Jamaican Cuisine Served First-hand

Being third of the largest island in the Caribbean in terms of size, there is actually a lot of great things to discover about the country of Jamaica--from its boasted scenic tourist destinations, wonderful people, and even up to its diverse natural resources, a single day will never be complete to talk about all the bunch of things that describes this island country. In fact, we will dedicate this whole article to one single aspect of Jamaica that deserves our attention as well. We will delve deeper on the country's culture and history by learning more about its tastebud delights: let's taste the goodness of Jamaican cuisine served first-hand.

To give you a quick trivia about the country's cuisine, do you know that western barbecue that suddenly turned out to be everybody's favorite originated from Jamaica? The country's first inhabitants, the Arawaks are the first people to roast meat and seafood using suspended forked sticks on a fire. The Arawaks call it 'barbacoa', right where the word 'barbecue' got its present name. Even the name of Jamaica itself is traced to its food history. As the Spaniards invaded the area, they call it 'Xaymaca' meaning the land of food and water. A huge part of Jamaica's gourmet at the present is a result of Spanish invasion, who brought considerable number of crops and animals that are now used as major elements of their cooking.

In general, Jamaican cuisine is both flavorful and healthy. It's because the herbs that are considered and proven to be medicinal are also the ones they use as basic seasonings to all their dishes. Examples of these spices we talk of are hot peppers, garlic, and ginger. Seafoods are also common elements for cooking since Jamaica is sorrounded by the rich waters of the Caribbean. If you're preparing your list of your preferred things to do in Jamaica, make sure you're not missing out in trying the following delicacies that are considered as Jamaica's best:

1. Jerk Chicken

Aside from being Jamaica's national dish, jerk chicken is also the best example of this country's dish incorporating various spices. These spices, composed of Scotch bonnet peppers, pimento, nutmeg, and cinnamon are mixed to form the flavoring that is then rubbed to the chicken or sometimes, pork. The flavored meat is then roasted over burning pimento wood for hours. Voila! The sweet and spicy taste of Jerk chicken is now ready to conquer your tastebuds. For best results, try it with bread.

2. Callaloo

Callaloo is a healthy leafy vegetable often served with almost everything in Jamican cuisine. You can see it in dishes served in breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even in soups! In fact, the Jamaican pepper pot soup is regarded as the best way to serve callaloo. It is also often compared to the American spinach, but mind you, it is more nutritious and less bitter.

3. Ackee and Saltfish

Just like how fried eggs dominate much of our breakfast meals, Ackee and Saltfish reigns as the 'supreme' Jamaican style of breakfast. This recipe is composed of a salty codfish compensated by the sweetness of the Ackee fruit added with a spice of onions and peppers. Taken together, this breakfast dish will certainly boost your mornings.

4. Escoviche

Escoviche is a seafood dish prepared using a variety of edible sea creatures like kingfish and snapper. The seafoods are then marinated in vinegar and spices to bring out the freshest taste of the main elements in the platter. The longer the time of marination, the better the taste that you'll get.

NEGRIL, JAMAICA: A Fusion of Best Land and Waters

If you want to see some of best coastlines on earth, don't miss heading out to Negril, Jamaica--where time extension is all you can ask for.

Ever imagined yourself having the best summer of your life while lying down on a white fine sand, feeling the blistering heat of the sun as it touches your skin and hearing the waves of the ocean as it approaches the coast? Well, have your hearts ready as Negril has all that and more for you. One thing's sure, you'll never run out of best attractions in Jamaica. 

Negril is a resort town known as a popular retreat destination and houses a variety of beaches, caves, diving spots, cliffs and restaurants that provides premium gratification to everyone who comes. Let's look one by one to three of the most popular whereabouts only at Negril.

Seven Mile Beach

Without a doubt, Seven Mile Beach is the most famous location when we speak of Negril, in fact, this is also known as the Negril Beach. This is an 11 kilometer stretch of white sand beach coupled with a peaceful blue sea backdrop. Actually, the Seven Mile sits as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and also voted as one of the world's best a couple of times. Watersports are offered for tourists to have a taste of peaceful turquoise waters of Negril; one can try snorkeling and scuba diving as well. But don't get shocked of topless people that you might see lining the coast while doing their sunbathe, for nudity is being practiced here. From dusk to sunset, Seven Mile has the breeze and the views that will capture your hearts.

