Marooned on a sandbar almost a mile off Jamaica’s south coast, Floyd’s Pelican Bar floats between sky and sea like something from a castaway’s reverie. Local fisherman Floyd Forbes (top right) built this weathered hideaway in 2001 as a personal retreat, but its magic couldn’t stay secret for long. Word spread and soon Floyd’s became one of the island’s most iconic destinations. Getting there is all part of the fun: a 10- to 15-minute boat ride from the shore, with nothing but horizon ahead. On arrival, shoes are cast aside and time seems to slow. Guests sip cold Red Stripe, feast on freshly grilled fish and leave their mark by carving names and messages into sun-bleached driftwood. Back on dry land, Mel’s Fashion Bliss (left) stands as another testament to the island’s flair for business. Mel is the star of the show at this clothes shop in Siloah, sharing her Jamaican style with those who pass through.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER – CARIBBEAN COLLECTION 23