A Family Escape to the Tranquil Shores of Treasure Beach, Jamaica

A Day of Discoveries

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and rich flavors of Jamaica. From the cascading waters of YS Falls to the historical depths of Appleton Estate, it was a day filled with adventure, learning, and, of course, a little bit of rum. Devon was especially excited for the falls, while Priya and I were looking forward to the rum tour. It was a perfect blend of activities that catered to everyone's interests.

Our day began with a hearty Jamaican breakfast at Simmer Lounge & Restaurant. I opted for the ackee and saltfish, a classic dish that always reminds me of home in Trinidad. Priya enjoyed some callaloo and Devon had some more familiar pancakes. Fuelled up, we set off towards YS Falls.


Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of YS Falls, Jamaica's premier natural attraction featuring stunning waterfalls and thrilling adventures.

The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush countryside and small villages. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building as we got closer. The anticipation was palpable, especially for Devon, who had been asking about the waterfalls since we landed in Jamaica. The closer we got, the greener and more vibrant the landscape became, a stark contrast to the urban scenery we're used to back in Toronto. It was a refreshing change, and I could feel the stress of work and city life melting away with each passing mile.

Finally, we arrived at YS Falls. The entrance was bustling with tourists, but it didn't detract from the natural beauty that lay ahead. The initial tractor ride to the falls was an adventure in itself. Devon was thrilled, hanging on to the sides and pointing out every bird and plant he could spot. The anticipation grew with each bump and turn, and soon enough, we were greeted by the breathtaking sight of the falls. The cascading water, the vibrant greenery, and the sheer power of nature were simply awe-inspiring.

We spent a good few hours exploring the various levels of the falls. Devon was fearless, jumping into the natural pools and swimming with abandon. Priya and I took a more relaxed approach, enjoying the cool spray of the water and the stunning views. The falls are terraced, with several pools where you can swim and relax. Devon, of course, made a beeline for the deepest pool, while Priya and I found a quieter spot to sit and soak in the scenery. It was the perfect way to cool off from the Jamaican heat, and the laughter and joy echoing around us made it all the more special.

Sometimes, the best memories are the ones made when you least expect them, in places that take your breath away.

After drying off and changing, we hopped back in the car and headed towards the Appleton Estate Rum Tour.


Experience the rich tradition of rum-making at Appleton Estate, a premier distillery in the heart of Jamaica, offering unforgettable tours and tastings.

The drive took us through more of Jamaica's stunning interior, with rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. As we approached the estate, the air was filled with the sweet scent of sugar cane, a reminder of the island's rich agricultural history. The anticipation was building, especially for me, as I've always been fascinated by the process of rum-making. It's not just about the drink, but about the history, the culture, and the people behind it.

The Appleton Estate is steeped in history, and the tour was incredibly informative. We learned about the entire rum-making process, from the harvesting of the sugarcane to the aging of the rum in oak barrels. The tour guides were passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights that brought the history of the estate to life. We saw the old copper stills, the fermentation tanks, and the barrel houses where the rum ages to perfection. It was fascinating to see how much care and attention goes into each bottle of Appleton rum.

Of course, the highlight of the tour was the rum tasting. We sampled a variety of Appleton's finest rums, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the smooth and mellow Appleton Estate Signature Blend to the rich and complex Appleton Estate 21 Year Old, it was a journey for the senses. I even picked up a bottle of the 21 Year Old to add to my collection. Priya, who isn't usually a rum drinker, found herself enjoying the tasting as well. Devon, of course, stuck to the non-alcoholic options, but he was just as fascinated by the process and the history.

Before heading back to Treasure Beach, we made a stop at Barak Creations Art.


Discover the vibrant artistry of Jamaica at Barak Creations Art, a unique jewelry store in Treasure Beach showcasing handcrafted treasures.

I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs, and Priya always appreciates local art. We found some beautiful pieces that captured the spirit of Jamaica. I ended up buying a small sculpture of a hummingbird, a symbol of joy and happiness, while Priya chose a vibrant painting of a Jamaican sunset. These little mementos would serve as reminders of our wonderful trip, and the stories behind them would be something we could share with friends and family back home.

For lunch, we stopped at V&J Authentic Cuisine.


Discover authentic Jamaican cuisine in Treasure Beach at V&J Authentic Cuisine – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

A local spot known for its traditional Jamaican dishes. I had the jerk chicken, which was perfectly spiced and incredibly flavorful. Priya opted for the curried goat, while Devon, ever the adventurous eater, tried the oxtail stew. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It felt like we were dining with family, and the experience was all the more special because of it.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Lashings Treetop Bar and Grill for dinner.


Experience extraordinary dining at Lashings Treetop Bar and Grill in Treasure Beach, where nature meets culinary excellence amidst stunning views.

The views from the treetop bar were simply stunning, with panoramic vistas of the coastline and the Caribbean Sea. We watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. The restaurant itself was buzzing with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and the delicious food. I ordered the grilled lobster, while Priya chose the seafood pasta. Devon, of course, went for the pizza, a familiar favorite that never fails to please. The food was delicious, the drinks were refreshing, and the company was even better.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, trying new things, and creating lasting memories with the ones you love. Jamaica has a way of capturing your heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, especially with our trip to Floyd's Pelican Bar and the Black River Safari on the cards. I have heard so much about Floyd's Pelican Bar, a bar literally in the middle of the sea!

Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Floyd's Pelican Bar and J. Charles Swaby's Black River Safari. I've heard great things about both, and I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery. We'll start with breakfast at Nice and Easy, then head out for a day of exploring. For lunch, we'll try Pan A Knock Restaurant, and for dinner, we're planning to visit Kim's Restaurant. We might even check out Pardy's Rooftop Bar and Kitchen for a nightcap. It's going to be another busy day, but I'm excited to see what Treasure Beach has in store for us.