Today we are in Ocho Rios

James Bond Beach

Today we are in Ocho Rios(aka Ochi)

Ochi is the garden of Jamaica, where rolling green hills spill over onto white sandy coves and turquoise blue waters of a craggy coastline. Ochi is buzzing with activities, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Here there is a perfect mix of excitement and serenity.

Here are my top tips

Rainforest at Mystic Mountain - See Ochi from a different vantage point. Taking a tropical forest adventure tour up to the 700 foot mystic mountain peak will do just that! This amazing attraction in Ocho Rios offers many adventure tours for all ages. Explore the forests rich eco-system, sparking rivers and spectacular views. Here you can enjoy bobsledding thru the forest, zip lining or coasting through the sky on a chair lift....whatever you're up for.

Green Grotto Caves - Time and tide have etched the limestone Green Grotto Caves, lined with the green algae that gives them their name. The caverns are home to bats and marine life, and over the centuries they’ve been a hideout for fugitives and runaway slaves.Hidden away in an inner cavern is the crystal-clear Grotto Lake. Overhead, pockets in the limestone provide filtered light through the caverns’ forest of stalactites and stalagmites.

Dunns River Falls - One of Jamaica's national treasures. Flowing falls extend up 600 feet, here you can climb the falls and hangout a lagoons and pools along the way. This is one of the most popular tours in Ochi. It is breathtaking and not to be missed!

Goldeneye Boutique Hotel - For my James Bond fans, stay here where Ian Fleming lived while birthing the character we all love "007". This is truly a unique and special property, please let me know if you would like more information. For those who cannot stay here, I recommend a visit to James Bond Beach which is located east of Ocho Rios on the island’s northeastern coast (just a little east of Oracabessa). It offers fabulous views and a heavenly tropical setting. The particular claim to fame for this beach is the fact that Ian Fleming spent a lot of time here enjoying Jamaica’s ambience.

Thank you for learning more about one of my favorite Caribbean destinations! For more info check out my blog www.jdtravelplanning.com

Today we are in Montego Bay

Montego Bay(MBJ)  is an exciting vibrant "hotspot" in the Caribbean. Renowned for its beauty and range of activities.  MBJ offer a variety of intriguing attractions. Nature lovers, history buffs, thrill seekers and those who love to shop will find plenty to do here in addition to amazing beaches and water activities.



My top recommendations

• Explore the "Hip Strip" Gloucester Ave is a mile long stretch of shopping, dining and partying, it is lively day and night. Be sure to check out Margaritaville with its 110' long chute that drops patrons from the deck into the sea.

• For my foodies I highly recommend the Sugar Mill Restaurant at the Half Moon Resort and Pier 1 on the Waterfront.

• History lovers, we've got you covered. The Cage which is a 19th century jail for runaway slaves and drunks.  Visit Rose Hall Great House and hear the eerie tales of the "white witch" Annie Palmer.  I also recommend taking a day trip to Falmouth- about 22 miles away,  you will find lots of history here as its one of the earliest planned urban developments.  They had running water before NYC. There was thriving commerce and culture in its heyday but the demise of rum and sugar production halted all of that.  Falmouth is ready for a revival.  Founded in 1790 rich in colonial history, Georgian architecture and cobblestone streets.  Arrange a Heritage walk with a local expert to experience it all.

• Thrill seekers will enjoy ziplining through the jungle canopy, off road exploring on an ATV, splashing through the surf on horseback and river tubing, and bamboo river rafting on the scenic Martha Brae. When night falls head over to the Glistening Waters Marina for a tour on the bioluminescent lagoon.

Margaritaville

Sugar Mill at Half Moon Resort

Rafting on the Martha Brae

Today we are in Negril

Negril on the west coast of Jamaica is known for its laid back vibe, amazing sunsets and world class beaches.  You will not find any high rises here, the resorts are no higher than the coconut trees and the buildings are set back you will find long, broad beautiful beaches here.  Eat and drink, love and laugh, play, party and be happy.  Negril — come and experience the pleasure.

My top recommendations

• Rick's Cafe on the west end of Negril is not be be missed.  There is a  real funky feel here with amazing cliff diving, hot sunset parties and more!  Grab yourself a cold Red Stripe and enjoy!

• Great seafood and Jamaican cuisine can be found at Norma's on the Beach and at Cosmos Seafood Restaurant.

• Live reggae bands and dancing are easy to find, there are exciting clubs along Norman Manley Blvd or you can check out the beachfront bars at Alfred's Ocean Palace or The Jungle Night Club & Sports Bar.  Enjoy the sounds of live reggae and the amazing beach views!

• Get out to the offshore reefs. The reefs attract and abundance of sea life, nature lovers will love snorkeling, diving or enjoying a glass bottom boat tour.

• The beach!!  All seven miles of it.....enjoy the sun, sand, surf and mesmerizing sunsets!  You can find the party spots or a nice secluded cove, the choice is yours.  Make Negril your home.

                                       

                                         Sunset in Negril.........mesmerizing!!

                                         Ricks Cafe


Visit my website blog for more interesting information  http://www.jdtravelplanning.com/blog/

 

Today we are in Jamaica

Jamaica is a very popular destination, many people once they travel here will return again and again.
It's a great place for families, honeymooners, destination weddings, golf groups, girls getaways and more. It is so easy to fly into Jamaica from most US or Canadian gateways. Yes you can drink the water, everyone speaks English and most places will accept the USD(and if not it's super to to find an exchange).

Aside from the above, my top 5 reasons(and believe me there are many more) to visit this incredible island are just below. Over the next few weeks I will focus on different areas within the country, so stay tuned.

Why visit Jamaica?

1) The people! Jamaicans are such a fun loving people who are full of pride. You can learn much about their culture and history through their dance, music and food. They love to chat you up.....just ask! The warmth of the people will keep you coming back.

2)Miles and miles of beautiful beaches, coves, waterfalls and rugged coastlines.

3)Jamaican food is fresh and locally sourced, so colorful and full of flavor it's not to be missed! Be sure to try some local Jerk cuisine and the national dish of ackee and saltfish.

4)Water sports are everywhere, whether you are a pro or a beginner needing instruction, there is adventure for everyone. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing(at Boston Beach), windsurfing and more.

5)Hotels and accommodations are abundant here. Jamaica is the birthplace of the All-Inclusive concept. But don't worry, there are many more options including villas, luxury hotels, boutique properties and more. The list of accommodations is substantial, I always recommend using a travel professional to help find the perfect stay for you.