There are some things that one just can’t see very well from a moving vehicle. For this reason, it is a good idea to find guided walking tours in Jamaica, so that you can see historic places that you may not otherwise see. Guided walking tours are available in most areas of Jamaica, and you can usually get information concerning these tours through your hotels concierge.

In Kingston, start at Fort Charles, which is the oldest of the six fortresses in the city. From there, go to the Royal Artillery Store, which is also called Giddy House and the Victoria Albert Battery. Next, visit the HMJS Cagaway. This is a former Royal Naval Station. Head north along Church Street. You should see the Parade Grounds on your left.

The Parade Ground was once called the Chocolata Hole. There is a monument in front of the Parade Ground that is made out of an old ship mast. Be sure to check it out. Across from the mast, you will see the Royal Engineer’s Arch. Even the Post Office is historical. It was built in the 18th century. From the arch, continue north, and you will find St. Peter’s Anglican Church. Be sure to check out the graveyard while you are there. The church has been there since 1726.

Continue on Church Street until you get to Tower Street. Off of Tower, take a left on Love Lane, and then a right on the next street, and a left on Gaol Street. Old Gaol is a 17th century jail house. Continue to the end of Gaol Street and turn left on New. You will find the Old Navel Hospital on New Street.

Other sites of interest, which will be within walking distance in Kingston, include Morgan’s Harbour Hotel, the Courthouse, and the plaque where Fort Rupert once stood.

In Montego Bay, start just north of Walter Fletcher Beach, and visit Fort Montego, Old Fort Craft Park, Georgian House, Sam Sharpe Square, The Cage, Burcell Memorial Baptist Church, and the St. James Parish Church. Interesting guided walking tours in Montego Bay include the Accompang Maroon Tour and the John’s Hall Adventure Tour.

In Port Antonio, visit the Central Square, where the old clock tower is, the courthouse, the Village of St. George Shopping Mall, the Titchfield Peninsula, Folly Beach, Fort George, the Titchfield Hotel (once owned by Errol Flynn), the De Montevin Lodge, Christ Church, Musgrave Market, Port Antonio Marina, and the Boundbrook Wharf.

Note that if you are taking an unguided walking tour, you may have to fend off hustlers on the street. If this is going to be your first trip to Jamaica, stick with the guided walking tours, and save the unguided tours for your next trip. Also, remember that it is very hot in Jamaica. Be sure that you carry bottled or canteened water along with you, and wear a hat to protect your head from the sun, as well as sunscreen.  Take your time and enjoy the sites, and rest in the shade often.