The Friendliest Place in Jamaica is Also the Tastiest

We’ve already dispelled the myth that Jamaicans are unfriendly, but if you’d like to see for yourself, head to Coronation Market in downtown Kingston.

Known as “the stomach of Jamaica,” this massive farmers’ market in an iron-covered warehouse is filled with hundreds of vendors from all around the island. it runs from Thursday mornings to Sunday evenings all year round.

The scene at the market is unlike any other. You’re sure to walk past vendors playing an intense match of dominoes, and you might spot the odd live chicken roaming freely. Televisions broadcast football games and running competitions. Loud cheers erupt every time a Jamaican wins a race. You can’t help but join the celebration. For a moment, everyone is rooting for the same team, no matter where you are from.  

By the time you leave, you’ll find that this huge market full of strangers now feels small and intimate. You’ve chatted with vendors and locals—all by the time you’ve finished picking your yams, bananas and cassava. The vendors are open and honest, game to share a laugh and answer questions like, “What makes you happy?”