The Ultimate Portland Guide

Portland is one of the parishes on the island that is often overlooked. Most travellers, when visiting Jamaica, mainly head to the tourist hub in Montego bay; some might even venture to Negril or Ocho Rios. But can I tell you they are missing out! Portland is the ultimate relaxing getaway consist of stunning white sandy beaches, natural lagoons, great Jamaican cuisines, and beautiful places to stay.  Here is a Guide to Portland: 

How to get Portland

Portland is on the east side of the island that takes about two and a half hours from Kingston. Coming from overseas, you can fly into Kingston Norman Manley International Airport from any of these airlines American, Jetblue, Spirit, Delta, Caribbean airline, Air Canada, British Airway, Cayman Airway, Copa and Westjet. 

You can rent a car from the airport or hire a private shuttle. However, if you plan to drive to get there, I recommend that you land when it is daylight, as the road is pretty dark after sunset and plenty of potholes on the road.  To get to Portland from Kingston, you can take two parts: St Thomas and St Mary. You can turn on your GPS to help you get to your final destination. 

Where to Stay in Portland

Portland is one known for not receiving many tourists and simple not the tourist hub of Jamaica; therefore, you won’t find any all-inclusive. Your options for luxury hotels are limited.  

Luxury Hotel 

If you are looking for luxury, you’ll want to stay at Trident Hotel. It is a luxurious five-star property in Portland, Jamaica, with 13 villas, consisting of a private backyard, huge bathroom, shower, and outdoor tub. In addition, there is also an infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, spa, movie theatre, gym, and playground. Furthermore, the property has two restaurants that you can get delicious meals.

Small Villa 

If you want somewhere comfortable and not expensive as The Trident, you can hop for  Moon San Villa. The villa is a two-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon, where you can take a raft or go swimming.

It is more of an old fashioned villa with free wifi connecting to every room and a breathtaking view. It is a lovely relaxing getaway villa with pleasant and hospitable staff.  

Geejam

It’s a  property located at the foothills of the Blue Mountain, providing you with tropical vibes.  If you’re someone who loves to connect with nature, then this fantastic place you would enjoy. It is a fabulous boutique hotel with beautiful cabins nestled in the rainforest with a magnificent view of the Caribbean seas. In addition, you can take a tour of the recording studio that made lots of great hits.

Airbnb

There are plenty of Airbnb to chose from in Portland; you can try this Airbnb.  It located in San San, the exclusive neighbourhood of Port Antonio, surrounded by the green jungle and turquoise water, just about ten mins walk from Frenchman’s Cove. It is well kept with lovely scenery, great ambience, very spacious and comfortable. 

What to do in Portland

 Swimming at Frenchman’s Cove

This is one of the best private beaches on the island. You cannot think of Portland without thinking of going to Frenchman’s Cove. But, if you love beaches where the river meets the sea, this is a beautiful spot: white sand, clear water, cool breeze and lovely food.  Plus, a swing in the river that’s the perfect photo spot.

Rafting on the Rio Grande  

Rafting at the Rio Grande is another must-do when visiting Portland, a very peaceful and scenic adventure. Just grab some Red Strip Beer at the launch point and gentle float down the river on a bamboo raft. You can also add in some swimming in the river along the way. 

The most romantic thing about this adventure is passing through  Love lane where you and your significant other can Kiss and Make a wish 🙂 really excited. 

Reach Falls 

A very beautiful and cosy falls with lovely clear water. A hidden wanderlust gem on the island that will exceed your expectation. It is a gorgeous place to enjoy with your family, as a couple or just you.  There is also a nature hike to the rabbit hole where you can take that leap and jump off into an underwater cavern. 

Hiking at Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain is the highest mountain in Jamaica and the home of Blue Mountain Coffee. It is considered both a hiker’s and a camper’s paradise because of its exceptionally magnificent scenery. So if you are looking for a way to mediate amongst nature fern, springs, birds and others, then here is where it all can happen.  Coffee lovers, you will enjoy the best tasting fantastic coffee ever. However, it is frigid up there, so you may want to bring all the gears.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is an excellent Lagoon with sea turtles and clear pristine water for all the enjoy. You can enjoy rafting or a boat ride to Monkey island to play and snorkel or swimming at the lagoon and enjoy the mineral pool. It’s a great way to relax and unwind. 

