Jamaica Information |
Population: 2,825,928 Languages: English, English patois Religions: Protestant 62.5% (Seventh-Day Adventist 10.8%, Pentecostal 9.5%, Other Church of God 8.3%, Baptist 7.2%, New Testament Church of God 6.3%, Church of God in Jamaica 4.8%, Church of God of Prophecy 4.3%, Anglican 3.6%, other Christian 7.7%), Roman Catholic Internet TLD: .jm Located: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba Area: 10,991 sq km Residents with HIV: 27,000 Literacy: 87.9% Comparative Size: slightly smaller than Connecticut Nationality Noun: Jamaican(s) Nationality Adjective: Jamaican |
Jamaica captures the spontaneity of the joy and sorrows of its people. While rum, coffee, rice and peas continue to pervade their soul, profound music traditions and centuries-old customs remains embedded in the very existence of the Jamaican people. For centuries the country has welcomed visitors of all persuasions, from pirates to planters, to writers and movie stars, Jamaica remains today as one of the best tourist destinations in the planet.
It’s easy to be lyrical when you talk about Jamaica - the glow of its sunsets, the inimitable and engaging ways of its people, the fascinating white sandy beaches and lush green mountains, to name a few. What separates Jamaica however, is the rhythm of its festive beach culture that gave rise to a wave of contemporary music the world now enjoys. From samba to rumba to the now famous reggae music, Jamaica is an image that is fun and young.
Tourists who come in droves take pleasure in the unspoilt tropical delights of Turtle and Mallard Beach, a place for MTV music and all-night parties. The west and north part of the coastlines are packed by beach resorts and hotels. Attractions range from verdant parks to conspicuous colonial towns and neon-lit nightlife. The Port Antonio in northeast Jamaica is known for its great natural beauty attracting a mix of tourist with its exquisite sand and excellent restaurants. (The Boston Beach is the place to go for authentic Jamaican jerk chicken!)
Tread a short distance more to discover street markets of yam and breadfruit as vendors proudly hawk kulu kulu rum. Walk around the quaint fishing villages of Treasure Beach and Oracabessa, silent retreats that offer a glimpse of Jamaica's quieter side. It is not surprising that writers, artists, musicians and actors come here to replenish the creative spirit. Somehow the commercialization has not spoiled the allure of Jamaica. It still presents a magnificent kaleidoscope of color and splendor amidst seductive settings.