Barbara Ellington, Lifestyle Editor

Lifestyle Editor Barbara Ellington is hiding her fright beneath this picture of concentration while Daviot holds on to his emotions by talking to himself. - photos by Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

The Lifestyle team recently took an unforgettable ride to the island's newest tourist attraction, Mystic Mountain Rainforest bobsled Jamaica, in St Ann. It was an unforgettable experience but not something for cowards. When we got to the venue and I learnt there was no way to the top but via the chair lifts, I thought, "show me the road, I'd rather take a week to walk there than go up in those chairs"!

But, even though I do not like heights, some things are inescapable and I sat with photographer Norman Grindley on my left and Daviot Kelly on my right.

Seeing my death

Off we went. I kept looking down, too scared to show it. I like to tease everybody and I was not about to give them stories to tell about me back at the office. So, thoughts of my guts splattered over the forest, after being pierced by branches during my fall, were manifested in an increased heart rate only I could feel.

Glancing left, I saw Daviot clutching the arm of the chair and muttering to himself. I said, "stop it, Daviot, or you will make me more nervous"! He made no more sounds but I am sure his fingerprints are still on that chair. I took Norman's advice and looked straight ahead to the top.

Somewhat relaxed, I comforted myself with the thought of bribing someone to give me a car ride on the return journey.

Exhilarating

The bobsled ride was most exhilarating. As it zipped along the course, I was a little surprised it did not go faster, especially close to the end. But even if Denzel Washington presented me with a bag of emeralds beforehand, I would not try the zip line adventure. From what the Lifestyle team told me afterwards, I'm glad I sat that one out.

I give Mystic Mountain a fantastic 10 out of 10. Great fun for the family!