In a world obsessed with titles and tea, let it be known that the finest riches are found not in drawing rooms, but beneath waterfalls and in the rustle of leaves."
Dearest Readers,
It has come to this writer’s attention that a most enchanting rendezvous took place in the verdant hills of St. Andrew. The ever-curious and free-spirited Nature’s Sweet Escapes was spotted entertaining two international guests at the tucked-away haven known as 1876PrettyClose.
One, a radiant soul named Emma from America, Clement, a charming companion from Nigeria—both came seeking more than just Carnival thrills. And oh, did they find it.
Arriving like a scene from a well-scripted romance, the trio bonded over Ital sip, steaming and fragrant, served by none other than Ramo—the chef and magician behind the flavors of the hills. Our hostess, ever the cultural bridge, introduced them not only to meatless stews and fried plantains kissed by fire, but also to the rhythm of Jamaica’s soul.
Emma was seen delightfully posing with Jamaica’s sacred herb, a photo op this writer can only describe as iconic. Laughter echoed through the hills as the group exchanged stories of lands far and near—America, Nigeria, and our beloved island intertwining like vines on a banyan tree.
This, my dear readers, is what Nature’s Sweet Escapes is truly known for—not merely tours, but experiences that dance with culture, nature, and a touch of scandalous delight.
A beautiful soul by the name of Emma found me on Instagram @naturessweetescapes. She was planning to visit Jamaica for Carnival and wanted me to be her tour guide. Of course, I gladly said yes. Emma wanted to visit one of my absolute favorite spots in St. Andrew—1876PrettyClose.
If you know, you know. This gem tucked away in Endsfield is a true escape from city life.
The Journey Begins. I got up early, prepped for the day, and made my way to the bus stop. I took a taxi to Papine, and then another one up to Endsfield, where 1876PrettyClose is located. As I arrived, I waited a few minutes—and there she was.
When Emma arrived, it was like meeting a long-lost friend. She brought along a friend, Clement, also attending Carnival.
Emma is from America, Clement is from Nigeria, and I’m from Jamaica. What a beautiful cultural mix.
We shared our love for adventure, the outdoors, and exploring new places while waiting for Ramo, the owner and talented chef behind 1876PrettyClose, to whip up something special for us.
Ital Vibes & Flavorful Plates. As we waited, we sipped on Ital sip—a traditional Jamaican soup without meat. Emma couldn’t resist striking a pose with Jamaica’s iconic herb in hand, Ital sip in the other—pure vibes.
The main course was divine:Ital stew peas (meat-free) served with fried plantains, roasted breadfruit, rice and peas, and steamed callaloo. Let me just say… Ramo never misses.
And let me not forget the coconut—affectionately called "jelly"—nestled in the river’s gentle flow, kept cool by nature herself. It was the perfect final note, washing down our meal with the kind of effortless grace only the island can provide.
Next stop? Orchid Waterfall—the very first waterfall I discovered on the property.
We climbed a few stones and hiked up a short but steep trail to get there. When we arrived, a few visitors were just leaving, so we had the waterfall all to ourselves.
We swam. We laughed. We talked about the differences and similarities in our cultures, and shared stories of our past adventures.
Of course, we captured tons of photos and memories.
You know I had to strike a few poses too—my camera roll is my treasure chest of joy.
Grateful Moments. I will always love this spot. It offers everything—good food, peace, nature, and it’s just a stone’s throw away from Kingston, making it perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Emma and Clement absolutely loved it.
After a final soak in the river, we made our way back to the entrance and said our goodbyes.
Emma and Clement, thank you a million times for choosing me as your guide. It was a pleasure sharing this slice of paradise with you guys.
Dearest Gentle Reader,In a society where appearances are everything and influencers abound, it is rare—deliciously rare—to encounter someone who doesn’t merely show Jamaica, but reveals it.
Enter Nature’s Sweet Escapes—a guide not just of trails and tides, but of truths.
While others stick to the neatly packaged postcards of paradise, this particular connoisseur of the wild prefers to escort her guests into Jamaica’s most whispered wonders.
Waterfalls you won’t find on tourist maps. Rivers that require grit and grace to reach. Caves, cliffs, and corners of the island that seem to belong to another realm entirely.
She is not merely a guide, dear reader. She is a storyteller, a healer, and a guardian of forgotten places. With her tour guides by my side and a camera in my hand, she captures not just moments—but magic.
It is whispered (in only the most discerning circles, of course) that those who follow her path return with more than memories—they return transformed.
And as for the identity of this bold adventurer? Why, she goes by the name Nature’s Sweet Escapes, though I daresay even the waterfalls know her by heart. Yours in wonder, Nature’s Sweet Escapes.
Have you been to 1876PrettyClose yet? And if you have—did you visit the waterfall? Let me know in the comments below. See you on the next tour! Your favorite tour guide, Nature’s Sweet Escapes
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