Jamaica is known worldwide as the home of reggae music and Rastafarian culture and famed for its sizzling sunshine and beautiful beaches.

But the ‘land of wood and water’ also boasts a lush mountainous interior, tasty cuisine that packs a spicy punch and a proud populace that welcomes visitors from around the world with open arms.

If you’re planning a dream holiday, Jamdown ticks every box  ̶  catch some inspirational island vibes with these five Jamaican vacay hotspots.

1. Hotel Riu, Ocho Rios

If you’re heading to Jamaica with kids in tow it’s tough to beat the convenience of an all-inclusive resort and Hotel Riu in Ocho Rios has fab facilities at a reasonable cost.

There’s a range of buffet style and a la carte restaurants, lively cabaret shows from talented entertainment staff, a sublime beach caressed by cool Caribbean waters, spa, gym and just about everything else you need for some serious R&R. Check the Hotel Riu website for deals on your desired dates.

2. Strawberry Hill, St Andrews

The sublime Strawberry Hill hotel is a colonial-style complex perched on a verdant mountainside overlooking Jamaican capital Kingston.

Owned by Chris Blackwell of Island records fame, this laid-back luxury hideaway has been a favourite hideaway for many famous faces from the music world over the years, including members of The Rolling Stones and the late, great Bob Marley.

3. Blue Harbour, St Mary

Blue Harbour in St Mary is the former home of the late British playwright and polymath Sir Noel Coward and many a star-studded party was held here in days of yore.

You can now stay at the sprawling whitewashed property and it has a range of rooms and villas with outstanding ocean views, a rejuvenating saltwater pool and fresh cuisine prepared on site. If you hire a car with Enjoy, you can drive up to another nearby property once owned by Sir Noel named firefly and you’ll see one of the world’s most beautiful views out across the rugged rocky bay.

4. The Caves, Negril

Negril is the westernmost resort town in Jamaica and it’s home to the sweeping sandy expanse of Seven Mile Beach, craggy coves within coastal rocks and the best sunsets on the island.

Splash out on a romantic stay at The Caves while you’re here  ̶  this unique hotel is carved into the limestone cliffs of Negril’s west end and it’s simply breath-taking.

5. Jakes, St Elizabeth

When you’re yearning for a Boho vibe, you can’t beat Jakes hotel in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth.

Established by Perry Henzell, the director of cult Jamaican movie The Harder They Come, it’s still run by his family and comprises pretty pastel-coloured stucco villas, oceanfront bungalows and comfy hotel rooms. There’s a central pool and deck where you can relax in perfect peace or participate in sunrise yoga sessions  ̶  browse the Jakes site for more information and you’ll realise Jamaica doesn’t get more laid-back than this.

That’s our list! Share your own favourite Jamaican hotspots in the comments section.