Rose Hall Great House and Montego Bay

Climb inside your comfortable tour van and head to Rose Hall Great House to tour the home and gardens as you learn about the slaves and its infamous owner, Annie Palmer. Legend has it she lived here in the early 19th century and killed three husbands as well as several male slaves she took as lovers before she herself was murdered by one of her slaves. Locals dubbed her the White Witch of Rose Hall as it is said her ghost can be seen in the upstairs portion of the house. Her legend lives on in the Johnny Cash recording,"The Ballad of Annie Palmer."

Continue to the town of Montego Bay and learn the stories and secrets beginning with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1494. Learn about Montego Bay's early days as a sugarcane port as well as its darker days of slavery. Head to the heart of the city and stand on the cobblestone streets of Sam Sharpe Square, named after a national hero who was hanged for leading the revolt against slavery in 1832. While in the main square you will see other notable spots such as the Civic Center and the National Heroes Monument. Amid the colorful Georgian-style buildings you will find The Cage, a small stone structure that was once used as an overnight jail for vagrants and drunks. While here, browse the shops and pick up a souvenir or two. Stop at St. James Parish church to see the elaborate stained glass window installed in 1911. This 200-year-old church is laid out in the shape of the classic Greek cross and is surrounded by centuries-old tombstones.

Complete your tour with a quick dip in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea before your return to the Port of Falmouth ($6 beach entrance fee). If you love history, this is the tour for you.

Please Note: Cameras are not allowed inside Rose Hall Great House. Remember your swimsuit, sunscreen and a beach towel.