Americas | World Travel Magazine

Portland, Jamaica: A Journey Down the Rio Grande and Beyond

Staff Writer — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:42:50 +0000

Bamboo Rafting and Beyond: An Eco-Tourist’s Guide to Portland, Jamaica. Jamaica, the island nation nestled in the Caribbean Sea, is a cultural superpower steeped in rhythm, reggae and resonant history. It is the land of swaying palms, rolling hills, and a people known for their vibrancy and charm. In the heart of this paradise is the parish of Portland, renowned for its pristine landscapes and slow-paced, nature-centric lifestyle. My trip here was one of eco-tourism, a celebration of nature and local culture that left me spellbound.

Our adventure began on the banks of the Rio Grande, a shimmering expanse of water cutting through the lush greenery of the Jamaican countryside. Perched on a bamboo raft, we embarked on a custom tour that unfolded not just at the pace of the river’s flow but also to the rhythm of our hearts. This was a leisurely journey meant to be savoured, where the destination was as enticing as the voyage itself.

The rafts, previously used to transport bananas from the interior to the coast, were now repurposed for our journey. Skilled and licensed raft captains helmed the rafts, using long poles to navigate the meandering river. Each raft, four feet wide and twenty-five feet long, sported a bamboo seat that invited us to relax and let the current guide us downstream.

Our journey was punctuated by multiple opportunities to stop along the riverbanks at places that seemed too inviting to merely float past. Romantic spots such as Lover’s Lane invited us to disembark for a picnic, while other stretches beckoned us to take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters. Throughout, the scenic backdrop of the Blue Mountains in the distance and the banana and coconut trees lining the riverbanks provided a picturesque panorama that echoed rustic tranquillity and pastoral serenity.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by World Travel Magazine (@worldtravelmagazine)

From Bamboo Rafting to Jerk Chicken: A Cultural Journey in Portland, Jamaica

Our destination was Port Antonio, the capital city of Portland. Nestled on the hillsides, the city’s colourful houses were a delightful sight, their hues mirroring the vibrant pulse of reggae that finds its rhythm here. It was easy to imagine the beats of the music emanating from the heart of the city, flowing in harmony with the serenity of the surroundings.

Portland’s natural charm extends beyond the Rio Grande. Places such as Winnifred Beach and Frenchman’s Cove, with their azure waters, invite visitors to unwind. The vibrant ecosystem of Goblin Hill beckons exploration, while the mystical allure of the Blue Lagoon promises a dip into the fantastical. Reach Falls offers an immersion into the raw power and beauty of nature, and for the adventurous, horseback riding provides an alternative way to experience Portland’s landscape.

No journey to Portland is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. As we journeyed down the Rio Grande, we discovered a hidden gem – Belinda’s Café. Only accessible by bamboo raft, this rustic café is an eco-paradise for food lovers. The curried goat, rich and tender, was a delight.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Visit Jamaica (@visitjamaica)

At Cynthia’s at Winnifred Beach, we savoured the local favourite, Ackee and Salt Fish, an explosion of flavours that pay homage to Jamaican culinary traditions. Woody’s offered a contemporary twist with their burgers paired with sweet, ripe plantains. And at Gurleys at Boston, we enjoyed authentic Jamaican jerk chicken and curry lobster, each bite a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Portland, Jamaica is more than a vacation destination; it’s an enchanting world where nature, culture, and history dance in harmony. It’s an eco-paradise where one can experience the joy of floating down a river on a bamboo raft, swim in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, explore the lush greenery, and lose oneself in the rhythm of reggae. This is the essence of Portland – the beautiful parish on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, where time seems to slow, and where every moment invites you to embrace the beauty of nature and the warmth of its people.

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published online in July 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Portland, Jamaica: A Journey Down the Rio Grande and Beyond first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Antigua & Barbuda: A Superyacht Haven in the Caribbean

Vishal Jain — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:50:09 +0000

Anchoring in Paradise: Antigua & Barbuda’s World-Class Marinas. Embarking on a voyage to the sparkling Caribbean waters, one discovers an idyllic yachting paradise, Antigua & Barbuda. Home to 365 secluded beaches, each more stunning than the last, this dual-island nation exemplifies the apex of island life, as viewed from the deck of a superyacht. Antigua & Barbuda’s alluring blend of breathtaking scenery, tranquil waters, and world-class marina facilities form a compelling destination for superyacht enthusiasts.

