Port Antonio, Lost Treasure of Jamaica

Beauty and adventure seekers find this remote area worth the trouble to get there. The large colonial town boasts fine architecture, a huge food and craft market, great food and dancing. One should plan to swim in the Blue Lagoon, hike the Blue Mountains, taste the best Jerk Chicken in the world, meet the locals and take a banana raft ride down the Rio Grande. See what happens to a tourist town when the cruise ships stop coming there. Find out about local Maroon culture and buy handmade crafts at a nineteenth century market.

Quick Tips:

Stay at the Bonnie View Hotel, if you can. It overlooks the town, Navy Island and the Harbor. Sit on the terrace and you can watch the banana boats come in while sipping the best Blue Mountain coffee or a fresh fruit drink.

Best Way To Get Around:

Driving from Montego Bay to Port Antonio is difficult and takes a whole day. Flying is more convenient, just as scenic, and costs less than a cab. Take a taxi from the Port Antonio airport to any local hotel, and use taxis to get between places, unless you don't plan to leave downtown. Find a local higgler (arranger/guide/resource) to show you the sights and meet your needs, but be choosy. Listen to advice given by your hotel.

High on a hill overlooking the town, the Harbor, Navy Island and the Blue Mountains is the ideal place to stay in Port Antonio. We stayed in #5, which may be the best room in the hotel. It was situated right under the restaurant patio, but we were never disturbed by the goings on upstairs. Furnishings were old, mismatched and in some disrepair; but the view was spectacular, and an ocean breeze kept us comfortable without air conditioning. Our digs had a small bedroom and a larger conversation room where we could entertain local guests and fellow travelers.

The hotel itself is old and well past its prime. But the manager, Mr. Johnson, tries to keep it brushed up as much as possible. It is a well known landmark, and a must-see for all tourists visiting the area.

There''s a nice freshwater pool and gift shop on the premises, and the staff were like family to us. The restaurant and bar are also excellent, and waiters were very professional. We were originally booked for 3 days, but were sad to leave after one week. A great place to meet other tourists, and as comfortable as an old shoe!