CW Palace Guide Book
Sightseeing
The Royal Botanical Gardens, commonly called "Hope Gardens", occupies 200 acres of land in the Ligunaea Plains of urban St Andrew. The gardens were established in 1873 on a section of land from the estate of Major Richard Hope, one of the original English colonisers who arrived with the invading force of Penn and Venables. Today the gardens are the largest public green space in the Kingston metropolitan region, and are home to Jamaica's most popular collection of endemic and exotic botanical collections. Of particular interest is the Cassia siamea grove by the main entrance, which was planted in 1907, and the other mini-gardens within the park - notably the cacti garden, with its rare varietals; the bougainvillea walk with its magnificent explosions of tropical colours; the annual gardens, with numerous species of exotic flowers; the sunken gardens and the lily pond.
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Jardins Botànics de Hope
231 Old Hope RoadThe Royal Botanical Gardens, commonly called "Hope Gardens", occupies 200 acres of land in the Ligunaea Plains of urban St Andrew. The gardens were established in 1873 on a section of land from the estate of Major Richard Hope, one of the original English colonisers who arrived with the invading force of Penn and Venables. Today the gardens are the largest public green space in the Kingston metropolitan region, and are home to Jamaica's most popular collection of endemic and exotic botanical collections. Of particular interest is the Cassia siamea grove by the main entrance, which was planted in 1907, and the other mini-gardens within the park - notably the cacti garden, with its rare varietals; the bougainvillea walk with its magnificent explosions of tropical colours; the annual gardens, with numerous species of exotic flowers; the sunken gardens and the lily pond.
The Martha Brae River, a 20-mile (32-kilometer) stretch of turquoise water winding through Jamaica’s tropical inland rain forests, is an essential stop for nature lovers traveling through the Caribbean island. Though primarily a stopover for a quick rafting trip, the river’s prime location near other natural attractions and its wide diversity of wildlife makes it a worthwhile addition to any Jamaica vacation.
42 residents recomanen
Martha Brae River
The Martha Brae River, a 20-mile (32-kilometer) stretch of turquoise water winding through Jamaica’s tropical inland rain forests, is an essential stop for nature lovers traveling through the Caribbean island. Though primarily a stopover for a quick rafting trip, the river’s prime location near other natural attractions and its wide diversity of wildlife makes it a worthwhile addition to any Jamaica vacation.
Reach falls is one of those places that has not been affected by mass tourism in Jamaica. On some days, you will pretty much have the place to yourself. Reach Falls is an unspoilt beauty set in a lush tropical jungle. It is located in a beautiful river valley in the foothills of the John Crow Mountains.
Reach falls is centred on a waterfall cascading down a rock face. Further upstream there are a smaller series of falls that lead into swimming pools. The best way to see Reach Falls is to climb from the bottom below the main pool where the attraction starts. It is best to start at the bottom and explore far above the main pool to really experience Reach Falls.
This way you can stop and explore every little pool along the river route. Be prepared to spend some time exploring the falls.
The source of the falls is about three-quarters of a mile upstream from the main falls area. Further upstream there is also a cave that features a natural waterfall inside. Don’t forget to enjoy the small cascades known as the “mini Jacuzzis” if you want to enjoy a natural massage.
12 residents recomanen
Reach Falls
Reach FallsReach falls is one of those places that has not been affected by mass tourism in Jamaica. On some days, you will pretty much have the place to yourself. Reach Falls is an unspoilt beauty set in a lush tropical jungle. It is located in a beautiful river valley in the foothills of the John Crow Mountains.
Reach falls is centred on a waterfall cascading down a rock face. Further upstream there are a smaller series of falls that lead into swimming pools. The best way to see Reach Falls is to climb from the bottom below the main pool where the attraction starts. It is best to start at the bottom and explore far above the main pool to really experience Reach Falls.
This way you can stop and explore every little pool along the river route. Be prepared to spend some time exploring the falls.
The source of the falls is about three-quarters of a mile upstream from the main falls area. Further upstream there is also a cave that features a natural waterfall inside. Don’t forget to enjoy the small cascades known as the “mini Jacuzzis” if you want to enjoy a natural massage.
