Columbus described Jamaica as "the fairest isle mine ever eyes beheld". And rightly so! Located in the Caribbean Sea, this island of the Great Antilles is known for its natural beauty and the pure blue sea. Its indigenous inhabitants named the island Xaymaca, meaning the "Land of Wood and Water". The character of country can be summarized by the three Rs: Reggae, Reefers and Rum.

Unlike the nearby islands, Jamaica caters to everyone from beach bums to newlyweds. You can have your own villa in a secluded island or throw yourself into the heart of the islands life. If not for the freedom, it's the beaches and the natural greenery that attracts most tourists.

Tired of the hectic lifestyle you have been living? Well Jamaica has beaches for you to forget your worries and while away your time. Bored of lying on the beaches? Try out hikes , cycle around the mountainside, take plantation tours, safaris, or indulge in water activities like rafting. The activities made you hungry? Try out authentic Jamaican cuisine at the local bar. Talking of bars, do not miss out on Jamaican rum. Home to some of the best rum manufacturers in the world, Jamaica's local bars have a variety of flavors to offer for the tourist tongues.

Jamaica has also a lot to offer in terms of heritage. Jamaica being the birthplace and the final resting place of reggae legend, Bob Marley, has the Bob Marley Museum which summarizes life and musical career. The Jamaican forts have stories to tell about the Spanish and British rule and the subsequent uprisings. The plantations are a memento of the times of slavery economy. There are other heritage sites such as monuments, lighthouses and churches.

The places that attract the most tourists are Kingston, Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Negril. If you think you will be missing the nightlife in the calm of the place, think again. Ochos Rios has places that will put some of the best pubs to shame. The most popular are Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville and Evita's Italian Restaurant.

Jamaica has something for everyone. Be it the sports buff or the casual beach bum. And if any of the above doesn't get you to Jamaica, then at least the rum should.