Palladium Guides - Destination Jamaica (English)

Jamaica

Palladium Jamaica

1

guides Palladium guides

1

1

Montego Bay

2

Ocho Rios

3

Kingston

4

Negril

2

4

3

2

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Come to Jamaica and experience an island overflowing with color and energy. This unique and diverse country has a pace and power, a passion and beauty that set it apart and make any trip here unforgettable.

When Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica on May 4, 1494 he described it in his log as “the fairest island that eyes have beheld: mountains and the land seem to touch the sky… all full of valleys and fields and plains”.

Here Spanish sailors met a peaceful American Indian people, the Taínos, who called the island “Xaymaca” – “land of wood and water.”

Along with its many natural wonders, it’s the melting pot of people who now call this island home that is the beauty of Jamaica today. Visit this ultra-hospitable country and you’ll encounter friendly, joyful faces and a vibrant energy familiar across the planet thanks to its people’s music, culture, and sporting triumphs. Just think of the many Jamaicans whose ideas and talents have made an impact around the world, from civil rights activist Marcus Garvey, basketball player Patrick Ewing, and sprinter Usain Bolt, not to forget reggae superstar Bob Marley. From this marvelous, magical island they all sprang.

Jamaica

3

Palladium guides

Jamaica

2

1 1. Jerk meat is a delicious Jamaican national dish with Spanish influences.

2. The photogenic, azure-colored Blue Hole natural swimming pool is fed by beautiful waterfalls.

4. You’ll feel like you’ve arrived in paradise when you lay eyes on the beautiful beach at Frenchman’s Cove.

5. If you like reggae music, you can’t miss Kingston Dub Club on Sundays.

Conquered by the Spanish in 1494 and by the English in 1655, Jamaica gained its independence on August 6, 1962.

With nearly three

million people,

Jamaica is the third-mostpopulous English-speaking country in the Americas, after the United States and Canada.

Jamaican reggae star Bob Marley died in 1981, but his legend lives on – he is the fifth-highest-earning deceased artist worldwide.

3

4

Together with Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico and Cuba, Jamaica is one of the five countries that form the Greater Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean Sea.

de un vistazo

3. Rick’s Cafe is one of the most vibrant spots to enjoy the sunset on the island.

DID YOU KNOW?

4

5

There are an estimated one million followers of the Jamaican-born Rastafari spiritual movement, which regards former Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie I as its messiah.

Palladium guides

Montego Bay Adventures in nature Jamaica

W

ant to chill out on postcard-perfect white sandy beaches? Sample vibrant nightlife? Or enjoy a thrilling tropical adventure? Montego Bay has them all. Here in this melting pot of locals, tourists, and expats, you’ll find lively clubs and bars, restaurants with every cuisine, pristine beaches, and incredible arts and crafts.

With something for everyone, “Mobay” is ready to fulfill your vacation dreams.

5

Palladium guides

Jamaica Montego Bay

See & Do

CHUKKA ADVENTURES Ocean-loving thrill seekers and cultural explorers unite at Chukka!

Saddle up and get acquainted with your new hoofed friend for a unique and unforgettable horse-riding adventure. Or ride up mountain terrain with spectacular ocean vistas on an ATV. Journey through Jamaica’s back-country and pass through farmlands. At the seashore, try swimming on horseback, then power snorkel on an exciting catamaran cruise where undersea creatures will greet you with a glowing bright smile. Locations in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth.

Freeport Shopping Centre. +1 876-619-1441 DOLPHIN COVE Dolphin Cove is Jamaica’s number one attraction, offering fun for all ages. Dolphins, sharks, stingrays, glass-bottom boats, pirates, and parrots are just some of the many

6

Eat & Drink

things you can see and experience here. It has two locations in Jamaica – Ocho Rios and Montego Bay – where you can watch and interact with dolphins and many other beautiful animals.

A1, Montego Bay. +1 866-393-5158 RAFTING ON THE MARTHA BRAE Board one of the bamboo rafts at Rafting on the Martha Brae and gently float down a five-kilometer (three-mile) calm stretch of river just a few miles inland from the historic town of Falmouth. The trip lasts just over an hour and each raft accommodates two adults and up to two small children, with passengers sitting on a throne adorned with colorful flowers. The experience has attracted a number of famous figures over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, Spike Lee, Kenny Rodgers, Johnny Cash, and Usain Bolt.

