Saint Ann's Bay, Jamaica

Capital City

With a population of just 13,671, Saint Ann's Bay is a sleepy fishing town that offers a more "traditional Jamaican experience" than the country's booming tourist hubs. However, the town's early history as a colonial capital has left a persistent bureaucratic headache - the old jail building is now a museum, but the wheels of local government still turn slowly. And while the town's 19th century buildings have charm, they also reflect its relatively stagnant development since the decline of its port in the 20th century. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path Jamaican locale, Saint Ann's Bay may offer an authentic taste of the country's heritage, but impatient types may find the pace of life frustratingly slow.