Useful Information About Jamaica

The Caribbean has always been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Home to a number of islands, each one offers a tropical paradise to their guests. One such place is Jamaica, home to a number of beautiful tourist spots that include white sand beaches and beautiful mountain ranges. Jamaica also offers its guests excellent accommodations and exciting activities that make vacations to the island more memorable. There are many aspects of the Jamaican vacation that must be decided on, and planning just how to spend your vacation can be a bit overwhelming. The good news is that there are certain locations in Jamaica that have been proven to be some of the better places where tourists, especially first-time visitors, should visit without fail.

One of the more notable place tourists could go to in Jamaica is Treasure Beach, which is home to the very popular Jake’s Place Hotel, an ideal honeymoon resort where couples can enjoy a tropical atmosphere while enjoying the excellent service that the resort provides. Another good place to visit is Mandeville where guests can go on hikes while enjoying the scenic beauty of the town, reminiscent of the time when the island was under the British rule. Another notable location is Strawberry Hill, which can provide you with an Old World ambience that includes tasting some of the best Jamaican cuisine and then mountain hiking. Port Antonio provides its guests with lush scenery because of the wide variety of plant life in the area. If you are looking for a tropical paradise, it would be a good idea to go to Negril, where you can find beautiful white sand beaches, beautiful hotels and resorts, and a vibrant nightlife.

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Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Cheapest Jamaica Air Travel

Travelers realize that a number of techniques are necessary for discovering any kind of discount for air travel in these times. Yes, we all know that it is easier to book online, but the secret is to ensure that you get the best or most for whatever money you are spending. For instance, if you are traveling to Montego Bay, Negril or any of the other popular resort towns on the island, it is important for you to find the cheapest Jamaica air travel deals, so you can get to enjoy all the wonderful offerings that is available.

At this point, you ought to know that shopping around on the travel sites will give you a better chance to find the discounts. This means research, then research some more, you are guaranteed to travel two or three times for year without touching your retirement savings. This is a good idea for all the travelers who want to save, as it would be easier to know when the airlines such as American Airlines or Virgin Atlantic is offering new promotions and also the time of day when the flights would be cheapest for either of two major airports.

Since, you want to stay at one of the hotels in the resort town of Ocho Rios, it would be best to search for the flights that will take you to the Sangster’s International airport. Most times the flights from the different cities will differ in prices, so you have to examine the options carefully with greater emphasis on the airports nearest to you. If you utilize this easy and quick method while booking you will get to learn more about the airlines routes and schedules. This way, you can benefit from any of the amazing last minute offers they will provide in order to fill seats.

Some travelers will tell you that one of the best secret for booking flights is to purchase the cheap one-way tickets instead of the round trips. This is said to not only save money, but will also allow you to find the flight in time period that you really want. For example, one of the rewards program offers from Air Jamaica airlines is specifically geared at one-way flight savings. Although, this might not work for every traveler, especially if you are traveling to the island on some public holidays or during the busy December month, additionally it will depend on the number of flights you have to take in order to reach Jamaica.

Even though, it is easy and convenient to find the discounts these days, it is equally important that you remember to check for any additional charges that might be attached to the deals. A good way to avoid some of these extra fees is travel with fewer bags. With the many craft market and shopping centers that sells the colorful Jamaica costumes and attractive beach wears it is possible for you to get items if needed. So, there is no need to get caught with an excessive bill at the airport after you thought that you had secured a deal with the travel package.

All in all, finding the cheapest Jamaica air travel is not that difficult, it would just take a little research and planning. If it is possible for you to book early and grab some of the amazing deals, you can take advantage of the constant change in ticket prices. Remember that you want to have sufficient money to purchase souvenirs such as the lovely wooden sculptures that is plenty at the many stalls in the Ocho Rios Craft Park, Old Fort Craft Market in Montego Bay or even the one on the Norman Manley Boulevard in Negril.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Jamaica Culture – Jamaican Language Lesson

In Jamaica, culture surrounds you. With every step you take there is some aspect of our lifestyle that reminds you that you’re in Jamaica. Our food, our music, our dance, how we walk, even how we drive. But more than anything else, our inimitable language is everywhere.

Our language is most commonly known as patois (patwah), but is also called Jamaican dialect or Jamaican
English. Our official language is English. When I was growing up, people who spoke mostly patois were said to “chat bad”. The perspective has changed somewhat in the last 20 years. Patois is more recognized as a language in its own right, and not as merely broken English. Without a doubt, some of the words are English derived, but there are many African words as well.

Jamaican language can be very direct. Some expressions leave no doubt as to their meaning. For example, a “belly skin” blouse, is one that exposes your midriff. And given that the word for bottom is “batty”, it’s only natural that a pair of very short shorts is known as a “batty rider”! We also tend to describe our body parts very literally. We say “hand middle”, meaning the palm of the hand, and “foot bottom”, meaning the sole of the foot.

And then there are our double words. We often use the same word twice, especially when we want to emphasise something:

-Chat chat – very talkative, indiscreet (Yu cyaan tell har nuttn, she too chat chat! –
You can’t tell her anything, she talks too much!)
-Deggeh deggeh – an insignificant amount (All yu bring fi mi is one deggeh deggeh mango? –
All you brought me is this one mango?)
-Fool fool – exceedingly stupid (What a bwoy fool fool! – What a stupid boy!)

Let me give you a quick grammar lesson. Here are a few parts of speech:

Verbs
-Crawp – scrape
-Nyam – eat
-Kin teet – grin
-Lef – leave
-Jook – prod, poke, prick

Nouns

-Ginnal – trickster, deceitful person
-Macca – thorn
-Bulla – insult, also refers to a heavy, sweet bread
-Pickney – child
-Smaddy – somebody

Adjectives

-Fenkeh fenkeh – weak, substandard
-Fraidy fraidy – cowardly
-Red eye – covetous, grudgeful
-Dutty – dirty
-Faas – inquisitive

Adverbs (I think)

-Weh – where
-Wha mek – why

For the non-Jamaicans, let’s see how good you are. I’m going to write a few sentences using some of the words listed above, plus a few others. Can you figure out what they mean? For the Jamaicans, see if you can do a less awkward translation than mine!