Negril Cliffs

Next to Seven Mile Beach, the Negril Cliffs also serve as one primary label of this resort town. Interesting as it may look, these cliffs are all worth of your time and attention. Popularized in the 60's and 70's due to its historical role, these natural formations still prove to be a unique manifestation of the several forces of nature. Its splendid location just in front of the ocean and the towering formation will certainly attract you to put your adrenaline side to the test. Drop by and see for yourself what total Caribbean vacation is all about.

Negril Lighthouse Park

Still standing at a verdant land at the western end of the island is one of Negril's popular landmark. The Negril Lighthouse was built in the late 19th century by a French company and remains as the tallest structure in the district and one of the first lighthouses in the country made of concrete. At the top, a picturesque view of the Caribbean Sea and the countryside awaits anyone who are fit enough to climb up the 103 steps that lead to an amazing encounter. No worries about any natural disaster that may occur during your visit, for this lighthouse has an 18feet tank foundation that is resistant to earthquakes, and mind you, it is still operational. Come and capture a postcard scene as you take a pose beside this Negril treasure.

Fall in Love with Jamaica's Blue Mountains

You'll never feel blue here at the Blue Mountains.

More and more tourists all over the world are being captured by the beauty of this featured Jamaican attraction that keeps them coming back for more. How about you? Splendid sceneries are long waiting to be seen by you and a lot of pleasurable activities are just waiting to be noticed behind. Come and experience yourself this once in a lifetime trip to just one of the countless attractions in Jamaica and start making new memories that will surely be remembered.

Longest mountain range in Jamaica--that's what Blue Mountain is. And mind you, you can find two or rather, three of Jamaica's extremes all in this one place. First is the mentioned longest mountain range; next is Jamaica's highest tip which is the Blue Mountain Peak that rises iver 7,000 feet above sea level; and lastly, Jamaica's finest and well-known coffee in the world, the Blue Mountain Coffee that is planted and harvested here. See, you'll never run out of reasons of not heading to Blue Mountains. Give your senses all the best that it can see, feel, smell and taste at the Jamaican Blue Mountains. 

Hiking Up the Mountains

Of course, your Jamaican tour will never be whole if you'll just get amazed by the first looks and not try to hike up the Blue Mountains. What's good about hiking this mountain is that there are variety of hiking trails that gives all hikers of different preferences every option of what suits their wants. There are short trails for those who would want an easier trek up the mountain, and there are also longer trails that are perfect for experienced and skilled hikers. Also, it is up to you whether you would want to hike during the day or during the night when it is more challenging but peaceful. If you prefer a nice sunrise watch by day, then, go on a night hike up through the Blue Mountains. The whole journey going up takes about 3 to 4 hours but there's nothing to worry because the hiking itself provides an amazing experience of sighting villages and a wide array of plants and animals that incredibly inhabits the area; including the second largest butterfly in the world, the Giant Swallowtail.. As soon as you get up there, all weariness that you may feel will all be swept away by this exquisite view of the whole island of Jamaica with a bonus view of the island of Cuba if the weather permits.

To Do's at the Blues

1. Put the pedals on. Cycling is a very popular activity climbing up the Blue Mountains for it often help hikers travel up the mount faster or get more challenged because of rough and steep trails. Nothing to worry about the energy that you might loss, 'cause there are coffee roasting facilities for you to have a sip of Jamaica's pride, Blue Mountain Coffee.

2. Have a tour at several coffee plantations scattered at the mountains. Have a glimpse of the whole process unto how this great tasting coffee is being manufactured and what makes it different from all the other coffees that we know.

3. Rise earlier than the sun and watch it come out while at the Blue Mountain Peak.

These are just some of the numerous activities that you can do at the Blue Mountains that will definitely make you search for more of things to do in Jamaica. Don't just settle for looking at perfectly captured photographs, but treat yourself for a renewing experience.

Dare to Run at Runaway Bay, Jamaica

More than the splendor of the megaresorts that decisively describes Jamaica, there is something that most people overlooked. 

One article described this place as something not to runaway to, but something to runaway from. However, the perspective still depends on individual preference, that is, if one favors a more tranquil, more private and smaller place to unwind, then he must dare run at Runaway Bay.

