Caribbean Inspiration Jamaica
Montego Bay… the complete resort Located on Jamaica’s northwest coast, this highly popular resort area is where the beaches are edged by flowering trees and palm-dotted hills, making a lush backdrop to long stretches of rolling meadowland. With the Sangster International Airport located right outside of town, Montego Bay or MoBay as it is popularly called, is easy to get to and offers a bustling, colourful “hip strip” of shops and restaurants, and many different types of resorts and hotels. MoBay is perfect for those looking for the “complete resort” experience. Relax on the beach, go river rafting, enjoy one of five major championship golf courses, experience one of the luxurious spas or pay a visit to Doctor’s Cave Beach, which is fed by mineral springs and said to have medicinal benefits.
Negril… the capital of casual At the western tip of the island, just sixty minutes from Montego Bay, Negril is known for its natural beauty, with a seven-mile ribbon of white-sand beach and perfect conditions for swimming and snorkelling. Grotto-lined cliffs stretch to the old Negril Lighthouse, built in 1894. Go snorkelling in the morning and spend the day sunbathing and listening to live music along famous Seven Mile Beach. Experience the exhilaration of cliff jumping among the coves. The ambience is relaxed, the mood is laid-back, the fashion is casual. On select beaches here you can take it all off.
Ocho Rios… the centrepiece of Jamaica Located on Jamaica’s northern coastline, Ocho Rios is a major port and offers many beautiful resorts and beaches. This region is home to one of the island’s much-photographed and best known natural attractions: Dunn’s River Falls, a dramatic 600-foot cascading waterfall which can be climbed by foot and not far from where Columbus first landed more than 500 years ago. Amazed by the island’s beauty, the explorer declared: “the land seems to touch the sky.” You are certain to make your own discoveries in this stimulating yet tranquil resort area. Other special attractions include great shopping, crafts markets, gorgeous gardens, swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove, a tour of Nine Miles, the birthplace of reggae legend Bob Marley and the site of his mausoleum. Adventurous travellers can also experience a rainforest canopy tour with Chukka Caribbean Adventures or enjoy the bobsled experience at Mystic Mountain.
Port Antonio… naturally Considered one of the most naturally beautiful and authentic parts of Jamaica, Port Antonio rests on the northeast side of the island. Nestled between twin harbours where mist-shrouded mountains drop down to the sea, Port Antonio glows with the green hues of palms and ferns, laced with the brilliant reds and yellows of its tropical flora. Orchids, bananas and palm trees grow in profusion. Put on the map by Errol Flynn, Port Antonio is rich with history and splendour. Take a hiking expedition to glistening waterfalls and hidden caves, go rafting down the Rio Grande River on a bamboo raft, or take a romantic dip in the natural springs at Reach Falls, where waterfall scene in “Cocktail,” the movie, was filmed. You can enjoy excellent accommodations here at some of the island’s most elegant villas and charming small hotels, tucked into hillsides and overlooking secluded azure coves.
Kingston… the heartbeat of Jamaica At the foot of the Blue Mountains, overlooking the world’s seventh-largest natural harbour, Jamaica’s vibrant capital is the heartbeat of the country and the largest English-speaking city south of Miami. The centre of the country’s government and commerce, Kingston is also Jamaica’s cultural heart, with a wide variety of historical and cultural attractions. You’ll find a sophisticated, upbeat nightlife and an inviting range of dining venues offering a cosmopolitan contrast to the rest of the island’s slow and easy pace. The capital city has much to offer visitors: a tour of a music recording studio and the Bob Marley Museum, a visit to historic Devon House, a vibrant theatrical and performing arts scene as well as the Carnival parade.
South Coast… off the beaten path Couples looking for a laid back Jamaican experience can wander off the beaten path to the South Coast. With a rugged coastline, rambling hills, a river cutting through jungle wetlands, and a seaport defined by elegant Georgian architecture, the area known as South Coast is intriguingly diverse. If privacy and solitude are your preference, you’ll discover perfection in isolated beaches where the only footprints are yours. The 19th-century sugar plantations here are a must-see if you’re a history buff. Take a boat tour down Jamaica’s longest navigable river and view an intriguing wildlife in the surrounding wetlands that includes snakes, lizards, frogs, iguana and crocodiles. Enjoy freshly cooked fish at “Little Ochie,” or visit the Appleton Rum Estate, one of the finest rum distilleries in the world.
I have over the years stayed in all six regions so I can guide you on where best suits your preferences.
