A classic beach destination with a Mediterranean twist, your holidays to Antigua will present you with a stunning mix of Caribbean charm and constant sunshine.
As the sparkling jewel in the Caribbean crown, Jamaica will offer you a warm welcome, and a holiday you’ll never forget. From turquoise-blue waters to stunning mountain ranges, the island can be your oasis of calm or your next exciting adventure. Whether you want to rest your toes in the soothing sands of the gorgeous beaches or explore the lush green peaks of the Blue Mountains, Barrhead Travel will get you there.
With our All-Inclusive package deals, we can get you to the pool, beach and beyond. With jaw-dropping waterfalls, secluded beaches and rich rainforests throughout the island, Jamaica is a paradise that has to be seen to be believed.
If you want to rest and recharge by the pool or zip-wire through the jungle canopy, book your trip to Jamaica today with Barrhead Travel. Why not let us take you to paradise?
It's easy to wax lyrical about Jamaica. From the glorious glow of its sunsets and the alluring white sandy beaches to the lush green mountains and sparkling waterfalls, this island paradise has drawn visitors for centuries.
Historically, only the wealthy could enjoy the unspoiled tropical delights of the island. Today, the northern and western coastlines of the island are stacked with tourist resorts and all-inclusive hotels. Natural attractions have been commercialised to cope with the crowds, but somehow this has not spoiled Jamaica. It still presents a magnificent kaleidoscope of colour and beauty that makes holidaymakers reluctant to leave and always vowing to return.
The name Jamaica originates from the original inhabitants of the area, the Arawak Indians, to whom Xaymaca meant 'land of wood and water'. Sadly, there's little left of native culture after years of Spanish and British rule. Independence came in 1962 to the Jamaican people, who are now a blend of different cultures and nationalities.
The Jamaican people are heavily reliant on tourism for their living, with Bob Marley's image and spirit particularly pervasive throughout the country. The clear waters and colourful reefs are perfect for scuba diving or snorkeling, while there are fascinating historical sites such as old plantations and Georgian architecture.
Everyone will be able to savour the spirit of Jamaica, which is as rich as the lilt of the local patois and the rhythms of the reggae music for which the island is famous.
Jamaica has a fascinating and diverse range of attractions. Visitors can take in the sights of Spanish Town or visit the former home of Bob Marley. Across the bay lies Port Royal, a notorious pirate haven from the 17th century, once renowned as the 'richest and wickedest city in the world'. Boat trips to the coral reefs at Lime Cay leave from the port, while adventurous souls can also take a predawn hike up Blue Mountain for an unmissable sunrise.
Montego Bay is home to the clear turquoise waters of Doctor's Cove Beach. Visitors here can experience a true taste of local culture in the busy, noisy bustle of downtown life. Further east lies Ocho Rios, where Ian Fleming wrote his James Bond novels. This popular destination for cruise ships also lies close to Dolphin Cove, the incredible Dunn's River Falls and the Green Grotto Caves.
Tucked away on the east of the island is Port Antonio, the secluded retreat of the rich and famous. Navy Island boasts gold sands and its very own rainforest, while fans of the movie Blue Lagoon will find the actual site near Port Antonio.
To the west lies the beautiful town of Negril, with its famous Seven Mile Beach stretching up the coast. Perched upon the cliffs is Rick's Cafe, one of the top bars in the world, serving great food, rum cocktails and a truly homegrown reggae vibe.
Jamaica's climate is tropical with constant warm to hot temperatures all year round, though cooler in the higher, central areas. On the coast temperatures range from 72°F (22°C) and 88°F (31°C). Mornings and evenings are slightly chillier in the winter months but Jamaica is hot year-round. There are variations in climate according to region; for instance, the east coast receives substantially more rain than the rest of the country, and the south coast far less.
The wettest months are between May and November, when short sharp showers can be expected. The heaviest rains occur in September and October and the hurricane season runs from June to November. Even though the powerful Hurricane Ivan made landfall in September 2004, relatively few hurricanes touch Jamaica. The country is also in the earthquake zone.
Due to its tropical climate Jamaica is a popular destination all year, but the best time to visit is between mid-December and mid-April, which is the peak tourist season. If you are travelling on a budget or want to avoid the crowds consider visiting in the rainy season, which has its own charms.
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- Currency Jamaican dollar
- Flying time from UK London to Montego Bay is around 9 hours 45 minutes.
- Primary Language Jamaican Standard English
- Passport & Visas British passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to three months.