Zipping Through the Rainforest: The Ultimate Experience for Your Bucket-List

Initially, the suggestion of gliding at nearly 50 miles an hour hundreds of feet above the earth suspended only by a thin cable seemed like nothing that I would ever consider. My impression was that zip lines were for the young and adventurous. Never would I have imagined that these thoughts were far from the truth. A zip line excursion should be on everyone's bucket list, and there is no better place to enjoy the thrill than on the beautiful island of Jamaica.

There are several tour agencies that provide zip line tours for beginners and experienced adventurers alike. We chose to zip along the treetops with Chukka Caribbean Adventure Tours.

There were both vertical descents and several 600 feet stretches of zip lines allowing scenic views of the rainforest and several gorges.

The guides are certified and trained to maintain a safe environment throughout the exhilarating adventure. They are cordial and engaging along the way as they assure that you are safely strapped onto the cable with both the main pulley and backup support.

The tour was just long enough (approximately 1 hour) with very little waiting on the platform. Our group had ten tourists ranging in age from 8 years to more than 50 years of age - all capable of managing the trails and maneuvers without a glitch.

There continues to be a debate regarding the place of origin for zip lining. Zip lining was part of ancient cultures in South America and the Himalayan region of India. Natural fiber ropes and harnesses were used as a means of traveling across rough terrain and gaining access to remote locations and villages.

In the 17th century England, steeplejacks would propel themselves down the steep zip cables after completing their day's work of repairing and maintaining church steeples. Zip lining was also used by climbers and mountaineers to cross gorges and chasms utilizing this pulley-rope technique.

Zip lining is probably one of the most popular forms of eco-tourism. It is critically important to find a reputable tour company with a great track record for safety. Thick gloves and helmets are mandatory; however, protective gear alone is simply not enough. Injuries can and do occur with zip lines. Travelers with heart conditions, back problems or women who are pregnant should avoid zip lines of any type.

Consider securing glasses or sunglass during the tour. Also, avoid skirts, very short pants, cut-off shirts, open toe shoes and sandals and jewelry on the zip line excursion.

Soaring amount the treetop in a Jamaican rainforest is a thrilling adventure. Now that zip lining is checked as completed on my bucket list, the next visit to Jamaica will be even more exciting.