Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Guided tours in Jamaica

Jamaica is considered to be the premier Caribbean destination for things to do and see given the fact that it boasts a diverse topography that is an explorer’s dream. From the lofty Blue Mountains with peaks towering 7,402 feet to sea levels and from rainforest to wetland, the opportunity to discover, explore, and learn is amazing. Add to these pristine wetlands, cascading rivers and caves leading right into the mountains, you couldn’t ask for more. With so much on offer, there is no better way to explore the rich tapestry of the island than by guided tours that let you savour the rich colours, sounds and taste of the island. Also, to complete the experience and get a taste of the warm hospitality of the island, there are a large number of Jamaica accommodation rentals offering you great professionally managed services at the most reasonable costs.

The main attractions of the island include waterfalls, horseback riding in the Caribbean Sea, swimming with the dolphins, lagoons, plantation estates and historic sites. Here are some tours you can consider:

Accompong Maroon Tour: This is a must for those who want to get a glimpse of the rich history of Jamaica. The guided tour takes you to see ancient villages and historic sites that housed the western Maroons, the descendents of runaway slaves.

Appleton Estate tour: This is a must for those who want to savour the island’s finest rum. As part of the tour, you will be able to see how rum is fermented and distilled. You will also get an opportunity to taste some samples. A complimentary bottle of rum is included in the tour. Besides, you can buy more to take home from the gift shop that is located on the site.

Black River Safari: You can go bamboo rafting on the Black River. The rafts are captained by experts so you just have to sit back and relax and see the crocodiles lolling on the banks, enjoy the panoramic vistas and learn about the exotic flora and fauna.

Blue Lagoon: This is not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon of the movie fame. However, the lagoon is every much as beautiful if not more. You can appreciate the shimmering 200 feet deep swimming hole with water ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue.

Bob Marley Museum: Jamaica is synonymous with Bob Marley, the legendary reggae superstar and composer and singer. The tour takes you to visit his home and museum where you can browse through the memorabilia which documents his work.

Chukka Caribbean: There are many adventure tours that you can undertake including horseback riding on the land as well as the sea. Besides there are other adventure tours you can avail including jeep safari, original canopy tour, and ATV tour.

Dunn’s River Falls and Park: The tour takes you to the terraced Dunn’s River Falls where you can enjoy a climb of a lifetime. Guided by experts, join a human chain up hundreds of feet of rocky terrain and marvel at the views from the top.

As a closing note, you can experience the best of the island’s hospitality by staying in your own private Jamaica villas and cottages, idyllically located in beautiful garden settings facing the Caribbean Sea.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Diving in Jamaica

For those who love water activities, Jamaica promises everything and more that you can ever hope for. The island is home to some of the greatest diving sites in the world and what’s more interesting is the fact that these places offer attractions both on dry land and in the water.

On land you can check out the waterfalls, rainforests, park reserves or go for a river rafting trip on the Martha Brae. Underwater Jamaica brims with a colourful marine life. The temperature averages 70 to 80 degrees with walls starting as shallow as 25 feet. The visibility is upto 100 feet and you can easily see coral reef, caves, grottos and wrecks both ship and airplanes.

At Runaway Bay, the reef is home to bright tropical fish, snapper, and stingrays. And there is more at Port Antonio and Discovery Bay.

To be the dive sites as also the other attractions that the island has to offer, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas and cottages that suit all tastes, group size and budgets.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Jamaica for the kids

If you are planning a family vacation in the Caribbean, Jamaica could prove to be an ideal destination. The beautiful coastline along with the waters teeming with unmatched marine life provides plenty of opportunity for activities. The waters are protected by the barrier reef making them safe for snorkelling, swimming and other activities. You can also go for diving trips and riding on horse back into the sea.

To ensure you have a comfortable and memorable experience, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals that cater specially to families. Some rentals such as the Silver Sands villas and cottages, on the north coast of the island provide childcare facilities such as bed, bedding, play areas, baby sitters, child/infant car seats, high seats and also have medical supplies and doctor on call.

