Written by Kayla Doris

“We likkle but we tallawah” is a fitting proverb for Jamaica. Roughly translating to “we’re small but we’re mighty,” it encapsulates the cultural significance of this small nation that has had a global impact. The island has birthed musical legends, sporting superstars, six different musical genres, and a dialect that has spread far beyond its location in the Caribbean Sea. The reason for this wide-ranging cultural reach? The people, the vibe, the je ne sais quoi. “I’ve traveled a lot and when I compare us to other places, there is something we have that nobody else has. There is a particular vibe that we have and once people come here, they tap into it. It’s like electric,” says Janet Crick, Deputy Director at Kingston Creative. “Part of that "je ne sais quoi" is the people themselves. We have been through hardship but there is an inner joy and spirit that can’t be suppressed. It’s like an unwritten pact that we will enjoy life no matter what. You have to come and experience it for yourself.”

For many who travel to Jamaica, it’s not uncommon for visitors not to see much beyond the walls of the all-inclusive resorts, which have privatized the island's coastline and made it harder for the financial benefits of tourism to reach locals. “I’m not judging people who are just after sun, sea, and sand. But if you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort, you could just as well be anywhere. You cannot stay in a resort and say you’ve been to Jamaica,” says Janet. As a result, we’ve purposefully chosen to craft this guide away from the typical resort areas to showcase the best of Jamaica’s diversity—which ranges from its pulsing capital city, majestic Blue Mountains, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls—by focusing on Kingston, Portland, and Treasure Beach. We’ve also tried to include as many locally-owned businesses as possible, but if you’re visiting we highly recommend further researching small businesses you can support. 

This guide has been crafted with insights from local residents and experts, Janet Crick—Deputy Director at Kingston Creative, Tiffany Dicker—property owner and consultant, and Daisy Beech—PR Manager at Geejam. We’ve also included tips from friends of ECT, Denai Moore and Shanika Hillocks.

Do

Explore Kingston’s ever-expanding Art District with Kingston Creative, a non-profit organization that has revitalized Downtown Kingston by investing millions into local creatives. The Mural Tour walks you through an eight-block outdoor gallery that depicts Jamaica’s history and heritage, providing insight into the stories behind the artworks. “Yes you could walk and see these murals for yourself, but the tour gives you additional context into the artists, the area, and the themes that have been woven into the art,” says Janet. Taking part in the tours also supports their work which has had a huge impact on the lives of local creatives in the area. “It has really made a difference and fed back into the lives of creatives and the lives of the people behind the stalls,” says Janet. Alongside the mural tour, Kingston Creative also offers a combined tour which takes you through Kingston’s art galleries and museums, plus a food tour and music tour. Put your tourism dollars to good use and book through the website. 

Also included in the guide:

• A day trip that involves spending the afternoon on your very own private beach

• An off-the-beaten-path farm experience where a local family share their connection with the land

• An experience that teaches visitors about Jamaica’s Maroons, a community of descendants of enslaved Africans who fought back against British colonial forces

Eat

Head to Kamila’s Kitchen in Kingston for nourishing, plant-powered dishes. Located at Reggae Mountain, you can enjoy daily smoothies, creamy coconut curries, veggies burgers, and sweet treats while taking in views of the city.

Also included in the guide:

• An exclusive and authentic riverside dining experience that has to be accessed by rafting along a river⁠

• The best farm-to-table and vegan food spots around the island⁠

• A local haunt where you need to try Jamaica’s national dish and a breakfast classic, ackee and saltfish

Stay

Check into Geejam for a boutique stay that centers the tie between Jamaica and its musical heritage. Geejam was (and still is) a recording studio prior to opening its doors  as a boutique hotel. “In the last 18 months we’ve had sessions with The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Megan Thee Stallion, Bad Bunny, Tyla, and Idris Elba to name a few,” says Daisy. “If there is a studio session going on, there is no elitist ‘them and us’ vibe between studio clients/hotel guests and are often seen mingling at the Bushbar.” Take your pick between the accommodation options which include; 12 rooms laced with Jamaican artwork and pop culture references, five-star amenities and stellar views of the rainforest; treetop cabins nestled at the bottom of the Blue Mountains; and two luxury villas with their own private pool, chef, bartender, and housekeeping.

Also included in the guide:

• Two Black and women-owned properties situated in stunning locations

• An off-grid stay in Portland managed by a local Rasta family

• A family-run boutique hotel that actively supports sustainable community development

Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.

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