1) Watch weh yu a walk – mine di macca jook yu!
2) Wha mek yu a kin yu teet so?
3) Lef mi, nuh!

How did you do? Here’s a rough translation. (They sound kind of clumsy in English.)

1) Watch where you walk – take care that the thorns don’t stick you!
2) Why are you grinning like that?
3) Leave me alone!

It’s one thing to learn the words, it’s quite another to pronounce them correctly. Some people spend years trying and never get it right. So don’t get discouraged if your new found language skills are laughed at. Even if we roll on the ground when you say “Yeah Mon”, don’t take it to heart. It’s all good. After all – it’s Jamaica culture!

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Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Hit the Links in Jamaica

Everyone dreams of vacationing in Jamaica. The warm weather, beautiful beaches and crystal blue water call out to all of us when the weather is cold at home. Although this might sound like paradise to most, many of us dream of visiting Jamaica for a different reason entirely. Most people don’t know this, but Jamaica has more championship golf courses to swing away at than in any other Caribbean destination. Those who love tropical surroundings at Jamaica resorts as well as golfing are sure to enjoy every minute they spend on the island of Jamaica.

From every green and fairway you will find spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea. The courses will not only be challenging but will also be quite picturesque. While the green fees are known to be higher than most, the price will be well worth it. Golf on the island of Jamaica is convenient, as there are golf resorts that can provide you with everything you could possibly need. Some resorts that are all inclusive to Jamaica will include the green fees right in their packages. If you are new to the game of golf, most of the courses have someone readily available to provide with some quick lessons. Those who are already proficient at the game can jump right on in and get started at the course of their choosing.

There are four championship courses right near the Caribbean Sea that are practically within walking distance of each other. These courses are located just east of Montego Bay. A brand new golf course just opened up that is carved out of 4,000 acres of the foothills and countryside, making the layout both breathtaking and challenging. The course boasts 16 of its 18 holes overlooking the Caribbean Sea, which will make the course even more special.

You should also keep your eyes peeled for the local caddies. The caddies are known to carry the golf bags on their heads. Most courses require that you hire a caddy, so consider picking their brain for some sound advice. These caddies are sure to know every nook and cranny of that course and can certainly lend great tips to your game. One great tip that you should know, is that you should bring your own set of golf balls. Golf balls in Jamaica tend to be quite costly. Feel free to bring your own clubs as well, although most courses can provide top-name clubs for rent. You can choose to include a round of golf in your Jamaica all inclusive package or many other activities too.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Top Five Hot Spots in Jamaica

You land in Jamaica and you find yourself surrounded by blue skies and azure blue seas. Warm, welcoming and beautiful it is easy to slip into the easy camaraderie and laidback ambience of this exotic island. However, don’t let go of the explorer in you because this island has much to offer in terms of its sights, attractions, adventure sports and cultural activities. To help you plan your holiday, we have listed out the top five attractions and sights that you cannot miss at any cost:

o Kingston: The capital is also the commercial and cultural hub of Jamaica and has much to offer in terms of culture and entertainment. Visit the 120year old site of Devon House Heritage that hosts local events even today. Alternately delve into the past with a stroll through the coffee plantation along the south coast city of Mandeville that dates back to two centuries.

o Negril Beach: Undoubtedly this 7-mile long sugary white sand beach is one of the finest beaches and hot spots of Jamaica. Beach bars and open-air restaurants dot the fringes of this beautiful expanse. Here at this amazing location, you can while away the hours soaking up the sun or enjoying a cool sundowner.

o Dunn’s River Falls: This 600ft waterfall is an extremely popular and an eye-catching sight. Cold and clear white froth cascades and splashes over a series of stone steps and trickles down to join the Caribbean. The best way to get the most out of this magnificent sight is to take a tour around the waterfall accompanied by an experienced guide.

o Montego Bay: Besides Negril, Montego Bay is the next important resort in Jamaica. It boasts a number of lovely beaches that are perfect to enjoy exciting water sports or simply soak up the gorgeous sun Doctor’s Cave Beach is a popular bathing spot for most visitors and it is believed the waters here possess curative powers. Diving enthusiasts can enjoy discovering the varied marine life at the Windowmaker’s Cave within Montego Bay Marine Park.

o Ocho Rios: If you happen to be a Bob Marley or James Bond fan then a visit to this spellbinding resort is a must. Visit the Bob Marley Mausoleum and if you are lucky you may even cross paths with Marley’s family and friends near the city of St. Ann. Also don’t miss out on the Chukka Cove’s Zion Bus tour that passes through gorgeous scenery and rural villages. Fan of Ian Fleming’s popular James Bond series can visit Goldeneye, the estate on which Ian Fleming wrote his novels.

The two main resorts of Negril and Montego Bay are dotted with charming Jamaica villas that are ideal for enjoying a true Jamaican holiday. A perfect alternative to a hotel accommodation, the vacation villas in Jamaica provide you the comforts and services of a luxury resort with the privacy and space that only a home can provide.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Jamaica Hotels and Retreats

Jamaica is a legendary island in the Caribbean with more beauty than you can image. Visiting Jamaica retreats is one extremely relaxing way to experience the island.

Jamaica Hotels and Retreats

Jamaica is an island destination known for its relaxing and romantic atmosphere. What better way to enhance your vacation here than to go to one of the great Jamaica retreats? The retreats on Jamaica are prepared to pamper you while taking full advantage of the great island, beach and ocean atmosphere.

