Friday, April 16, 2010

Things to do in Runaway Bay in Jamaica

Jamaica is a popular holiday destination that attracts the tourists from the world over. There is much to see and do and so to make the most of your stay on this breathtakingly beautiful Caribbean island, you can plan an itinerary and also stay in a place which provides you convenient access to the attractions. One such place is Runaway Bay, located in Jamaica famous north coast that offers the visitors numerous sightseeing and outdoor opportunities. If you decide to add Runaway Bay in your itinerary, you can choose to stay in Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments that are located within easy distance of these attractions. Indeed, these Jamaica villas are your home away from home and a stay in these accommodations will make your visit all the more memorable.

Once you are settled in, you can begin by exploring Runaway caves. This is an ideal place to start because you’ll be acquainted with the history of the area and will understand why it got this name. Runaway Bay was originally inhabited by Arawak Indians but it got its name Runaway Bay during the colonial era when numerous slaves started escaping to the sea from the local beaches.

Once you have settled in your Jamaica accommodation rentals, you can begin by hiking around the mysterious Runaway Caves. These caves served as hideouts for various people over the centuries first by the Arawak Indians, then by the pirates and smugglers and finally by slaves escaping from Jamaican plantations.

Next you can visit the Green Grotto caves that also served as popular hideouts. he green algae that cover its walls. History has it that the island’s first inhabitants, the Taino people, used the caves for shelter, a fact that gained credibility from the many artefacts that have been found at the site. Further, it is believed that the Spanish sought protection in the caves when they fought the British for control of the island in 1655. There is an underground lake, covered by a vaulted cave. The water here is partly tidal saltwater and part freshwater. You can go around the perimeter of the caves or enjoy a guided tour of the caves. They caves have also featured the James Bond thriller, Live and Let Die. During their long history, the caves have been known by many names including Runaway Caves, Dairy Caves, Rum Caves, Hopewell Caves, and Dry Harbor Caves.

While in Runaway Bay, you can also visit Jamaica’s most popular tourist attraction, the Dunns River Falls located in Ocho Rios. You can appreciated the water cascading down over 600 feet of rocks to the tropical beach below or jump right in and join a human chain that is hiking to the top of the falls, stopping in the shallow wading pools on the way up. Then there is also a magnificent marine park, Dolphins that promises great fun for the entire family. Aside from other activities, you can also swim with a family of Bottleneck dolphins.

No comments: