Guide Note

Jamaica is a small island-nation in the Caribbean. It's a popular tourism spot and on many cruise line routes in the Caribbean. All-in-all Jamaica is a friendly country and a great tourist destination.

Fast Facts

1. Capital: Kingston
2. Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II
3. Language spoken: English
4. Population: 2,651,000 (2005)
5. Currency: Jamaican dollar
6. Country code: 876
7. Time zone: EST

Things to see on the island are plentiful considering it's small size. There is a wealth of historic attractions, including the Devon House Heritage Site, which offers guests a truly unique experience in a house full of antiques from the French, Caribbean and English historic times. For a nature, historical encounter, be sure to visit the Green Grotto Caves in Ocho Rios. This cave structure is said to be a series of passageways that helped slaves escape in the 18th century.

For a fantastic, and stunning display of natural wonder and flowers, be sure to take the family to the Cranbrook Flower Forest, which is also as "adventure" trail. Located on 130 acres, between Ohio Rios and Montego Bay, the Forest is an "unique eco-tourism attraction" that brings locals and visitors alike to see it's natural beauty and amazing environment. Fees are cheap, starting at just $5 USD and they are open seven days a week.

Again, for a small island, the choice of activities seem endless. A popular one is biking, which is actually a very convenient form of transportation around the island. There are a few tour companies that offer scenic bike tours. There is also fishing, which seems to be a great family activity. Nature Village Farms allows guests to fish in their pools, while the Royal Palm Reserve has many nature fishing spots, as well as a wide variety of other nature-based activities, such as hiking and bird watching.

What's a stay in Jamaica without experiencing some water activities? Many tour companies provide tour packages that involve rafting, boating, kayaking and even swimming with dolphins. It's definitely an expedition that can't be missed when surrounded by all that beautiful water.

When planning your trip, be sure to check out the pages on Jamaica Hotels, Jamaica Restaurants and Jamaica Tours.