Historical Wonders: Unveiling the Past at Nelson’s Dockyard Marina

Anchor your vessel in one of Antigua’s famed marinas, all conveniently nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. Nelson’s Dockyard Marina offers a fascinating plunge into history under the aegis of the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. This nonprofit organization focuses on restoration, conservation, and archaeology, ensuring that your stay is not merely luxurious but also rich in historical insight. Offering a comprehensive suite of amenities, including stern-to berths with bow moorings, advanced electric facilities, water, telephone, internet, and more, it’s no surprise that this marina is a perennial favourite.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeanne (@jeannsies)

Luxury at Your Fingertips: The Full-Service Antigua Yacht Club Marina

The Antigua Yacht Club Marina, positioned strategically in Falmouth Harbour, caters to yachting connoisseurs’ every need. From a duty-free chandlery to a wide array of boutiques and eateries, your stay will be marked by comfort and convenience. All berths are equipped with water, cable TV, and electricity, ensuring your vessel is well cared for during your explorations ashore.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Antigua Yacht Club Marina (@antiguayachtclubmarinaresort)

Catering to the Majestic: Mega-yachts at Falmouth Harbour Marina

For those on the helm of a mega-yacht, the Falmouth Harbour Marina rolls out the red carpet. Tailored to accommodate vessels up to 330′ with a draft of up to 20′, this marina offers a seamless berthing approach, robust security, and a dynamic social calendar featuring events such as the Antigua Sailing Week and the Classic Yacht Regatta.

Jolly Harbour Marina and Boatyard provide a safe haven for vessels approaching Antigua from St. Martin and islands to the North. Notable services include 24-hour security, on-site customs & immigration clearance, and a Marine Travelift with boat hoist capabilities.

Further options abound, such as The Catamaran Marina, a family-run establishment with a charm all its own, the comprehensive Antigua Slipway, the technologically advanced North Sound Marina, the motor-boat friendly Shell Beach Marina, the rustic Parham Harbour, and the centrally located St. John’s Dock.

Celebrity Hideaways: Luxury Resorts on the Islands

When you aren’t aboard your yacht, lose yourself in the island’s many luxury resorts and celebrity-approved hideaways. For instance, the world-renowned Jumby Bay resort, a private island retreat, is a must-visit.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jumby Bay Island (@jumbybayresort)

The islands’ cultural tapestry is as rich as its natural beauty, brought to life by the warmest of islanders. Heritage and tradition reverberate in their music, dance, and folklore. Visit during the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta or Antigua Sailing Week to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, stirred with an exhilarating dash of sport.

No journey to Antigua & Barbuda would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. At Sheer Rocks, dine on delectable tapas or choose from their enticing a la carte menu. Enjoy a beach-luxe dining experience at Wild Tamarind Restaurant, where Mediterranean flavours are infused with fresh Caribbean ingredients. Or unwind at Weatherills Rekindled, where dining, drinks, and hotel luxuries combine for an unparalleled experience.

Antigua & Barbuda, with its unsurpassed marinas, sumptuous resorts, vivacious culture, and gastronomic treasures, is the epitome of a superyacht paradise. This Caribbean gem beckons the discerning voyager with its unique blend of luxury and authenticity. Experience the pinnacle of island life and set sail for Antigua & Barbuda; the perfect haven awaits.

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published online in June 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Antigua & Barbuda: A Superyacht Haven in the Caribbean first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, set to reopen in Riviera Maya

Vishal Jain — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 10:57:32 +0000

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, is set to reopen in Riviera Maya next summer. Located on 200 acres of tropical jungle and white sand beaches, Maroma puts Mayan culture at the forefront, offering guests a unique and immersive experience. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, the Riviera Maya serves as the perfect backdrop for Maroma’s artistic vision.

Guests can expect Maroma to be a true hideaway, allowing them to escape and relax in luxury surrounded by the rustic beauty of the Mayan Riviera. Maroma’s highly anticipated reopening is just one example of the region’s ongoing commitment to creative expression and development.

Preserving heritage and masonry at Maroma, A Belmond Hotel

Belmond has tapped designer Tara Bernerd to lead their restoration project, emphasizing utilizing local artisans and indigenous materials to pay homage to Mexico’s rich heritage. Maroma’s contemporary crafts and carefully sourced materials work harmoniously with the original design and architecture, including white stucco buildings aligned with Mayan Sacred Geometry.