What is it about Jamaica that continues to charm and entice so many
visitors year after year? Is it the miles of soft powder sand
beaches bordered by dramatic mountain ranges, lush colorful
vegetation and azure seas tinted with every imaginable shade of
blue? Is it the wide selection of resorts, ranging from small, one
story villas on the beach to grand, opulent resorts, fitted with
every conceivable amenity and facility, and everything in between?
Is it the idyllic conditions for SCUBA diving, snorkeling, sport
fishing and a host of other water sports activities? Is it the large
number of championship golf courses, the lush botanical gardens, the
colonial era estates, colorful markets or bamboo rafting down lazy
rivers? Or is it the music; at once vibrant, melodic and hypnotic,
as colorful as its people and as warm as the noonday sun? What ever
your interest is, you’re sure to find it in Jamaica.
Montego Bay, or "Mo’Bay", is located on the island’s northwest
coast. It is the second largest city, but the undisputed center for
tourism. Mo’Bay has a large concentration of colonial era houses and
some of which remain as working plantations.
On the western most tip of the island, you’ll find Negril. Due to
its location, Negril’s blessed with big screen quality sunsets, each
more spectacular than the last, which you can enjoy from front row
seating along its seven mile stretch of fine, white powder sand
beaches. A great network of cliffs, coves and coral reefs is a
special treat for divers and snorkelers.
About 100 km east of Montego Bay is Ocho Rios, rich in natural
beauty. Here is home to world famous Dunn’s Falls, which is a
must-see for any visitor to Jamaica. Also nearby is Discovery Bay,
where Columbus first landed; Runaway Bay, so called because slaves
used this area as an escape route; and Nine Miles, the birthplace of
legendary Bob Marley. Ocho Rios also offers exceptional conditions
for snorkeling and SCUBA diving, and there’s even a spot where you
can swim with the dolphins.
