Vacation Themes:Off the Beaten Path: Somerset FallsSomerset Falls in Hope Bay, about 10 miles west of Port Antonio on Jamaica’s north coast, is an ideal getaway for a memorable picnic in paradise. This beautiful secluded waterfall is hidden in the rainforest, where the Daniels River plunges down a narrow gorge. Running through a former indigo and spice plantation and set amongst a scenic backdrop of woodland and rocks. Here you’re invited to close your eyes and relax as refreshing water cascades from above to form nature’s perfect Jacuzzi and provide the ultimate hydrotherapy massage. Choose a spot on the upper level of the river for the best view of the falls.
Once an old sugar plantation that extended from the mountains to the sea, today Somerset is a 97-acre property with a breathtaking garden, complete with ponds and waterfalls. Overflowing with crotons, bamboos, ferns, cocoa plants, indigo and moss-covered trees (to name only a few), the garden grows on the banks of the Daniel River. A concrete walk to the falls takes you pass the ruins of a Spanish aqueduct and Genesis Falls before reaching Hidden Falls. Along the way, small waterfalls trickle down the bushy hillsides and shady benches, where visitors enjoy a moment of tranquillity. November 16, 2010 at 7:50 pm | Off the Beaten Path, Vacation Themes, What to Do, Where to Visit | No comment Weddings and Honeymoons: The Treasure Beach HoneymoonThe name says it all. One of Jamaica’s hidden gems, the south coast district of Treasure Beach is an authentically laid back, off the beaten path destination for anyone looking for a dreamy, secluded vacation outside of the more popular resort areas of Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. With volcanic black sand, unique rock formations, a waterfall, and Jamaica’s longest river complete with that special local charm Treasure Beach is a perfect spot for romantics looking for tranquil seclusion, and in particular couples on their honeymoon.
Treasure Beach offers four public beaches and several small coves suited for swimming and body surfing in the warm Caribbean sea. Some sections of reef provide good snorkeling spots for viewing colorful tropical fish and an assortment of coral. Yet while snuggling up together in a hammock on the beach is always an option honeymooning in Treasure Beach (despite the name) offers more than just the beach. November 14, 2010 at 3:47 pm | Off the Beaten Path, Weddings & Honeymoons, What to Do, Where to Visit | No comment What to Do: Zipline Adventure ToursLocated in the small mountain town of Lethe about 30 minutes from Montego Bay Zipline Adventure Tours is one of the most exciting (above ground) attractions in Jamaica even for people who are afraid of heights. Soar above the trees and take in the beauty of the jungle canopy that surrounds you, the sights and feeling of this adventure are almost indescribable, from start to finish the rush is exhilarating. The experience is one you’ll talk about even years after you’ve tried it.
Starting off with a fun off road ride to the top of the mountain while being given a detailed description of the local flora and fauna, the tour boasts the longest zipline in the Caribbean, one of 5 ziplines, varying in length from 250′ to the amazing 1,600′ Big Timba. The staff is friendly, entertaining and well trained. Your safety is taken very seriously, one guide helps you gear up and launch, while the other helps you stop at the other end. Upon arrival at the top visitors are instructed on how to use all of the equipment. Once you’re all geared up and strapped on simply step off the ramp and glide through jungle. It might sound scary at first but the moment you’re in the air the excitement will dissolve your fears. October 21, 2010 at 8:43 pm | News & Updates, Off the Beaten Path, What to Do, Where to Visit | No comment Vacation Themes: Off the Beaten Path: Chukka ATV Safari, Ocho RiosThe Chukka ATV Safari in Ocho Rios, Jamaica is a wilderness adventure packed full of excitement and adrenaline! Adults and children 16yrs and older can climb on to the quad bikes and journey deep into the scenic Ocho Rios country side, through shadowed corridors and beneath the jungle canopy, across river beds and hillocks. Discover the history of the area and explore the beauty of the Jamaican wilderness. Then round it all up with a refreshing swim in the Caribbean Sea, some delicious Jamaican food and a spectacular view of the coastline. Best of all, no ATV experience is required!
Winner of the 2007 World Travel Award for the Caribbean’s Leading Nature Adventure Excursion Operator the 2 hour long expertly guided tour starts off at Chukka Cove Farm with a short safety briefing and riding lesson. You will then head across the Richmond Property, pass an old Sugar Factory, situated on one of the oldest estates in Jamaica, where you will learn its history. Ride through a river bed, lush forests and tropical foliage before stopping at the village of Chester, the home of the Chester All Age School. Observe the children in their learning environment and enjoy stories of the school and the community’s colorful history. October 19, 2010 at 7:19 pm | Off the Beaten Path, Vacation Themes, What to Do | No comment |