One of the Jamaica retreats you’ll be sure to enjoy is the High Hope Estate, located near Ocho Rios in Jamaica. This inn has only five guest rooms, assuring that your vacation and stay here will be intimate and romantic. The rooms themselves are furnished with beautiful English and Jamaican antiques. The clinic at High Hope Estate offers such varied services as massages and the pampering Milk and Honey Wrap, sure to relax and rejuvenate even the most tired traveler.

Another of the great resorts and Jamaica retreats is the Half Moon Rose Hall, in Montego Bay. This resort houses the Bodywork Spa, which has many different treatments and packages to indulge your senses. Their menu includes wraps, manicures, pedicures, facials, rejuvenation day packages and couples packages to create your own relaxation getaway. The Half Moon Rose Hall resort itself has many other amenities, such as an 18 hole golf course and shopping, even a children’s center!

There are many more Jamaica retreats to discover, including those at all-inclusive resorts. The Couples Resort in Ocho Rios, for example, offers many different treatments to their guests. Some of these include aromatherapy massages, Swedish massages and body polishes. There are also salon services available at the retreat for both men and women, making it so you never have to leave the resort for all of your rejuvenation needs!

Another all-inclusive resort chain, Sandals, has seven different resorts located on the island of Jamaica. Most of them, such as the Sandals Negril Beach Resort, include rejuvenation clinics right on the resort property. The Red Lane Retreats, as the retreats at Sandals are known, offer such diverse treatments as the Salty Margarita Scrub and the Java Jive Scrub, along with massages and other usual treats.

Jamaica is a great place for a vacation, and it’s made even better by a trip to one of the Jamaica retreats that are available in the area. You can relax on the beach and then relax with a massage or facial, all at one location. Best of all, the variety of retreats here means that everyone can find a spot in Jamaica to suit their tastes.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Rainy Season in Jamaica

The rainy season in Jamaica is a time of year that some Jamaicans do not look forward to. Between the months of June and December the island of Jamaica receives a substantial amount of rainfall. The majority of the time, the rainfall is moderate but at other times it is a heavy downpour that can last for days. In extreme cases, the heavy rain is accompanied by strong winds which develops into a hurricane. Hurricanes can produce very heavy rainfall and winds of up to 100 miles an hour. Hurricanes in Jamaica often devastate parts of the island and cause substantial flooding. Many areas become impassable.

When Jamaica experiences a hurricane, the economy grinds to a halt, and the infrastructure of the island takes a beating. Roads are damaged, electric poles are destroyed and electrical wiring is blown away or ripped apart. Many local businesses are damaged either directly or indirectly by a hurricane. Local businesses are directly damaged by the physical force of the hurricane’s wind, and water which destroys property. On the other hand, they are indirectly damaged by the loss of revenue caused by having to remain closed during a hurricane. The loss of life and damage to personal property is usually directly proportional to the magnitude of the hurricane.

After the onslaught of a hurricane, many goods and services have to imported into the island to compensate for the lost productivity, destroyed crops and damaged infrastructure. Having to import foreign goods is an added expense. The damage caused by a hurricane and the lost productivity often amounts to hundreds of millions of dollars. Furthermore, revenue from tourism (on which the local economy depends) is lost because flights are canceled, tourists cut their visit short, and other visitors have no alternative but to postpone or cancel their trip.

The rainy season in Jamaica is a time of year that some Jamaicans do not look forward to. Between the months of June and December the island of Jamaica receives a substantial amount of rainfall. With ever changing weather patterns and climate changes, hurricanes are becoming ever more prevalent in the Caribbean. Before booking a trip to Jamaica one should remember that Jamaica’s geographic location predisposes it to hurricanes. Therefore, preparation and research should be done prior to planning a trip to Jamaica.

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Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

One of the ports of call for our Royal Caribbean cruise ship during the week of November 28/04 was Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Probably the most famous site in the region is Dunn’s River Falls and we chose to tour it on our own rather than through one of the cruise ship tours. Once we disembarked from the cruise ship, there were cabs and shuttle buses available at the pier. Cabs to Dunn’s River Falls were $22 US for a return trip. Cabs allowed 1-3 people per vehicle. We were also told at the pier that small shuttle buses also go to the Falls at $5.50 US per person. These were also based on return trips.

The only problem with shuttle buses was that we had to wait until they filled up the shuttle before leaving for the Falls so since we were the first on the bus, we had to wait about 15 minutes for it to fill up. The driver then asks you when you want to be picked up at the Falls for the return trip. Our driver suggested 2 hours to see the Falls so we agreed on this time duration.

Once at the Falls, a woman then came onboard the shuttle to sell tickets for admission to the site at $10 US per adult person which was the same rate at the park’s ticket booth. Once inside the Dunn’s facility, there were rentals for special rubber shoes as well as lockers. We carried a small backpack so we didn’t require paying for a locker. We also brought along our scuba diving booties so we didn’t have to rent those rubber shoes on site either. The cruise ship shop was also selling these rubber shoes in advance. Shoes of some type are highly recommended as the rocks on the Falls can be slippery and some of the bottoms of the water pools are a bit rocky. If you have old sneakers you don’t mind getting wet, they will be suitable for the climb up the falls as well. Our scuba diving booties turned out to be sufficient. The entrance to the site is at the top of the falls so we took some stairs that were adjacent to the falls to the bottom where the beach and entrance to the climb were.

There are official guides dressed in blue polo shirts and shorts who will take groups up the falls. Normally, they will ask to carry all cameras for you so they can take photos of you as you climb. Of course, they expect to be well tipped for their services. Also, groups were told to hold hands forming a human chain up the falls. This was suppose to make things safer but as we witnessed, this method of going up the falls is not a guarantee against falling. We saw a woman let go and she fell down the rocks during one of the steeper sections. She wasn’t badly hurt but we imagined that she sustained some nice bruises. There are various points along the falls where you could get off the falls and back on the stairs to walk up the rest of the way.

