A Guide to Exploring Kingston, Jamaica
Jamaica conjures up images of seemingly endless blue beaches, toes in the sand, and sipping your favorite cocktail in what can be considered a pretty perfect vacation destination. While this is not far from the truth, Kingston’s allure extends beyond its beautiful beaches. Travelers will always find something exciting to do in Jamaica’s capital city, whether it is hiking the Blue Mountains, exploring the city’s heritage architecture, or savoring the regional cuisine it has to offer.
Here’s a hand-picked list of things to do while visiting Kingston, Jamaica.
What to See and Do
The Bob Marley Museum is the ideal place to start your journey in Jamaica. Get a glimpse into the life of this reggae icon at his former home, which is now a museum. A riveting home tour reveals fascinating facts about the legendary singer, his life, and achievements. Then, continue down Hope Road to Devon House. This landmark house, an outstanding example of Georgian Jamaican architecture, sits at the heart of a sprawling estate once owned by George Stiebel, one of Jamaica’s first millionaires. Explore the gilded halls of this 19th-century mansion and its prized treasures, which include well-preserved antique furniture and an eye-catching art collection. Later, indulge in a continuing education about Jamaica’s art and culture at the prestigious National Gallery.
Kingston also has a lot to offer to outdoor enthusiasts, from exhilarating hikes and walks within the Blue Mountains National Park, leisurely strolls through Hope Botanical Gardens, and an adventurous boat trip to Lime Cay.
What to Drink
Travelers are well aware of Jamaica’s full-bodied, potent rum varieties, which make them ideal for pairing with fruit-based libations. Aside from rum cocktails, Kingston is known for its local beverages such as ginger beer, sorrel tea, and the infamous yet fascinating ‘sea cat’ punch, which contains boiled octopus juice as the main ingredient. As a result, there is no shortage of bars in Kingston. For an atmospheric night of drinking, go to the Barbican Beach Bar, Mingles Bar & Lounge (also known as Mingles Pub & Pool Bar), or Macau Gaming Lounge & Bar.
What to Eat
As Jamaica’s vibrant capital, Kingston caters to a wide range of cultures in terms of culinary offerings, but it also preserves a number of its own culinary traditions, as evidenced by its delectable regional cuisine. Kingston’s local treats are rooted in rustic flavors and include succulent jerk chicken, the best rum, and specialties like patties — savory baked treats made from flaky pastry and filled with spiced meat/fish/veggies. For some of the best jerk chicken in town, go to Kingston Jerk on Chelsea Avenue, and Juici or Tastee for a satisfying meal of freshly baked patties. Finish with a refreshing treat from Devon House, an award-winning cafe known for its melt-in-your-mouth ice creams.
If you’re looking for upscale dining, try the South Avenue Grill, which serves everything from baby back ribs to Filet Mignon. Chive, Cafe Africa, and Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records are all excellent places to eat Caribbean and international cuisine.
Author Name
Advaita Raut