The rivers in Jamaica are navigable so you can take bamboo rafting tours especially on Martha Brae and Rio Grande. The rafts are captained by experts and so you just have to lay back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery unfold before you.

Jamaica is also known for its waterfalls such as the Dunn’s River Falls, YS Falls, Mayfield Falls near Negril and Reach Falls close to Port Antonio. You can also go hiking up the Blue Mountains and discover some exotic wildlife.

You would definitely like your holiday to go without hitch. Silver Sands villas provide you just the services you may be looking for. Aside from the facilities to keep the kids busy and happy, they provide you the best services at the most affordable costs.

Friday, June 25, 2010

River rafting trip in Jamaica

If you are interested in water activities, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Jamaica. From surfing to kayaking, from scuba diving to kayaking, river rafting and more, you will find plenty of opportunities in the resort towns of Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Port Antonio. To be near the action, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas and cottages encompassing a private beach and within easy distance of the best of what the island has to offer.

For river rafting, you can hire a raft and go out on your own or take one of the rafting tours available on the White River, Black River, Rio Grande and Martha Brae. The rafts are usually 30-feet long and are captained by experts who also serve as guides regaling you with interesting stories and information about the island. So just sit back, relax and enjoy as the panoramic vistas unfurl before you. If you are on a honeymoon trip or are looking for something really romantic you can consider a moonlight bamboo rafting trip on the Martha Brae.

There are also plenty of opportunities for white water rafting in fast paced locations again in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Port Antonio. You can venture out on your own or hire the services of a local guide who is familiar with the rapids. Which ever way you go, do remember to carry along bottled water (though some tours include drinks and picnics), sunscreen and mosquito repellents, otherwise the sun and the bugs can ruin a perfect trip.

If you are travelling with kids, it is all the more reason that you set base in Silver Sands villas for they specially cater to families and have facilities for all age groups. The villas provide childcare facilities and also have a separate play area for kids and so you can go out for your river rafting trip secure in the knowledge that they are happy, well taken care of and occupied.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Explore Jamaica on horseback

If you are visiting Jamaica, you would definitely like to explore its dramatic landscape and test the waters of the Caribbean Sea. To enjoy the best of both, you can take the Chukka horseback and swim tour that starts from the scenic Saint Ann parish, a beautiful parish overflowing with gardens. To deviate a bit from the topic, the parish is located on the north coast of the island where most of Jamaica’s attractions are located and so you can choose to set base here and should you decide to do so, you can consider Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas and cottages encompassing a private beach and perfect for all group sizes and budgets.

The horseback tour takes you along the scenic coastline. Enjoy the refreshing breeze of the Caribbean Sea and pass through beautiful vistas where some very famous movies were shot including Papillion, Return to Treasure Island and Passion and Paradise. Jamaica is also well-known for its sugar plantations and you’ll be able to see the remains of two of the oldest, Richmond and Llandovery, on the way Ride along the Chukka beach and listen to the interesting information about the culture, flora and fauna of the island from the guide who accompanies you on the trip.

Unsaddle on the beach and be prepared to ride bare back into the waters of the Caribbean Sea, after which you will once again resaddle and then proceed to the Chukka cove farm where the tour will come to an end.

During the tour, you can also shop for gifts and souvenirs at the Lucky Horseshoe gift shop and enjoy drinks and jerk chicken at the Final Chukka bar and grill.

As a closing note, if you are planning to visit Jamaica, do consider staying in Silver Sands villas offering the best service at the most affordable rates.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Jamaica for the fun of it

Jamaica is known for its sun, sand, reggae and rum. Add to that beautiful rainforests, majestic mountains, stunning waterfalls and dramatic landscapes and you will understand why it is so popular as a holiday destination. Here is some information that can help you plan your trip to the island.

Accommodation: The island boasts a wide range of Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments to suit all group sizes and budgets. Ranging from the ultra luxurious to the comfortable and everything in between, these rentals are professionally managed, provide all the facilities of a hotel and are your home away from home on the island.

Currency/bank: The island’s currency is the Jamaican dollar. The US dollar is also widely accepted. You’ll come across many licensed cambios and bureaux de change so you can get the money converted here on the island. In a rare case if you don’t come across any money exchange, you can visit the bank and get the money exchanged there. The ATMs in the country also accept international bankcards with Visa, Mastercard, Cirus, and Plus logos. You can also avail of credit card advances, cash traveler’s checks, and other financial service. The exchange rate varies from day to day and so you can shop around for the best deal.

Climate: Jamaica enjoys year round tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degree F, though slightly lower at the mountains. Carry along light cotton clothes, swimwear as also a light sweater if you plan to go hiking.

Communications: In Jamaica, you can avail direct international telephone service 24 hours a day. The telephone operators will readily help you with third party transfers and credit card calls also. Jamaica accommodation rentals provide internet access as also phone, fax and cable services as part of the package.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Kayak safari in Jamaica

Jamaica is well-known for its beautiful beaches, spectacular coastline and navigable rivers offering plenty of opportunities for water adventures. One such adventure that you can undertake is the kayak safari offered by Chukka Caribbean Adventures. Also if you are planning a family trip to Jamaica, you can consider staying in private rentals comprising Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments suited to all group sizes and budgets. These rentals are professionally managed, are more affordable than hotels and are your home away from home on the island, implying more comfort, space, privacy and freedom to live the way you wish to do.

The kayak safari tour takes you on a memorable trip down the White River. You’ll first pass by the Old Spanish Bridge made by the first European settlers in the 17th century. You can also paddle through the rapids and crystal clear pools under a canopy of lush green vegetation and huge bamboo groves. Along the route, enjoy the dramatic landscape as it unfolds. You’ll also see quaint cottages dotting the river. The tour will also take you through striking rapids and stunning lagoons to finally end near the tranquil Bamboo Cathedral where giant bamboo arch over the water.

On disembarking, you’ll enter the magnificent gardens of the White River Valley housing a gift shop by the name of Valley Trader. Here you can shop for souvenirs, t-shirts and other keepsakes from the trip. You can also try out the sumptuous Jamaican cuisine at the eatery, River Valley Grill and be refreshed by cold beers and sodas at the Parrot Bar.

The kayak tour is for people above 12 years of age and so if you are travelling with kids less than this age, it would be wise to book your accommodation that provides childcare facilities. For example, consider Silver Sands villas on the north coast of the island where the safari takes place and where most of the attractions of the island are concentrated. These villas cater to families and large groups and offer, among other services, offer child care facilities and also have a separate play area for kids.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Why you should travel back to Jamaica

Jamaica has lately been in the news for the violence that erupted in Kingston resulting from the clashes between the government forces and a drug gang. However, the resort towns that attract vacationers are miles away from Kingston and remained unaffected by the violence. Though tourism suffered some set back, things are normally returning to normal and visitors are flocking back to the island as never before. And to welcome back, some Jamaica accommodation rentals such as the Silver Sands villas are offering special discounts on some of its properties. Here are some of the places you can visit while on the island.

Ocho Rios: The beach town attracts more visitors than any other place on the island. It is home to Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphins Cove on Treasure Beach. While here, do try out the Chukka Caribbean Adventures which offers adrenaline pumping inner tube rafting and horseback riding in the sea. For the island’s best jerk cuisine, visit Scotchies at Drax Hall, which is about 10 minutes west of Ocho Rios.

Montego Bay: Jamaica’s second largest city is where most vacationers to the island fly into. The city is home to the Doctor's Cave Beach on the "Hip Strip", close to restaurants and night life. While here, you can also visit Rosehall Great House of the infamous Annie Palmer (The White Witch of Rosehall), who was known for her murderous ways to both husbands and slaves and the Greenwood Great House, the former plantation home of the Barrett family. You can include Rocklands Bird Sanctuary in your visit. It is home to numerous varieties of birds including the Streamertail Hummingbird, the National Bird of Jamaica. Also check out the Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival that features jazz, R&B, pop, rock, souka and salsa artists.

