When my friends and I set off for a week-long vacation in Jamaica this summer, I imagined a relaxing week sipping cocktails by the beach. Little did I know we were about to embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure full of festivals, incredible food and breath-taking sights. We started our first day on a mission to find a good cup of coffee and ended up at Mavis Bank Coffee Factory, a hidden gem tucked away deep in the pristine forests of the Blue Mountains. Looking out over the lush hills before us, we sipped the best coffee any of us had ever had - grown, roasted and brewed right there, from berry to cup.
As it turned out, Mavis Bank was just one of over a dozen incredible restaurants and other attractions making up the Blue Mountain Culinary Trail. We made it our goal to explore as much of the trail as possible. Every day had something new to offer: traditional local cuisine at RafJam Bed and Breakfast, Jamaican fusion at EITS Café and Strawberry Hill, homemade pastries at the Gap Café. The highlight for all of us was the Devon House Gastronomic Center, a historic landmark-turned-culinary hub in the heart of Kingston where you can sample different cuisines from all over the world. We even played chef for a day, cooking food we bought from the nearby farmer's market in Devon House's public kitchen.
Of course, Jamaica had so much more to offer than just delicious food. One day, a few of us went to a yoga class at Serendipity Resort and Spa while the rest of the group went on a hike to take in the stunning views of the mountains and Kingston below. We spent our final weekend dancing and singing with thousands of people at Dream Weekend music festival, making friends and memories we’ll all carry with us forever. And on our last night, we were lucky enough to celebrate with all of Jamaica at the annual Independence Festival. I don't know if we could ever top such a perfect trip...but with so many exciting festivals and events each month and so much more to offer, I'm pretty sure it's worth a shot.
I can't wait to be back, Jamaica. See you soon!
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