One of the oldest and most historic regions of the country, Port Royal has maintained much of its independence as well as its heritage. Once the enclave of pirates and other outlaws, there is still a strong seafaring tradition. Much of the old city, described in the 17th century as the "wickedest city in the west", lies underwater beside the town, the result of an earthquake that in 1692 swallowed about two-thirds of the then-living space. Since then, another earthquake in 1907, numerous hurricanes, fires, and various population-decimating diseases have plagued the town. Despite all, the waters around Port Royal are a virtual archaeological gold mine, filled with pieces of history that tell of everyday life in the earliest days of English occupation. Port Royal is also home to the Archaeological Division of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), which recently completed a sonar survey of the underwater city, revealing a sunken pirate ship in the Kingston Harbour. To date thousands of artefacts have been recovered, and there are plans to develop a local museum to showcase these items once the research on them is complete.
Port Royal is a community of proud people, fiercely defensive of their privacy, yet warm and welcoming to those interested in visiting. The community is especially close-knit because of its layout - everywhere in town is within walking distance, and there are several generations of people all living together. Perhaps the town's best attribute is its comfortable, laid-back temperament - on any given day there are children playing in the streets, young adults gathered in groups hanging out, and older folk sitting on verandas watching the world go by.
Be sure to stop by the Giddy House at Fort Charles. The building, which was built in 1888 to house the artillery store for the fort, was jolted to its present precarious position during the 1907 earthquake. Visitors are allowed to enter the building, however, walking through the building wreaks havoc on the senses, creating a nauseating effect. Go to Fort Charles and ask for either Molly or Rally. Both are Jamaica National Heritage Trust Tour Guides at Fort Charles and both live in the town nearby. They each know loads about the history of all of Port Royal - not just the history of Fort Charles - and are willing to share not just their knowledge, but also their memories of growing up in Port Royal. Also, ask Molly any questions you have about St Peter's Church. She is also the secretary there.
117 residents recomanen
Port Royal
One of the oldest and most historic regions of the country, Port Royal has maintained much of its independence as well as its heritage. Once the enclave of pirates and other outlaws, there is still a strong seafaring tradition. Much of the old city, described in the 17th century as the "wickedest city in the west", lies underwater beside the town, the result of an earthquake that in 1692 swallowed about two-thirds of the then-living space. Since then, another earthquake in 1907, numerous hurricanes, fires, and various population-decimating diseases have plagued the town. Despite all, the waters around Port Royal are a virtual archaeological gold mine, filled with pieces of history that tell of everyday life in the earliest days of English occupation. Port Royal is also home to the Archaeological Division of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), which recently completed a sonar survey of the underwater city, revealing a sunken pirate ship in the Kingston Harbour. To date thousands of artefacts have been recovered, and there are plans to develop a local museum to showcase these items once the research on them is complete.
Port Royal is a community of proud people, fiercely defensive of their privacy, yet warm and welcoming to those interested in visiting. The community is especially close-knit because of its layout - everywhere in town is within walking distance, and there are several generations of people all living together. Perhaps the town's best attribute is its comfortable, laid-back temperament - on any given day there are children playing in the streets, young adults gathered in groups hanging out, and older folk sitting on verandas watching the world go by.
Be sure to stop by the Giddy House at Fort Charles. The building, which was built in 1888 to house the artillery store for the fort, was jolted to its present precarious position during the 1907 earthquake. Visitors are allowed to enter the building, however, walking through the building wreaks havoc on the senses, creating a nauseating effect. Go to Fort Charles and ask for either Molly or Rally. Both are Jamaica National Heritage Trust Tour Guides at Fort Charles and both live in the town nearby. They each know loads about the history of all of Port Royal - not just the history of Fort Charles - and are willing to share not just their knowledge, but also their memories of growing up in Port Royal. Also, ask Molly any questions you have about St Peter's Church. She is also the secretary there.
Did you know that swimming with dolphins is considered one of the top 10 bucket list items? You not only get a chance to live this dream; you have the opportunity to knock off a few more, like ride a camel and interact with stingrays.
