Portland, Jamaica

·         Portland: Capital- Port Antonio.

Portland is located on the north eastern tip of Jamaica established in 1723, it has 314 square miles of breathtaking  scenic views, unique coves and waterfalls deluxe beaches and lush forestry also part home to Blue Mountain along with three other parishes (St. Thomas, St. Mary and St. Andrew) which is the highest mountain peak on the island(7402 ft) and famous for its Blue Mountain coffee. Portland's history is very unique because of the stories told about its Maroon settlers called the Windward Maroons who were ex slaves who ran away and made settlements in Portland specifically because of its unique landscape, it provided them with an advantage against and British attacks. The maroon settlements and its direct descendants are still apart of Jamaica's culture and its traditions are carried on proudly in many of the Maroon Villages today.

A few places to Tour:

Blue Lagoon, located on the outskirts of the capitol city Port Antonio. "The Blue Hole"  which is now called "The Blue Lagoon" because of a famous movie starring Brooke Shields had a somewhat magical appearance because the water color changes throughout the day depending on the way in which the sun shines on its surface. The locals believe the lagoon is bottomless but if you are brave enough, you can take a dive and decide for yourself. The Lagoon is a mix of fresh and salt water mix as the lagoon is fed by freshwater springs and opens up to the sea. Take a tour on a raft and learn more about the lagoons history while soaking up some irie sun with a cold red stripe beer.

Somerset falls, located between Hope Bay and Port Antonio is 97 acres of breathtaking garden and waterfalls, there will be a guided tour which will lead you to the hidden falls which is about 20  foot in depth. Visit on a Sunday and your entertainment will be maximized by visiting the rhythm and booze bar where you can eat finger licking local food and dance to the sweet sounds of reggae music.

http://www.visitjamaica.com/somerset-falls

Charles Town Maroon Museum called the Asafu Yard, located twenty minutes south of the city Buff Bay. This is a Maroon community known for its well documented history and culture. The community is ladled with direct descendants from the runaway slaves who settled in Portland. The museum displays maroon products, artifacts, maroon culture dancers, rhythmic drum beating for the complete maroon experience. You can also take a guided tour of the area educating its visitors on the history of the maroon people. If you are up for an adventure you can also take the Sambo Hill hike where it is said that the maroons met to strategize for battle with the British. On this hike you will be transported back in time as you see evidence of the existence of the maroon  settlers on the trail. The hike lasts 3-4 hours so be prepared for an revitalizing, picturesque and maybe even drenching hike along this trail. If after the tour you are too tired to drive back to your hotel, you can stay the night at D&G bed and breakfast located in the middle of Charles Town's square where owner Daisy will provide you with a relaxing room to rest for the night and she will prepare breakfast fit for modern day royalties, but be warned Daisy's warm and friendly hospitality paired with her cooking is known to have tourist extend their stays.