Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Places to visit in Jamaica

Things to do on a holiday in Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations attracting millions of travelers each year. World famous for its natural wonders, Jamaica also possesses an infectious spirit and a colorful ambiance. However to enjoy the spectrum of recreational and outdoor activities it is important to first decide on the choice of accommodation. If you are interested in an extended stay or want to spend private moments with your partner or even quality time with your family, the better option is to stay in Jamaica villas.

Once you have decided on your accommodation option, do give some thought to your itinerary. Though the island offers a number of opportunities to adventure and thrill seekers, there are some that you must not miss.

Beaches obviously take precedence over the others and if you like water sports, you should try out snorkeling and diving. For snorkeling the prominent sites include Coyoba, Seaworld and Royal Reef’s. These sites in Montego Bay do promise an adventurous experience since they are home to various wildlife creatures including spotlight parrotfish, barjacks, yellow-headed wrasses and blue and brown chromis.

Negril Beach and some of its surrounding areas are particularly known to be leading snorkeling sites, among which Throne Room, Rock Clifff Reef and Sharks Reef stand out distinctively. Throne Room is a 40-foot wide cavern, which is situated 65 feet below sea level and features a wonderful display of yellow sponges. If you like a tad more adventure then you can visit Rock Cliff Reef and Sharks Reef where you are guaranteed to spot eels and sharks.

The land too offers a fair share of adventurous activities. The Cockpit Country is known for its wilderness and those with a daring spirit can venture into this unknown zone with a help of a local and experienced guide. It is advisable that only experienced trekkers take the journey because in this central-northwestern part of the island there is hardly any proof of civilization. Alternately, fort those who prefer something less strenuous can enjoy hiking or a riding trip through the rugged terrain of the Blue Mountains.

Whatever may be your preference, at the end of the day you do need to come back to a warm and a welcoming ambiance. Jamaica rentals offer you the perfect retreat and are ideal choice of home in this far away land.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Why vacation in Jamaica

If you want to spice up your life with a Caribbean vacation, you can head to Jamaica. So what makes Jamaica stand out from the rest? Read on to find out.

The weather: The island enjoys warm, tropical climate through out the year with temperature ranging from 80 to 90 degrees F dipping slightly at the mountain regions. The coldest month is February, but the cold is nothing like what you would experience back home say in the USA.

The beaches: Jamaica is synonymous with beaches. People from around the world come here to relax and enjoy the sun in the beautiful white sandy beaches dotting the coast. The most famous is the seven miles beach in Negril. Then there is the Boston Beach, where Jamaica’s jerked food gained its fame. While on beaches, there are some rentals such as Silver Sands Jamaica, on the north coast of the island, which encompass their own stretch of private white sandy beach.

Outdoor activities: From hiking the misty peaks of the Blue Mountains to exploring the underwater treasures in the waters of the Caribbean, you can do it all in Jamaica. Try fun activities like snorkelling, scuba diving or wind surfing or even go horseback riding right into the water. If you are looking for something more staid, check out the reserves, parks and botanical gardens. For the golf enthusiasts, Jamaica offers more championship courses than any other island in the Caribbean.

The atmosphere: The beautiful weather and the equally beautiful beaches combine to provide you with the ideal Caribbean tropical escape. The island is nothing less than a tropical paradise, something that is also very obvious from the fact that it is considered to be amongst the world’s most romantic destination. So if the wedding bells are ringing for you, may be it is time to visit Jamaica. However, Jamaica is also a family destination and here you’ll find some Jamaica accommodation rentals that cater specially to families.

Finally, Jamaica is a safe destination contrary to the images painted otherwise by images of clashes in Kingston for the arrest of a drug leader. Incidents like this are stray and can happen anywhere in the world. However, as an outsider, it is prudent that you display caution and that you don’t flaunt wealth. Most travel experts would recommend that outside your Jamaica rentals, travel in groups, avoid lonely stretches, exercise caution and leave your valuables your rooms before venturing out.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Introduction to Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations attracting millions of travelers each year. World famous for its natural wonders, Jamaica also possesses an infectious spirit and a colorful ambiance. However to enjoy the spectrum of recreational and outdoor activities it is important to first decide on the choice of accommodation. If you are interested in an extended stay or want to spend private moments with your partner or even quality time with your family, the better option is to stay in a vacation rental in Jamaica. There are numerous options available and you should especially check out the vacation homes and cottages in Silver Sands Jamaica.

Once you have decided on your accommodation option, do give some thought to your itinerary. Though the island offers a number of opportunities to adventure and thrill seekers, there are some that you must not miss.