One of the many things that make Dolphin Cove Jamaica special is that you can live the experience of swimming with dolphins in the natural Caribbean Sea. Here you have the opportunity to enjoy the company of different fish, rays, and other forms of natural sea life. Dolphin Cove Jamaica is the place to spend the day enjoying lots of fun activities. There is truly something for everyone!
At Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios guests can enjoy the tropical surroundings, taste our famous Jamaican coffee at our Star Buccaneers coffee shop browse for souvenirs or jewellery at our very own gift shops. See the Shark Show while the pirates roam freely along the boardwalk of “Little Port Royal” and perform a “jig or two”. Be entertained while you are having lunch against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Play some games, win a prize, learn amazing facts about Jamaica stroll around in our Jungle Trail and marvel yourself at the wild animals, plants and trees. and of course the marine mammals!. At Dolphin Cove Jamaica there are activities to keep you busy for the entire day.
397 residents recomanen
Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios
Belmont RoadDid you know that swimming with dolphins is considered one of the top 10 bucket list items? You not only get a chance to live this dream; you have the opportunity to knock off a few more, like ride a camel and interact with stingrays.
One of the many things that make Dolphin Cove Jamaica special is that you can live the experience of swimming with dolphins in the natural Caribbean Sea. Here you have the opportunity to enjoy the company of different fish, rays, and other forms of natural sea life. Dolphin Cove Jamaica is the place to spend the day enjoying lots of fun activities. There is truly something for everyone!
At Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios guests can enjoy the tropical surroundings, taste our famous Jamaican coffee at our Star Buccaneers coffee shop browse for souvenirs or jewellery at our very own gift shops. See the Shark Show while the pirates roam freely along the boardwalk of “Little Port Royal” and perform a “jig or two”. Be entertained while you are having lunch against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Play some games, win a prize, learn amazing facts about Jamaica stroll around in our Jungle Trail and marvel yourself at the wild animals, plants and trees. and of course the marine mammals!. At Dolphin Cove Jamaica there are activities to keep you busy for the entire day.
Located on Jamaica’s northern coast, near Montego Bay, Falmouth is the capital of the Parish of Trelawny in the county of Cornwall. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the town flourished as a political and commercial center, serving as a busy port and center for the trade of rum and sugar manufactured on the plantations of Trelawny Parish. From about 1840 onward, however, the town fell into steady decline. In 1988, Falmouth was severely battered when Hurricane Gilbert swept through the area. Many of the town’s earliest buildings remained standing following the hurricane, but suffered from neglect. In 2001 the Falmouth Heritage Renewal Trust was founded with the mission of preserving the historic buildings and urban fabric of Falmouth, while also improving its socio-economic conditions through training, job creation, and building to support tourism and sustainable development.
Falmouth not only boasts a large, intact collection of Georgian period buildings, but is also one of the Caribbean’s best preserved historic towns. The historic district was declared a National Monument by the Jamaican government in 1996. Until recently, Falmouth had been visited by only relatively small numbers of tourists. With the opening of a cruise terminal in Falmouth in 2011, there is a significant increase in visitors to this residential community. Through conservation and preservation of its monuments, including the historic jail, and numerous homes, the town has retained its character and continued to be a vibrant community.
77 residents recomanen
Falmouth
Located on Jamaica’s northern coast, near Montego Bay, Falmouth is the capital of the Parish of Trelawny in the county of Cornwall. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the town flourished as a political and commercial center, serving as a busy port and center for the trade of rum and sugar manufactured on the plantations of Trelawny Parish. From about 1840 onward, however, the town fell into steady decline. In 1988, Falmouth was severely battered when Hurricane Gilbert swept through the area. Many of the town’s earliest buildings remained standing following the hurricane, but suffered from neglect. In 2001 the Falmouth Heritage Renewal Trust was founded with the mission of preserving the historic buildings and urban fabric of Falmouth, while also improving its socio-economic conditions through training, job creation, and building to support tourism and sustainable development.
