Jamaica's Natural Wonders of the Northern Coast
What to See and Do When it Comes to Adventure and the Outdoors
Feb 10, 2009
The importance of the tourism industry is reflected through the sincereness and hospitality of the Jamaican people. The island was originally inhabited by Arawak Indians, who named the island Xayamaca. Soon, however, people from all corners of the world discovered its beauty and made it their home, giving birth to the island's motto, "Out of Many, One People". The effects of these various cultures are still evident today. Jamaicans use the metric system, drive on the left side of the road, and have towns and landmarks posessing Spanish names, such as Ocho Rios and Rio Grande. In addition to English the people speak Patois, a language derived from a mixture of English and African. The two airports are located in Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica's capital. However, venturing out of these tourist hotbeds will yield some amazing adventures. Montego Bay is only a hop, skip and a jump from some of Jamaica's jewels. Falmouth is the capital town of the Trelawny parish, on the north coast and only 18 miles east of Montego Bay. Here visitors can experience the true island culture, finding comfortable accommodations away from the hustle and bustle of crowded Montego Bay.
Luminous Lagoon
Locals often refer to the Luminous Lagoon as Glistening Waters, synonymous with the marina located on its shores where one can enjoy local fare at the restaurant and catch a boat tour out into the lagoon. It is quite possibly Jamaica's best-kept secret. In this lagoon live a plethora of bioluminescent microorganisms that, when disturbed or molested, emit light. Throw a handful of water in the air, and watch it "rain" down, like fairy dust. Fish seem to glow as they glide through the water. Slip beneath the surface at night and experience something magical as light emanates from beneath. The warm brackish water formed from the merging of the Caribbean Sea and the Martha Brae River remains the same temperature year round. This, along with the sediment from the mangroves encircling the lagoon, provides the perfect conditions for the microscopic dinoflagellates to thrive. This delicate ecosystem can withstand little fluctuation in order to maintain these microorganisms.
Dunns River Falls
Nearby, in Ocho Rios, spend the day at Dunns River Falls. The cascading water fall terraces its way from the rushing river down to the Caribbean Sea. Fifteen US dollars will admit someone to the park for the day, where there one can join a group in making a human chain while an experienced guide leads the entourage up the falls, from the beach where it empties into the ocean, to the top where the waterfall originates. It is an exhilirating experience, appropriate for the average person but perhaps not for the very young, elderly, or disabled. Climbing experience is not required, just comfortable clothes and shoes with good tread.
Other Attractions Near Falmouth
To round out one's Jamaican experience, take a raft trip down the Martha Brae, or visit the beautiful beach of Silver Sands, which is normally sparsely used. If desired, head to Montego Bay for some souvenir shopping, or a day at Doctor's Cove Beach, said to have healing waters. Many go there to swim and water-ski. They also have glass bottom boats that take people out over the coral reefs, where it is possible to either view the variety of tropical fish from above, or don snorkeling gear (which can be rented) and get up close and personal. The serene beaches, forested Blue Mountains, reggae culture and friendly people provide the perfect vacation for everyone. See why they say "Come to Jamaica and feel all right".
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