Negril: The town is home to the Seven Miles Beach that is counted amongst the world’s best beaches. The sea here is calm and you can float here on can an air mattress. The town is famous for its sunsets and there is no better place to enjoy them than at the Rick’s CafĂ©.

The month of July sees the celebrations of the world-famous Reggae Sumfest and so if you are a reggae fan there is no better time to make your travel plans than now. Also, you can take advantage of the special discounts being offered by rentals such as Silver Sands villas, conveniently located on the north coast near Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay and Montego Bay.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Why holiday in Jamaica?

If you are considering holidaying in the Caribbean, you can consider a trip to Jamaica. This beautiful Caribbean island has a well-established reputation as a world-class idyllic destination for those looking for a tropical escape. There are many factors that go in favour of the island, some of which are:

Activities: From simply spending lazy hours languishing in the sun to indulging in activities, both on land and sea, that range from the simple to the adventurous, there is much you can do on this island. Visit Negril, known for its beaches and spectacular sunsets, explore Montego Bay on a city tour that takes you to the historic centre and the shopping centre boasting innumerable duty-free shopping and on to Richmond Hill from where you can enjoy bird’s eye view of the city. Travel to Ocho Rios and have fun climbing the spectacular Dunn’s River Falls and then proceed to the Dolphins Cove on Treasure Beach where apart from swimming with the dolphins, you can also swim and feed sharks as also explore rainforest trails. For some moments of tranquillity, lounge on the porch in your Jamaica villas enjoying the views of the refreshing Caribbean Sea or proceed to Port Antonio, which is home to the towering Blue Mountains. Hike to the peak to enjoy the surrounding views and on the way, sample the world-famous Blue Mountains Coffee. For the golf enthusiasts, Jamaica is a destination waiting to be discovered. The island has more golf courses, some world-class championship courses, than any other island on the Caribbean. Also, no trip can be complete without visiting Kingston, the historic and cultural centre of the island.

Weather: Jamaica’s year-round warm weather is perfect for a tropical escape. The temperature ranges between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit and is slightly lower at the mountains. The coldest month is February, but it is nothing like the cold you would experience back home, say in the United States. Unless you are in the mountain region, you can go about in your summer clothes.

Accommodation: You can choose to stay in hotels, all-inclusive resorts and private homes comprising Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments, located in beautiful garden settings and facing the Caribbean Sea. These rentals come with well-equipped kitchens to prepare meals and often include BBQ, which means you can save money by eating in and also entertain families and friends in your ‘home.’

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Things to know about Jamaica

Jamaica as a holiday destination needs no introduction. This breathtakingly beautiful Caribbean Island attracts more than one million tourists every year and each year sees a growth in the numbers. Visitors can make their trip to the island all the more special by staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals that are part hotels and part home, implying that they combine the best of both and that too at rates that are affordable and suit all group sizes and budgets.

To help you plan your trip, here are some things that you should know about Jamaica.

Entry requirements
Citizens of the USA and Canada don’t need a visa to enter. However, they need to show a proof of citizenship, which is a valid passport. Citizens of Canada can also show their ‘Statement of Live Birth’ accompanied with a government-issued photo ID. Permanent residents of Canada, however, have to show a valid passport as also their landing papers.

Japanese citizens can enter with a valid passport; however if they wish to stay for more than 90 days, they would need a visa. British citizens can enter with their valid passports. For citizens of other countries, a valid visa is a must.

Firearms
It is illegal to take firearms and ammunition in and out of the country.

Water
Water is purified using modern techniques and is safe for drinking.

Medical facilities
Medical facilities are available in all tourist towns. Private doctors are also easily available through out the island. The MoBo Hope Center in Montego Bay offers emergency services all seven days a week.