Beaches obviously take precedence over the others and if you like water sports, you should try out snorkeling and diving. For snorkeling the prominent sites include Coyoba, Seaworld and Royal Reef’s. These sites in Montego Bay do promise an adventurous experience since they are home to various wildlife creatures including spotlight parrotfish, barjacks, yellow-headed wrasses and blue and brown chromis.

Negril Beach and some of its surrounding areas are particularly known to be leading snorkeling sites, among which Throne Room, Rock Cliff Reef and Sharks Reef stand out distinctively. Throne Room is a 40-foot wide cavern, which is situated 65 feet below sea level and features a wonderful display of yellow sponges. If you like a tad more adventure then you can visit Rock Cliff Reef and Sharks Reef where you are guaranteed to spot eels and sharks.

The land too offers a fair share of adventurous activities. The Cockpit Country is known for its wilderness and those with a daring spirit can venture into this unknown zone with a help of a local and experienced guide. It is advisable that only experienced trekkers take the journey because in this central-northwestern part of the island there is hardly any proof of civilization. Alternately, fort those who prefer something less strenuous can enjoy hiking or a riding trip through the rugged terrain of the Blue Mountains.

Whatever may be your preference, at the end of the day you do need to come back to a warm and a welcoming ambience. Jamaica rentals offer you the perfect retreat and are ideal choice of home in this far away land.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Travel to Ocho Rios in Jamaica

Ocho Rios, which means eight rivers, is a pretty resort town whose main attraction are the stunning waterfalls. Then there are the beautiful beaches and interesting colonial-period buildings that are well worth a visit. Ocho Rios boasts of one of Jamaica's most famous tourist attractions, the Dunn's RiverFalls.

The popularity of Ocho Rios as a major tourist destination in Jamaica can also be attributed to the fact that it is conveniently located from all the major towns in Jamaica. In fact, Ocho Rios is the only town in Jamaica that borders five of the island's most interesting parishes. Given the large number of tourists who flock here, there is a wide array of accommodations available, including Jamaica rentals perfect for all tastes and budgets. These apartments are situated amidst breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and provide convenient access to some of Jamaica’s most sought after attractions, some of which are:

• Dunn's River Falls: The Dunn's River cascades over the rock terraces and results in the beautiful falls. You can climb up the stepping stones leading to the water fall and frolic in the waters.

• Dolphin Cove: You can enjoy a fun filled day swimming with the dolphins. This is without doubt one of the premier attractions in Jamaica.

• Fishing and boating: The beach at Island Village is relatively undeveloped and is perfect for soaking in the sun and lazing away the hours. If you are looking for something more adventurous, the beach also offers a full range of activities.

• Prospect Plantation: Go horseback riding to discover the scenic trail or simply enjoy the tour of this working plantation.

• Green Grotto Caves: These historic caves are well worth a visit. There is a crystal-clear lake at the bottom between Discovery and Runaway Bays. It is believed that the first Jamaicans, the Arawak Indians found shelter here.

If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, you can consider setting base in Silver Sands, Jamaica that provide quality accommodation at the most affordable costs.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Why holiday in Jamaica

If you are planning a holiday in the Caribbean, you can do well to travel to Jamaica. Like millions of visitors before, you would be choosing what is considered to the world’s most idyllic tropical destination.

There is much you can do on this beautiful island-sooth yourself on a beach, enjoy the refreshing Caribbean Sea, journey through historical sites, discover its rich heritage and listen to the rhythmic sounds of reggae while savouring the flavours of its food. To ensure that you soak up all the colours and sounds of the island, you can consider staying in Jamaica rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments that are part hotel, part home in that they combine all the luxuries and services of a hotel with the privacy, space, comfort and freedom that only a home can provide.

Things to do in Jamaica: Travel from the westernmost point of Negril, along the coast through Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and on to the tranquil Port Antonio. Climb the towering Blue Mountains and take in the awe-inspiring views from the peak. Visit the graceful hills of Mandeville and the pristine regions along the south coast. Enjoy a boat ride on the Luminous Lagoon or go bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae. If it is water activities that interest you, you’ll be spoilt for choice: scuba diving, surfing, white water rafting and snorkelling or kayaking in glass-bottomed boats. On land, go hiking, horseback riding and enjoy tours to historic sites, and explore the reserves, rainforests, and the parks. And your trip cannot be complete without visiting the cultural and historical centre, Kingston. If you are a golf enthusiast, know that Jamaica offers more golf courses than any other island on the Caribbean and so you get to enjoy a pleasant round of golf in courses that are set amidst magnificent surroundings.

Weather: Jamaica enjoys warm, tropical climate. The temperature averages between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit with the coldest month being February. However, the cold translates to pleasant and is probably nothing like the cold you experience back home in the United States. Unless you are in the mountain region, you can go about in your summer clothes.

