Jamaica
As you debark from your Air Jamaica flight at the airport, you breathe in the Caribbean air and recognize the Jamaican flag which flaps lazily in the light breeze. You find yourself looking around and hoping to catch some strains from some well known Jamaican music, such as Black Uhuru or Bob Marley. As you enter the airport itself and probably handed a Jamaica map which is a wonderful tool to help build and plan your itinerary. While it is tempting to just snooze the time away at one of the perfect beaches along the coastline of Jamaica, there are so many sites to visit, things to see, people to meet, and of course Jamaican culture to enjoy!

As you enter your hotel, pick up a copy of the Jamaica Gleaner – a paper of Jamaica – and search for some entertainment that might be taking place. If you were lucky enough to snag one of the 10 rooms at the luxurious “The Caves Hotel”, in Negril, Jamaica, the odds are good that the concierge will be able to not only point you to the events that are going on but also provide you with the transportation you need to get there. Your concierge should also be able to point out Jamaica golf courses that cater to tourists, as well as any other sightseeing opportunities your map of Jamaica may not list.

While you are continuing the planning of the perfect Jamaica stay, make sure that you make enough time to taste authentic Jamaican food. The history of Jamaica indicates that the indigenous Arawak people populated the island before the Common Era, and the food is just one example of the treasures they left behind. Thus, when you visit Jamaica try to stay away from the restaurants that cater to the Jamaica shore excursions the cruise ships put on and instead try to find the eateries that are a bit off the beaten path.

As you see the Jamaica flag flying, and as you recline in your favorite eatery with a glass of sparkling beverage in your hand, why not begin planning your winter vacation? Christmas in Jamaica is a beautiful time of year. Since almost three quarters of the population profess a Christian faith, the celebrations are beautiful and the various decorations make the entire island look most festive! Once again, ask your hotel concierge to give you some tips and pointers and let you know where to go for the most festive occasions and which areas cater more toward the locals rather than the tourists.