 Devon HouseDevon House is one of numerous preserved historic mansions in Jamaica that depict the glory of days gone by. This house was built in 1881 by George Stiebel, a wealthy Jamaican who became one of the first black millionaires in the Caribbean on the strength of his mining interests in South America. In the grounds are craft shops, restaurants, a bakery and pastry shop. The venue is also famous for its delicious ice cream. |
 Port RoyalBefore it was devasted by a huge earthquake in 1692, it was known as the evilest place on earth. It was home to swashbuckling pirate and buccaneers who roam the seas stealing and looting. Later in the 17th century it was home to the Brish Nav. Now it is a sleepy fishing village and draws visitors interested in learning about the island's heritage or just to enjoy the views of the seas while eating fish and bammy at the waters edge. Must see: the museum, the naval base and giddy house. |
 Bob Marley MuseumJamaica's world famous son, singer-songwriter Bob Marley, was responsible for making reggae music a global phenomenon. The popular Rastafarian became a cult figure even before his death caused by cancer in 1981 when he was 36 years old. The museum devoted to his memory is the most-visited sight in Kingston. The simple clapboard house was where Marley lived and recorded his music until he died, and is now packed with Marley memorabilia. There are also screenings of a movie about the singer's life. |
 Rock Fort Mineral SpaThe origins of the Rock Fort Spa is uncertain, but it is believed to have appeared miraculously following the 1907 earthquake. The water which is very radioactive, is piped from a cold spring in the surrounding hills. The spa which is operated commercially has several bathhouses, supplied with warm water, and a large swimming pool. Like the other mineral spas, Rock Fort Mineral Spa is believed to have healing properties. |
 Emancipation ParkFinally unveiled in 2002 after decades of planning, the spacious Emancipation Park has become the pride of New Kingston. This wide open space, carved from the dense urban jungle, has a jogging track, stately fountains and, winningly, reggae music emanating from tiny speakers hidden in the grass. It's a grand place for a promenade, particularly at sunset when the walkways fill with cheerful Kingstonians just liberated from their workplaces. |
 Hope GardensThis 20-hectare (50-acre) oasis of beauty in the middle of downtown Kingston features pleasant paths that meander past manicured lawns and tranquil gardens, including a cactus garden, orchid house, a forest garden and an ornamental pond. The gardens are situated next to the campus of the University of the West Indies, and also contain a small zoo and interesting aviary. |
 Jewish SynagogueThe Jews of Jamaica have played an important role in the socio-economic and political development of Jamaica. The Jewish Synagogue is perhaps one of the last remaining physical evidence of Jewish presence in Jamaica. Built in 1908 by Jewish, Rudolph Daniel Cohen Henriques, and his brothers, it is home to the United Congregation of Israelites. Today the congregation still maintains the Synagogue, one of the few in the world with sand on its floor, designed and built in the traditional Sephardic style. The congregation is without a Rabbi at present. |
 Spanish TownThe neighborhood known as Spanish Town is on the western outskirts of Kingston and was capital of the island under Spanish rule between 1662 and 1872. Today the architecture is an interesting mix of Spanish and British Georgian, and there are some historic attractions to explore. St James Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church outside England, having been built in 1523. The Jamaican People's Museum of Crafts and Technology showcases some vintage farm implements, musical instruments and pottery, and the Town Square is overlooked by the Old King's House, former residence of Jamaica's British governors that once hosted Admiral Lord Nelson and Captain Bligh of HMS Bounty fame. |
 Blue MountainsJamaica's Blue Mountains offer an experience not usually expected in a Caribbean vacation: the chance to set off on a steep hike through a national park mountain range across streams and beside waterfalls, through a botanical wonderland. Hikers also pass by coffee plantations, because it is in these mountains that the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is cultivated and blended, so sought after that it has become one of the island's chief exports. Climbing from sea level, on the outskirts of Kingston, along trails up to the foggy peaks, hikers discover a complex series of ecosystems. En route to the mountains is the Blue Mountain Inn, one of Jamaica's most famous restaurants. Further on at Irish Town the Strawberry Hill resort is the premier place for food and lodging, having been frequented by the rich and famous. Those not planning to hike, but wishing to enjoy a vista of the mountains can picnic at Holywell National Recreation Park in the area |
