St Mary, Jamaica

·         Saint Mary: Capital- Port Maria, Major City- Annotto Bay

St Mary is located at the north eastern section of the island, it is bordered by Portland in the east and to the west you will find St Ann, both St Catherine and parts of St Andrew borders the south. St Mary is the fifth smallest parish which covers about 610 square miles this parish has a beautiful coastline, there is also an little nine acre island called the Cabarita island also known as treasure island. The locals are always talking about buried treasures left behind on this tiny island by the many buccaneers who were always looking to raid the harbors of Port Maria and were sometimes successful just off the coast. It is one of the first sections of the island that became occupied by the Spaniards. Port Maria has its own history as with many other towns across the island. Sir Henry Morgan who was one of the early residents had a home on the Hills overlooking the Port Maria, this home's location was not at all accidental but more strategic because it offered a superior view of the harbor. This home is also located beside Fort Haldane which was built to protect the harbor from raids hosted by the Spaniards and buccaneers.  This Fort was important to the famous Tacky rebellion which was one of Jamaica's most gruesome rebellion against slavery. A small group of runaway slaves known as Tacky murdered their slave masters and marched to Port Maria where they killed the guards at Fort Haldane and stole several firearms and other weapons. The maroons were also a part of this rebellion and fought alongside the other slaves.

Places to tour

James Bond beach has long been the location of Juvae , an annual all inclusive event, where you can enjoy Jamaican carnival music, dance and wine your waist all day long with your friends while soaking up the sun and drinking countless rum punches. If you happen to be alone don't worry, the locals will help you fit right in because at Juvae everyone is your friend after those fruity drinks.

Gray's Inn Sports Complex is another party location just outside Annotto Bay where famous Jamaican singer Capleton  who is native of this parish hosts an annual charity event aimed to support the entire community. All proceeds go towards St Mary's Hospital, and school.  Many Jamaican artist support this event. The event is called "a St Mary mi come from"  Every year you will be completely entertained by Jamaica's own Tanya Stephens, Sizzla, Lady Saw who are also native to this parish and many more talented acts.  Many High schools in the surrounding area also use this Stadium for their cricket, track and field and football competitions.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Grays-Inn-Sports-Complex-Annotto-Bay-St-Mary/267536376595633

St Mary Banana Estate established in 1986  produces the finest banana's on the island and the Caribbean. It is also the home of the tasty snack named St Mary's Banana Chips, a salty and crunchy snack the can be found in many groceries around the world and a must have treat for many locals. The offer an agri-adventure tour called the banana walk tour, it is an informative and fun tour, you will learn the history of banana farming in Jamaica and many interesting things to see. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget to sample some authentic Jamaican cuisine.

http://www.jpjamaica.com/farm.htm