Falmouth not only boasts a large, intact collection of Georgian period buildings, but is also one of the Caribbean’s best preserved historic towns. The historic district was declared a National Monument by the Jamaican government in 1996. Until recently, Falmouth had been visited by only relatively small numbers of tourists. With the opening of a cruise terminal in Falmouth in 2011, there is a significant increase in visitors to this residential community. Through conservation and preservation of its monuments, including the historic jail, and numerous homes, the town has retained its character and continued to be a vibrant community.
One of Jamaica’s most celebrated historic landmarks, the Devon House Mansion is the architectural dream of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Having gained his wealth from gold mining in South America, Stiebel was among three wealthy Jamaicans who constructed elaborate homes during the late 19th century at the corner of Trafalgar Road and Hope Road. This corner fittingly became known as the Millionaire’s Corner.
The Devon House mansion is a beautiful blend of Caribbean and Georgian architecture, furnished with an expertly curated collection of Jamaican, English and French antique pieces and reproductions. The Mansion overlooks a vast expanse of perfectly manicured and lush, green lawns. Stiebel’s legacy lives on with the beautifully maintained Devon House, which was declared a national monument in 1990 by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. This was done under the instructions of the Rt. Hon. Edward Seaga, who was then Minister of Development and Welfare with responsibility for cultural affairs, and later Prime Minister of Jamaica.
334 residents recomanen
Devon House
26 Hope RdOne of Jamaica’s most celebrated historic landmarks, the Devon House Mansion is the architectural dream of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Having gained his wealth from gold mining in South America, Stiebel was among three wealthy Jamaicans who constructed elaborate homes during the late 19th century at the corner of Trafalgar Road and Hope Road. This corner fittingly became known as the Millionaire’s Corner.
The Devon House mansion is a beautiful blend of Caribbean and Georgian architecture, furnished with an expertly curated collection of Jamaican, English and French antique pieces and reproductions. The Mansion overlooks a vast expanse of perfectly manicured and lush, green lawns. Stiebel’s legacy lives on with the beautifully maintained Devon House, which was declared a national monument in 1990 by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. This was done under the instructions of the Rt. Hon. Edward Seaga, who was then Minister of Development and Welfare with responsibility for cultural affairs, and later Prime Minister of Jamaica.
Milk River Bath is mineral spa in the South West corner of Clarendon Parish, Jamaica. Owned by the Government of Jamaica since its opening in 1794, it now has about 6 public baths and a hotel with about 20 bedrooms. It claims that its warm waters are more radioactive than some other notable spas.
9 residents recomanen
MILK RIVER HOTEL & SPA
Milk River Bath is mineral spa in the South West corner of Clarendon Parish, Jamaica. Owned by the Government of Jamaica since its opening in 1794, it now has about 6 public baths and a hotel with about 20 bedrooms. It claims that its warm waters are more radioactive than some other notable spas.
Accompong (from the Akan name Acheampong) is a historical Maroon village located in the hills of St. Elizabeth Parish on the island of Jamaica. It is located in Cockpit Country, where Jamaican Maroons and indigenous Taíno established a fortified stronghold in the hilly terrain in the 17th century.
9 residents recomanen
Accompong Maroon
Accompong (from the Akan name Acheampong) is a historical Maroon village located in the hills of St. Elizabeth Parish on the island of Jamaica. It is located in Cockpit Country, where Jamaican Maroons and indigenous Taíno established a fortified stronghold in the hilly terrain in the 17th century.
Holland bamboo (also known as Bamboo Avenue) is a heritage site and one of Jamaica’s tourist attractions, which is said to be the most photographed place in the island. It was planted by the owners of Holland Estate and dates back to the mid-1700s.
7 residents recomanen
Holland Bamboo
Holland bamboo (also known as Bamboo Avenue) is a heritage site and one of Jamaica’s tourist attractions, which is said to be the most photographed place in the island. It was planted by the owners of Holland Estate and dates back to the mid-1700s.