Winnifred Beach

Winnifred Beach is an exquisite public beach to visit during your adventure through Portland. The North Coast of Jamaica is not the only part of the island with beautiful beaches; Portland has its fair share of amazing beaches you’ll enjoy, with clean, clear, blue water and white sand. 

Where to eat in Portland 

Boston Jerk Centre

Enjoy Jamaican succulent Jerk Chicken, Jerk pork, Jerk Sausage here at Boston Jerk centre. It has some of Jamaica’s best jerks in Portland; you won’t be disappointed. In addition, there is other stuff you can enjoy such as Fish, Lobster and Conch. 

Geejam Bush bar Restaurant

Kick back and enjoy lunch or early dinner of Jamaican fusion dishes and cocktails in one of the sexiest backdrops in Portland. Great Ambiance and lovely ocean view with exceptional meals. 

Anna Bananas 

If you are a seafood lover, then here is where you would want to grab something to eat. Anna Bananas specialises in seafood cook to order in a range of Jamaican style. However, if you don’t like what you see on the menu, you can ask, and the chef will accommodate you.

Trident Anchovy

If you are looking for more high-end dining, the trident hotel provides that. The trident has two restaurants on-site, and whether you are staying there or not, you can enjoy the mouth-watering meals there.

Please share your experience of Portland in the comment. 

Have a wonderful time in Portland 🙂

Schengen Visa Process For Jamaican

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is the most common visa in Europe. It is a short-term stay visa that allows persons to travel to any member of the Schengen area, which comprises 26 European countries that share similar interests and laws. 

 

Where to travel on a Schengen visa? 

There are twenty-six European countries in the Schengen zone, and the same visa works for all.  These countries are France, Germany, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Iceland, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Sweeden, Switzerland, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Czech Republic, Malta, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein and Luxemburg.  

With the Schengen visa, you are permitted with 90days per visit. So once you are granted the visa and the embassy is aware of your travel plans, you can visit all 26 countries in one go using the same visa, as long as your stay does not exceed 90 days. 

Where do I apply for a Schengen Visa in Jamaica?

Applying for a Schengen visa to visit a country in the Schengen zone, you will need to apply for a visa at that embassy. However, not all countries have their embassy or consulates in Jamaica, but not to worry, other embassies or consulates act on their behalf. 

If you are visiting Germany, you will go to the Embassy of Germany in Kingston, Jamaica, to apply for the visa, which also processes the visa for Estonia, Finland, Iceland, and Italy. 

The Embassy of Spain in Kingston, Jamaica, process Spanish Schengen visa. They also do for Austria, France, Greece, Hungary, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Slovakia, Latvia and Switzerland. If you are planning on visiting any of these countries, you will visit the Embassy of Spain in Kingston to apply for the visa, 

The Embassy of Belgium in Kingston, Jamaica, process visa for Belgium. Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden and Netherland.  

If you plan to visit three countries in the Schengen Zone for 30 days, then the country you will spend most of your trip visit the embassy for that country to apply for the visa.  For instance, you will be visiting Iceland, Greece and France, but you will spend most of the 30day in France; you will visit the German Embassy in Kingston to apply for the visa. 

 

What are the requirements to apply for the Schengen Visa as a Jamaican?

The following list of documents are required for any short-term Schengen visa application: 

1. A completed and signed application form 

 

2. Financial proof 

You will need to provide a bank statement from your bank showing figures and details for your account over the last three months. In addition, if someone sponsors your trip, you must submit a sponsorship letter from your sponsor stating that they will be taking care of your expenses.

3. Travel Insurance 

 You can get travel insurance for a Schengen visa from these local provider Guardian life, Sagicor life, Grace Kennedy insurance and Key insurance. It should be a minimum of 30,000 euros courage.  Or you can easily purchase travel insurance for Schengen purposes online and print your policy at home from a provider such as AXA Insurance.

When buying insurance, choose a period that generously covers the length of your stay. For example, if you’re staying for 20days, think about 40-day coverage. The range of your insurance coverage can have an impact on the length of the visa you’re issued.

4. Proof of Accommodation and itinerary

You will need a printout from the airline website showing the date and price (do not purchase a ticket until you receive the visa).  Hotel/Hostel reservation

information is also required ( you may want to book places with no upfront charge and free cancellation, which you can cancel after your interview!). 

