Jamaica travels

Jamaica is famous for many things, and one of those things (that has the added bonus of being able to be enjoyed from anywhere) is its coffee, specifically that grown in the Blue Mountains. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most expensive and most sought-after coffees in the world, noted for its smoothness and lack of bitterness. Outside of the island, it’s very costly, so while you are in Jamaica, make sure to take advantage of being able to get it for a cheaper price. The Blue Mountains, located between Kingston and Portland are over 7 000 feet high – you can see both the north and south coasts of the island from the summit, and on a clear day, can even get glimpses of Cuba. This high elevation creates excellent conditions for growing and cultivating coffee, and indeed Jamaica’s coffee industry dates back hundreds of years to during the times of enslavement. Fun fact: to be known as Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee, the beans must be grown at altitudes of up to 1,800 metres in the parishes of Portland, St Andrew, St. Mary and/or St Thomas.

One Jamaican-owned company to check out while you’re on the island is Cafe Blue. They are Jamaica’s largest coffee chain and have several cafes located across the island, including in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Kingston and one up in Irish Town for a lovely experience with a view. Their coffee is 100% homegrown. No shade to Starbucks, which is popping up across Jamaica, but why come to Jamaica to drink something you can get anywhere?