Not everyone there attempted to climb the falls as many were happy to just walk dry along the side on the stairs. We chose not to go with any of the groups which tend to go up the left side of the falls. We made our way up on our own mostly on the right side. With some breaks for photos, we made it all the way up the falls in about 30 minutes. Going with a group would have taken longer for sure. The water is a bit cool and if you have a wetsuit, it is highly suggested that you wear it for the climb. Cameras used there up the falls are also recommended to be water resistant since they likely will get wet. We left our digital camera on the ship and took one of those $25 underwater cameras.

After climbing the falls, we headed back down to the relatively small but uncrowded beach where the ocean water was warmer until it was time to depart. The exit back at the top of the falls was strategically located at the end of a market so we did have to go through some locals who tried to sell us their souvenirs. These locals who worked inside the Dunn’s site were hustling but not as aggressively as those in the town of Ocho Rios. The shuttle bus arrived at the site parking lot on time as agreed. The total amount we spent including the park admission and the shuttle was $31 US for the two of us. Taking an organized tour through the cruise ship would have cost more than double this amount. So it is quite possible to tour Dunn’s River Falls on your own rather than take the more expensive tours. We were glad that we did see Dunn’s River Falls but we thought that it was not nearly as impressive as depicted on photos in travel brochures.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Tie the Knot in Jamaica!

One of the hottest trends today in the world of nuptials is the destination wedding. More and more couples about to tie the knot have therefore come as no surprise that this island ranks as the #1 choice in the Caribbean for destination weddings and honeymoons. Some locations: an elegant Great House in Montego Bay, a hidden garden in Ocho Rios or the dramatic cliffs of Negril at sunset. Incorporate some Jamaican “flavor” into the proceedings with local culinary delights such as jerk chicken or grilled lobster and tap into the island’s rich musical heritage with a steel drum band or live reggae performance.

Your Jamaica wedding can be as casual or formal as you wish, as under-stated or extravagant- if you can imagine it, then it’s “no problem”. Accommodation options abound with all-inclusive resorts, hotels with old-world charm, cozy inns and sumptuous private villas available to suit the individual
requirements of the wedding party and guests. Experienced wedding
planners, either independent or affiliated with the hotels and
resorts, take the headache out of the organizational details allowing
bride and groom to enjoy the moment. Best of all, when you get
married in Jamaica, your honeymoon is literally at your doorstep.
A destination wedding in Jamaica combines the thrill of
vacationing in the tropics with the joys of a marriage celebration. The “wedding” becomes a multi-day event creating the perfect backdrop
for a truly unforgettable experience for you and your
guests. Outside of the organized wedding events, guests can occupy
themselves with all the activities and attractions Jamaica offers;
including river rafting, dolphin encounters, watersports and heritage
tours. For a list of local wedding contacts, visit the Jam-boree website at http://www.jam-boree.com.

Stretch that wedding budget!

Getting married in Jamaica is surprisingly affordable and compares favorably with the expense of a wedding back home. The costs for wonderful food, gorgeous flowers, white-glove service, lively entertainment and breath-taking locations represent exceptional value that can offset the principal additional expenses: travel and accommodations. Taking advantage of the dramatic drop in prices outside of the “peak”, late December through mid-April, season and the wedding packages offered by many hotels and resorts will allow you to achieve further savings. With Jamaica’s nearly year-round reliable weather a memorable Jamaica wedding, that will not break the bank, awaits you.

Practical Matters

With a valid license, couples need only be on the island for 24 hours
before they can be married and officials to preside over the ceremony
are available for most religious affiliations. No blood tests are required but officials will ask for a certified copy of a birth certificate, proof of divorce or death of spouse where applicable, and written parental consent for minors.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Why Jamaica is Special

Jamaica has been on the forefront of many different things some loud while others are tacit. Long before Bob Marley and reggae music Jamaica and Jamaicans were making newspaper headlines across the globe. Marcus Garvey, Jamaica’s first national hero had paved the way millions as a Black Nationalist. The great Martin Luther King said that he grew up in a family that followed Garveyism, which undoubtedly help to shaped his future into one of the greatest human beings.

On June 20th 1965 Dr Martin Luther King visited Jamaica. In one of his speeches he began by saying that “In Jamaica I feel like a human being.” He said he was proud to be among his brothers and sisters on this wonderful island. The following day, he visited the grave of National Hero Marcus Garvey to lay a wreath out of respect for a man he said, gave Negroes in the US a sense of dignity, a sense of personhood, a sense of manhood, a sense of somebodiness.

However long before those days Jamaica had one of the riches city in the western hemisphere and certainly the wickedest until it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1692. The previous year before the earthquake saw 240 ships docked in its harbor. Port Royal was a densely populated city covering just 50 acres and had a population of 6,500 residents. There were almost 2,000 multi-story mainly brick buildings and over 1,500 bars and brothels. That thriving city came to an end on June 7, 1692 at 11:43 am when huge cracks opened and swallowed buildings and people alike.

Jamaica has being contributing significantly to the world and its people for quite a long time. She gave the world the religion Rastarfarism, mento music, ska music, rocksteady music and reggae music. The world’s best coffee which is the “The Blue Mountain”. Jamaica was also the first country to start producing rum commercially and has since perfected the art.

This beautiful island known as the land of wood and water has a long history of contributing to the world in no small means. The latest impact Jamaica has on the world is the great athletes which has stunned the world over and over in great fashion.

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Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Blooming Romance is in the Air in Jamaica

As the third major island in the Western Caribbean, Jamaica has been in the great talks recently and been marked as one of those top honeymoon destinations in the world. Visit Jamaica and you will feel beyond compare escapade of a lifetime. Jamaicans are warm people and they are going to amuse you during the stay. Make friends with them or appoint tour agents and they are willing to take you on expedition and seeing the sights.

