Some of My Favourite Things to Do In Kingston (part 2)
Kingston is a cool city, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! Yes, you should do some research and take note that some parts of the city are not visitor-friendly - but the same can be said of London, New York and most other cities.
There are a number of beaches and islands within easy reach of Kingston so be sure to check some out if you're craving a beach day. And, if you're going to Kingston, definitely set aside time to explore the Blue Mountains; the mountains are just beautiful and a climb to Blue Mountain Peak itself can give you views all the way to Cuba on a good weather day.
So ... back to Kingston..
Bob Marley
Bob Marley is an iconic figure across the world and nowhere more than in his home city of Kingston. Established by Bob’s wife, Rita Marley in 1987 the Bob Marley museum is a cornerstone of the Bob Marley Foundation, which supports social projects across Jamaica – each aligned with Bob’s spiritual, social, cultural and musical values. The museum is housed at Bob’s former home at 56 Hope Road. This is the house where the infamous assassination attempt in 1976 took place.
Tours of the museum are guided, fun and relaxed. The guides are experts on all things Bob and enthusiastic and impassioned. You don’t need to be a Bob Marley fan to enjoy a visit to the museum; but I'll bet that you will be by the time you leave! Beyond that you’ll also get a glimpse into some of the Jamaica’s recent social history. What’s not to like?
Trench Town Culture Yard
The Culture Yard is a community owned and led project. I had the great good fortune to be involved in a minor way when the project launched in the early 2000s. A visit to the Culture Yard will give you an insight to the Trench Town that shaped Bob Marley. It will also give you an impression of what life is like today in Trench Town. After visiting the Yard you could take a guided tour of the neighbourhood (be sure to book this in advance and to take a guide).
Jamaica National Gallery
The National Gallery is a little treasure trove of Jamaica art. With pieces dating back as early as circa 1000AD, this is the largest collection in the English speaking Caribbean and well worth a visit. There are generally exhibitions running alongside the regular collections, so well worth checking out what events are upcoming.
National Heroes Park and Emancipation Park
Whilst neither park is in itself a reason for visiting Kingston, if you are in town then take the opportunity to visit. You'll get an insight into Jamaica's social and political history, and the sculptures in both parks are impressive too. You could book a privately guided Kingston tour that would incorporate these two parks with, for instance The Culture Yard and Trench Town.
Devon House
Devon House was build in the late 19th century by Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. The mansion sits in the centre of Kingston and is an oasis of Georgian calm. Enjoy a tour of the house and then take a bit of retail therapy at some of the shops located in the grounds.
It's best to plan your visit to coincide with lunch or dinner as there are some lovely restaurants and eatieries in the grounds. Don't take desert in your restaurant though! Instead, treat yourself to a Devon House i-scream! The ice cream here is among the best I have tasted anywhere. Don’t just take my word for it – National Geographic have included Devon House on their global Top Ten Places to Eat Ice cream numerous times.
Eat, drink and be happy!
Seriously, Kingston has some amazing restaurants - so if you are at all foodie, this is the city for you! Jamaica's motto is 'out of many one people' - with a nod to the country's multiracial roots. This is reflected in the island's cuisine - yes, there are fantastic Caribbean restaurants, but you will also find Indian, Chinese and Syrian influences. And, of course, casual American / sports bar joints. Google 'restaurants Kingston Jamaica' and you'll have a cornucopia of choice. For what it's worth here are three suggestions from me. (1) For sports, burgers and jerk ' it's got to be Usain Bolt's Track and Records on Constant Spring Road. (2) one of my favourite places for ribs, not just in Kingston - globally is The Rib Kage - so they have to get a mention. (3) I love Uncorked! (which now has 3 outlets - the original Uncorked!, Uncorked Too! and Uncorked West!) - you probably haven't come to Kingston in search of a French wine bar, but if you are craving some yummy food, cheese and wines then Uncorked is your place.
Last word on food - you've got to try the BBQ chicken! It tastes as delcious as it looks and smells! Have it with rice and peas. And possibly festival. And an ice cold Red Stripe!
Ready to plan your trip to Jamaica, contact me and let's get your adventure started!
