Jamaica Holidays - Resort Guide

The Caribbean island of Jamaica is a rich cultural mix of African, British, Spanish, Asian and countless other traditions. Having been ruled by Britain for over 300 years until gaining independence in 1962, Jamaica has impressed its own cultural identity on the world and now welcomes tourists with open arms for laidback beach holidays in Jamaica. There are countless reasons to enjoy Jamaica holidays, not least the opportunity to sample its delicious food, sandy beaches and warm climate.

The 'chilled out' charm of Jamaica holidays is found in the smiling faces and the infectious reggae rhythms that articulate the plight of the Jamaican people. The cuisine and music of a Jamaica holiday helps to give visitors a sense of the traditions and history of the island.

Although Jamaica holidays feel a bit like other Caribbean holidays there is a fascinating history to this Caribbean gem. Having been stronghold of slavery for hundreds of the years, where workers were forced to toil in the sugar plantations, the emancipation act of 1834 brought with it the social transformation that would eventually lead to Jamaica establishing itself as a nation in its own right. It also served to add to the already eclectic cultural mix of Jamaica, with the introduction of cheap Indian and Chinese immigrant labourers to the plantations. Such cultural diversity is part of what adds to the uniqueness of a Jamaica holiday.

The terrain of Jamaica is mountainous in some areas but the variety of wildlife and plant species is fascinating for the nature lover and the beaches on the south coast are quite lovely. Kingston, the capital of Jamaica still has problems with poverty but is a vibrant, colourful place where you can visit a museum dedicated to one of Jamaica’s greatest sons, the one and only Bob Marley.

Jamaica holidays are popular with some visitors simply for the fantastic atmosphere that inspires the lifestyle and music of the island's inhabitants. The fact that you can expect great weather on a Jamaica holiday is clearly another big attraction for many people. With year round sunshine, the opportunity to stroll along palm-fringed beaches on fine white sands, with the gentle wash of crystal clear waters ringing in your ears is an experience not to be forgotten.