Runaway Bay is situated at St. Ann Parish between Discovery Bay and St. Ann Bay, on the northern coastline of Jamaica. This might not be that grand type of beach you're expecting, but mind you, Runaway Bay is considered as a notable site on the island being the most beautiful place in all its simplicity. Nonetheless, a life in a slow-paced motion can be expected as one hopped in to Runaway. Be assured that here, you will find rest and calmness of the weary soul.

Meanwhile, there is also a heap of activities that one can try if he is tired of just sitting back and relaxing. You can add these ones to your list of things to do in Jamaica:

Go dive the depths of Runaway. Unwind your mind upon going deeper through the waters of Runaway and experience exploring underwater wrecks--ship, airplanes, and cars that are worth seeing. Also, take a sight of the richness of underwater corals and marine life that gives the sea its existence. 

Lie down on the white sand beaches like never before. Of course this takes up most of the Runaway Bay. Feel the serenity of the beach while watching the scenic setting of the sun either just by yourself or with someone close to your heart. Hear the gush of the waves courtesy of the Caribbean Sea as it embraces the coast. There are private as well as public beaches that will accomodate everyone upon approaching Runaway Bay.

Pay tribute to Bob Marley. The Bob Marley Centre and Mausoleum is one interesting place to go to pay honor and respect to the world's reggae master. Head to Nine Mile village and have a peak of the life of Bob Marley through exploring the place where he once lived and learn about him more through displayed family memorabilias and photographs. You can also buy Marley tapes at one shop and if coincides with the date of your trip, celebrate with reggae fans during February 6 where there are concerts in memorial of Bob Marley's birthday.

Though Runaway Bay was once a satellite of Ocho Rios only, it is no doubt that it has created a name and prestige for its own throughout the years. Besides, before the solitude it provides today for those seeking it, it was also a significant part in Jamaica's history. Runaway Bay was the first settlement site of teh Spaniards in the island and also their last stepping ground upon defeat by the British. 

Every place has its own story and own beauty. If we'll just take time in searching that, then, we will be more quick to appreciate even the little and less famous attractions in Jamaica.

Know About Jamaica’s Montego Bay

Heard about Montego Bay? When we talk about Jamaica, it is in no way you can miss this as one of the top attractions in Jamaica. 

Known as the “Friendly City”,  Montego Bay is not just Jamaica's second biggest city, its the visitor capital of Jamaica. Known for its clamoring and enthusiastic scene and its vibrant society, Montego Bay and the cordial locals warmly welcome guests to delight in the numerous things to do in Jamaica; sights, exercises, and attractions found around the local area and in the neighboring towns. Whether you are searching for an unwinding shore travel, a fun-filled occasion, or an adventure filled escapade, Montego Bay offers this and that's just the beginning.

Delight in Jamaica's Caribbean appeal and the remarkable Montego Bay climate in this city saturated with an interesting history. Uncover chronicled locales that tell stories about Spanish victories, upsets, and hidden treasures, and look into the fabulous past of this interesting city. Appreciate the delightful Georgian and "gingerbread" structural engineering and be surprised by the vibrant shades and shining climate. 

Beach beaus from all over the globe herd to Montego Bay's celebrated Doctor's Cave Beach to bathe in the recuperating mineral springs and perfectly clear waters, while water aficionados can enjoy a plenty of water games and exercises from jet skiing to fishing, and snorkeling to jumping in the water and see the sea creatures beneath. Unwind on the water with a restful boat cruise or thoroughly enjoy a fortune chase with a fun pirate themed "treasure hunt". With such a large number of exercises to delight in, Montego Bay is without a doubt a sea sanctuary.

In love with sports? Golfers will savor the experience of the numerous world class golf courses found in the zone. Go golfing at Cinnamon Hill, Half Moon Bay, White Witch Golf Course, and enjoy a mini tournament surrounded by the tropical surrounding. 

In case you're looking to encounter the city's vibrant night life, make a point to look at the "Hip Strip" where you will discover a richness of shops, exceptional boutiques, art markets, restaurants, spots, night clubs among others. The city is bouncing throughout the day and night verifying the fun always continuous in Montego Bay.