Get Wet & Wild

Ask them to get you to the scenic sights in Ocho Rios. Once here, you can decide to stay at Couples Resort and instantly get a free of charge trip to Dunns Rivers Falls. Thousands of people trek the perimeters of the falls and say “I’m blessed to be alive.”

Just an hour drive from Negril is the Mayfield Falls. This is the second most-visited waterfall next to Dunns Rivers. Newlyweds can also spend their honeymoon break in Jamaica’s beautiful resorts. The Sandals is a fast-leading profitable court in the nation and several people go to see the place for pure pleasurable activities. There are numerous private beach resorts around the country and it offers first-class levels of packages giving you the finest services and lodging. These secluded beaches allow you to go through what a genuine serene life has to be.

Abundant water activities are nonstop in Jamaica. When the weather is well, you can walk down the verdant forests and go through the delight while whizzing the cable line on top of a tree. You can also go in the rivers and raft, scuba-dive, kayak, surf, windsurf, parasail, swim and snorkel. Going into these beaches is also the ideal time to get tan.

Blue Mountain in Jamaica

Ever pay attention to of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee? The coffee tastes yummy and in fact one of the bests in the world. Newlyweds should taste it. The Blue Mountain is also the territory of various varieties of vegetables and spices. If you like, you and your partner can hike the parched terrains when it’s safe to see the enormous area of green plants and trees and eye-grabbing rivers around. But please be wary, touring Blue Mountains can be risky during wet periods. Floods and landslides occur on a regular basis.

Reaching the Blue Mountain Peak is a goal for a number of hikers and campers. This type of activity is not only a real escapade but also put a light to the romance of two love birds. Usually, the hike will take three to four hours when the sky is lucid.

Shopping

Shopping in Jamaica is a big delight. Loads of items are in good deal and if you are lucky enough, you can pay for an item in a low discounted price. Determining the original price and how much you are willing to pay for them is the best system you can do in markets and stands.

Duty Free shops are all-around in Jamaica. Shop here and you save at least 25-30% of the true price. Some stores accept major credits cards. Yet, corals and turtle products are restricted items in Jamaica and you should never purchase them.

Cruising

Sign up early and discover yourself inside an exciting and well-appointed cruise line. There are five standard cruise lines in Jamaica with four classes in each (contemporary, premium, luxury, specialty): Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Holland America and Royal Caribbean. Reasonable pricing are repeatedly offered in Carnival and Royal Caribbean and depending on your planned holiday time and to be nicer, book a cruise that lasts for two days to two weeks. For honeymooners, request for any romance packages and you get abundant special treats during your stay.

Cruising can be really nice experience especially if it’s first time for the newlyweds. However, when you look for and book for the right parcel you want, your romantic life blossoms forward and say “This is the supreme honeymoon destination I’ve ever in.”

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

The Ultimate Jamaica All Inclusive Arboretum Experience

Although all of Jamaica is a plush, vibrant explosion of tropical plant beauty, nonetheless the Ultimate Jamaica All Inclusive Experience just has to contain a visit to one of Jamaica’s extraordinary arboretums. Each of the four botanical gardens in Jamaica possesses its own distinct aura, and each offers the visitor a unique experience. The botanical garden which is easiest to reach is located in the center of Kingston. Hope Gardens evokes photographs on picture postcards of a 1950′s public park – gracious and faintly suburban and filled with exotic as well as local favorites such as marigolds and lantana. Castleton Gardens, on the other hand, is glamorously reminiscent of the golden age of tourism in Jamaica when millionaires arrived in their own yachts before the island of Jamaica gave way to mass tourism. Castleton Gardens is traversed on artfully cobbled pathways which lead hither and yon, beneath high palm canopies and dangling orchid streamers. Castleton Gardens is renowned for its terraced, tropical ebullience dotted here and there with ornamental ponds.

The Bath botanical garden was established in 1779 on Jamaica’s southeastern side. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the entire world. Its early collections having been augmented during the Anglo-French war by the capture of a French vessel sailing from Mauritius which bore a cargo of foreign fruit trees, brindonne, carambola, jackfruit, June plums, cinnamon and other spices. Bath botanical garden’s proudest collection is the breadfruit trees brought by Captain William Bligh from Tahiti in 1793, on a second voyage after his first attempt was foiled by the mutiny on his ship Bounty led by Fletcher Christian. The Bath botanical garden is located far from the crowded Jamaica resorts in a quaint village of sagging historic houses which formerly boasted a fashionable spa with a hot springs. These springs were originally enjoyed by the likes of seventeenth century pirate king Henry Morgan. Entering Bath arboretum’s Victorian style iron entrance gate, the visitor is immediately struck by the sentinels of royal palm trees, Christmas palm from Philippines, Ylang ylangs from Indonesia, two aged, tropical dragon blood trees, and a 230-year old Barringtonia asiatica. The collection of breadfruit trees are descended from the original 346 trees brought by Captain William Bligh from Tahiti; and since breadfruit is propagated by clone rather than seed, most of the breadfruit trees throughout the Caribbean are descendants of these trees. With its fabulous tropical flower gardens Bath botanical garden is a plant-lovers’ paradise.

Cinchona Gardens is located at the top of Jamaica, at an altitude of 5000 feet, and no all inclusive in Jamaica vacation should miss seeing this fabulous attraction. Clouds boil up from the green, far-away, lower tropical valleys. The Garden was originally conceived in 1862 to be a 600-acre plantation of cinchona trees, from which the malaria medicine quinine is derived. When this production was pre-empted by the East Indies, the plan was changed to cultivating temperate tropical plants. Upon entering Cinchona Gardens, you are immediately confronted with enchanting, trimmed beds of begonias, daylilies, and geraniums. Wandering leisurely through the garden, the visitor is struck by the forest of Japanese cedar conifers, and the Lost World boulevard of ferns. Its vastly diversified, high altitude collection makes a visit to Cinchona Gardens an unforgettable adventure.

montego bay jamaica resorts

Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Jamaica’s Reggae Music

Jamaica is an island known for its reggae music as well as its beauty. Jamaica is filled with brilliant color and flavor. This is truly evident in the diversity of its people, beaches, food, and it’s music.

