May 26, 2025

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A Day at Hope Gardens & Hope Zoo: Nature, Nostalgia, and a Whole Lot of Laughs

Doreen Scarlett

May 26, 2025

A Day at Hope Gardens & Hope Zoo: Nature, Nostalgia, and a Whole Lot of Laughs

My friend Andrew and I decided to spend a relaxing day

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Can you identify the parish? St. Thomas, Westmoreland, St. Mary, or Trelawny? I endured nearly an hour's wait for a taxi, followed by another fifteen minutes for a second one, just to reach my destination. Nonetheless, the journey was worthwhile. While there are places I'd only visit once, this destination is one I'll return to repeatedly. Despite its charms, it's not without its drawbacks; I had to navigate over shifting rocks, and being petite, I had to extend my legs to reach the waterfall's surface. Given my solo journey, I had to exercise caution to avoid any mishaps. Don't forget to explore my blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com and my YouTube channel, Nature's Sweet Escapes, for hidden gems across Jamaica.

In the vicinity of Mount Airy, St Andrew, I stumbled upon the first waterfall among approximately nine others before reaching the main highlight, Johncrow Waterfall. Having witnessed over 100 waterfalls on the island and still counting, their captivating beauty never fails to surprise me. This marked my second visit to Mount Airy, where the biting cold and an abundance of mosquitoes served as our unconventional tour guides. Stay tuned for more insights into this adventure, which I'll be sharing on my YouTube channel, Naturessweeteescapes, and my blog, www.naturessweetescapes.com.

Have you experienced the allure of a place so enchanting that leaving feels like a challenge? Well, Airy Castle in St. Thomas stole my heart during my initial visit. It marked the second hidden treasure I uncovered that day, and I'm grateful I saved it for the final exploration. Be mindful of mosquitoes; they swarm in abundance, seeking blood, so it's wise to carry repellent. I recommend exploring this spot early to avoid encountering locals engaged in daily tasks like laundry or bathing. This strategy is reminiscent of my visits to Sanguinetti Waterfalls in Clarendon, where arriving early was essential to dodge the bustling rivers filled with people tending to chores. subscribe to my YouTube channel, "NaturesSweetEscapes," where I showcase hidden gems in Jamaica. Additionally, you can explore beautiful pictures from around Jamaica on my blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com.

The hills of Hanover stand as one of Jamaica's less-explored parishes, harboring numerous hidden waterfalls. Having come across a few myself, I believe prioritizing the exploration of Hanover in 2024 is a worthwhile endeavor. Let's illuminate some of the hidden gems waiting to be discovered in this picturesque parish. I recommend checking out my blog www.naturessweetescapes.com and the YouTube channel "natsuressweeteescapes" for insights into hidden gems in Jamaica.

I've explored numerous locations in Jamaica, and the continual beauty never ceases to amaze me. St. Andrew Parish, in particular, reveals countless hidden gems that keep surprising me. Jamaica always offers vibrant and engaging experiences. Discover more hidden gems on my blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com and my YouTube channel, Naturessweeteescapes.

In 2023, I thoroughly enjoyed discovering the wonders of my homeland, Jamaica. Anticipating an even better experience in 2024, I plan to unveil hidden gems and share the adventure with my Instagram family. Join me on my YouTube channel, Nature's Sweet Escapes, for detailed explorations, including cooking sessions in the itinerary. Visit my blog, www.naturessweeteescapes.com, to immerse yourself in captivating photos, learn hiking tips, and access contact details for some of these extraordinary locations.

I participated in the inaugural Ital Food Festival in Priory St Ann, and it was an incredible experience. Prior to that, I took a refreshing stop at a waterfall, setting a perfect tone for the morning. The festival itself offered a blend of positive messages, delicious food, a scenic ocean view, uplifting music, and I even enjoyed a peaceful rest by the ocean. You can watch the complete video on my YouTube channel, Naturessweeteescapes, and explore more on my blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com. Dress: @crochetholicss

St. Thomas stands out as the finest parish in Jamaica. I confidently express this sentiment, acknowledging the possibility of reconsideration in the future. Currently, it holds a special place in my heart for its tranquil ambiance, lesser-explored waterfalls, extensive hikes, availability of organic food, and the presence of some of the most breathtaking waterfalls on the island. The trek to Hayfield in St. Thomas left an indelible mark on me, featuring memorable encounters with waterfalls, a breakfast of freshly fallen coconut, and an immersive experience in a lush, varied ecosystem with crisp, refreshing air. Check out my blog www.naturessweetescapes.com and my youtube channel naturessweeteescapes for hidden gems in Jamaica 🇯🇲

