Is It Snowing in Jamaica?
From my desk I have an unobstructed view of a snowy Mississippi river. No eagles today, but the chickadees seem pleased with the sunflower seeds, and the mallards are keeping close to the dock. Another day in Wisconsin, I have Green Castle, Jamaica on my mind. Let’s face it, winter is long, cold, and somewhat dreary. It is exciting to think that I can get on a plane in my winter jacket and land in Montego Bay and instantly walk into the green, lush tropical sunshine. I am making my departure plans. December 22nd, we head south, and not a moment too soon.
For the rest of you, what are you waiting for? There isn’t a speck of snow in Jamaica. It did rain a little this morning in Robins Bay. But the sun came out leaving blue skies against the green hills and blue Caribbean Sea. There are direct flights to Jamaica from major airports all over the US. From the Midwest it is a reasonable 4 hour flight and you are guaranteed warm weather.
If you know you need a winter break, Jamaica is an excellent choice. The winter weather is fabulous, food is delicious, people are friendly and the music and culture give you a sense that you have really been somewhere. Jamaica is also beautiful. Lots of coastline with mountains in the middle. The highest peak in the Blue Mountains is over 7,000 feet offering dramatic views along the north coast.
My favorite type of Jamaican vacation is when you get off the beaten track, slow down, have a Red Stripe and relax. Of course, Green Castle is my favorite place to vacation, www.gcjamaica.com. For us, vacation has to be fun for the kids as well as the adults. The less developed North Coast in St. Mary offers authentic activities without the crowds. Fish lunch and snorkeling at Jacks Bay Beach, rafting on the Rio Grande, hiking to Kwaame falls, or a day by the pool at the Green Castle Estate House. Not only are these activities fun and inexpensive, but you get to meet real Jamaicans without the hassle of the bigger resort areas.
I’m sure there isn’t any snow in Jamaica today. As a matter of fact, it is currently 82 degrees, the weather looks fine. I’m counting down to the 22nd.
| Robins Bay Road, St. Mary, Jamaica