Jamaica Mon'
I first fell in love with Jamaica when our cruise ship ported in Ocho Rios. The picture perfect bay surrounded by beautiful lush mountains was like something you see on a postcard. As we disembarked the ship, we were welcomed to the island by our tour guide. With his arms outstretched and with the biggest, warmest smile on his face, he said, “Welcome to Jamaica, Mon.”
My husband and I chose to explore the Jamaican shoreline via sea kayak. We paddled along the coast admiring the picturesque Jamaican coves. At the end of our sea kayak adventure we visited one of Jamaica’s most popular sites, Dunns River Falls. The 600 foot climb up the Falls was breathtaking in more ways than one. Even though it was crowded, the Falls were amazing and the climb(lead by a guide) was quite an adventurous experience. Tip: If possible, visit tourist sites on days when cruise ships aren’t in port.
Jamaica also offers a wide variety of other adventures. Would you enjoy zip-lining, bobsledding or rafting through jungles? How about hiking to beautiful waterfalls, diving, snorkeling, mountain biking or horseback riding? Or, is laying on the beach, going to museums, bird-watching or shopping more your speed? There’s something for everyone to do on Jamaica.
Speaking of things to do, did you know that you can get married in Jamaica just 24 hours after your arrival? Picture this: palm trees swaying in the warm caribbean breeze, reggae music playing, the gorgeous blue-green water in the background and you and your loved one standing on the beach barefoot exchanging your vows. Paradise.
Where should you stay? The resort areas of Jamaica offer some of the same types of accommodations, but many different types of vacation experiences. Stay in Negril to enjoy spectacular sunsets, beautiful white sandy beaches and a laid back, casual, no-worries kind of vacation. The Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay areas are known for their mountain backed shores, stunning waterfalls and adventure sports. Montego Bay is golf central and also known for it’s shopping. Kingston is the capital and cultural center of Jamaica. Port Antonio is upscale and secluded on the eastern side of Jamaica. It’s a movie star haven. The movie Blue Lagoon, Cocktail and Knight and Day were filmed in Port Antonio. Wherever you choose to stay, rest assured, you will be welcomed and treated like a special guest.
What’s your favorite resort area in Jamaica?
Ginger Millward
Jamaica Specialist
Travel Consultant/Owner of Ginger’s Getaways, Rochester Hills, MI
www.facebook.com/GingersGetaways
248-659-8812
