Travel

We’re jammin’: five reasons why Jamaica is our Caribbean inspiration in 2024

A view from onboard a board on the Rio Grand in Jamaica

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the Caribbean sea, you’ll understand why Jamaica is not just a destination; it’s a vibe, a rhythm, an irresistible experience. The air is laced with the joyous beats of reggae, the scent of the world’s finest coffee dances in the breeze – and there’s never been a better time to visit.

In 2023, tourism skyrocketed, luring over four million globetrotters to the island. It’s no wonder Jamaica is shimmying its way to the top of holiday destination lists, especially for UK luxury seekers. Jamaica expects to welcome 250,000 visitors from the UK and Ireland by 2025.

If you’re seeking luxury, you’ve come to the right place. From private villas and beachfront rooms to spa treatments and adventure excursions, the island caters to every whim. Unwind in hotels like Half Moon, Round Hill Hotel & Villas, The Caves, Jamaica Inn, or Ian Flemming’s legendary Goldeneye retreat, each offering a distinct slice of paradise.

Jamaica is not just a destination; it’s a vibe, a rhythm, an irresistible experience…

The island also boasts an array of fine dining experiences. Indulge in freshly cooked meals at Summer House, savour farm-to-table gourmet delights at Christopher’s at Hermosa Cove, or dine alfresco at The HouseBoat Grill. For a romantic rendezvous, try private dining in the caves of The Caves, illuminated by flickering candles.

Visitors can also look forward to new flight routes and modernisation projects, including a Bob Marley-branded restaurant at Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport.

Five reasons to visit Jamaica in 2024

A boom in hotel openings
Jamaica is stepping into the future with plans to introduce 8,500 new rooms by 2025, which translates to an impressive 33 per cent increase in capacity. From the opulence of Excellence Oyster Bay to the electrifying vibe of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the island is increasingly offering diverse hospitality experiences, which combine luxury, cultural immersion, and thrilling entertainment. Whatever your style, it’s here.

Make a reggae odyssey
In celebration of the Bob Marley musical biopic Bob Marley One Love, Original Travel’s ‘Musical Journey Through Jamaica‘ package promises to immers you in reggae’s roots, staying at iconic locations like Goldeneye, Geejam, and Strawberry Hill. A local guide ensures you groove through the best bars and clubs, making it the perfect reggae-infused escape.

Explore nature’s playground
Beyond the pristine beaches, Jamaica unfolds as a lush wonderland. Hike the UNESCO-listed Blue and John Crow Mountains, sip on the world’s best coffee in the Blue Mountains, and meet over 200 bird species in serene settings. Bamboo raft along the Martha Brae River or the Rio Grande, and experience the magical glow of the Luminous Lagoon at night.

Have a wild crocodile encounter
For the daring, the Black River Safari Crocodile Tour offers a close encounter with these ancient reptiles. Jamaica’s diverse fauna, including frogs, butterflies, and iguanas, awaits your exploration.

Enjoy waterfall wonders 
Finally, nothing beats cooling off in Jamaica’s enchanting waterfalls. From the iconic Dunn’s River Falls to the cascading YS Falls and the hidden gem Mayfield Falls, each offers a unique and refreshing experience. Just make sure your smartphone is water resistant.

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