Accommodation
Although the island has a fair share of hotels, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals that provide you all the services and amenities you could ever want for a comfortable stay and also allow you to soak up the local spirit and explore the island at your leisure and pace.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica

Jamaica evokes images of sun-drenched beaches, and of course rum and reggae. Indeed Jamaica is synonymous with reggae and music is in the air, quite literally in the month of July, when the music buffs from the world descend to the island to enjoy the musical extravaganza that takes place in Montego Bay. If you wish to attend the festival, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals that offer more services and amenities than hotels and all-inclusive resorts and at rates that are more affordable than either of them.

The festival was incepted in 1992 and in the years that followed gradually rose in prominence to take centre stage in the world’s music scene. The event kick starts with a large party held at the Walter Fletcher beach; however the main attraction is the street party held at Montego Bay’s main thoroughfare, Gloucester Avenue. For concerts, head to the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex also known as the Bob Marley Entertainment Center. Other venues for the event include Rose Hall Beach Park, Pier 1 disco, and even at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in Ocho Rios.

Reggae Sumfest sees the participation of the legendary Bob Marley’s sons Ziggy Marley, Damien Marley as also other artists such as Toots and the Maytals, and the Mighty Diamonds. American artists also participate in the event.

If you are a fan of reggae and Bob Marley, Jamaica is the place to be in July. Given the popularity of the event, note that accommodations on the island get booked well in advance. To be near Montego Bay, you can choose to stay in Silver Sands villas and also take advantage of the special offers valid on some of the villas and cottages.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Places to visit in Jamaica

Jamaica is a small Caribbean island, however most of the attractions are located in the north coast. So if you want to be in close distance to them, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments perfect for all budgets and group sizes.

Runaway got its name from the slaves who tried to take the sea route from here to escape their masters during the colonial era. History has it that Christopher Columbus first spotted the area around Runaway Bay and then reached the island.

Today, Runaway Bay is relatively quiet and is perfect for those who are looking for some peace, quiet and serene tranquility. Nonetheless, the place offers numerous activities, both land and water.

The waters here abound in tropical fish and so deep sea fishing is a popular activity. However, some areas are restricted for fishing boats as they abound in an extensive coral reef and sunken boats. These sites are perfect for diving. Also, the reef is located pretty near the shore making it ideal for snorkelling. Surfing here is also considered amongst the best on the island.

You can also enjoy horseback tours and visit the Columbus Park and the 18th-century Seville Great House. The Green Grotto caves noted for their stalagmites are also nearby. Bob Marley's birthplace is also an easy day trip from Runaway Bay.

To be within easy distance of Runaway Bay and other tourist towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas that offer the best services at the most affordable rates.
Jamaica is a small Caribbean island, however most of the attractions are located in the north coast. So if you want to be in close distance to them, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments perfect for all budgets and group sizes.

Runaway got its name from the slaves who tried to take the sea route from here to escape their masters during the colonial era. History has it that Christopher Columbus first spotted the area around Runaway Bay and then reached the island.

Today, Runaway Bay is relatively quiet and is perfect for those who are looking for some peace, quiet and serene tranquility. Nonetheless, the place offers numerous activities, both land and water.

The waters here abound in tropical fish and so deep sea fishing is a popular activity. However, some areas are restricted for fishing boats as they abound in an extensive coral reef and sunken boats. These sites are perfect for diving. Also, the reef is located pretty near the shore making it ideal for snorkelling. Surfing here is also considered amongst the best on the island.

You can also enjoy horseback tours and visit the Columbus Park and the 18th-century Seville Great House. The Green Grotto caves noted for their stalagmites are also nearby. Bob Marley's birthplace is also an easy day trip from Runaway Bay.

To be within easy distance of Runaway Bay and other tourist towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas that offer the best services at the most affordable rates.

Places to visit in Jamaica

Jamaica is a small Caribbean island, however most of the attractions are located in the north coast. So if you want to be in close distance to them, you can consider staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments perfect for all budgets and group sizes.

