Kingston, Ocho Rios & Montego Bay - cities with time-honoured heritage, unique sounds and delectable food.
A trip to Jamaica promises more than you’ve bargained for. From the rich musical heritage and lively people to the soul-warming cuisine and breathtaking nature, there’s a city for everyone. PAUSE visited Jamaica during Bob Marley’s 80th birthday celebration, immersing ourselves in live reggae music and tours. We rounded up the best places to see, eat and sleep, for everyone from the sun-soaked tourist to the intrepid adventurer.
SEE:
Walk with legends on the Kingston Creative Tour
A city walking tour can be one of the best ways to experience a new place, especially when they’re catered to a specific genre. The Kingston Creative Tour took us throughout downtown Kingston, stopping at murals of reggae legends, and even popping into record stores. Visitors are lucky enough to walk by Bob Marley’s first-ever record shop, as well as a host of other legendary musicians.
Tour the Bob Marley Museum
The feeling inside of the Bob Marley Museum is palpable. Along with photos of Marley’s illustrious life, guests are toured around his in-house recording studio and the grounds of his massive estate. This tour is truly designed for people with a range of Bob Marley-related knowledge and is a must-try when visiting Kingston.
Trek up Dunn’s River
For those who want to explore a natural waterfall and test their physical skills, Dunn’s River is a must-book. Explorers get to join a group of other adrenaline junkies to scale the waterfall on foot. There’s a sense of camaraderie among the guests and tour guide, as well as a sense of pride as you succeed in your quest. The feeling of water crashing into you as you ascend the waterfall is the perfect wake-up during a relaxing trip.
Discover Martha Brae
If Dunn’s River was for the thrill seeker, Martha Brae is for the risk-averse aquatic fein. Sit back and relax on a bamboo raft as a tour guide paddles their way through 3 miles of ice-blue water surrounded by greenery. Guides tell guests the back story of the river as they kick back and enjoy the sun. It’s the perfect and most harmless way to get your hands and feet wet without exerting yourself.
Experience ice cream and baked goods at Devon House
Combining see and eat into one spot, Devon House is ranked 4th in the world in National Geographic’s best places to eat ice cream. While the ice cream is sensational and portioned exuberantly large, the view is the selling point. Enjoy a serene patio space built within a national heritage site. If savoury is more your jam, check out the Devon House bakery for truly life-altering patties filled with your choice of local delicacies.
EAT:
Unwind at Rick’s Cafe
Rick’s Cafe is a premier location to experience the sunset in Negril. With a view that can only be described as a combination of a Sza and Saint Motel album cover, it’s truly a serene restaurant to end your night. Grab some small bites, sample local beer and enjoy the view. If you’re feeling a bit like a daredevil, there’s cliff diving at the end of the cliffs just on the outskirts of the cafe.
Warm your soul and enjoy the views at Pier 1
The only detail that can make flavourful food made with love even better is a stunning view. Pier 1 overlooks the picturesque Montego Bay harbour, offering tranquil scenery. The curry goat was particularly tasty, served over rice and peas with a heartfelt aroma. Start with a red stripe and the ackee and saltfish wontons for a perfect experience.
Dive into the culture with Strings at S Hotel Kingston
When we visited Strings, we were lucky enough to experience Bob Marley’s favourite meal. Roast fish was served whole, topped with okra and a scrumptious sauce, as the rest of the plate was covered in rice and peas topped with ital stew. Irish moss was the drink of choice, washing down this light yet subtly rich meal. Their oxtail was particularly good as well, and worth the try when sitting down at S Hotel Kingston.
SLEEP:
Enjoy luxury at Sandals
Sandals Hotel is the premier location to unwind in Jamaica. The adult-only resort opened in Ocho Rios in 2023 and embodies the meaning of paradise. 12 all-inclusive restaurants span the massive space, with 260 rooms and villas available on the property. Particularly, the Coyaba Sky Swim-Up Rondoval Butler Suite was an enchanting experience, built with an indoor and outdoor bath, a large living area, and a swim-up private pool on your balcony. The Sandals experience was truly one of one and is your must-stay when you visit Jamaica.
Contact Information
Sandals Dunn’s River
Location: Mammee Bay Rd, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Email: [email protected]
Call: +44 08000 22 30 30
Website: https://www.sandals.co.uk/dunns-river/ & https://www.visitjamaica.com/
Instagram: @sandals_uk