Jamaica’s music has moved through many different variations. We have heard and seen performances of rhythms such as Dub, Ska, Congo, and Dancehall. All of these rhythms are known across the world as reggae. This music is a combination of African, American, Blues, and Jamaican folk rhythms. Though this style of music is original only to Jamaica, it is known and loved globally. This music had its origin with ska in the late 1950′s right about the time Jamaica got it’s independence from England.

It all started with the sound systems, and the massive open-air discos that established themselves on the streets of Kingston, Jamaica. It was in the 1970′s that the late Bob Marley took this art and made it an international craze with roots reggae, which was a heavy, spiritual and conscious sound. In 2002 Bob Marley’s album Exodus won album of the century. This proud, bold island had now made its mark on the world first because of its music.

In the 1990′s dancehall and reggae evolved, accompanied by the opinion that it contained more offensive lyrics that would encourage street violence and dismay. However, recently I have seen and heard a recent development going back to more socially and spiritually aware lyrics known by some to be the New Roots Movement. I find that this is a good turn for music in Jamaica and the rest of the world. One of the leading producers in Jamaica, Boby Digital, said:

“If you feed people with violence they’re going to be vile. If you fill them with love, they’re going to be lovely.”

Today you can see the great performances as the artists are showcased at events such as the Caribbean Music Expo, and Jamaica Sumfest. New Reggae artists such as Shaggy, Sean Paul, and Abijah have brought reggae even further internationally. These events usually take place on the north coast (i.e. Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay, Montego Bay, Discovery Bay) of Jamaica, and sometimes the south coast such as Negril, Jamaica.

It is highly recommended that those who are truly interested in Jamaica’s culture and music attend one of these shows. Some of these stage shows can be days long, so if you can’t be there for the entire show, you can catch at least one day of it.

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Where to Be Naked in Hedonism Jamaica

Hedonism Jamaica – the name says it all. Found in the Greater Antilles, one of the most beautiful parts of the Caribbean, this resort has it all. From glorious beaches with bright white sands, to tropical trees that provide shade from the temperatures that regularly hit the 80s, there is plenty to admire in this resort. Not least of all, the naked bodies wandering around as they spend their holidays in pursuit of pleasure and relaxation in this liberal and laidback atmosphere. But where is it OK to be naked in Hedonism Jamaica?

Naked – On the Beach

Whilst there are beach areas designated for those who wish to keep their clothes on, it is absolutely ok to be naked on the nudist beach of Hedonism. Jamaica’s climate and warm Caribbean waters are such that you will not need the warmth of clothing at all during the day. Take a swim, work on your suntan, and as the end of the day approaches, take a stroll to the far end of the beach to watch the stunning colours as the sun sets over the sea. So long as you don’t stroll too far and wander into the slightly more prudish and generally more clothed side of the beach, you are free to wear as little as you like the whole day long.

Not So Naked – Out for Dinner

There are some fantastic places to eat within Hedonism. Jamaica is known for its culinary delights and you’ll find this resort to be no exception. However, all restaurants and eateries are located on the clothed side of the resort so you will have to make sure you pack some outfits if you want to eat out. But there are no rules as to the sort of outfits you choose, and skimpiness is never frowned upon so long as private parts are not on display.

Naked – At the Spa

Similarly to the beach, there are both naked and not so naked areas of the spa. However, there are plenty of areas where you can abandon your clothes in pursuit of complete and utter relaxation and reverence. Facilities where you can be naked include nude outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzis, and even a nude misting pool. There are also many treatments available such as massages, reflexology, seaweed wraps and manicures and pedicures that will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed. You’re sure to find happiness in Hedonism, Jamaica’s most relaxing resort.

Not So Naked – Fancy Dress

In the evenings, you’ll most likely find more people with clothes than without. This is mostly due to the weird and wonderful fancy dress parties held in Hedonism. Jamaica’s dress code is different every night according to which party you want to attend. From togas to pyjamas to alter-egos to fetish fancy dress there is a theme that will catch your eye. After all, starting the evening fully dressed makes stripping off all the more fun later on.

So if you think you’ll be happy in Hedonism, Jamaica’s most relaxing and uninhibited resort is waiting for you to come, unwind and enjoy the unique lifestyle that awaits you.

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Breezes Resort in Jamaica

Planning your honeymoon ahead of time is very important among other wedding ideas you have in mind. You should also allot a certain budget to enjoy a wonderful honeymoon vacation that would be the mark of the beginning of your life together as husband and wife. So, where could that place be? How about Jamaica?

Jamaica is one of the top honeymoon locations in the world. If you love the Caribbean, you’ll surely love this country. The island of Jamaica is made up of beautiful scenery, lovely people, rugged mountains, and surrounded by blue Caribbean waters. There are well-known beaches in this country that will beyond doubt live up to all you’ve ever heard. There’s Doctor’s Cave beach in Montego Bay, the quiet coves of North Coast near Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay, and the seven mile stretch of soft sand in Negril.

Jamaica is not only famous for its magnificent beaches. The landscapes with waterfalls, springs, rivers, and streams running from the rugged mountains to the deep blue sea are another nature’s gift to Jamaica. Outdoor activities such as rafting, waterfall climbing, and horseback riding are very much enjoyable to be part of your honeymoon getaway in this lovely island.

Breezes Jamaica is a resort and spa that would accommodate you anytime of the year. Breezes Grand in Negril will surely pamper you and your spouse with their luxurious resort and spa. It is located in Jamaica’s southwest shore with breathtaking miles of powdery silver sand and has lavish suites in 22 acres of tropical grounds surrounded with old cotton trees. Enjoy swimming, windsurfing, scuba diving, and sailing along with a fitness center and a soothing spa. There are six classic restaurants offering French, Italian, and continental cuisine; and enjoy concoctions made by excellent bartenders.

