Tuesday, March 29, 2011

A day in Kingston in Jamaica

Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, is one of the most fascinating places on the island. Settle down in your Jamaica accommodation and then plan a day tour to Kingston. In fact, there are some Jamaica rentals that arrange for day trips to the town.

You can start your tour by catching the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place on the hour every hour and then follow it up by paying homage to the nation’s icons such as Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley. You can also visit the Redemption Song statues in Emancipation Park, which commemorate the end of slavery in 1838.

Once you have had your full of history, you can then explore the art scene. Visit the
National Gallery, situated in tranquil surroundings by the waterfront. The works in the gallery aptly reflect the exuberance and vitality of post-independence Jamaican art. Some of the highlights 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.

If all this browsing makes you hungry, head to the foothills of the Blue Mountains that are at a half hour’s drive from the town and compliment your meals by the views of the undulating hills and the sea beyond.

On your back, stop at 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. The priceless period décor reflects bygone grandeur and racial pride. Post-tour, enjoy a coconut ice cream in the gardens.

If you are Kingston, you have to 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. The interactive museum sheds light on the man behind the myth.

Finally, visit Port Royal, which was some 400 years ago described as “the most sinful city in the world”. Today, it does not live up to its reputation for debauchery, 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.

1 comment:

Montego Bay Villas said...

Kingston has a number of unique attractions to enjoy in Jamaica. Accommodations in Jamaica are well maintained and well decorated and have all the features and facilities, that make your stay a comfortable and hassle free one. Thanks a lot for sharing this wonderful post.