Overview
Birmingham finalized our Sister City relationship with Kingston on February 15, 2017. Kingston is both the capital and largest city of Jamaica. Established in 1692, it is currently the most inhabited city in the country with a population of 1,243,072. The city holds a central place in the nation’s economy, as well as holding its largest seaport.
Locale Information
Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea. It is situated on the southeastern coast of the island, and covers an area of approximately 480 square kilometers. Kingston has a population of over 600,000 people, making it the most populous city in Jamaica. The city is an important cultural and commercial center, with a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. It is known for its vibrant music scene, with reggae and dancehall music originating in the city. Kingston is also home to several cultural landmarks, including the Bob Marley Museum and the National Gallery of Jamaica.
Economy
The main driver of the economy in Kingston, Jamaica is the services sector, which includes tourism, finance, and business process outsourcing. The city is a major tourist destination, with attractions such as the Bob Marley Museum, the National Gallery of Jamaica, and the Kingston Waterfront. The financial sector is also significant, with several banks and financial institutions headquartered in the city. Additionally, Kingston has a growing business process outsourcing industry, which provides services such as customer support and data entry to companies around the world.
Fun Facts
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Tourist Places
Negril Beach & Negril Cliffs; rafting the Martha Brae River; Dunn's River Falls; Blue & John Crow Mountains National Park; Port Antonio; Doctor's Cave Beach
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Climate
Tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
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Sports
Cricket
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Local Meal
Ackee and saltfish — boiled ackee (a pear-shaped fruit) and salted codfish sautéd with onions and tomatoes; sometimes served over bammy (deep-fried cassava cakes) with fried plantains
