Roaring River is a magical place for me, and not just because of the bridge jumping. The area around the cave is beautiful. If all you've ever seen of Jamaica is the beach and coastline, you really don't know what your missing. The drive out is more than cane fields. When you travel along you do see vast open land with cane farms. However there are lots of small farms and plots, small villages, and houses surrounded by beautiful caribbean gardens. Sometimes with ocean views, and sometimes surrounded by hills and mountains. Rivers can be wild and untamed, some disappear completely and come back above ground miles latter. Others can be lazy and meander into swamp land (Behind Negril and Black River). On the drive out to Roaring River,
you can see much of this. I would suggest hiring a driver instead of the bus tours. This only apply's to small groups. If you are two couple's hire 2 drivers. Hire them for the day and ask to make stops along the way. This is the time of your life to make time, and stop thinking about losing it. Ask for the scenic route. Ask to go a different way back than you came. If you get hungry eat jamaican along the way. Stop for drinks at roadside bars. Its usually cheap and good. The drivers will know where to go thats safe. Believe me, they want to get paid, and that won't happen if something bad happens. Don't be scared be respectful, they may be poor but they are a proud people. Don't light up ganja without asking. The countryside is much more conservative than the beach. Always tell your driver what you are carrying. He cannot protect you from the police if he doesn't know. Ask before you take someones picture. Some true Rastafarians believe that taking a picture of them, takes a part of their living soul. Don't get confused, true Rastafarians don't wear flashy jewelry and hang out at the beach. Those are mostly Rent'a'Rasta's. Real Rastafarians are very religious, many are farmers and live off the land. They wear practical clothing. If you never leave the beach you will probably not meet one. If you bus, you will miss the part of Jamaica I love best. I love going through Sava La Mar, Likkle London, Whitehorse and all the other villages along the way. If your out when the kid's go or come from school, you see them neatly dressed in there school uniforms. Off the main roads on Sundays, all the beautiful womens hats come out. You will see families headed to church dressed to the nines. If you are religious, ask around, many christian faith's are practiced here. you might get asked to join them. Just don't go dressed for the beach. Sunday clothes are expected! The highlight of every trip for me is usually getting to know someone new. Take a chance, its worth it.