Discovering the Best of Spanish Town
Summary: Exploring the Best of Spanish Town: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.
Welcome to Spanish Town! If you're planning to move to Spanish Town, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Spanish Town has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Spanish Town.
Spanish Town, is a city rich in history and culture. One of the most notable sites is the St. Jago de la Vega Cathedral, the oldest Anglican cathedral in the Caribbean, dating back to 1525. The cathedral is a testament to the city's colonial past and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Another historical site is the Spanish Town Iron Bridge, built in 1801, which is one of the oldest iron bridges in the western hemisphere. The Emancipation Square is another significant site, featuring a collection of Georgian architecture, including the Old King's House, the Rodney Memorial, and the Old Courthouse. The square is a symbol of the city's past as the former capital of Jamaica.
The Spanish Town Heritage Trail is a guided tour that takes visitors through the city's historical sites, providing a comprehensive overview of its rich history. The Caymanas Golf and Country Club is a popular destination for golfers, offering a challenging 18-hole course amidst lush tropical scenery. For nature lovers, the nearby Hellshire Hills and the Portland Bight Protected Area offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Spanish Town's restaurant and nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of local and international cuisines. One of the most popular restaurants is Fish Pot Fry Fish Shop, known for its delicious seafood dishes, particularly its fried fish and festival. Another popular spot is Rodney's Arms, a restaurant and bar that serves traditional Jamaican food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. For a taste of international cuisine, visitors can head to Little Tokyo, a Japanese restaurant known for its sushi and other Japanese dishes.
The nightlife in Spanish Town is lively, with a number of bars and clubs where locals and tourists alike can enjoy music and dance. Some of the popular spots include Ken's Wildflower Lounge, a lively bar with a dance floor and live music, and Club Afrodiziac, a nightclub that plays a mix of reggae, dancehall, and other popular music genres. The Spanish Town Bar & Grill is another popular spot, offering a relaxed atmosphere, a wide selection of drinks, and live music on weekends.
Recreational activities in Spanish Town are diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Caymanas Golf and Country Club offers a beautiful and challenging golf course. The nearby Hellshire Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants. The Linstead Market is a bustling outdoor market where visitors can shop for fresh produce, local crafts, and other goods.
For those interested in cultural activities, the St. Catherine Parish Church, built in the 17th century, offers a glimpse into the city's history. The Spanish Town Heritage Trail is a guided tour that takes visitors through the city's historical sites. The tour includes visits to the St. Jago de la Vega Cathedral, the Spanish Town Iron Bridge, and Emancipation Square, among other sites. The Spanish Town Art Gallery showcases works by local artists, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the city's vibrant art scene.
GeoBlueGet Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlueGeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
Insider Tips from Expats in Spanish Town: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Spanish Town often join local sports clubs, such as golf, tennis, or cricket clubs, to engage in physical activities and meet locals and other expats. They may also participate in cultural activities, such as dance or cooking classes, to immerse themselves in the local culture and make new friends. Joining local volunteer organizations is another popular activity among expats. These organizations often work on community development projects, environmental conservation, or education initiatives, providing expats with an opportunity to contribute to the local community while meeting like-minded individuals.Expats may also join local business networks or expat groups, which often organize social events and networking opportunities. These groups can be a great way to meet other expats who are experiencing similar challenges and can provide advice and support.In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats often meet people through their work or their children's schools. Many expats form close relationships with their colleagues or their children's classmates' parents. Attending local events and festivals is another great way to meet people. Spanish Town has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous music festivals, art exhibitions, and food festivals taking place throughout the year. These events provide a fun and relaxed environment for expats to socialize and meet locals.Finally, simply exploring the city and frequenting local restaurants, cafes, and markets can also lead to new friendships. Spanish Town is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, so expats often find that striking up a conversation with a stranger can lead to a lasting friendship," said one expat living in Spanish Town.
GeoBlueGet Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlueGeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
"I am not directly in Spanish Town. I am in a beautiful community called 'Green Acres'. There seems to be a number of retired citizens, who enjoy playing dominoes and socializing," commented an expat living in Spanish Town.
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Spanish Town is a unique blend of cultural immersion, tropical climate, and a laid-back lifestyle. The town offers a rich history and vibrant local culture that expats can explore and appreciate. The local cuisine is a delight for food lovers, with a variety of dishes to try, from jerk chicken to ackee and saltfish.The cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. However, it's important to note that the quality of services, particularly internet connectivity, may not be as high as in more developed countries. This can pose a challenge for those whose work relies heavily on stable internet access.Spanish Town is not as touristy as other parts of Jamaica, such as Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, which allows expats to experience a more authentic Jamaican lifestyle. However, this also means that there are fewer amenities catered to foreigners, and English proficiency among locals may be lower.Safety can be a concern in certain areas of Spanish Town, so expats and digital nomads are advised to stay vigilant, especially after dark. It's recommended to live in gated communities or safer neighborhoods and to take precautions when moving around.Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads find the laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and beautiful natural surroundings make Spanish Town a rewarding place to live. The opportunity to immerse oneself in Jamaican culture, enjoy the tropical climate, and explore the island's natural beauty are some of the reasons why expats and digital nomads choose to make Spanish Town their home," said an expat in Spanish Town.
GeoBlueGet Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlueGeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