If you’re travelling to multiple countries, think about carrying printouts showing plane, train, or bus tickets (again, don’t purchase) indicating how you intend to get around. In addition, some embassies might require you to present an itinerary prepared by a travel agent.

If you are staying at someone’s home, you need a signed letter of invitation along with a copy of your host’s passport information page.

5. Proof of your intention to return

You will need an official job letter showing your date of employment, your role in the company, your salary, and the number of vacation days. Self-employed people need to bring an original and a copy of their business registration certificate. Students should submit a letter from the school.

6. Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for at least three months past the date you plan to leave the Schengen zone. If you plan to exit the Schengen zone and return, your passport must be valid for three months after you plan to leave the area permanently. For example, you plan to leave France on 15 July to visit Spain. You intend to return to France before going back to Jamaica on 15 August; then, your passport must be valid for at least September 15.

7. Photo

You’ll need to submit a recent passport-sized photo. Check the website of the embassy you’re applying to for dimensions.

8. Visa fee

A Schengen Visa for Jamaica costs 80 euros for adults and 40 euros for minors. Some embassies accept exact change in cash only; others accept major credit cards (Visa or Mastercard) but require US dollars if paying in cash. Please be sure to check the payment options before the interview.

 

Happy Travel ……….. Travel safe!! 🙂

9 Adventurous and nature-friendly things to do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

The beautiful island of Jamaica, known for its warm tropical weather, breathtaking beaches, tasty food, music and unique culture, are some of the many reasons visitors love to experience this tiny island. With attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain, Ocho Rios may very well be considered Jamaica’s outdoor adventure hotspot. Here are 9 adventurous and nature-friendly things to do in  Ocho Rios, Jamaica  

 

1 Climbing Dunns River Falls 

Dunn’s river falls, discovered by the Spaniards, is one of Jamaica’s top attractions in Ocho Rios and the most visited.  You can take a guided climb to the top of the fall wearing water shoes to keep your footing and spend as long as you want to float, hike a trail alongside it or recline and relax on the beach at the bottom. 

2. Mystic Mountain Adventure

Mystic Mountain packs with great adrenaline rush adventure from Bobsled, sky explorer, raggamuffin, zipline, wall climbing, water slides and more. You can take a tropical forest adventure tour up to a 700-foot Mystic mountain peak via a chair lift and experience exhilarating excursions.  After which, you can cool off by the pool or grab a bite by the restaurant.  Don’t forget to stop by the Mystic Treasure gift shop and take a piece of history with you. 

3. River tubing through the Tropical RainForest

Picture yourself afloat on a river, spending an hour surrounded by lush tropical forest.  Whether you seek something more relaxing, mellow tubing adventure, the white river is the thing to consider. Or, if you are looking for a more exciting adventure, there is a halfway stop through the river with rope swings for you to jump off in the river and cool off.  Be sure to take cash with you to grab a few Red Stripe Beer. 

4. Swimming with the Dolphin

Visit Dolphin Cove, the fantastic nature park located on the north coast of Jamaica. If you are a nature lover, you will have an incredible encounter as you enter the world of these gentle Dolphins, getting the opportunity of kissing and hugging them. You will learn about the dolphin while having fun. You will never regret this adventure. 

5.  Turtle River Falls and Garden

So stunning and peaceful. You can walk through 14 acres of tropical gardens with spectacular falls. So lovely! And there is also a koi pond and friendly parrot that you can take a picture with—a nature lover’s paradise. 

6. Exploring Shaw Park Botanical Gardens

Shaw Park Garden is a lovely botanical garden located high on a hill above Ocho Rios. The setting is excellent, with a stunning view of the town and plants that will interest you. It truly is one of the most attractive, serenely calm and peaceful places to visit.

7. Konoko Falls and Park

This hidden paradise in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is a great place to relax with its natural, earthy, nature experience. Climb the waterfall, enjoy the animals and take a picture. It is also great for families with small kids. 

7.  White river rafting

Begin your thrills boarding a 2-person bamboo raft for a beautiful once in a lifetime ride down the white river. Relax and enjoy the ride while changing scenery; take in the breathtaking view as you glide down the river.  You will have the opportunity to stop for refreshments that you can bring on your raft and enjoy as you continue on your ride. There is also a shopping centre that you can visit after completing your ride and grab a piece of Jamaica to take with you. 