Martha Brae River. Falmouth, Trelawny. +1-876-952-0889

GRAND PALLADIUM JAMAICA RESORT & SPA This refined five-star hotel offers access to four dream beaches, as well as having a large wellness area and several family and adult-only pools. Eight extraordinary à la carte restaurants complement the wide range of bars in the lively area in which it is located.

Lucea - Montego Bay - Jamaica +876 619 0000 GRAND PALLADIUM LADY HAMILTON RESORT & SPA Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is located on a stunning Jamaican beach, positioned between two of the island’s most popular cities, just a few minutes from the hotel. Its exceptional fivestar service and beautiful tropical environment make it perfect for a Caribbean vacation to be enjoyed with friends, couples and the family.

Lucea - Montego Bay - Jamaica +876 619 0000

USAIN BOLT TRACKS & RECORDS SPORTS BAR & GRILL As well as being the fastest man on Earth, Usain Bolt is co-founder of this sports bar chain with branches in Montego Bay and Kingston. At every Tracks & Records, you can experience authentic Jamaica vibes with the best the island has to offer in music, sports and food, from Bob Marley and Blue Mountain Coffee to the eight-time Olympic gold medalist himself. Enjoy traditional Jamaican dishes such as the Jerk Platter, a combination of perfectly seasoned jerked chicken and pork, or the signature U-Burger, accompanied by music from the best dancehall and reggae artists and cocktails. And no trip to Tracks & Records is complete without a photo of yourself making Usain’s signature “to the world” pose with your friends.

St. James Place, St. James Place Plaza, 7 Gloucester Ave. 1 876-971-0000 Palladium guides

Jamaica Montego Bay

Shop

MAIN STREET ROSE HALL Rum, Blue Mountain coffee, Cuban cigars, souvenirs, crafts and some of the locals’ favorite flavors, such as Devon House I-Scream (ranked fourth-best icecream in the world by National Geographic), are among the things you’ll find at the Main Street Rose Hall outdoor mall. Internationally renowned brands – such as Gucci, Cartier and Chanel – are also based here in duty-free stores.

Main Street.+1- 876-9533245 HARBOUR STREET CRAFT AND CULTURAL VILLAGE Fire eaters, fakirs, contortionists and, of course, musicians. The Harbour Street market buzzes with artists sure to delight anyone looking to take home a piece of Jamaica. As well as mass-produced items, you can also see local artisans using traditional tools and methods to create typical ceramic pieces and carvings from Jamaican woods such as guango and blue mahoe.

This is also a good place to try the island’s typical dishes, such as ackee salted fish, meatballs, and boiled bananas.

4 Harbour St. +1 876-295-5502

7

Palladium guides

Montego Bay 7

1. Chukka Adventures 2. Dolphin Cove 3. Rafting on the Martha Brae 4. Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa 5. Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa

6 4

2

1

8

5

3

6. Usain Bolt Tracks & Records Sports Bar & Grill

7. Main Street Rose Hall 8. Harbour Street Craft and Cultural Village

8

Palladium guides

Montego Bay

Spotlight on J

amaica’s jerk cuisine is renowned the world over, as famous as Bob Marley or Bolt. Jerk is both a style of cooking and a special mix of sweet and savory spices that can be used to flavor any kind of meat, from chicken to pork, lobster, or fish.

It originated with the island’s Maroon people, runaway slaves who hid out in the island’s mountainous interior regions during the era of British colonization in the 1600s. To avoid being spotted and recaptured, the Maroons cooked their meals underground, using coals and the fragrant wood

of pimento trees, which are common to the area.

These days, jerk meat is at the heart of Jamaican cuisine and found everywhere across the country, from humble roadside sellers to dedicated jerk restaurants such as Scotchies in Kingston, as well as five-star resorts. Try it alongside one of the traditional accompaniments, such as bammies (cassava flatbread) or festivals (a sweet fried dough).

jerk meat

9

Palladium guides

Ocho authentic Ríos Caribbean flavor Jamaica

O

cho Rios is one of Jamaica’s main tourist areas, known for its beautiful scenery, famous attractions, and great shopping. Bursting with greenery, fantastic flavors, and huge diversity, this coastal area dazzles with fabulous colors, set against a soundtrack of roaring waterfalls that flow into the clear Caribbean Sea. Before you leave, be sure to visit the Ocho Rios Craft Market and pick up a special souvenir to remember your time in this corner of paradise.

