Port Royal

Once the largest and wealthiest city in the Caribbean - and the operational base for pirates Henry Morgan, Calico Jack, and Anne Bonny - Port Royal was destroyed by a devastating earthquake on June 7, 1692, when two-thirds of the city sank into Kingston Harbour. At its peak, Port Royal had more wealth per capita than London, fuelled by piracy, privateering, and sugar trade. Today it is a small fishing village at the end of the Palisadoes spit, reachable by the road that passes Norman Manley Airport. Fort Charles, the Giddy House, and St. Peter's Church (rebuilt after the earthquake) are the main surviving historical sites. Underwater archaeological surveys have mapped the submerged city, and artefacts recovered from the harbour floor are displayed in museums across Kingston. A walk through the quiet streets - past fishing boats, the old naval hospital, and remnants of colonial architecture - feels like stepping through centuries of Caribbean history compressed into one small peninsula. Gloria's Seafood is a popular stop for fresh fish. Aurum Transfers delivers you from KIN Airport in about 1 hour for $135 for up to four guests.