Beaches: Ask most tourists what draws them to the island again and again, and they will in all probability say, its beaches. Jamaica boasts world-class beaches, notably the Seven Miles Beach in Negril that has consistently been voted amongst the best beaches in the world. Whether you want to relax on the sand or jump right into the water, the beaches in Jamaica offer you an experience you are not likely to forget.

Jamaica rentals
: The island boasts a wide range of private Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments, set amidst breathtakingly beautiful landscaped settings, in the centre of the towns or overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Depending on your group size and budget, you can book from one, two to more bedroom rentals. The rentals are professionally managed, include housekeeping services and cook, and have well-equipped kitchens and often BBQ. In all, they provide more value for money and are more affordable than either hotels or all-inclusive resorts.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Hotel or Jamaica rentals for your vacation?

If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, you can stay in a hotel or in Jamaica rentals? So what is the difference? The difference is not only in terms of cost but the type of experience offered.

Lets first consider the first option, which is cost. Generally, a stay in Jamaica rentals proves to be much cheaper especially if you are travelling with your family. One, you can save money on eating out all three times a day. Jamaica villas provide kitchen/kitchenette, depending on the size of the accommodation, which means you can cook yourself or hire the services of a chef to prepare the meals. Indeed, most villas in Jamaica include the services of a cook and maid so that you don’t have to bother about the household work. It goes without saying having home cooked meals is easy both on the stomach and on the pocket.

Second, Jamaica accommodation rentals also provide facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centres, coffee shops and restaurants. Basically, you don’t have to venture out far for anything; everything is available at your doorstep. For example, Silver Sands villas also have a villa mart where you can shop for groceries, gifts and souvenirs.

Jamaica rentals allow you to mingle with like minded people. Those who rent these villas are looking for a quality experience, privacy, space and comfort, among other things. So basically you have something common with the other guests and so the stay becomes all the more pleasant. Take the case of Silver Sands villas, where there is an entertainment or welcome party organized every week. The get together is completely a family affair where guests get to mingle with each other belonging to different nationalities, different backgrounds. This sort of experience is definitely not provided by any hotel. All it can offer you is comfort and services but not the feeling of being at home. This is exactly what Jamaica rentals are—your home away from home, similar to your home in terms of comforts, privacy and space but different in terms of providing you with a completely new experience about Jamaica, about its people and about its lifestyle. It is little wonder then, Jamaica rentals are so much in demand by the visitors.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Benefits of staying in Jamaica rentals

Are you planning to travel to Jamaica with your family? Planning a family vacation is never easy because it can be really hard to please the children and secondly you also may want some peaceful moments together with your spouse. So how to ensure a great family vacation in Jamaica? Simply stay in a Jamaica rentals which caters to families just like yours.

Jamaica rentals

What sets these Jamaica rentals apart is that they provide for childcare facilities and also onsite games rooms etc to keep them happily busy. Whether your kids are toddlers, teenagers or somewhere in between, they will be well taken care of. These resorts have kid sized swimming pools, play areas and even beach front playgrounds.

Depending on your tastes, requirements and budgets, you can choose between Jamaica villas, cottages, condos and apartments ranging from one to several bedrooms. These vacation rentals are tastefully decorated, well furnished, and well equipped for all comforts of daily living. Besides, the services of a housekeeping staff and chef are also included in the package which means all you have to do is to concentrate on having a good time.

Tour arrangements

Jamaica rentals are all inclusive in that there are plenty of activities to keep you within the complex. For example, the Silver Sands Jamaica has its own stretch of private beach where you can find a quiet corner to relax while the kids make friends with children of other guests. The Silver Sands villas are perfect for families and couples and have much to offer their visitors. If you wish to venture out, you can take advantage of the special Ocho Rios tour that is arranged by the Silver Sands villas. The tour takes you to the Dunn’s River Falls, one of the most important tourist attractions in Jamaica.

Invite guests to your Jamaica villa

Jamaica villas have very few restrictions. Unlike adult only resorts, there are few guest restrictions. Guests here don’t have to be parents but having said that, you will find that most guests are parents anyway who know that they can leave the kids in trustworthy hands while they go out to indulge in adult activities.


So if you are planning a family trip to Jamaica, you can consider a family resort as your accommodation option. And if you are convinced, you can consider Silver Sands Jamaica for a truly enjoyable and relaxing experience.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Why stay in Jamaica rentals

Many people who go to Jamaica prefer to rent a home rather than stay in a hotel. Renting a home on the island means reserving accommodation in Jamaica villas and cottages because these offer the visitors many facilities that are not offered by hotels. Take for example the case eating meals. In Jamaica accommodation rentals, you can cook your own food and eat out when you like without missing set meals that you have already paid for.