Breezes resort and spa in Trelawny is a paradise not just for couple or singles but also for the whole family. With a three-mile stretch of sandy beach and enormous swimming pools, this resort is not just for adults to enjoy but for kids too. They have something for everyone. They have tennis courts, basketball courts, beach volleyball and an 18-hole championship golf course. And the fun doesn’t stop there; Bubble Disco will surely make your feet on the go.

Breezes resort and spa in Rio Bueno is a replica of an old-fashioned Jamaican village with luxurious amenities and services. This place is perfect for couples who want only the comfort of a lavish honeymoon. From comfortable accommodations, extravagant cuisine, dazzling nightlife to extravagant outdoor activities; this is the ultimate honeymoon any couple could have.

Breezes Runaway Bay Resort and Golf Club, from the name itself describe its characteristic – an escape. The tropical grounds of this place, the quiet coves, and the infinite beaches will surely make your stay an escape from the pressures of the real world. Soar the Caribbean in a catamaran cruise or boost your skills on golf and tennis. The best facilities for scuba diving can be used to explore underwater playground; and play golf in a private and classy golf course.

Whatever your dream honeymoon could be, you can find it in any of these Breezes in Jamaica; a paradise to make your honeymoon a special and a memorable experience to begin with.

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5 Very Important Tips to Know About the Montego Bay Airport in Jamaica

Planning a trip to Jamaica? Before you start checking out the beaches and tourist attractions, it is extremely important that you know what to expect at the Montego Bay Jamaica Airport. Going to a foreign country for the first time can be very exciting, but it could also be nerve-wracking! Wherever you decide to go, Jamaica is actually a very safe place for travelers and tourists.

You want to be able to have fun, so hopefully the following tips would be able to help you enjoy yourself to the fullest. Let’s review the following steps so that you know what to do once you land on the Montego Bay Airport:

1. Transportation arrangements. Most likely, you were able to book your flight and arrange your reservations through a travel agency or an online reservation website. When you walk outside of the airport there are several transportation companies as well as taxis, hotel shuttles and more. So, before you arrive, make sure you know exactly who or what service you made your arrangements with and ask them if they will be holding a sign (most companies do) or how will you know to spot them. If for any reason you cannot find the person who is picking you up, if you know the name and the company, anyone that is working there can lead you in the right direction.

2. Have the right currency. A common mistake that is committed by most tourists is not being able to carry money in the currency of the place that they are planning to visit. If you are planning to change your money before you arrive, I recommend changing it at the place you are visiting from just because you will be more familiar with it. In Jamaica, the locals and those in the tourism industry are very familiar with the American Dollar, in fact when you are traveling it is a good idea to come with several $1 bills which can be used for tipping.

3. Fill out the forms. Even before you land in the Montego Bay Airport, you also want to ensure that you were already able to fill out all the immigration and customs forms. Since you will be required to complete those, it might be best for you to come prepared and save time. Make sure that you write legibly and sign them. If you have something to declare, make sure you have your invoice and the item is indicated on the form for the customs officer to validate.

4. Know where you’re staying. With the Montego Bay weather perfect for a quick dip as soon as you arrive, make sure that you know the exact name of the hotel, resort or villa. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the Montego Bay Airport trying to contact the travel agency who booked your accommodation. Whoever you hired for your transportation arrangements will be very familiar with all the hotels/resorts, but just make sure you know the name and the location to where you are staying because some of the resorts have the same name but just different cities. You will also need to know this information for when you are going through customs.

5. Have a drink. When you walk outside the Montego Bay Airport, there is a bar and a food stand. While you are waiting for your ride, go ahead get a taste of Jamaica, have a “Ting” soda and Jamaican beef patty. You will love it!

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Jammin’ in Jamaica

Known as an island with a dramatic history, a passionate spirit, and an ever-buoyant partying attitude, Jamaica is an exciting and eye-opening string of sights, sounds and flavors that stretches from Kingston to Montego Bay. Natural beauty plus engaging activities equals a spectacular vacation, so head this way for a freeing, fabulous time.

Jamaica is alive with color and energy throughout, so anywhere your vacation starts will set you off on the right track. For example, the bustling capital city of Kingston will show the gritty, realistic features of this island’s identity. For travelers in search of authenticity, this is the place to go. A center for commerce and business, parts of Kingston are admittedly overcrowded and unattractive, but if you stick with it a while, or even better, if you visit during one of the many yearly festivals, you’ll find yourself steeped in a local climate that is fascinating, lively, and oh-so-different than anything you’ve ever experienced before.

More typical tourist spots won’t disappoint as far as offering up the brochure-style pictures and movie-worthy sights. Blue Lagoon is one example, as it’s likely that the stunning aqua depths of this pride of Jamaica have caught your eye before. Jacques Cousteau filmed here, as have a few Hollywood directors. The lagoon, or “Blue Hole” as locals call it, is open to the public.

Another natural wonder is known as Cockpit Country, and consists of an imposing plateau formed from limestone. It is located in the central western part of the country, and the rocky, unusual terrain makes traveling above it via helicopter the best way to safely see all the ravines and ragged edges. Thrill-seekers can take a spelunking trip if they so desire, and bird-watchers and wildlife-lovers will find themselves in a veritable wonderland.

To experience a resort town that hasn’t really lost touch with the ebb and flow of real life, consider a visit to Negril. Here, you’ll be able to take advantage of the beach, the breeze, and the beverages to your heart’s content, but you won’t be leaving the genuine article behind. Coral reefs and sunsets that stop everyone in their tracks will punctuate your stay in Negril, and laid-back locals will show you how life was meant to be lived. Take in a reggae concert while you’re here, and don’t be afraid to forget all about the rigid rules of your usual routine.

