News

Where to go on Ja holiday

Western Bureau:

IT IS ALL well and good to say that one is going on a holiday in Jamaica, exploring one's country, but often those who live here find that they do not have much of an idea about where to go - outside of the well known and traveled Ocho Rios/Montego Bay/Negril path.

For those who want to choose the cheaper holiday route of staying home, there are many more options than those three tourism centres.

Tourism is growing rapidly on the South coast.There is a belt of attractions on the stretch between Black River and Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth.The Black River Safari probes deep into the wetlands, via a boat trip, where crocodiles and flowers are a part of the beauty of the voyage.

Resorts

The Cashoo Ostrich farm lies along the upper reaches of the Black River, with ostriches naturally being among the pulling cards. The Apple Valley Farm, YS Falls, Lover's Leap and entire Treasure Beach area, with a host of small hotels and guest houses, are among the other 'things to do'.

Hiking. It is fun, it keeps you fit and gets you in touch with nature. It is hiking and what better place to do it than up the Blue Mountain? Lodging is available, too. Then there is also the walking trail across the Cockpit country in Trelawny.

Portland. Talk about off the beaten path. Frenchman's Cove Beach is world famous, the Reach Falls are spectacular, Boston jerk is legendary and the parish where, legend has it, rain falls every day, is a green joy to look at. There are rivers and bays in abundance and even an abandoned castle to gasp over.

The villas in Runaway Bay. Tucked away in the hills, overlooking the coast (and the main road, where cars go hurrying by) are a set of superb villas, with good rates, good food and great atmosphere.

The Bath Mineral Spring and Fountain. You want hot water? In Bath, St. Thomas, you will get hot water, straight from the source. Known for its healing powers as much as for its heat, the water can be enjoyed up the river or in the privacy of the baths at the hotel - which naturally has rooms as well. Clarendon has the low-lying version of the natural hot water baths.

And, of course, there is always Ocho Rios/Montego Bay/Negril.