While Jamaica boasts plenty of the perks shared by other islands in the Caribbean archipelago – addictive sun rays, shiny sands and pampered resorts – it is set apart both historically and culturally.

A trip to Jamaica will show the island’s unique character and the nature of its population. Home of Bob Marley, Jamaicans love their music, history and culture and visitors can truly appreciate their time in Jamaica by embracing its natural state of being. Aside from its people, Jamaica has much to offer to the weary, curious, adventurous or even thirsty traveller. Jamaica is home to The Blue Mountains – the origin of the world’s best coffee.

Jamaica boasts world-class reefs for diving at destinations like Runaway Bay and Ocho Rios, whereas the stretches of palm-fringed sands at Treasure Beach or Frenchman’s Cover are equally alluring.

Or for a holiday off the beaten path, Jamaica offers bush-medicine hiking tours, pristine waterfalls, wetlands harbouring endangered crocodiles and manatees and unforgettable sunsets.

Population: 2, 804, 000
Capital: Kingston
Languages: English, Jamaican Patois
Currency: Jamaican dollar, AU$1 = J$68
Religion: Christian (65 %)
Neighbours: Cuba, Hispaniola
Area: 11, 100 sq km
Time: UTC – 5
Seasons: Wet – May to June and September to October, Dry – December to April and July to August