The port city of Montego Bay is brimming with life, and makes another excellent place to take in the rockin’ beat of this raw, robust country. MoBay is a magnet for tourists, as it is dotted with golf courses, resorts, museums, and happening beaches. Plenty of locals make it a hodgepodge of personalities and activities, so dive in for what is sure to be a stimulating experience.

If all of this, along with the heavy influences of rum, reggae, and Rastafarians, has your feet itching to feel the sands of Jamaica beneath their bare soles, then start planning a trip now. The experience will be shaped by where you stay, so as you go about making reservations keep a clear vision of your desired getaway in mind. If partying like a college student on spring break is your goal, a hotel will suit you just fine, but for more adult tastes, consider a vacation rental.

Imagine a beach side villa, decorated with seashells and furnishings made from native woods, that is located right on Negril beach. French doors lead to a deck that will give you front row seats to the sunset, and a kitchen will allow you to prepare cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to create the ultimate experience. Air conditioning and ceiling fans will keep you cool at night, but if the weather permits consider leaving the windows open in order to fall asleep to the sound of the crashing waves.

Take a cheap taxi to explore the island, or simply amble down the beach towards the open-air markets to pick up some unique local goods. Your days will be filled with sweet, easy beats set to the tune of Jamaica’s favorite songs, so stay in the groove by treating yourself to a Jamaica Vacation Rental that will bring you no worries.

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Portland – Jamaica Romantic Wedding Destination

Port Antonio, the capital of Portland, has a glamorous history of catering to royalty, the wealthy, and the famous. Its tropical splendor of palms trees and ferns, laced with the brilliant reds and yellows of tropical flora, are just some of the reasons why you need to visit this romantic vacation spot for your destination Jamaica wedding.

With romantic venues like:

Frenchman’s Cove resort – so fit for royalty that Queen Elizabeth relaxed there with her family in the 1970s. Known for its fresh water stream, its own sheltered white sands beach and hide away villas, Frenchman’s Cove Resort is perfect for weddings and honeymoons. Secluded villas with recessed baths are just some of the may features you will enjoy there.

The Fern Hill Club Hotel; a family operated hotel, nestled among the lush and colorful foothills of the Blue Mountains overlooking the Caribbean sea is just a short walk from Frenchman’s Cove and San San Beach. You have your pick of rooms, suites and grand suites with spacious tastefully decorated interiors. The breath taking vista overlooking the Caribbean sea makes its terrace a beautiful wedding spot.

Ahhh the famous Trident Castle, many a celebrities like Johnny Depp, Tom Cruise, Glen Close, just to name a few have have graced its halls and laid in its beds. Its uninterrupted view of the Caribbean sea allows for a glorious background to any wedding and wedding pictures taken there.

Port Antonio’s rustic charm, waterfalls, river rafting, is perfect for any nature lover. Did I mention Port Antonio has a castle. Portland in my sentiment is one of the most amorous places to visit and get married in Jamaica. Therefore when planning your Jamaica weddings consider Portland as your perfect tropical destination wedding experience. This is but just a short list of some of the romantic Jamaica wedding venues available for your wedding planning when you come to Jamaica.

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Montego Bay All Inclusive Resorts

Jamaica Resorts

Among the different islands in the Caribbean, Jamaica has set itself as the premiere or ultimate honeymoon destination. One of the biggest reasons for this is that Jamaica is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and other notable sites. This atmosphere often provides couples with the ideal setting in which they can enjoy their romance. There are numerous resorts across the island that offer the best amenities and excellent service to their guests. Moreover, these resorts organize activities so couples can do exciting things together.

Some of the most popular honeymoon resorts in Jamaica include the Ritz-Carlton Golf and Spa Resort, the Sans Souci Resort and Spa, the Coyaba Beach Resort and Club, the Sandals Resort, and the SuperClubs Breezes Resort. These resorts have become popular because they offer some of the best amenities to their guests, which include full spa facilities, sports facilities, indoor pools, and comfortable and luxuriously decorated rooms. In addition to this, these resorts also offer superb Jamaican cuisine to their guests through the various restaurants that are located in most of these resorts. There are many activities that people could do at these resorts, which include snorkeling, water skiing, scuba diving, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, beach ball activities, and golf.

However, these honeymoon resorts are not only designed for couples who just got married. Most resorts in Jamaica also offers packages for couples with children to gain access to a wonderful way to enjoy their second honeymoon even if they bring their children along. This is because most resorts offer daycare services, babysitters, and activities that children could do during their stay.

Jamaica is considered as the premiere honeymoon destination in the Caribbean. Because it is home to some of the best resorts, guests can enjoy all types of vacations–from a honeymoon to a family vacation.

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Runaway Bay Jamaica is Becoming More Popular

Runaway Bay Jamaica is situated 10 miles (16km) west of the resort of Ocho Rios and has grown in popularity with tourists to the island. But although popular it is a much quieter resort than Ocho Rios as you do not have to deal with the crowds who are traveling on the various cruise ships which stop off at its port.

It is well known for being the first part of the island of Jamaica to be seen by Columbus and is also the site of the first Spanish settlement. This is also the location where the last of the Spaniards were to leave Jamaica from after they had been defeated by the British.

There are plenty of interest attractions one can visit whilst staying or visiting this part of Jamaica. There is the Columbus Park Museum which is located at Discovery Bay and has numerous exhibitions that you are able to wander around at look at for free.

Another favorite attraction being visited by many is the Bob Marley Center and Mausoleum which is open each day from 9.30 until 6.30 in the evening and costs just $12 to enter. But do not be too surprised if the hours of opening change without warning or they charge you less to enter.

Whilst at this attraction you have the opportunity to wander around the two room shanty (house) that he lived in from the ages of 6 to 13. Plus inside you will find all kinds of memorabilia relating to his family. Then after this you can immediately visit the museum where Bob Marley is buried as it is located right beside it.

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