By Dave & Deb Bouskill, on May 26, 2013

Off the resort in Jamaica

There’s a lot more to a vacation in Jamaica than simply sitting by the pool bar. While we love hanging out at the resort sipping margaritas and working on our tans, it’s nice to take a break from it to add a little excitement to the island vacation. And Jamaica has no shortage of adventure.

 

Yes, I said it, Jamaica is an adventure destination. It’s the story of the 1992 Winter Olympics in Calgary that caught the world’s attention about Jamaica. It was a group of determined men led by a Canadian coach who defied the odds and competed in the four-man bobsled, racing down slick ice in sub-zero temperatures. Not only can you learn all about their Olympic history at the Rainforest Adventures Bobsledding Center, but you can also try your hand at bobsledding yourself. This is bobsledding Jamaican style. However, instead of snow and ice, your’re racing through thick jungle landscape.

Dogsled in Jamaica

Keeping with the Olympic theme, you can also try your hand at Jamaican dog sledding. They have a sense of humor on the island and love to turn cold weather sports into hot island fun. Jamaican dog sledding is fun, informative, and a great service to the island. Instead of leaving stray dogs to suffer and scavenge for food, these dogs are given a home, food, and water and the chance to run every day as part of the dog sledding program. After watching a video telling the story of dog sledding in Jamaica, you’ll have a chance to meet the dogs, watch a demonstration, and maybe even try your hand at dog sledding yourself!

However, we didn’t spend all our time reenacting winter sports in jungle settings. We also hit the water. A sail along the coastline is a spectacular way to soak up the magnificent shores of Jamaica. The contrast of the piercing blue waters to the rocky cliffs took our breath away while the crystal clear water made for ideal conditions to snorkel. 

Viewfinder Tip: Make it a point to try jerk chicken during your Jamaica trip.

All that adventure is bound to make you hungry and when visiting Jamaica, it’s a must to give the national dish a try. Scotchies is considered one of the best jerk chicken locales in the Caribbean. It’s a place where you feel like you’re getting a taste of true island life. Eating under a thatched roof on a plastic table with generous portions of juicy chicken served with yams and breadfruit made us feel like a local. There are three locations around the island.

There are so many things to do in Jamaica from hiking, to off-roading, to visiting local beaches, to boating, and much more. If you make a point of venturing off the resort, you’ll find an island filled with friendly laid-back locals who will welcome you with big smiles and hospitality. In the words of Jamaica’s most famous citizen Bob Marley, “Every little thing is going to be all right.”  

What’s your favorite thing to do on a beach vacation?