If you've tried lychee, then you should try its cousin the ackee fruit, which grows like a weed in much of Jamaica. Originally hailing from West Africa, this peculiar fruit came to the Caribbean in the 18th century and has since been a staple of the local diet, even appearing in Jamaica's national dish, ackee and saltfish, and on breakfast tables throughout the country. Packed with nutritional value, ackee provides a perfect snack for all health-conscious guests staying at Caribbean villas.

The outer shell of the ackee pod boasts the hues of a perfect Jamaican sunset, with fiery reds, bright yellows and everything inbetween. In fact, this little fruit, which can fit in the palm of your hand, is the national fruit of Jamaica, where locals have perfected the art of preparing this bizarre and delicious food.

Before you try to pick it from the tree and dig in, consider yourself warned: The outer shell of the fruit is a hard exterior, so you'll need to let them ripen on the vine before attempting to eat them. Once the shell pops open to reveal three seeds inside is the perfect time for the harvest. You'll have to cook the pods before at least half an hour before you can begin the feast, so you might want to just leave it to the pros at Jamaican restaurants to prepare some ackee dishes for you.

You can purchase ackee at any number of open markets in the Caribbean nation, and if you're curious about how to make the best dish, ask your villa chef for tips and advice before you attempt your own variation of the national staple.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals?  Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.