10

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Ocho Ríos

See & Do

DUNN’S RIVER FALLS Right next to Ocho Rios, the unique Dunn’s River Falls is undoubtedly one of Jamaica’s most beautiful spots. A living and growing natural phenomenon, its small domeshaped cataracts are more commonly seen in limestone caves with thermal springs. They continuously regenerate from deposits of travertine rock, formed by the precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river as it flows over the falls. One of the few travertine waterfalls to empty straight into the sea, it is the only place of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world.

Cataratas del río Dunn, Main St. +1 876-974-4767

Hole is close enough to Ocho Rios and awe-inspiring enough for you to make visiting it a priority when you’re in Jamaica.

Lot 6, Cascade Rd, Lodge. +1 876-777-5226

BLUE HOLE This breathtaking water attraction is a favorite with both locals and tourists alike.

A crowd-pleaser that has not yet been privatized, it’s free to access, and you only have to pay for your guide – well worth the small amount they cost. Blue

RAINFOREST ADVENTURES MYSTIC MOUNTAIN Put on your explorer’s hat and take your camera on a photo safari at Rainforest Adventures Mystic Mountain. This mountain park stretching over 40 hectares (100 acres) in Ocho Rios takes you on a rainforest

11

tour, gliding up by chairlift from the seashore to 200 meters (700 feet) above sea level and indulging in an up-close and personal encounter with a fascinating ecosystem. At the top you’ll find exhilarating activities to try, including zip lines and a bobsled run. Afterwards, take a soak in the infinity pool and enjoy a delightful meal at the restaurant.

Belmont Road. +1-876 618-1553/8 YAAMAN ADVENTURE PARK Located on an historic 18thcentury estate formerly known as

Prospect Plantation, Yaaman Adventure Park offers another fun-filled encounter with mother nature and thrilling activities. Hurtle through the jungle mud on the mud buggy ride, discover the history and wildlife of the property on a tractor-drawn open-air carriage ride, and learn about Jamaican cuisine on a cooking tour, before sealing your day off with a dolphin swim.

Prospect, St. Mary Rte 3, 5 kilómetros al este de Ocho Ríos. +1 876-994-1058 Palladium guides

Ocho Ríos

Eat & Drink

MARGARITAVILLE Enjoy a refreshing dip in the impossibly blue Caribbean or the huge pool with a 30-meter (100foot) high slide before dining at this leisure space and all-day restaurant. A catamaran ride is also the perfect way to work up an appetite for the seafood with an island twist, jerkcooked chicken and pork, and some of the best burgers on the island. All kinds of delicacies await you in Margaritaville, which, of course, also serves excellent margaritas. At night, the family atmosphere changes to a party one, as the place transforms into a vibrant nightclub.

Turtle Beach Rd. +1 876-675-8800 MISS T’S KITCHEN Miss T’s Kitchen is a rusticstyle Jamaican restaurant and bar serving up typical healthy homemade dishes and drinks, all served in a lush garden. The restaurant prides itself on its reasonable prices, fantastic service, and cool and peaceful atmosphere, livened up by music from the island.

65 Main St. +1 876-795-0099

12

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Ocho Ríos

Shop

ISLAND VILLAGE The Island Village open-air market, located next to the beach, recreates the atmosphere of a typical Caribbean village and has an interesting combination of duty-free shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll find Jamaican rum and cigars, authentic Blue Mountain coffee, jewelry, clothes and souvenirs. Haggling is a must!

Turtle River Road. +1 876-613-3719

13

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Ocho Ríos

4

1

1. Dunn’s River Falls 2. Blue Hole 3. Mystic Mountain 4. Yaaman Adventure Park

3 6 7

5

2

5. Margaritaville 6. Miss T’s Kitchen

7. Island Village

14

Palladium guides

Ocho Ríos

Spotlight M on

usic is everywhere in Jamaica. There’s no rhythm its people can’t dance to and no state of mind they can’t express through words and beats. As well as making you want to sing along and dance, the island’s music has also served as a powerful tool for change, as evidenced by the reggae songs of the island’s biggest music superstar, Bob Marley. But while the reggae genre has become synonymous with Jamaican music, the island’s musical traditions go deeper. From folk music steeped in African rhythms, the country has given birth to an extraordinary number of genres, from mento and ska, to rocksteady, reggae, dub music, dancehall and reggae fusion, forging an extraordinary legacy that continues to evolve today.