8. Yaaman Adventure Park

 The Yaaman adventure park is pack with fun-filled adventure and nature right in the middle of the rainforest. Here are some of the things you can do here: 

Jitney tour: this is where you get to ride on an open-air tractor around the 1000 acre property while learning about the plantation’s history. 

Camel ride: I am not aware of any other attraction on the island that provides camel ride. Here at adventure parks, you can get to experience it first hand.

Horseback riding:  this takes you throughout the 18-century property, where you get to experience a stunning view of the white river. 

Wet n Dirty ride:  you will experience an adrenaline-pumping ride through the countryside.  There is also a Segway ride and culinary tour. 

9. Green Grotto Cave tour 

The Green Grotto Cave is a journey into an underworld charm, a slice of Jamaica’s history.  You will this safe tour fully clothed with sneakers and protective headgear and learn about its rich history.  Green Grotto Caves is surrounded by thick vegetation and supplied with pristine waters flowing from its secret depths. Such privacy and solace you will find in the Green Grotto Caves.

Stopping over from a cruise ship? Spend the day and enjoy a little bit of Ocho Rios Jamaica. 

 

15 Visa-free Countries To Visit On Your Jamaican Passport

 

You don’t need to go to the consulate, gather your documents or pay any fee to get into these countries. So you don’t need to worry if your application rejected. You only need to buy a ticket and pack your bags.  

1. Singapore 

Singapore is one of the few island cities that Jamaicans are allotted 30 days to visit without a visa, and one of the few first-world countries Jamaican can see with just a passport.

Singapore is known for its glitz and glamour. Often described as one of the cleanest and most orderly cities globally, the island city-state is undoubtedly one of the world’s most popular visitor destinations. There are so many things to do in Singapore from shopping frenzy, delectable culinary delights, awe-inspiring museums, adventurous theme parks, exotic gardens – Singapore has something for everyone.

Since Singapore is physically halfway around the world, visiting directly from Jamaica is possible but personally not recommended. Instead, try to fit in 1 or 2 more countries on your itinerary and country-hop.   A visit is ideal when you have a few other Southeast Asian countries on the lineup, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, which are also Visa-free.

Booking Details from Jamaica to Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Mexico City (MEX) 

Flight 3: Mexico City (MEX) to Seoul, South Korea (ICN)

Flight 4: Seoul, South Korea to Singapore (SIN)

Note: There is a cheaper and more accessible route, but you will need a visiting visa or transit visa. 

2. Peru 

Each year, Jamaican are given 180 days (6-months) to roam around the South American country of Peru visa-free. In addition, Jamaicans can now fly directly to Peru.  Panama was once the ultimate gateway to Latin America; now, we can add Peru to the list. We have options, guys. Jamaicans with just a passport can fly directly from the Montego Bay Airport to Lima, Peru. No visa required, no stop-overs, and no connecting flights, yeah. Isn’t that lovely?

You can visit Lima with plenty of things to do, such as hitting up its gorgeous beaches and seeing rich its Circuito Magico del Agua (Water Fountain Park), which is very magical at night. You can also go around Lima on one of Mirabus’ panoramic buses and enjoy the view of the city while learning about its history and enjoy some of the country’s traditional cuisine.

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO PERU

Flight 1: Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

3. Chile 

Chile is a destination that has become popular among nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located on the west coast of South America, travellers can enjoy stunning sightseeing, from the tall peaks of the Andes, beaches to lush temperate forests, ancient volcanoes.  You can also enjoy trekking, hiking, climbing, river rafting, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Guess what? As Jamaican, we can enjoy this beautiful destination visa-free for 90 days. 

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO CHILE

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) to Santiago de Chile (SCL)

Option 2:  

Fight 1: Montego Bay Jamaica (MBJ) or Kingston (KIN) to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Santiago de Chile (SCL) 

4. Colombia

Colombia’s cities hold plenty of attractions. The capital Bogotá, with its mountains and museums, the flower-filled plazas of Medellin, Cali the world’s salsa capital and Cartagena, the jewel of the Caribbean coast. Once again, Jamaican can visit visa-free that allow 180 days roaming the beautiful cities of Colombia.

You can also travel to these other South American destinations visa-free. Guyana, Suriname and Uruguay.  

