Wendel Abel - I AM WHAT I THINK

Oh it's summer again. The children are at home and family members are visiting. Lots of things are happening.

Summer is about taking time out to reflect, repair and relax.

A friend of mine recently told me of her decision to vacation right here in Jamaica with her family. She said that it was a rich and rewarding experience. You can have a wonderful experience this summer right here on the rock. Here are some of my favourite places this summer.

Round-the-island trip

Consider a round-the-island trip or just go sight-seeing along the north or south coast. Petrol is expensive, but driving is still cheaper than travelling by aeroplane.

Glass-bottom boat

My favourite is the trip between Portland and St Ann. Stop for breakfast or lunch at the Almond Tree restaurant in Ocho Rios. An absolutely great place. Take a trip on the glass-bottom boat and just enjoy the reef and the ride out on the sea.

Great River tour

I would recommend the Great River tour. Absolutely marvellous. You may go tubing down the river or horseback riding. Great meals. A great place for the family. You can also stop at at Firefly, near Oracabessa, former home of Noel Coward, a haunt of the rich and famous. Hop over to Portland, this parish has many stops. Stop by the Somerset Falls and have a meal at the Bonnyview Hotel, it's a great view overlooking the Port Antonio Harbour.

The Blue Mountains

My all-time favourite is, of course, a trip through the Blue Mountains. Crystal Edge restaurant is a great stop with economical meals and great service in an exhilarating ambience. You can go next door to Café Blue for pastry and coffee.

Strawberry Hill Hotel

As you take your trip through the mountains, you may want to treat yourself at the Strawberry Hill Hotel. It is upscale and pricey, but a great location with an unforgettable spa experience. You may want to spend a romantic evening right there, enjoying the lovely sunset as you sip on drinks. This idyllic mountain setting is so compelling.

Gap Café and Holywell Park

If you are in for a longer mountain trip, you may want to travel to the Gap Café. Still a great place. Then there is the Holywell Park for family picnics and you can still rent lovely wooden cabins. Why not venture beyond this park into the heart of coffee country? Stop and wander along the countryside and view country cottages and weekend homes of Jamaicans. Some of them can be rented.

Starlite Chalet

Walk through the mountain, birdwatch and pick the flowers. Visit or stay at the Starlite Chalet, a rejuvenating place, nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains. You may even arrange a local tour.

Dr Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and head, section of psychiatry, Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, University of the West Indies. email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.

Noel Coward's home, Firefly, Port Maria, St Mary, is a great stop during your summer vacation. - File