Jamaican music

15

Palladium guides

Port Antonio Heaven on Earth Jamaica

P

ort Antonio is a place full of quiet charm and beauty – but that is not the only reason to visit. Come and explore the city to check out its fabulous arts, crafts and jewelry, discover its famous natural waterfalls, Blue Lagoon, and virgin beaches, and to try its delicious jerk pork. You will not be disappointed.

16

Palladium guides

Jamaica Port Antonio

Ver & Hacer

FRENCHMAN’S COVE Nestled on the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea amid lush rainforest, Frenchman’s Cove resort has been an exclusive beach retreat for more than 50 years. Its private villas have accommodated everyone from real royalty to rock royalty, giving them legendary status. However, beyond the myths, Frenchman’s Cove beach is without doubt one of the most recognized, beautiful and picturesque in Jamaica. A clear river flows into its light sands, forming a landscape so exceptional that it has been used as a movie location more than a few times (in The Lord of the Flies, for example). To access it, you need to buy a ticket at the resort itself. +1 876-993-7270

17

BLUE LAGOON With sparkling turquoiseblue waters surrounded by lush vegetation, Blue Lagoon offers the impression of an authentic paradise – and indeed played exactly that role in the film The Blue Lagoon.

This beautiful lagoon, which opens out to the sea, changes color during the day, ranging through every shade of jade and emerald thanks to the cold freshwater that covers the warm body of saltwater hiding below it. You can cool off in its waters or explore it on a boat tour.

REACH FALLS A crystal-clear waterfall surrounded by giant ferns and soundtracked by parrots, Reach Falls is an essential stop when in the Port Antonio area. It has also been used as a movie location, appearing in films such as Cocktail. Standing behind and protected by a rock above, seeing the falls from the inside is a fascinating experience, while a dip in the natural pools is invigorating, thanks to the force of the water flowing through. You can visit Reach Falls with or without a guide, but in both cases, you must pay to enter.

Palladium guides

Port Antonio

Eat & Drink

BUSHBAR Bushbar at Geejam Hotel offers a refined and elegant dining experience thanks to its impressive fusion of Jamaican and international cuisines. The venue also houses a fantastic infinity pool, an outdoor pool table, and a state-of-the-art sound system that is put to good use by its DJs. The best thing? Its spectacular panoramic views of the jungle and the ocean, which expand the limits of the most vivid imagination.

122 Skippers Blvd San San. +1 876-993-7000 WOODY’S LOW BRIDGE PLACE The restaurant of the friendly Charles “Woody” Cousins ​ and his wife Cherry opened its doors in 1986 and has become a point of reference thanks to its famous homemade burgers, traditional Jamaican dishes and, especially, the warmth and hospitality of its owners. What’s more, Cherry’s homemade jerk seasoning is so delicious that you’ll want to take it home – fortunately you can buy a jar right there. You can even purchase a CD from Woody, who is also a reggae musician.

En Drapers, en la autovía North Coast A4, a unos 6 km de Port Antonio. +1 876-993-7888

18

Palladium guides

Jamaica Port Antonio

Shop

THE CRAFT VILLAGE Along the east coast of Port Antonio is The Craft Village mall. Here among the log cabins you find some of the best handmade crafts in all of Portland. In fact, Port Antonio’s best-known carver, Rock Bottom, is to be found at the center, and you can watch him as he works.

There are also several places to have a drink and enjoy extraordinary views of the sea, as well as an outdoor play area for children.

1 Allan Avenue. +1 876-715-1111

19

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Port Antonio 6

5

4

1

2 1. Frenchman’s Cove 2. Blue Lagoon 3. Reach Falls

4. Bushbar 5. Woody’s Low Bridge Place

6. The Craft Village

3

20

Palladium guides

Port Antonio

Spotlight on

J

amaican rums range from clear white rums to light-tinged golden rums and deep dark premium rums, some of which have been aged for many years in oak barrels. Made from sugarcane and its by-product molasses, the island’s rum is a source of much pride with several local brands dating back centuries. Many have received awards. Use white and golden rums to add an invigorating hit to colorful cocktails. Premium dark rums are best sipped neat, perhaps after dinner, allowing you to savour their long-matured flavors.

Jamaican rum 21

Palladium guides

Kingston the heart of Jamaica

Jamaica

J

amaica’s capital mixes beauty and anarchy like few other cities. The cultural epicenter of the island, it’s teeming with sensational sights just waiting to be discovered and buzzing with hardworking, hard-playing locals.