City/town information
Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, located on the southeastern coast of the island. It faces a natural harbour protected by the Palisadoes, a long sand spit which connects the town of Port Royal and the Norman Manley International Airport to the rest of the island. In the Americas, Kingston is the largest predominantly English-speaking city south of the United States. The local government bodies of the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew were amalgamated by the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation Act of 1923, to form the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC). Greater Kingston, or the "Corporate Area" refers to those areas under the KSAC; however, it does not solely refer to Kingston Parish, which only consists of the old downtown and Port Royal. Kingston Parish had a population of 96,052, and St. Andrew Parish had a population of 555,828 in 2001. Kingston is only bordered by Saint Andrew to the east, west and north. The geographical border for the parish of Kingston encompasses the following communities: Tivoli Gardens, Denham Town, Rae Town, Kingston Gardens, National Heroes Park, Bournemouth Gardens, Norman Gardens, Rennock Lodge, Springfield and Port Royal, along with portions of Rollington Town, Franklyn Town and Allman Town. The city proper is bounded by Six Miles to the west, Stony Hill to the north, Papine to the northeast and Harbour View to the east, which are communities in urban and suburban Saint Andrew. Communities in rural St. Andrew such as Gordon Town, Mavis Bank, Lawrence Tavern, Mt. Airy and Bull Bay would not be described as being in Kingston city. Two districts make up the central area of Kingston: the historic Downtown, and New Kingston. Both are served by Norman Manley International Airport and also by the smaller and primarily domestic Tinson Pen Aerodrome.
37 residents recomanen
Kingston
Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, located on the southeastern coast of the island. It faces a natural harbour protected by the Palisadoes, a long sand spit which connects the town of Port Royal and the Norman Manley International Airport to the rest of the island. In the Americas, Kingston is the largest predominantly English-speaking city south of the United States. The local government bodies of the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew were amalgamated by the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation Act of 1923, to form the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC). Greater Kingston, or the "Corporate Area" refers to those areas under the KSAC; however, it does not solely refer to Kingston Parish, which only consists of the old downtown and Port Royal. Kingston Parish had a population of 96,052, and St. Andrew Parish had a population of 555,828 in 2001. Kingston is only bordered by Saint Andrew to the east, west and north. The geographical border for the parish of Kingston encompasses the following communities: Tivoli Gardens, Denham Town, Rae Town, Kingston Gardens, National Heroes Park, Bournemouth Gardens, Norman Gardens, Rennock Lodge, Springfield and Port Royal, along with portions of Rollington Town, Franklyn Town and Allman Town. The city proper is bounded by Six Miles to the west, Stony Hill to the north, Papine to the northeast and Harbour View to the east, which are communities in urban and suburban Saint Andrew. Communities in rural St. Andrew such as Gordon Town, Mavis Bank, Lawrence Tavern, Mt. Airy and Bull Bay would not be described as being in Kingston city. Two districts make up the central area of Kingston: the historic Downtown, and New Kingston. Both are served by Norman Manley International Airport and also by the smaller and primarily domestic Tinson Pen Aerodrome.
Montego Bay is the capital of the parish of St. James in Jamaica. The city is the fourth-largest urban area in the country by population, after Kingston, Spanish Town, and Portmore, all of which form the Greater Kingston Metropolitan Area, home to over half a million people. As a result, Montego Bay is the second-largest anglophone city in the Caribbean, after Kingston.
65 residents recomanen
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is the capital of the parish of St. James in Jamaica. The city is the fourth-largest urban area in the country by population, after Kingston, Spanish Town, and Portmore, all of which form the Greater Kingston Metropolitan Area, home to over half a million people. As a result, Montego Bay is the second-largest anglophone city in the Caribbean, after Kingston.
Food scene
Boston Jerk Center has the best jerk in Jamaica. If eating is your favorite thing to do, have a bite at Boston Jerk Center in Portland. They prepare chicken, pork, fish, lobster, etc. in jerk. It is found in Portland, Jamaica. Tasty jerk chicken has a technique in doing it right. The vendors at Boston seem as if they have the manual because their jerk is finger licking good.
Boston Jerk is prepared with a rich blend of seasonings and on coal, leaving that wood fire aroma in the meat. They serve side-dishes like roast breadfruit, rice and peas and fruit juices. Boston Jerk Center is ranked as having the best Jerk pork there is by majority of the people who actually went there and tried it. You can even see how and where your food is being prepared. Just below the Jerk Center, there is a relaxing white sand beach where the water is just crystal clear and the changing rooms are wonderful. The beach is free at times. It is a quiet place where you and your family can relax and enjoy.
