Best "non-tourist" areas of Jamaica?

Question

My husband and I want to see Jamaica. We're looking for a relaxing vacation with as little tourists as possible. We're both used to travel and would prefer seeing the "real" Jamaica rather than spending our time in an all inclusive resort. Would you know where the most beautiful and "local" areas would be? Any suggestions for hostels or other options? Thanks

Answer 1

Kingston.

You can always travel to the country too.

Answer 2

Down town kingston.

Answer 3

Go to kingston. hotels are kinda expensive though.

Answer 4

Portland and St.Elizabeth hold the most secrets.

They both are very rural with plenty of sights to see. You will need to rent a car. Avoid travelling at nights.

A good spot to stay at in St. Elizabeth is Treasure Beach resorts.

Answer 5

I am from Treasure beach Jamaica and definelty think you should check out jake's resort or any little villa in that area...You will definelty see the true and natural life a jamaica...It's really a beautiful thing.

Answer 6

St. Thomas

Portland

Manchester, - for returning residents this is tops

St. Mary

Answer 7

south coast Mandeville was nice.

Answer 8

Definitely Portland.  It has enough actvities to keep you occupied and enjoying your visit safely but is also low keyed enough that it won't feel like a tourist mecca.  Check out the maroons in this Parish for a local cultural/historical experience.  I would also say try to take a tour of the Blue Mountains, accesible from Portland.  The Blue Mountains is also the home of its world famous name sake coffee.  You can tour the planations and get some high quality stuff here.  If you like quiet, serene nature scenes and want to have a different Jamaican experience this is a good way to go.  The two have been my favorite vactions in Jamaica.  In Portland don't avoid the tourist stuff altogether because they really are beautiful experiences.

If you are the in the kingston area try to go to Lime Cay.  This is an absolutely beautiful beach - quiet and serene.  Also check out Port Royal for escoveitch fish and bammy.   Also, with some good Jamaican company, try the Helshire Beach.  It's not good for swimming but you get a good sense of the local scene and seafood fresh from the sea.  They have the best fish and festival anywhere in the world.

I don't know that the hostel concept is readily available in Jamaica but low cost, good accomodations can be found.

Answer 9

Mandeville, Portland and St Mary

Answer 10

Portland, Mandeville, Negril and Discovery Bay on the North Coast.