Runaway got its name from the slaves who tried to take the sea route from here to escape their masters during the colonial era. History has it that Christopher Columbus first spotted the area around Runaway Bay and then reached the island.

Today, Runaway Bay is relatively quiet and is perfect for those who are looking for some peace, quiet and serene tranquility. Nonetheless, the place offers numerous activities, both land and water.

The waters here abound in tropical fish and so deep sea fishing is a popular activity. However, some areas are restricted for fishing boats as they abound in an extensive coral reef and sunken boats. These sites are perfect for diving. Also, the reef is located pretty near the shore making it ideal for snorkelling. Surfing here is also considered amongst the best on the island.

You can also enjoy horseback tours and visit the Columbus Park and the 18th-century Seville Great House. The Green Grotto caves noted for their stalagmites are also nearby. Bob Marley's birthplace is also an easy day trip from Runaway Bay.

To be within easy distance of Runaway Bay and other tourist towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas that offer the best services at the most affordable rates.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Tourist towns in Jamaica

If you are planning a visit to Jamaica, you can choose to set on the north coast of the island, where most of the island’s attractions are concentrated. Should you wish to stay here, you can consider Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas conveniently located near Montego Bay airport and at a short distance from Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay. Inform the staff of the villas and they would arrange tours and transports from these places.

Ocho Rios: The town is famous for the Dunn’s River Falls. The water falling from a height of more than 600 feet is a beautiful site; however more interesting is the fact that you can actually climb up the rocks on which the water cascades. These rocks form a natural staircase and you’ll find people forming a chain trying to balance their way to the top, accompanied by a guide.

The nearby Treasure Beach is home to Dolphins Cove, where you can swim with the dolphins and if you are daring enough, feed, hold and swim with the sharks. Enjoy a picnic on the glistening white sand and browse through the gift shop that is there on the grounds.

Runaway Bay: The bay gets its name from the slaves who tried to escape from their plantation owners. It is now relatively quiet and perfect for those who want to relax away from the crowds. Nonetheless there are a number of activities you can try here including snorkelling, scuba diving and surfing.

Montego Bay: Enjoy a city tour that takes you to the city center where you can shop in the numerous duty free shops. Also visit Sam Sharpe Square, named after one of the legendary heroes of the island. Next, visit the Richmond Hill to gain a bird’s eye view of the town. Finally, round of the day in your Silver Sands villas, reliving the moments with your loved one and being pampered to a sumptuous dinner prepared by the chefs.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Activities in Jamaica

If you are planning a visit to Jamaica, you would wish to plan in advance on what to see and do and where to stay. You can find any number of hotels on the island; however if you are looking for a more personalized experience and also want more value for your money in terms of services provided, you can stay in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments perfect for all group size and budgets. These rentals are also more affordable when you take into consideration the fact that you can prepare your meals in the fully-equipped kitchen or enjoy a BBQ in garden settings instead of eating out in restaurants all the time.

Jamaica has a varied landscape with a spectacular shoreline that makes it perfect for a number of activities, such as:

Land activities: You can enjoy guided tours such as ATV tours, horseback riding tours, bike tours, boat jeep tours, and hiking tours. A must do activity is hiking up the Blue Mountains. The best time to start the hike is before dawn so that you are able to reach the peak at sunrise and appreciate the brilliant views. Jamaica is also known for its beaches with some of the best ones being in Negril. One beach particularly worth a mention is the Seven Miles Beach, consistently voted as one of the best beaches in the world.

Water activities: Aside from its magnificent coastline, Jamaica has many navigable rivers so there are a lot of water activities and sports you can indulge in such as kayaking, snorkelling, white water rafting, bamboo rafting, surfing and scuba diving to name a few. Deep sea fishing is a very popular activity and so if you wish to include it in your itinerary, you must make sure to book your charter in advance.

Golfing: Jamaica has on offer some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean. The warm, tropical climate is perfect for a pleasant round of golf in courses set amidst the spectacular backdrops of the Caribbean Sea.