40 residents recomanen
Boston Jerk Centre
A4Boston Jerk Center has the best jerk in Jamaica. If eating is your favorite thing to do, have a bite at Boston Jerk Center in Portland. They prepare chicken, pork, fish, lobster, etc. in jerk. It is found in Portland, Jamaica. Tasty jerk chicken has a technique in doing it right. The vendors at Boston seem as if they have the manual because their jerk is finger licking good.
Boston Jerk is prepared with a rich blend of seasonings and on coal, leaving that wood fire aroma in the meat. They serve side-dishes like roast breadfruit, rice and peas and fruit juices. Boston Jerk Center is ranked as having the best Jerk pork there is by majority of the people who actually went there and tried it. You can even see how and where your food is being prepared. Just below the Jerk Center, there is a relaxing white sand beach where the water is just crystal clear and the changing rooms are wonderful. The beach is free at times. It is a quiet place where you and your family can relax and enjoy.
The new Victoria Pier development on the waterfront is part of the re-invigoration of Downtown, and Gloria's is at the heart of it. Sit on the deck looking over the sea with a plate of roast, grilled or stewed seafood. The name Gloria's is synonymous with good food and great vibes with friends. Also located in the historic town of Port Royal and now downtown Kingston, the team at Gloria’s has perfected the art of making Jamaican seafood dishes simply delicious.
30 residents recomanen
Gloria's Seafood City
The new Victoria Pier development on the waterfront is part of the re-invigoration of Downtown, and Gloria's is at the heart of it. Sit on the deck looking over the sea with a plate of roast, grilled or stewed seafood. The name Gloria's is synonymous with good food and great vibes with friends. Also located in the historic town of Port Royal and now downtown Kingston, the team at Gloria’s has perfected the art of making Jamaican seafood dishes simply delicious.
Founded in 1989 by Evrol Blackie, Little Ochie has come a long way since. They are now amongst the top seafood restaurants in Jamaica. Each dish on their menu is made in the traditional way to offer you the most authentic Jamaican flavours.
Their staff has made it possible for them to take pride in their dining and services. Their talented team of young chefs has impressed diners with their amazing dishes. They make sure people have the best time and leave with smiles and a belly full of delicious food.
49 residents recomanen
Little Ochie Seafood Restaurant & Bar
Founded in 1989 by Evrol Blackie, Little Ochie has come a long way since. They are now amongst the top seafood restaurants in Jamaica. Each dish on their menu is made in the traditional way to offer you the most authentic Jamaican flavours.
Their staff has made it possible for them to take pride in their dining and services. Their talented team of young chefs has impressed diners with their amazing dishes. They make sure people have the best time and leave with smiles and a belly full of delicious food.
Beach
Hellshire Beach, Jamaica, is located near Portmore, and famed for its fried fish and safe swimming. It has near white sands with a very small trace of black sand. Exposed when there is a sea running to the south, the waters close to shore are often quite cloudy due to the stirred up sand.
155 residents recomanen
Platja de Hellshire
Hellshire Beach, Jamaica, is located near Portmore, and famed for its fried fish and safe swimming. It has near white sands with a very small trace of black sand. Exposed when there is a sea running to the south, the waters close to shore are often quite cloudy due to the stirred up sand.
Puerto Seco Beach settled in Discovery Bay Jamaica, truly the finest Jamaican beach around and a must for all visitants! Discovery Bay holds one of the riches areas of Jamaican's history as it is considered to be the first place Christopher Colombus first docked on the island. Discovery Bay is a town in the parish of Saint Ann on the northern coast of Jamaica.
90 residents recomanen
Puerto Seco beach park
Puerto Seco Beach settled in Discovery Bay Jamaica, truly the finest Jamaican beach around and a must for all visitants! Discovery Bay holds one of the riches areas of Jamaican's history as it is considered to be the first place Christopher Colombus first docked on the island. Discovery Bay is a town in the parish of Saint Ann on the northern coast of Jamaica.