Dive Into Jamaica's Unique History and Culture

What makes Jamaica such a great getaway is not only its easy accessibility from most North American markets or its grand assortment of beaches but also the unusual and fun ways its visitors can discover history, culture and nature. Click through this slide show to learn about some of the intriguing activities the destination has on tap - and be inspired to become a Jamaica Travel Specialist through Travel Agent Academy at oneloverewards.com.

A city once known as "the most wicked on Earth" and depicted in the first "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie, Port Royal sank into the sea after numerous natural disasters beginning in the late 1600s. With a special permit, scuba divers today can explore its fascinating remains off the coast near Kingston.

Jamaica has a rich history in the struggle for freedom, as evidenced today by the survival of Maroon culture in "Cockpit Country," a landscape of karst formations filled with caves and underground caverns used by slaves to escape plantation owners. "Maroon" refers to the community formed by the self-liberated slaves and their descendants, many of whom remained in the geologically harsh area and carried on its traditions. Visitors can learn about this community on tours of the region.

Rose Hall, a Georgian-style great house offering a panoramic view of Montego Bay's coast, is a majestic spot to learn about Jamaica's plantation past and the life of the Caribbean's European upper class in the 18th century. Stroll through the tropical gardens and take a day-time tour to hear its history - or wait until dark, when Rose Hall's resident witch, a previous owner believed to have murdered several husbands and slave lovers, might make her presence felt!

Thrilling amusement park attractions meet eco-friendliness on Mystic Mountain, where a bobsled ride zips through the rainforest at top speeds and a chair lift takes riders 700 feet above sea level for breathtaking views of Ocho Rios' coast. These are just some of the many attractions designed to inspire a love of nature while demonstrating sustainable use of the environment.

A walk-in aviary that lets visitors hand feed unusual birds has been a top activity at Animal Farm & Nature Reserve, but this haven of local flora and fauna has so many more activities, from river rafting and birdwatching in the rainforest to learning about farm animals and meeting the "Rasta Fowl." Visitors also come away with a deeper understanding of the local culture.

An unusually lush stretch of roadway, where at points the foliage is so thick it's like being in a tunnel of greenery, Fern Gully is a great place to hike and stop by local craft stands.

Runners from around the world come to Jamaica for the Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K, a live music-infused race where performers are stationed along the itinerary. It's an athletic event with a very Jamaican twist.

Jamaica also abounds with music festivals on the beach and has a substantial share of great indoor museums focusing on the visual arts and the roots of reggae, among many interests. You can learn about the island's full range of learning adventures and how to incorporate them into great trips for your clients by enrolling in the Jamaica Travel Specialist Program, which is sponsored by Travel Agent Academy at oneloverewards.com.