Jamaica
Everyone knows Jamaica as the home of Bob Marley and as the honeymoon capital of the Caribbean, but there’s more to it than just Reggae and romance! The third largest island in the Caribbean has everything: wonderful white-sand beaches, the magnificent Blue Mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, grand old plantations and, of course, great coffee.
Jamaica is also famous for its outstanding all-inclusive resorts, most of which are virtually self-contained beachfront vacation villages with an abundant array of included amenities and dining options. Jamaican hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from ultra-exclusive, award-winning resorts to lively hotels with high-energy “entertainment staffs” that will keep you hopping all day and night. You’ll find Jamaican hotels that cater to couples only, some that are designed with families and children in mind and some that welcome all ages to just kick back and relax on the beach with a good book and an umbrella drink! The main beach resort areas are Montego Bay, also known as Mo Bay, Jamaica’s second largest city; Negril, boasting one of the longest beaches in the country and Ocho Rios (“Ochi”), on the North Shore, where you’ll find the “real” Jamaica.
With its “Hip Strip” booming with shops, restaurants, clubs, championship golf courses, lavish resorts and legendary Colonial great houses, Montego Bay’s juxtaposition of natural beauty and man-made luxury make it a wonderful destination choice for all ages. The translucent water is known for its high mineral content and the famous white-sand beach is clean and inviting. Mo Bay’s picturesque historic estates preserve the legacy of a bygone era. Montego Bay is a vibrant tourist area where visitors can enjoy all manner of activities including ATV bike tours, rafting on the Martha Brae, tennis, sailing, swimming, surfing, diving and shopping. Golf is a huge draw, especially since the area boasts five world-class championship courses including the famous White Witch Golf Course in the Rose Hall Plantation, Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, The Tryall Club, Half Moon Golf Club and Ironshore Golf & Country Club. Founded in 1906, Doctor’s Cave Beach Club is nestled between the Marine Park and the Hip Strip.
From the natural beauty of its waterfalls, rivers and beaches, to the grandeur of its all-inclusive resorts, Ocho Rios, located on Jamaica’s northern coastline, is a favorite destination for all types of travelers, including eco-tourists, families, sports buffs, beach bummers — even rock stars like Keith Richards. In addition to its beautiful beaches, Ocho Rios offers a plethora of activities such as horseback riding, polo, golf, tennis, shopping, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and swimming. Join the fun on an excursion to the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, one of the most beautiful spots on the island. Climb the falls accompanied by a guide or relax on the beach below. Adjacent to the falls is Dolphin Cove, where visitors can swim with a family of bottlenose dolphins. Sail around Ocho Rios on a catamaran cruise and dance to Reggae and Soca music. To the east lie the impressive Blue Mountains, 7,402 ft. above sea level, where visitors will discover breathtaking scenery, quaint villages, sparkling rivers and the tantalizing aroma of Blue Mountain coffee.
A long-time favorite destination for families and honeymooners, Negril, on Jamaica’s picturesque west coast, is lined with towering cliffs and bustling beaches, and is home to many world-class all-inclusive resorts as well as nightlife hotspots. Negril is a stunning, laid-back hideaway that is not only astoundingly beautiful but boasts a pristine environmental ambiance, featuring the famous seven-mile beach with majestic cliffs to the West. Take a tour through the town of Negril, pass the ruins of the three-hundred-year-old great house, and stop at the Harrison’s Spice farm and herbal gardens. Then visit the Negril lighthouse and finish up at the ever-popular Rick’s Café for the incredible sunset. Every afternoon, locals and visitors alike take part in a Negril tradition since 1974 and flock to Rick’s on West End Road to watch the sunset, enjoy the happy-hour vibe, savor scrumptious Jamaican delicacies and test their bravery by cliff jumping.
The beautiful scenery, the wide variety of hotel choices, the friendly spirit of the people and, of course, the music all contribute to Jamaica’s popularity and world-wide appeal.
Please Note: All United States citizens are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States. Jamaica requires that the passport validity date must be at least 6 months from visitor’s departure date from Jamaica.