Afrique Traveler

Port Antonio -- Jamaica’s Diamond in the Rough
By Iris Endeley

You may have vacationed in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios or Negril, but Port Antonio is a completely different Caribbean experience. An exclusive vacation spot nestled on Jamaica’s northern coast, Port Antonio has been the destination of choice for several of the world’s rich and famous.  It is also the birthplace of one of Jamaica’s most admired national heroes, “Nanny of the Maroons”, a brave, African female warrior. Historically, natives of Port Antonio fought some of Jamaica’s fiercest battles against earlier European colonialists and slave traders. Nanny was a noted leader who led the Maroons (rebel runaway slaves) against invaders.

On my recent trip to Port Antonio, I stayed at Bay View Eco-Tourism Villas, a thirty-room hotel owned by native Maroon, Gordon Townsend. (Plans are currently underway to expand the hotel to include timeshare units, private condominiums and villas). Situated in the hills of Port Antonio, Bay View sits on thirty sprawling acres overlooking the Turtle Crawl Harbor with the majestic Blue Mountain in the background. It is an ideal location for the native Maroon holistic wellness retreats and spa programs which Bay View offers.  The hotel also provides moderate accommodations for eco-tourism in a retreat setting. The staff was friendly, accommodating and included several natural healers.  More importantly, the freshly made vegetarian meals were delicious.

Gordon provided a comprehensive tour of the property. I was convinced that it was ideal for  relaxation. His plans to create an eco-tourism resort were well noted and undoubtedly a great idea for the environment.

Bay View is definitely a location to consider for quality holistic healing and tours in Jamaica.  I took regular strolls around the property; traveled around town on foot and swam at various beach coves. A billionaire French-Canadian owns Port Antonio’s famous Frenchman’s Cove Beach. The cove is a meeting point for salt water from the Caribbean Sea and fresh water from a nearby river. The result is an incredible spa-like salt and mineral water bath. It is truly a modern day “fountain of youth” to be enjoyed by locals and international visitors alike.

The freedom to take a stress-free vacation is relaxing for the mind, body, spirit and soul. Jamaica’s Port Antonio provides ample sun, natural beauty and picturesque scenes that will simply take your breath away. It was an extremely enjoyable experience. It is no wonder that Port Antonio is known as a perfect destination for lovers.