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO COLOMBIA

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Bogota, Colombia (BOG)

Option 2:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) to Bogota, Colombia (BOG)

5. Mexico 

Mexico truly is a tropical treasure trove with fabulous beaches, fascinating culture, dynamic cities brimming with colonial architecture, and feisty mouth-watering cuisine.  There is so much to see, eat and do in Mexico, and Jamaicans can visit for 180 days visa-free to traverse this magical place. 

 BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO MEXICO

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Mexico City (MEX)

Option 2:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) to Mexico City (MEX)

6. South Africa

South Africa, known for its beaches, mountains and savannas, is a trendy place for tourists. Its most famous attraction is Durban, a huge Indian-influenced harbour city and a popular surfing spot. With warm beaches, safaris, and botanical gardens, it’s a place you don’t want to miss out on travelling.  Jamaicans are granted 90 days to enjoy the most affluent indigenous culture of South Africa visa-free.  

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO SOUTH AFRICA

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) via Sao Paulo (GRU) to Cape Town, South Africa (CPT)

7. Kenya 

If you love fun and adventure, Kenya is a melting pot with an endless array of activities and destinations that promise pure joy. It is the world centre for animal safaris and active adventure holidays. Enjoy wildlife safaris, bird watching, windsurfing, horseback riding, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, snorkelling, scuba diving, hot air ballooning, mountain climbing, hiking, water skiing, fishing, and many more great activities.

Which Jamaican granted 90 days visa-free around this destination. So, it is a vacation filled adventure that one must experience.

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO KENYA

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama City (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama City (PTY) to Amsterdam (AMS)

Flight 3: Amsterdam (AMS) to Kenya (NBO)

Please note that a transit visa is not required for Amsterdam if your layover time is less than 12hrs.

Option 2:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama City (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama City (PTY) to Sao Pablo (GRU)

Flight 3: Sao Pablo (GRU) to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO)

 8. Brazil

 

Brazil became visa-free a right before RIO 2016, which grants Jamaicans the opportunity to visit for 90 days without a visa.

Brazil is a massive country of 8.5 million square km, so expect a lot of diverse places. But, of course, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are top priorities. The city of Christ the Redeemer is a cultural hub with some of the biggest attractions in the world, such as NP Tijuca, Copacabana Beach and much more. There is so much to do and see in Brazil, and getting from Jamaica is easy 1. 2.

BOOKING DETAILS FROM JAMAICA TO Brazil

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN)  to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

Option 2:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

9.   Argentina

Argentina: the destination that is known for its fine wine, art and magnificent landscapes. From Patagonia to Buenos Aires, this beautiful country from South America is one of the most inspiring in the world.  Do you love the Andes, incredible scenery, experience new culture, gastronomy or a crazy good vino (wine in Spanish)? Then Argentina is the place to soak it all in.  

Jamaican got the opportunity of visiting this lovely destination for 90 days in one visit visa-free, yes visa-free. So here is how you can get there from Jamaica: 

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama (PTY) to Buenos Aires (EZE)

Option 2:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) to Lima, Peru (LIM)

Flight 2: Lima, Peru (LIM) to Buenos Aires (EZE)

10. The Bahamas

The Bahamas, with some of the most stunning beaches, is a direct flight from Kingston Jamaica Norman Manley Airport. So are you looking for a tropical getaway?  Jamaican are allow to visit the Bahamas for 3 months without a visit.

You can book with Caribbean Airlines. Be sure to search directly from the airline’s website as opposed to using search engines.

11.  Panama

Panama is probably the most accessible country to visit on this list as it relates to visa-free. It is one of the gateways to Latin America and a central hub for many countries beyond that. In addition, it is a country that links Central America to South America. To put things into perspective, it is the escape route to almost all countries if we should go the visa-free way. 

You can book directly from Kingston or Montego Bay with Copa Airlines; make sure to search and book directly through the airline’s website.  Avoid using search engines such as Kayak, Expedia.

12. Tanzania

Tanzania is a country found in the Eastern part of Africa.  It shares borders with  Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, which is also visa-free to Jamaican; therefore, you can country-hopping and enjoy the Motherland.

Jamaican are allowed to visit Tanzania for 3 months without a visa.  Here are the booking details from Jamaica:

Option 1:

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston (KIN) to Panama City (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama City (PTY) to Sao Pablo (GRU)

Flight 3: Sao Pablo (GRU) to Dar es Salaam (DAR)

Option 2

Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston(KIN) to Panama City (PTY)

Flight 2: Panama City (PTY) to Amsterdam (AMS)

Flight 3: Amsterdam (AMS) to Dar es Salaam (DAR)

Please note that a transit visa is not required for Amsterdam if your layover time is less than 12hrs. 