Kingston is without doubt the place to experience spellbinding music and wild nightlife. But you’ll also find fineart galleries, fantastic restaurants, stunning beaches, and wonderful views from the cool hills overlooking the city. Come and get to know it.

22

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Kingston

He ordered the construction of this splendid mansion, which combines Caribbean and Georgian architecture. Today, the house – furnished with a collection of old pieces and Jamaican, English and French reproductions – is a national monument that captures the attention with its beautiful gardens and its many leisure and entertainment options, including stores and restaurants.

26 Hope Road, +1 876-929-6602

See & Do

BOB MARLEY MUSEUM The 19th-century house in which the legendary musician lived from 1975 until his death in 1981 was converted into a museum six years later by his wife, Rita Marley. On display here are the most significant items from his life and career (gold and platinum records, clothes, newspaper clippings, photographs...). The property also has a well-equipped 80-seat theater, a photo gallery, a restaurant, a record store, and a gift shop where you can buy a wide variety of Marley souvenirs.

56 Hope Road. +1 876 630 1588 DEVON HOUSE Go back in time to 1881 to see what life was like when George Stiebel lived in Devon House. Considered to be the country’s first Black millionaire, he obtained his wealth from gold-mining in Venezuela.

23

PORT ROYAL Described in the 17th century as the “most evil city in the world”, this legendary port was once home to famous pirates and outlaws. Today it is an historic enclave that still retains some of its original attributes.

However, much of the city is now underwater as a result of a 1692 earthquake that swallowed around two-thirds of it. Another earthquake in 1907, numerous hurricanes, fires, and various disease outbreaks that decimated the population have all meant that only vestiges of the past remain, including several cannons and forts. The most striking features are Giddy House, an artillery store from 1888 that was permanently tilted by the earthquake of 1907, and the local flavor of its streets, where you can enjoy the daily life of an authentic Jamaican community.

Palladium guides

Kingston

Eat & Drink KINGSTON DUB CLUB Kingston Dub Club is like a big reggae party to which everyone is invited. Sessions with the best reggae musicians from the local scene take place here every Sunday, and feature M.C. Gabre Selassie, owner and operator of Rockers Sound Station. The venue is located in the St. Andrew hills, above Kingston, and offers a breathtaking view of the city.

It also has an intimate courtyard where the speaker wall and the DJ booth are located, as well as a large terrace.

Jack’s Hill, 7B Skyline Drive. +1 876-815-1184 SWEETWOOD JERK JOINT Eat Kingston’s best jerk recipes at this casual restaurant with friendly staff located next to the famous Emancipation Park. You’ll find pork, chicken, sausages, lamb, fish and snails cooked in this traditional smoked way, accompanied by delicious side dishes of sweet potato, yam, breadfruit, and corn.

78 Knutsford Boulevard. +1 876-906-4854

24

SPANISH COURT CAFE The charming courtyard dotted with pretty red umbrellas and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation is just one of the many attributes that make this place a favorite for locals and visitors. The other, of course, is its excellent food, with a wide range of Caribbean and Jamaican dishes, and signature cocktails.

The warm and comfortable atmosphere of Spanish Court Café makes it a great place to enjoy breakfast and lunch, while its island-inspired elegance makes it equally suitable for a romantic dinner for two.

1 St. Lucia Avenue, Spanish Court Hotel. +1 876-926-0000 Palladium guides

Jamaica

Kingston

Shop

CORONATION MARKET Coronation Market is one of the largest farmers’ markets in Jamaica, which is why it’s often crowded. So much so that hiring a guide is recommended to help you find your way around the labyrinth of vendors, who sell fruit, vegetables, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You must try ackee, which is the national fruit, and is only to be enjoyed once completely ripe.

Pechon St. +1 876-486-4906 KINGSTON NIGHT MARKET Live music, drinks, and lots of stalls selling jewelry, emerging art, fashion, cosmetics, crafts, and all kinds of food. All this in a friendly, festive atmosphere where families are more than welcome. That’s what awaits you at the Kingston Night Market, where the products are all handmade. It’s open every Tuesday from 5pm to 11pm.

8 Hillcrest Avenue. +1 876-638-6949

25

Palladium guides

Jamaica

4 1

Kingston

8

2 6 5

1. Bob Marley Museum 2. Devon House 3. Port Royal

4. Kingston Dub Club 5. Sweetwood Jerk Joint 6. Spanish Court Cafe 7

7. Coronation Market 8. Kingston Night Market

3

26

Palladium guides

Kingston

Spotlight on

N

o trip to Jamaica is complete without sampling a cup of its famous Blue Mountain Coffee. One of the most expensive coffees in the world, it is only grown on the slopes of the mist-capped Blue Mountain, the country’s highest peak at 2,256 meters (7,402 feet). Its beans have been cultivated here since 1728 when coffee was first introduced to the island. The coffee has a distinct flavor and is particularly sought after in Japan, where much of it is exported. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to try this worldrenowned delicacy and see what all the fuss is about.

Blue Mountain Coffee 27

Palladium guides

Negrilan oasis of calm

Jamaica

B

est known for its magnificent sunsets, a seven-mile stretch of gorgeous white sand, and stunning coastal cliffs, Negril offers ultimate relaxation.

Soothe your soul watching daily life slowly unfold while sunning yourself on incredible beaches, sampling the freshest seafood, and staring out over emerald green seas. There are also several historical and natural wonders to see in the area, including spots used by legendary pirates and havens for hummingbirds.

28

Palladium guides

Jamaica

Negril

See & Do

Shop

SEVEN MILE BEACH Seven Mile Beach is probably one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Caribbean. It has calm, skyblue waters, white sands, sculpted palm trees, and a lot of rhythm thanks to its beach bars, which give the place its reggae atmosphere and fill the air with the rich aroma of freshly made food.

NEGRIL CLIFFS Rising around 12 meters (40 feet) above the blue sea, the Negril Cliffs are the perfect place to enjoy Jamaica’s unique sunsets.

Their rocks, which plunge abruptly into the water, create a striking contrast with the green foliage of the summits. Many dare to jump into the sea from the ledges, while others prefer to partake in another popular activity in the area: snorkeling to observe the underwater life, which is teeming with fish of infinite colors.

29

BARNEY’S FLOWER & HUMMINGBIRD GARDEN JAMAICA This lush, well-kept tropical botanical garden proudly displays its delicious aromas and vibrant colors. Delicate native hummingbirds – Jamaica’s national bird – flock here. You can give them something to drink, have breakfast surrounded by them (and the rest of the local fauna), and even take a premium tour of the property accompanied by its owner, Barney.

Hylton Avenue, off Negril, W End Road. +1 876-825-7750

TIMES SQUARE MALL Time Square is a small shopping mall that sells duty-free items.

Here you can find jewelry, cigars, spirits, and other typical Jamaican souvenirs at good prices. It has a calm atmosphere and visitors love taking pictures of themselves with the life-size Bob Marley statue.

Norman Manley Blvd. +1 876-957-9263 Palladium guides

Jamaica

Negril 1

4

1. Seven Mile Beach 2. Negril Cliffs 3. Barney’s Flower & Hummingbird Garden Jamaica

2

4. Times Square Mall

3

30

Palladium guides

Negril

Spotlight on

I

f you see two Jamaicans talking loudly and livelily, throwing their hands around, don’t worry, it’s probably not an argument. Jamaican Patois is as much about gestures and passion as the words involved – it’s a dynamic, multi-channel means of expression. And a multicultural one, too.

While Patois has its primary roots in English,

it also mixes in words from many of the other languages that have been spoken on the island, including French and African tongues, creating a colorful blend. While Patois can be hard to understand, especially when someone is talking fast in a strong accent, if you wait for things to slow down and take the time to listen, you should be able to follow what’s going on.

Patois, the voice

of the island 31

Palladium guides

hideaway Floyd’s Pelican Bar Jamaica

The

Lying 1.6 kilometers (one mile) off the coast in the blue-green sea of Parottee Bay, Floyd’s Pelican Bar is a driftwood hut rising up from a sandbar. It started out serving beers and seafood to passing fishermen but its fame grew and it soon became known as one of the best beach bars in the world.

Rock up for a drink and play dominos with the regulars, diving in for a swim between games. The best times to go are first thing in the morning (from 10am) or late in the afternoon to experience the unforgettable sunset.

32

Palladium guides

Jamaica Photos © Shutterstock, iStockphoto, Unsplash : Rock Staar, Jonathan Borba, Andy Ngucaj, Kekai Ahsam.

33

Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa

Lucea - Montego Bay Jamaica Phone +876 619 0000

Lucea - Montego Bay Jamaica Phone +876 619 0000

Palladium guides