Jamaica

Dancehall

Izzy Bossy

"I found it extremely hard to only pick a few places as I’m in love with so much and so many places on this island, but here are a few of my top picks for anyone thinking of coming to beautiful Portland. These are my fave places on earth; lets support local business <3

Portland is a parish on the north-east coast of the island of Jamaica that exudes laidback charm and an endless supply of friendly faces. Izzy of Bossy Ldn - who is half Jamaican and now lives there - shares her some of favourite spots on this idyllic part of the island.

Winifred beach has to be my favourite beach its one of the last beaches which hasn’t been bought by foreigners a hub for the community to come and cool af, if you go you must go up to Cynthia’s and get some food just ask for her down on the beach!

Blue lagoon holds a special place in my heart one of my favourite place to swim its hot and cold under and has a magic in the air, if you go down make sure to get a raft trip ask for Beena with the bleached hair and go over to monkey island.

Obviously, I had to put some music-related tings. If you know me you know how much DANCEHALL IS MI EVERYTHING and the best way to keep up with the new music is to get a CD from Junior on William Street.

Boston is the home of jerk. You can’t come to Jamaica and not try it. There are a few amazing places, but you must go to its home, Boston. Go to Mickey's - the first place on the left (if you are facing it). I also always get a chicken sausage from Bumpy as well; you will see him, he is right across.

Corey makes the best fruit smoothies in Port Antonio. He also makes peanut punch with almond milk which is quite rare here, but it’s super yummy. He is based in the back of the fruit market just walk through the shop to the back left corner and you will see him.

This is by far my favourite date night spot. The owner, Vanessa, is one of my good friends and cooks the most delicious food. Get the lobster! Actually, get anything its all amazing !! Also located on Long Bay Beach - you HAVE to go!

Have you ever had a burger with plantain and callaloo? Well then, you must go to Woody's in Drapers. Their burgers are literally so unique tasting and delicious.

If you are going to Rio Grande make sure you head out early as its a full day of rafting. I always drive up and start from Berrydale. You can stop the raft and swim in the river. Also, half way up if you call in advance, you can stop for food at Belinda. She is not there all the time, so you must organise in advance, but I promise you you won’t regret it!

Sanko Bay is a tiny local beach. There isn’t sand, but you can swim and the view is so beautiful. We are currently trying to re-build the community centre situated on this beach to support and give the Drapers community a hub for the locals. We’re also giving free workshops and equipment for our future generation to be able to bloom.

Everyone always talks about Dunn River, but there are so many hidden gems. Reach Falls is much quieter and you can walk down the back of the waterfall where there are holes you can jump through (this will make more sense when you reach). It’s way more chilled and private; take some snacks, drinks & lots of mosquito repellent with you in your bag.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOME VIBEZ YOU MUST GO TO MANNAS. You can also pre-order food for small and big groups. Hit up Jason. This is also a must-go!

Coconut shrimp curry to die for. Great for any celebration or just a lovely dinner. Make sore you ask the owner to tell you his story and why he set up soldier camp.

William Street

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