Spanish Town , Kingston © Jamaica Tourist Board
Why? The heart of one of the Caribbean's most alluring
islands, Jamaica, the city of Kingston is a bustling, sometimes
squalid, but rollicking town. A holiday in Kingston is best spent
at one of the beach resorts adjacent to the city itself, but no-one
who visits Jamaica should miss out on exploring the good, bad and
ugly aspects of its capital city.
When? Holiday in Kingston any time of year and you are
assured of sunshine and sultry tropical days and nights. Mountains
shelter the city from most of the rain, so even if you travel to
Kingston during the Caribbean rainy season, you are unlikely to
have tropical storms spoil your fun.
Who for? A holiday in Kingston is perfect for anyone who
enjoys the delights of a tropical island dream, coupled with the
fascination of a sometimes intimidating city. Many party
enthusiasts travel to Kingston for its legendary clubs and
nightspots.
More Info: Plan a holiday in Kingston with the help of our
full Kingston travel guide, which is updated regularly to ensure
the very latest details of attractions, excursions and events in
the city. The travel guide also contains basic information,
including airport facilities, to ensure you 'know before you
go'.
Overview
The capital of Jamaica, Kingston jives to the beat of the
infectious reggae music that was born here and has swept through
the world. It is the largest English-speaking city south of Miami,
lying on a wide plain with the world's seventh-largest natural
harbour to the south, and the Blue Mountains behind.
Jamaica itself may have the image of being laid back and rather
slow, but cosmopolitan Kingston moves at a fast pace, in keeping
with its importance as the dominant force on the island
politically, commercially and culturally.
Tourists tend not to stay in Kingston as such, generally heading
for the northern and western beaches and resorts instead, but the
city does have a wide array of historical and cultural attractions,
not to mention a very sophisticated and sizzling nightlife.
Kingston was founded in 1692 after the demise of nearby Port
Royal, the former capital, which was devastated in an earthquake.
Port Royal was known as the 'wicked city', being the haunt of
decadent aristocrats and swashbuckling pirates. Kingston has tried
to be more dignified, but it is a little grimy and crime is rife.
There are also some inner city neighbourhoods to avoid, which are
more prone to drug-related killings and gang violence.
