“The Caribbean’s Best Kept Secret …
without snakes, bugs or predatory creepy crawlies”

This was the headline that Port Antonio received from The Daily Telegraph in January 2008; no wonder celebrities such as Mick Jagger have properties in this unspoilt tropical Eden that in the 1950s Errol Flynn first brought to the world’s attention.

A new EU sponsored road connecting Kingston to Port Antonio opens in June 2008 reducing airport transfer time from Kingston’s Norman Manley airport to this eco-chic destination to just 1½ hours.  Port Antonio will now not just be a destination for independent devotees but a truly accessible destination for any BA or Virgin package holidaymaker looking to Jamaica.  From LGW to Port Antonio the total journey time will be less than the 10-hour threshold for those travelling with children, transforming Port Antonio into an ideal destination for families. 

In addition Duckenfield, Port Antonio’s nearest aerodrome, a 1 hour drive away, is being redeveloped to accept both commercial airlines and private jets.  The development time is expected to be 30 months making it ready for the 2010 high season and ideal for those who prefer to fly direct either to Kingston or Montego Bay, or fly privately from home.

Development doesn’t mean that the title of eco-jewel in Jamaica’s crown will slip away from Port Antonio.  The surrounding John Crow & Blue Mountains Park have applied to be officially recognised as a World Heritage Site, and Tichfield Hall, the picturesque historic area of Port Antonio with its gingerbread-style houses is intended to be made into the capital area.  The San San Association civil action group is actively campaigning for ‘green sustainable development’ as their petition against the private development of the local beloved ‘Pellew Island’ (http://www.thepetitionsite.com/petition/8467348900) illustrates.  Development of the area doesn’t just mean areas for tourists; the market place & courthouse are both being restored and refurbished.

The area has something for everyone: guided hikes, bird watching, visiting secluded waterfalls, bamboo rafting down the Rio Grande River, bicycle trips down the Blue Mountains, Plantation tours & horseback riding are all available in unspoilt ‘Portie’.  Snorkelling and scuba diving as well as fishing can be arranged at the nearby beaches.   Can you afford to not include it in your 2008 plans?

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