Shopping: Most beaches are dotted with vendors selling souvenirs and knick knacks. Duty free shops abound in the island where you can shop for local arts and crafts and gifts to take back for your family and friends.

Dining: Jamaica’s cuisine is world-famous and reflects the rich influences of its cultural mix of people. The most popular dish is jerked meat-jerked pork and chicken. You can dine in both casual and formal settings. Otherwise, you can dine in and have the chefs of the Jamaica villas prepare local delights which you can savour in the dining room, on the terrace, or in the veranda, overlooking the sparkling waters of the Caribbean.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Dolphins Cove in Jamaica

If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, one attraction that you can check out is the Dolphins Cove in Ocho Rios. The park promises plenty of fun to people of all age groups. Also, you can make your trip all the more special by staying in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments that are more affordable and provide more value for money and a personalized experience than all-inclusive resorts and hotels.
Most tourist attractions on the island, including Dolphins Cove are located on the island’s north coast. To be at a convenient distance from the attractions and at the same time, from a safe distance from the crowds, you can stay in Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas near Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Runaway Bay. Inform the staff of the villas and they will arrange transport to Dolphins Cove.

Dolphins Cove is located on Treasure Beach amidst the beautiful backdrop of Jamaica’s north coast. The entrance ticket included the following activities, any number of time you want: Captain your own mini-boat or glass-bottom kayak, explore the underwater world, enjoy a shark show, interact with the stingays and see the exotic birds, snakes and iguanas.

The main attraction however is a swim with the very playful, lovable pair of bottleneck dolphins. The trainer will give you a brief lesson about them, after which you can hit the waters and be in the company of the animals.

If you want something more adventurous, how about heading to the shark enclosure where you can hold a trained nurse shark on your lap. You can also swim with them and feed them and learn more about their evolutionary journey from the guides.

You can also relax on the glistening white beach, enjoy a picnic or simply appreciate the views. Also while there, you simply must enjoy the shark show made all the more colourful with the one-legged pirates roaming along the boardwalk of “Little Port Royal” and breaking into a little jig every now and then.

If the day has left you happy but tired, it is time to head to your Silver Sands villas to soak in the tub followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by the chef.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Jamaica accommodation information

If you are planning a family trip to Jamaica, where you stay can make all the difference to your trip. Apart from a hotel, you can choose to stay in Jamaica accommodation rentals.

Jamaica accommodation rentals comprise private villas, cottages and apartments that are conveniently located near the tourist attractions on the island. These rentals are actually second homes or holiday homes of people from across the world. They come here to stay for some time and then rent them out for the rest of the year. The rentals are professionally managed and include the services you would associate with a hotel including housekeeping and laundry.

If you are travelling with your family or a large group, it is highly unlikely you all will get rooms next to each other so if you want to simply relax indoors and spend some time together, it would have to be crammed up in one room. A rental, on the other hand has its own living area with TV, DVD/CD player, Internet etc where you can play board games or lounge away in the porch reading your favourite book or simply enjoying the views of the Caribbean Sea.

Then there are some rentals that cater exclusively to families. Take the case of Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas located on the island’s north coast in close proximity to the tourist towns of Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril and Port Antonio. The community has separate play area for kids and you can arrange for chilcare facilities should you wish to venture out and spend some private moments with your partner/spouse.

So if there is a choice between a hotel and a rental, it would be wise to book a rental as you can book a whole home instead of a room for more or less same rate and get more value for your money. This is because the rentals have a fully equipped kitchen with the services of a cook included in a package, which means you can save big money eating in. Jamaica accommodation rentals give you all the privacy and independence you need to explore the island at your leisure and pace.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Jamaica travel information

Overview

Jamaica is one of the most famous travel destinations in the Caribbean, a fact that becomes obvious when you consider that it has won the World Travel Awards' "Caribbean's Leading Destination" title in 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
Practical information

Citizens of the European Union, Canada and the USA do not require any visa to enter the country. Jamaica experiences warm, tropical and humid climate throughout the year so you must carry along light cotton clothes. Also make sure to take immunization vaccines for hepatitis A and sometimes hepatitis B and/or typhoid. The high season is from December to April and reaches its peak during Christmas and Easter so if you are planning a visit during this time, make sure to book your hotel or any of the Jamaica accommodation rentals well in advance.