This marked my second trip to the North Clarendon waterfall in the Mason River/Sandy River area. Initially, I explored it from the Mason River side with @irie_holiday_tours. On my second visit, I mistakenly believed I was heading to a waterfall at the heart of Jamaica. Following a brief hike, passing scenic mountain views, and seeking permission to cross private property, I was surprised to find the same waterfall. Despite the abundance of mosquitoes, I relished the solitude of nature, enjoying a swim and capturing numerous photos, making it a memorable experience. This photo is now my favorite from that location. Explore more hidden gems in Jamaica on my blog, www.naturesweetescapes.com, and YouTube channel, naturesweetescapes

Today's adventure leads us to the undiscovered region of Clarendon. A friend introduced me to this waterfall after stumbling upon an old photo online, indicating it was in North Clarendon. Armed with just that photo, I ventured to the parish, seeking information about the waterfall. Luckily, a helpful local guided me directly to its location. Witnessing the enchanting beauty in Clarendon was truly surprising. Explore more hidden gems in Jamaica on my blog, www.naturesweetescapes.com, and YouTube channel, naturesweetescapes

During my recent journey, Portland's beauty struck me anew. I spent months discovering the lush landscapes of St. Thomas, captivated by its allure. Now, I'm torn, questioning whether I made the right decision in choosing St. Thomas as my initial love over the once-beloved Portland. Stay tuned for an upcoming YouTube video on my channel, Nature's Sweet Escapes. Meanwhile, explore hidden gems in Jamaica on my blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com.

I find it irresistible to be away from the parish of St. Mary; it's a heavenly haven with numerous hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Today was fantastic! I made a quinoa salad by a waterfall, and it was absolutely delicious. Stay tuned for the upcoming video on my YouTube channel. In the meantime, explore hidden gems in Jamaica on my blog www.naturessweetescapes.com.

St. Mary, securing the third spot in my heart among Jamaica's parishes. Portland follows closely in second place, and I reserve the top spot for St. Thomas. Today, I won't delve into my affection for St. Thomas, at least not now ; instead, let's focus on St. Mary and its enchanting hidden gems around every corner, casting a magical spell. St. Thomas, brace yourself as St. Mary is on the verge of winning my heart. check out your blog at www.naturessweetescapes.com and explore my YouTube channel for more hidden gems in St. Mary.

@prettyclose876 in St. Andrew is my go-to spot. I can't get enough of the abundant waterfalls, perfect for my love of hiking. Discover more captivating content at this location on my blog www.naturessweetescapes.com and YouTube channel naturessweeteescapes

Hey everyone, I'm back! Missed you all loads, although I never really left. I've been busy sharing stories, creating content for my blog and YouTube channel alongside my friend and fellow content creator, @jessy_aqua_babe There's so much I want to share—YouTube videos, blog posts, and content for my Instagram fam. Apologies for my absence. I'm hoping for forgiveness as I dive back into posting awesome content for you all. Speaking of which, please subscribe to my YouTube channel naturessweeteescapes and blog: www.naturessweetescapes.com Now, let's get down to business: introducing Shawpark waterfall. It's been closed for years, but thanks to a friend, I got the chance to explore this stunning slice of nature nestled in the garden parish of Jamaica.

I created awesome memories West of the island searching for waterfalls. @misskist you were with me every step of the way. I see us in the future on an adventure getting super excited because we found an unknown waterfall. I can't wait to share what I've found. Here working on a few projects that I'm eager to share. Ive been investing alot of time over @crochetholicss and @sweetescapesswimwears hence my absence. But will be posting on a regular soon.

Separation indeed brings something or someone closer to together. In my situation it's being apart from Portland. You were my first love untill St.Thomas showed me how to love in a different. But we have a rich history and years of building our relationship. That kind of relationship is hard to get rid of. I miss you Portland. There it is. I do miss climbing your waterfalls, meeting beautiful souls, and always discovering something new and exciting when I visit you. See you soon then Portland. That's a promise.

Its official, I'm going to get a bike🙈. I use to hate bikes but I became a professional passenger...lol. There are few to no taxis in these remote areas hence the only modes of transportation are walking and bikes. The conversation was epic. I learnt so much about Saint Thomas. This Parish is rich in history and hidden gems

A Day at Hope Gardens & Hope Zoo: Nature, Nostalgia, and a Whole Lot of Laughs

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