13. Curaçao

Jamaicans are allowed 90 days to roam around Curaçao without a visa. So, if you’re looking for the ideal Caribbean getaway, visiting Curaçao will be a vacation well spent. One of the three ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), Curaçao is a Dutch-Caribbean paradise located just off the coast of Venezuela. Guess what you can add Venezuela apart of your trip as it is also visa-free to Jamaicans for 90 days. So, you can spend a few days in Venezuela and make some memories before heading back home.

Here is how you can get to Curaçao for Jamaica:

Flight 1: Kingston (KIN) to Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago (POS)

Flight 2: Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago (POS) to Curaçao (CUR)

14. Belize

There is so much one can do in Belize from swimming with the Manatees, diving in the Gladden Spit, Snorkeling, visiting the Caracol Mayan ruins, and much more. 

Jamaican can visit Belize for 6 months without a visa. Here is how you get can there visa-free:

 Flight 1: Montego Bay (MBJ) or Kingston (KIN) to Panama City (PTY)

 Flight 2: Panama City (PTY) to Belize City (BZE)

Note: Please use Copa Airline search and book directly from the airline website. 

15. Dominica

Dominica is a mountainous Caribbean island with natural hot springs, tropical rainforests, towering mountains, majestic scenery, waterfalls, bird watching, hiking trails, and national parks.  It does not have the beaches that other Caribbean islands are known for, but you will love it here if you are nature lovers.  Jamaicans are allotted 6 months visa-free to enjoy the nature of Dominica. Here is how you can get there with 2 options:

Option 1

Flight 1: Kingston(KIN) to Antigua & Barbuda( ANU)

Flight 2: Antigua & Barbuda( ANU) to Roseau, Dominica( DOM)

Option 2:

Flight 1: Kingston (KIN) to  Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI)

Flight 2: Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI) to Roseau, Dominica (DOM) 

Note: When booking for any of these visa-free trips, please search and book directly from the airline website, LATAM, Copa or Caribbean airline.  It is also essential to have enough funds for your travel as well as emergency funds, a printout of your travel itinerary and confirmations of where you’ll be staying.

Royal Caribbean sets 2021 cruises in Florida, Texas, Alaska.

white cruise ship

 

A Welcoming step toward normalcy for millions of avid cruisers___Royal Caribbean International announced Friday that six of its ships would sail from major US ports in Florida and Texas beginning in July.

Vaccines are not required for passengers, but all ship crew members will be vaccinated. Unvaccinated guests “will be required to undergo testing and follow other protocols,” according to a news release from the company.

The company’s first cruise since the coronavirus pandemic began will launch on July 2 in Miami, more than a year after the US Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention’s (CDC) no-sail order brought cruises to a halt, said the release.

“This is it. Vacationers can finally plan to take their precious time off this summer and truly get away after what has been a challenging time for everyone,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International.

According to Bayley, as of Friday afternoon, “90% of vacationers booking with Royal Caribbean are either vaccinated or planning to get vaccinated in time for their cruise.”

By the end of August, 12 Royal Caribbean ships will be cruising in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. Be sure to get your packing tips. 

The news release said people 16 and older sailing from Seattle to Alaska must be fully vaccinated, and those 12 or older must be vaccinated as of August 1. In addition, travellers departing from an international port must meet that nation’s travel requirements.

Celebrity Edge, part of the Celebrity Cruises line owned by Royal Caribbean Group, announced in late May that it had been cleared to sail from Fort Lauderdale with paying passengers in June.

8 Types of trips you may want to consider taking in your lifetime.

person pointing at black and gray film camera near macbook pro

1.      Weekend Getaway

Travelling does not require a week for you to enjoy yourself properly; you can fulfil your wanderlust by taking a weekend trip.  A weekend getaway relaxes, releases stress, unwinds you while escaping your hectic life, and recharge you for your Monday week task. It is a craft to be mastered.

Tips: Look out for cheaper flights and resorts deals; travel domestically; Pack light.