Important landmarks

The highest point on the island is the Blue Mountains peak at 7,400 feet above sea level. To make the most of your hike, start early at pre-dawn so that you reach the peak at sunrise. The hike is a bit steep but the surrounding flora and the scenic views at every turn make the climb worth each step you take. Needless to say the views from the peak are simply breathtaking. Jamaica enjoy a 635-miles stretch of shoreline with many world-class beaches including the Seven Miles Beach in Negril that has been consistently voted as amongst the best in the world. The fans of Bob Marley can visit his birthplace (and final resting place) known as the Nine Mile. There is also a museum dedicated to the legendary musician in Kingston. Another important landmark is the Dunn's River Falls where you can see strings of tourists hold hands to cross the beautiful but slippery waterfall.

Water-based activities

Most rivers on the island are navigable and you can enjoy bamboo rafting, white water rafting and kayaking among other activities. You can also opt for various cruises, sailing trips, submarine rides and snorkel trips in the Caribbean Sea. For surfing, you can check out Boston Bay, which according to Lonely Planet, is the best surfing site on the island.

Land-based activities

Apart from hiking the Blue Mountains you can take various heritage tours in Kingston. You can also enjoy a tour of the Mavis Bank Coffee Factory, located in a rural village about an hour from Kingston, and see how coffee beans are harvested, dried and processed and sample the freshest brew you are ever likely to taste. The golf enthusiasts, can play in world-class championship courses including the prestigious Johnnie Walker World Championship host, the Tryall Club.

Accommodation

You can choose to stay in hotels, all-inclusive resorts and Jamaica accommodation rentals. If you are travelling with your family or with a group, the best option would be to stay in your own private villa, apartment or cottage because these units are professionally managed and provide you all the services you would normally associate with a hotel as also privacy and space that only a home can provide and that too at costs that are less than hotels and all-inclusive resorts.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Tips for family vacations in Jamaica

Jamaica is characterized by sandy beaches, plenty of sun, mountains, rainforests, and waterfalls. There are a number of water activities you can enjoy including scuba diving, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, river rafting and swimming. On land, you can go golfing, hiking, caving and horseback riding. To ensure that you get all the privacy and space you want to spend quality time together, you can choose to stay in Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments that combine the services of a hotel with the comfort that only a home can provide.

Sightseeing in Jamaica

Most of the tourist attractions in Jamaica are concentrated on the island’s north coast. You can visit the Dunn’s River Falls and more than just admiring the waterfalls you can actually climb them up for the water here cascades over a series of protruding rocks that form a natural staircase leading right to the top of the falls. There is also a water park by the name of Dolphins Cove nearby. Aside from other water activities, you can swim with a family of bottleneck dolphins. Then there is Negril, famous for its sunsets and its beaches, notably the Seven Miles Beach, counted amongst the best in the world. Then there is the Royal Palm Reserve spread across 300 acres and housing ponds, rainforest trails, and some really exotic flora and fauna. You can also go trekking up the misty Blue Mountains. You’ll pass through some interesting trails and needless to say that the views from the top are spectacular and well worth each step that you take.

Accommodation

There are many hotels and all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, however, if you are planning a family vacation, you can choose to stay in private villas and cottages that are conveniently located close to the attractions. Take the case of Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas located on the north coast of the island, at a convenient distance from Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The villas have their own stretch of private beach which is great for swimming and snorkelling. There is a separate play area for kids and you can also arrange for childcare facilities should you want to spend some private moments together.

Transportation

There are two airports serving international flights, one is the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay and the other is the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. You can reach your in Jamaica by taxi or bus. If you are staying in Silver Sands villas, you have the option to include airport transfers in your package.