A local’s guide to Kingston, Jamaica
Written by: Deepa Somasunderam
Instagram / @ragamuffincoffee
Welcome to our series, Live Local. We’re speaking to people of colour to bring you their guide on how to live like a local in their hometowns. We do this both to spotlight POC travel experts but also to help you access a true local experience.
The coolest spots to eat, chill and stay in the capital.
We spoke to Rochelle Knight, an accomplished travel expert, who specializes in discovering off-the-beaten-track locations and star-budget finds in Jamaica.
Here, she gives us the inside scoop on her hometown and tells us how to live it up in Kingston (on a budget).
Rochelle Knight Launched her travel website, Adventures from Elle, in 2016 which received more than 400,000 visits by October 2022.
She is also the author of “Sightsee Jamaica: A brief guide to Jamaica's best spots” which is available for purchase on Amazon.
Why you need to visit Kingston
Kingston is the cultural heartbeat of Jamaica. It's the birthplace of reggae music and the epitome of Jamaican art galleries, museums, street food, elegant restaurants and bold nightlife. Kingston is also the gateway to the Blue and John Crow Mountains, Jamaica's only UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where to eat in Kingston
Chilitos Jamexican Restaurant for their burritos and potent margaritas
Devon House Bakery for delicious gourmet patties and pastries.
Chive Restaurant for their brunch and signature burgers
Uncorked Too for their steak and wine selections
Tamarind Indian Cuisine for a delicious butter chicken and naan
Where to stay in Kingston
Ragamuffin Cafe & Hostel in New Kingston is great for budget travel and meeting new people.
Luxe picks would be Strawberry Hill Hotel in Irish Town and Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.
Where to go for an evening of music and good vibes
On Thursday evenings, stop by 22 Jerk in Liguanea for live reggae music from upcoming talents.
On Sunday evenings, chill out at the Kingston Reggae Garden for soothing reggae classics or Kingston Dub Club for live roots reggae.
Fridays and Saturdays mostly have soca and dancehall events. The venues may vary but some weekly constants include Holy Smokes, Dubwise Cafe and Di Lot Ja.
Janga's Soundbar & Grill is another gem with a good DJ and occasional live music.
Off the beaten track spots in Kingston
Bob Marley Beach in Bull Bay
Falling Edge Waterfall in Stony Hill
Penfield Waterfall in Gordon Town
Pretty Close in Gordon Town which cooks and serves delicious Jamaican Ital food by the river. There are also four waterfalls on the property to which adventurous visitors can hike.
A day trip from Kingston you need to try
Definitely a drive into the Blue Mountains. Explore the coffee farms, drink Blue Mountain coffee at the source and discover hidden waterfalls, scenic mountain trails and a plethora of quaint restaurants and cafes.
Also, it's a great opportunity to learn more about Jamaica's indigenous people, namely the Maroons and Rastafarians.
Beauty must-haves for travelling in Jamaica
Sunscreen and chapstick are a must because it gets so hot here!
Also, always travel with a swimsuit and sandals. There are so many places to swim on the island and you never know where the road may take you.
