Jamaica Overview
By Rachel Newcombe
The third largest island in the Caribbean Sea, the tropical island of Jamaica is 235km long and 93km wide.
It’s a haven for wildlife and has impressive collections of flora and fauna, as well as fascinating geographical features, including 120 rivers, 1,022km of coastline, plains, mountain ranges and both white and black sandy beaches. No wonder it’s a popular holiday destination.
Kingston, the capital, is a busy commercial hub on the southeastern coast. Places to see include the site of the famous Port Royal, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1692, Rockfort, a 17th century fortress and Headquarters House, which was once a government building. Montego Bay, or MoBay, is the second largest city and the people there pride themselves on being friendly. Montego Bay has a long history – Christopher Columbus was the first European visitor in 1494 and named the bay Golfo de Buen Tiempo or Fair Weather Gulf. Jamaica was a Spanish colony from 1511 to 1655.
Other significant towns include Portmore, Mandeville and Spanish Town, but the numerous smaller villages off the beaten track are often quaint and traditional. If you’re feeling brave, then you could rent a car and drive around the island, but the road culture can be a completely new – and often scary experience! Thankfully, there’s the JUTA (Jamaica Union for Travellers Association) which provides air-conditioned cars, buses and coaches for visitors.
Jamaica has numerous beaches dotted all around the island, with mostly white sand in the north and black in the south. With the average temperature ranging from 19C to 32C, Jamaica really is a tropical paradise. Go!
