Jamaica

“Xamayca” is the name the first Jamaicans, the “Tainos”, gave to this country. It means “Land of Wood and Water”, and once you lay eyes on Jamaica’s hundreds of springs and rivers both above and under ground you will know why.

Rich history, heritage, cultures, customs and legends set in an amazing backdrop:

Columbus described Jamaica as “the fairest isle mine eyes ever beheld” His arrival was the beginning of nearly 500 years of European occupation and governance. Initially the Spanish settled “Villa de la Vega” (the city on the plains), now called “Spanish Town” the islands center of activity.

Around the 1650’s the British captured Jamaica from the Spanish. Under British rule the island became a busy and wealthy colony marking it “the jewel of the British crown” by the 18th century. This success came at great cost to the African people whom were forcefully brought to the New World as slaves to work on plantations; which produced 22 percent of the world’s sugar.

Jamaica is divided into three counties, Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey. These counties are further subdivided into 14 parishes with the smallest of them, Kingston as the capitol city. It is the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean and the third largest in the region.

An animal lover’s paradise, Jamaica is a botanist’s dream covered in natural rivers and springs. There are several mineral springs recognized for their therapeutic value and have been built into resorts such as the Milk River Bath, Bath Fountain, the spa at Couples Sans Souci. With over 200 species of wild orchids, 500 species of ferns, 252 species of birds some which are found no where else in the world.

Unparalleled beauty and unique features bring over 1 million visitors each year.

Imagine yourself here…..

For more information about Jamaica, please contact one of our travel consultants or email us at info@thetravelstation.com