Jamaica Mystic Mountain: A Read-Through

Mystic Mountain is beyond a doubt the most if not the top most sought after attractions in Jamaica; the Caribbean region famous for its rainforests and the adventures you can do there. Mystic Mountain is a famous destination for bobsledding in Jamaica. The rainforest makes bobsledding even more fun because you can see the full view of the forests while enjoying the ride.

The name Mystic Mountain lives up to the mystic you’ll experience in the mountain. Travel up the mountainside to see what this attraction upholds.

Once you reach the mountain, the view can leave you speechless. It’s a different view atop and the trees and its beauty will leave you in awe. The scene atop, overlooking Ocho Rios is just priceless. Not to mention other attractions on the mountain.

On the mountain is a small museum of Jamaica’s bobsled history; including bobsled paraphernalia and writings regarding the facts about their Jamaican Olympians. There is also a gift shop where you can shop for memorabilia items and a restaurant with full bar that you can dine and drink together with your friend or family after or before the bobsled ride. The mountain also has its own infinity pool giving you a picturesque view of the surroundings with a waterslide that young and old can enjoy.

There’s no way you’ll run out of things to do in the Mystic Mountain, if you want thrill, go bobsledding, if you want to chill,  try the infinity pool or have a quiet relaxing moment at the restaurant.

Attractions

The top reason why people want to see the Mystic Mountain is mainly because they want to experience the Bobsled ride. Twist through the mountains and have a view on your way up and down, around and about the railings. It’s more like being in a roller coaster ride but with brakes and control. You can opt to not use the brakes for a more thrilling, fast ride!

Canopy zipline anyone? You can also do it while in Jamaica Mystic Mountain! It shows you the mountain on a zipline. Some prefer this kind as to the bobsled. But nonetheless, this activity is a worthwhile experience.

Do you know that there is also a butterfly garden in the mountain? See beautiful butterflies only seen in Jamaica on their Butterfly Garden as they little creatures fly around flowers and plants. There’s also a Hummingbird Garden at the Mystic Mountain, observe them fly on the plants and be amazed of their beauty.

4 of the Best Foods to Try in Jamaica

Jamaica is more than just Bob Marley and Reggae. Aside from the infamous familiarity of other nation with Jamaica’s music and the known music artist, Jamaica boasts spectacular flora and fauna. Natural attractions in Jamaica include its luscious rainforests and the activities worth experiencing in it. And of course, who will forget the mystic mountain in Jamaica that makes it one of the sought after destination in the Caribbean region.

After having an enjoyable adventure at the rainforest and the mystic mountain, it is just to spoil yourself with Jamaica’s wide variety of food and their natural produce. But what are the must try food in this side of the Caribbean? 

Here are the top foods to try in Jamaica:

1. Jerk Chicken. Jamaican cooking uses a considerable measure of flavors, and the most common if these flavoring is the jerk sauce. A sauce made of island-grown seasonings like cinnamon and nutmeg and Scotch cap peppers and pimento that are incorporated on meat which is then broiled over pimento wood. Any meat could be jerked, yet chicken is the top choice, and Jamaican chicken is not at all like any you'll discover in the States. Chickens brought up in the Caribbean are sustained by natural grown foods rather than commercially produced grain, which brings about a scrumptiously wealthier taste. Attempt the sweet and zesty meat with a bit of hard-mixture bread for an traditional Jamaican meal.

2. Jamaican Patty. Commonly sold in restaurants around Jamaica, this Jamaican patty is a bread filled mainly of ground meat and Jamaican flavorings. Variations can be made by the different choice of meat incorporated in the bread.  Fillings can include meat like chicken, pork and lobsters.

3. Ackee and Saltfish. Ackee and Saltfish is a tradiitonal Jamaican breakfast made of scrambled eggs, a codfish and an ackee fruit. Ackee fruit is a bland but somehow sweet tasting fruit locally grown in the area. It perfectly match the saltiness of the codfish included in the meal. Ackee and Saltfish is your Jamaican version the omelet breakfast.

4. Gizzadas. A gizzada is Jamaica's local pastry. After a meal, you should indulge yourself of this sweet treat. It is a tart filled with butter, or fresh sweetened coconut, nutmeg and ginger. Its texture is gooey and crunchy. Every visitor in Jamaica should end a scrumptious meal with this satisfying treat.