A day in Kingston

Kingston has often been seen as dangerous and violent by the Western press, mainly by people who have not visit the capital of Jamaica in the first place. However, ask the people who have visited it and you will see that they all have been captivated by its charm and contrary to its reputation have described it as safe, urbane and sophisticated.

Settle in your Jamaica accommodation and then get set to tour the cultural and commercial hub of Jamaica. You can start with witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place every hour and then pay homage to the nation’s icons such as Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley. Also visit the Redemption Song statues in Emancipation Park, which commemorate the end of slavery in 1838.

Once you have done with the historic sites, you can discover its rich art and culture. For this visit the National Gallery, situated in tranquil surroundings by the waterfront. Some of the interesting exhibits here include The Conversation by Barrington Watson, a lyrical, evocative testament to the nobility of Jamaican women and the arresting works by Albert Huie and sculptures by Edna Manley.

Proceed to Devon House, a colonial mansion built in 1881 by George Stiebel, Jamaica's first black millionaire. The house is set in extensive grounds and is surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns.

Next visit the Bob Marley Museum at Hope Road, the home the global reggae icon. Wander through his spartan bedroom, the kitchen where his vegetarian meals were prepared and the room, complete with bullet holes in the wall, where he survived an assassination attempt in 1976.

Finally, visit Port Royal, which was some 400 years ago described as “the most sinful city in the world”. Today, the debauchery and the pirates are not there, however the tales of the bygone era are still alive.

After a fun filled day, return to your Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments and be treated to the most sumptuous local delights prepared by your chef.