Kingston
Kingston is the capital city of Jamaica and is the commercial heart of the Island. Kingston is also home to the seventh largest natural harbor in the world. Kingston is not a resort area and is not for someone looking for a beach holiday but it makes up for this by offering a wide assortment of entertainment. There is a wide selection of local plays, restaurants, clubs, and it has a phenomenal nightlife. There is always something to do in Kingston.
The hills of St. Andrew offer a wonderful view of the city and offers a certain amount of peace and quite desired by some. The cooler temperatures present a welcome break from the high temperatures in the city.
Travelling around Kingston and St. Andrew is easy as there are buses and taxis readily available. Kingston is just approximately 2 hours from Port Antonio, 1 1/2 hours from Ocho Rios, 3 hours from Montego Bay and about 4 hours from Negril.
Places to Visit
Blue Mountains: One should not miss a drive up to the home of Jamaica's famous coffee. You will also find interesting sights along the way. You will be glad you did as the view is absolutely breath taking and magnificent.
Bob Marley Museum: Open Monday - Saturday.
Castleton Botanical Gardens: Open all day, every day.
Devon House: One will find a restored great house, restaurants offering Jamaican cuisine, craft and souvenir shops, an African museum and also some of the best tasting ice cream and pastry anywhere on the island.
Emancipation Park: Newly constructed, this park offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of New Kingston. Locals can be found jogging here early in the morning or night. It also offers an open-air theatre where on Sundays one can find different forms of entertainment and there is also a man-made waterfall that when lit at night creates a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere.
Hope Botanical Gardens: It is the largest botanical gardens in the West Indies. There is also a zoo there. The zoo and gardens are open everyday from 10:am to 5pm.
Institute of Jamaica: Here one will find historical artifacts and information on the history of Jamaica. Open Monday to Thursday 8:30 am to 5pm.
Jamaica Conference Center: They offer a convention center, restaurants, gardens, offices and an in-bond souvenir shop.
Kingston Highlight Tours: This company offers half-day tours of the sights in Kingston and they also offer tours of the historic Port Royal.
Lime Cay: Tours can be arranged through Morgan Harbour Hotel at Port Royal to this off shore island. The white sand beach and clear water is worth the trip.
Putt n' Play Mini Golf Park: Visitors can practice their golf swing right in the middle of the city. It's a favorite hang out spot for locals on a Friday night or Saturday.
Rockfort Mineral Bath: There is a pool for a public bath or private rooms are available upon request. It is open daily 6:30 am to 6pm.
The National Art Gallery: Here you will find a showcase of Jamaica's national art collection. It is open Monday to Friday 11:am to 4pm.