With its rugged mountains clad in lush emerald jungle; balmy breezes caressing pristine beaches; and warm, inviting, crystal-clear turquoise waters - not to mention reggae, all-night partying, and luxurious dining - Jamaica is the place for dream vacations for singles (not to mention couples and families)! Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean, less than 500 miles south of the coast of Florida. For three centuries Jamaica was a British colony, until it obtained independence in 1962. Over 90% of Jamaica's population is black, although there are substantial numbers of Indians, Chinese, and Syrians who have added their distinct cultural traditions and cuisines to the fabulous Jamaican mix. Jamaica's native culture is represented by the hundred thousand Rastafarians, whose popular reggae music, and ganja and dreadlock lifestyle, adds color and liveliness to the Jamaican nightlife scene.
Jamaica is the largest island in the Greater Antilles, and it has three distinct regions: the central mountains, the plateau, and the coastal plain. The Blue Mountains, where Jamaica's gourmet coffee is grown, rise to 7400 feet at the highest point, Blue Mountain Peak. Springs feed swiftly flowing rivers and waterfalls which run south and north from the mountains. The rainy season is May-June and September-November (the latter is also hurricane season). Yearly rainfall varies from over 200 inches in the mountains to only 30 inches along the coast. Jamaica is also one of the world's largest producers of bauxite, the ore from which aluminum is made; and also produces gypsum for plasterboard and construction.
The Jamaican tourist attractions center on Kingston, Negril, Montego Bay,and Ocho Rios hotels, with their legendary beaches of soft sand lapped by the soothing sea. For the active and adventurous, there are hiking and nature trips into the mountainous jungle featuring waterfall climbing, horseback riding, and river rafting. Besides swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, there are a host of water adventures available, ranging from charter fishing to water skiing. Special wedding and honeymoon packages (including champagne, cake, flours, DJ - even a wedding planner and the minister!) have made Jamaica one of the most popular marriage destinations in the world. For more great tips on Jamaica hotels and inclusive Jamaica vacations visit any of the links in this post.
