celebrate the Ocho Rios Jazz Festival held on Father’s Day in June. Enjoy listening to the smooth sounds of internationally renowned Jamaican jazz musicians alongside artists visiting from other Caribbean nations. It can experience jazz festival celebrations in Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Runaway Bay for those who have plenty of time to travel across Jamaica. Those traveling with families will find the Youth Programme and photo exhibition of interest in learning about the history and impact of jazz through the ages.
Accompong Maroon Festival
Date: January
Learn about Jamaica’s heritage through traditional dance, singing, storytelling, and musical performances. The Accompong Maroon Festival is an independence day celebration commemorating the victory of the Maroons over the British. Indulge in traditional Jamaican cuisines while listening to the rhythmic drumbeat throughout the day. Visitors staying to the end will witness a traditional march to the Kindah Tree, where participant devours unsalted pork dish with yams before the volume on the sound system pumps up to continue the party into the wee hours.
Bacchanal Jamaica Carnival
Date: April
Jamaica celebrates its carnival festivities a week after Lent on Easter Sunday. During the week of celebrations, take time to attend the live concerts featuring talented Caribbean entertainers giving invigorating, passionate performances. Join the street party atmosphere and dance to the beat while watching street performers sail by on ornately decorated floats in a rainbow of colors. Admire the showgirl costumes featuring plenty of feathers, sparkling sequins, and frosty pearls on performers as they dance through the crowded streets filled with party-goers.
Reggae Sumfest
Date: Mid July
Summer reggae festival celebrates in July, and Jamaica will put the party into overdrive with its sound system explosion and beach party festivities. Lovers of reggae music will want to include a visit to Montego Bay in July to attend the never-ending beach party that is Reggae Sumfest. After all, Jamaica is famous for reggae. After combing through the colorful tents for delicious Caribbean cuisines, sit back on the grass to enjoy the sun and the enthusiastic performances from local and international reggae stars. Those visiting to attend this cultural event in Jamaica will treat to six evenings of festivities, including an All White Blitz Party.
Attractions / Top Sights
Negril Beach & the Negril Cliffs
When to visit: https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/jamaica-jam.htm
Negril Beach, also known as Seven Mile Beach, is one of Jamaica's most beautiful white sand and the aqua sea stretches. Backed by the famous Negril Cliffs, it's also one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Although four miles long, the beach extends from Bloody Bay to Long Bay. Resorts fringe the shore here, from large, all-inclusive resorts to smaller boutique properties. Water sports abound, and snorkelers will find schools of fish swimming in the clear waters. But be prepared for persistent hawkers prowling the beach. The Negril Cliffs rise above the coral-fringed coast and provide a popular perch for sunset views south of the beach. Some of Negril's most luxurious resorts also lie along the cliffs, including The Caves and The Cliff Hotel. Jumping off these cliffs is also one of the top things to do in Negril.
Rafting the Martha Brae River
Rafting on the Martha Brae, the island’s #1 rafting attraction, is located approximately three miles inland from the town of Falmouth, the birthplace of one of Jamaica’s former Prime Minister, Hugh Shearer. The site is twenty miles from Montego Bay and forty miles from Ocho Rios. The embarkation area, “Rafter’s Village,” encompasses six acres of beautifully manicured lawns situated on a natural horseshoe island. It offers a fully appointed recreational facility with picnic grounds, a full-service bar, two souvenir shops, a swimming pool, and modern restrooms. Before embarking on the tour, guests can also stroll through “Miss Martha’s Herb Garden,” a presentation of Jamaica’s herbs famous for their medicinal and healing properties. Established more than forty years ago, Rafting on the Martha Brae boasts a complement of eighty-five licensed and experienced raft captains. Thirty-foot-long bamboo rafts board from a concrete pier under the supervision of an authorized dispatcher. The raft ride is operated over a three-mile stretch of the beautiful Martha Brae River and lasts approximately one hour.
Dunn's River Falls
Dunn's River Falls is one of Jamaica's national treasures. Globally, it is as well-known as Reggae and equally stimulating. There are few places where the Arawak name "Xayamaca" - the land of rivers and springs - is more apt. The Spaniards called the area "Las Chorreras" - the waterfalls or springs -and it is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the island. A stone's throw from Ocho Rios, one of Jamaica's fastest growing resort centers, Dunn's River Falls is unique. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. Dunn's River Falls, combined with its location near the sea, gives Dunn's River the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world.
Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park
The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park (BJCMNP) will introduce you to spectacular scenery and the vast array of wildlife that calls it home. The Park comprises 100,000 acres of tropical montane rain forest rainforest and refers to as "the lungs of eastern Jamaica." The Blue & John Crow Mountains National Park conserves about 100,000 acres of tropical rainforest in the northeast of Jamaica. Established in 1993, the Park is Jamaica's only National Park. It is home to many of the island's endemic species of plants and animals. The region has more than 800 species of endemic plants, including the largest butterfly in the western hemisphere, the giant swallowtail,200 resident and migrant birds species, and one of the most significant migratory bird habitats in the Caribbean. Ecclesdown and Hardwar Gap in the Blue Mountains have been noted as prime locations to view much of the island's flora and fauna, including the world-renowned Blue Mountain Coffee, which thrives in the cool, misty upper reaches of the mountains.
Port Antonio
On the northeast coast of Jamaica, Port Antonio town is about 60 miles (100 km) northeast of Kingston. One of the island’s most important ports is a shipping point for bananas, coconuts, and cacao and one of Jamaica’s oldest and least-commercialized tourist resorts. It lies on a bay divided by a peninsula into East and West harbors; a small Navy Island shelters the West Harbour. There are fine beaches in the vicinity and excellent deep-sea fishing, sailing, and skin diving, especially at Blue Hole Lagoon. The annual Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament attracts many people for competitive sportfishing. A curiously surrealistic intrusion into this tropical paradise is the Folly Ruins, the decaying remains of a Roman-style villa built by an American millionaire at the turn of the 20th century.
Doctor's Cave Beach, Montego Bay
Jamaica is truly a Caribbean jet-setter's paradise. It locates near the U.S., the third-largest island in the Caribbean, and home to the iconic and famous city of Montego Bay. Montego Bay's wide range of activities, luxurious accommodations, exhilarating tours, and cultural landmarks will make every second of your family vacation enjoyable. The beautiful, sparkling beaches are some of the best reasons to visit Montego Bay. Doctor's Cave Beach is five miles of pure white sand that you must see for yourself while in Montego Bay. This beach is considered one of Jamaica's most famous, and perfectly turquoise water purports to have healing properties. Named after Dr. Alexander James McCatty, who formerly owned the beach in the 1800s, Doctor's Cave Beach used to be accessible only through a cave on McCatty's property.
Blue Hole, Ocho Rios
The Blue Hole in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, also known as the ‘cool blue hole,’ is a magnificent place for swimming. Far from an ordinary swimming pool, the Blue Hole is formed by nature and combined with the most mesmerizing waterfall. Just a glimpse of this natural wonder will take your breath away. Its beauty may even make you crazy enough to jump off the edge, right into the turquoise waters of this pure, hidden gem of Jamaica. The Blue Hole in Jamaica gets its name from the surreal color of its water. This spot attracts cliff divers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers. The site is even more appealing because, just a short hike away, you can find another waterfall, more natural pools, and rope swings that will catapult you into this most liberating experience.