Monday, November 22, 2010

New pier in Falmouth to promote tourism in Jamaica

Come January and Falmouth will open its pier to the cruise ships that come calling to the island. The new pier is expected to give a huge boost to tourism activity on the island and more so to Falmouth and the surrounding areas. There are various Jamaican rentals like Silver Sands Villas in Jamaica that are looking forward to the expected surge in visitors.

Falmouth traces its roots to the 1700s when it was a major port town in the Caribbean. However, gradually Ocho Rios took over and became the cruise capital of Jamaica. However, the development of the new pier has thrown the spotlight once again on Falmouth and the town is basking in its new found glory.

Falmouth has much to offer its visitors and these are just some of the places that you can visit.

There are many historical buildings in Falmouth that are remnants of the colonial era. One such building is the old courthouse which was built in 1815. The church reflects a Georgian design complete with well proportioned vertical and horizontal grads crossing the building as also fanlights, shingled walls and jalousies. It was damaged by a fire in 1926 but was later rebuilt.

Stroll through the lively old town where you can appreciate the 18th century architecture. You can bask in the old-world charm and talk to the locals to gain an insight into its background and culture.

You can also visit the Falmouth parish church which was built in 1795. The church is the oldest public building in the town. It was constructed in brick and stone and is a good illustration of vernacular architecture derived from classical forms. You can admire the four massive and monumental timber columns that support the roof. The monuments on the interior walls of the Church date from the early nineteenth century.

Jamaica is well known for its plantations and great estates one of which is the Good Hope Plantation spread across 2000 acres. This coconut and cattle plantation is best explored on horseback. The history of the plantation dates back to the 18th century. One of ht greatest attractions here is the 18th century Great House named Good Hope set against the dramatic blue–gray mountains. It is renowned for its exquisite gardens and country trails. The road up from Falmouth winds its way by 200–year–old stone fences past fields and orchards, cattle and horses, a living testimony to an era of grace and gentility.

You can also visit the Luminous Lagoon at Glistening Waters. The lagoon gets its name from the bio–luminescent micro–organisms that inhabit the waters and emit a phosphorescent light when the water is agitated. The best time to visit the lagoon is at dusk and enjoy a boat ride. If you take along a stick, you can disturb the waters and see the phenomenon. If you wish, you can also swim in the luminous waters.

Falmouth is located on the north coast of the island and at a convenient distance for day trips from Silver Sands in Jamaica.

1 comment:

Jamaica Beach Villa said...

Jamaica promises paradise with fine beaches, jungle mountaintops and the chance to choose a private villa, an active resort, or immerse yourself in island life. Thanks for informing us a lot of things about Jamaica tourism.