2.      Road Trip

Pack a bag, pick out your favourite tune, grab a few friends and family, buckle your seat belt, and head on the road for an exciting road trip. Whether renting a car or driving your own, head out and make this a thrilling adventure. You discover new places that you haven’t travelled to, stumble across beautiful routes, and meet interesting people.

3.      Adventure Travel

Life is for living, and what better way to live life than to be adventurous. If you are an adventure lover, then this type of trip is perfect for you. Adventure travel loaded with different kinds of fun activities such as going camping, mountaineering, trekking, Zip-lining, or doing water sports at any destination you wish to travel to.

4.      Romantic Travel

Couples, this one’s for you; planning a trip to an exotic location with your partner is such a fantastic way to spend quality time together, rekindling your romance while experiencing thrilling adventures together. Whether you are engaged, married for years or newlyweds, romantic travel strengthens relationships and brings couples closer together. Select a destination that interests you both and make memories that will last a lifetime.

5.      Family Vacation

A family vacation is one of the best ways to relax and connect with your family.  With the hassle of our everyday life, spending quality time with family becomes rare. With work, home chores and school, parents and children go through their daily routine without bonding. Plan a family vacation with no cellphone, iPod or tablet, build incredible memories, and strengthen the family bond.  

6.      Sole Travel

A solo trip is the most self-discovery experience and by far the best type of travel.  It is one that most people would not want to go on, but this is where you get to discover yourself and be life-changing and rewarding. When travelling solo, you get to plan your trip and adventure to your liking, eat whatever, go wherever or do whatever without thinking of anyone.

7.      Backpacking

It is one trip that you should think about doing at least once in your lifetime.  Backpacking like no other gives you freedom and commitment. So take your camera set sail through a country, be it long or short, with you and the world to explore and enjoy.  Capture great stories to share with friends and loved ones.

8. All-Girls/All-Boys Travel

Think about heading off with your girls or boys to a crazy adventure, a fantastic vacation spot and having ultimate fun.  It is a perfect way to catch up with your crew, unwind, create new memories, and strengthen friendship. 

Packing for a Caribbean Cruise

white cruise ship

Cruising in the Caribbean is fun and easy, and so, one might wonder what to pack for such an adventure. So here I made a list of what you might want to add to that luggage.

1.      Sunscreen 

Pack your favourite bottles, tubes, spray, gel or stick of sunscreen that is water-resistant, broad-spectrum coverage with SPF of at least 30 for protection against UVA and UVB rays.  SPF stands for sun protection factor, a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays.

2.      Bathing suits

On a cruise, you probably spend most of your time in bikinis; pack at least three so that you can rotate. If you plan to participate in a sporty activity such as Kayaking or Scuba diving, you want to take swimwear that does not easily blow off. Women can choose the athletics type one-piece or tankini, and men choose a trunk with the waist tie and legs that don’t blow up like a balloon.

3.      Snorkel and Mask

Are you a lover of Snorkelling and Scuba diving? Pack your equipment. Taking your own is much cheaper and guarantee to fit perfectly than a rental that may fit poorly and let in water or fog up. If you are like me that dislike the idea of using a plastic tube place in the mouth of a stranger, pack your own.

4.      Underwater Camara

Caribbean island water with its majestic coral reefs, luscious seaweed and colourful fish, is an adventure and wildlife that you’ll likely want to capture. And what more to capture that than an underwater camera that shoots well above and below the waterline. If you prefer to use your camera, secure it in a durable waterproof case, and take the plunge. For a quick grab-and-go, consider a cheap disposable camera. Whichever type you choose, purchase the camera and extra memory cards before the ship departs, or you’ll pay hefty inflated prices.

5.      Sun hats

We all know the importance of sun protection by now.  However, don’t underestimate the importance of a sun hat. In addition to being super stylish, sun hats help offer an extra layer of protection against the sun’s skin-damaging UV rays.  Ensure you take on that fully covers your head and has a brim long enough to shade your face with an elastic fastener that would keep the Caribbean breeze from blowing the hat off your head.

6.      Smaller Bag

Inside your luggage, stash a smaller bag that you can toss on your shoulder or back, especially during port visits. Ensure the bag has a zipper or snap closure to fit sunscreen, water bottle, camera etc.,  plus souvenirs purchase along the way. For water activity, opt for a nylon or Neoprene bag that will keep your belongings dry. A good option for the beach is a string or mesh bag that will sift out the sand and allow your damp items to breathe.