It can be a bit tricky booking accommodation rentals in Jamaica as compared to making a hotel reservation. But then it is well worth the effort. The problem basically is of finding the right villa to suit your needs and requirements. Search the net and you will be bombarded with choices. So how to make the right choice?

One, you may see the photos of the properties and be carried away. But are you sure what you are seeing is what you get? Then again, you have to consider various other factors. Cost is definitely one of them. It is important to point out here that Jamaica villas can really help you save money, especially if you are traveling in a large group and you are there for an extended stay. Again, take the case of meals. You can well imagine the costs that will pile up if you have to eat out all the time not to mention the toll that it can take on your stomach. In Jamaica rentals you have your kitchen/kitchenette where you can prepare your own meals or have the cook come in to prepare traditional dishes for you. So when you rent a property make sure it has a well equipped kitchen and the services of a maid and cook are included in the costs. Otherwise, you may end up doing household chores which is something you really wouldn’t want as part of your holiday itinerary.

Then again, if you are traveling with your family, lets say kids and grandparents, you would want that you stay in a place which caters to all ages and all needs. For example, you may want to go out for river rafting, then the grandparents can watch TV or catch their favorite film on the DVD. Or may be they would like to relax and take in the beautiful views of the Caribbean from their balcony. Do the rentals have separate play areas for children or even a special pool for the kids? All these may seem small, but little things like this can make all the difference to your trip.

So basically it is not about choosing villas but the right Jamaica rentals that can make all the difference to your trip. So if you are planning a trip to Jamaica and don’t know which accommodation to choose, you can browse through the Silver Sands villas, a secure community of cottages and villas surrounding a serene white sands beach. These villas cater to the needs of families and accordingly each and every detail and requirement is taken care of. If you are still not convinced, you can read the reviews of the satisfied customers listed on their website and you the number of repeat visits that are recorded. With Silver Sands villas, you get the best of services at the most affordable costs.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Jamaica: The ultimate vacation destination

If you are into active adventure sports, then you must take a trip to Jamaica. One holiday trip in Jamaica and you are guaranteed to return time and again. This beautiful island, boasting a number of natural attractions, offers the ultimate in thrill and excitement. From challenging biking tour on the mountains to diving into the depths of the sea, Jamaica offers a plethora of interesting activities and experiences. Also, to make your stay all the more memorable, the island offers a wide range of Jamaica rentals conveniently located from the tourist towns of the island.

An ideal adventure itinerary would include a visit to the various beaches followed by some diving and snorkeling tours and finally winding it up with a trek or a cycle tour through the countryside.

The fresh and invigorating air coupled with beautiful vistas and scenery form a perfect backdrop for some great adventurous activities. You can either start your adventure expedition with a bike ride through the challenging terrain of the majestic Blue Mountains. There are a number of professional cycle tour operators that offer full day mountain bike excursions. These companies take you on a joy ride through the lush tropical woodlands and usually at the end of the tour, you can take a dip in a waterfall. These tours promise you fun, frolic and excitement.

The region of Ocho Rios is also home to the famous Dunn’s River Falls. This magnificent 600ft waterfall cascades downwards and then bounces over the stony steps to finally join the waters of the blue sea. Here you can climb up the little stony steps to enjoy the gushing cascades or even swim in the little whirlpools.

Diving enthusiasts have much to look forward to since there are a couple of popular diving sites around Jamaica. The region of Ocho Rios has three important sites including Wreck of the Katryn, Top of the Mountain and Jack’s Hall. Dive 60-foot under at the Top of the Mountain diving site to view a variety of corals and gorgonians while a 140-foot former minesweeper can be viewed at the Wreck of the Katryn. If you would like to explore one of the sunken ships, you can visit the diving site of Park Royal, situated conveniently near the airport.

You can roundup your adventurous journey with a bamboo-rafting trip on the Rio Grande River in the Port Antonio Area. You can make your visit all the more memorable by staying at the upscale and luxurious vacation rental community of Silver Sands. Silver Sands Jamaica offers a range of accommodation in Jamaica that are designed to suit travelers of all kinds. So if you are on an adventure sojourn in Jamaica, add that extra bit of excitement by staying in a vacation villa that is very like your home in terms of comfort and yet very different in that it allows you to experience a new way of life altogether.

Monday, August 9, 2010

Jamaica adventures and tours

If you are travelling to Jamaica for the first time, you can take guided tours to explore the best of what the island has to offer. You can also make your visit all the more memorable by staying in Jamaica rentals comprising private villas, apartments are cottages that are more affordable than hotels, offer more services than them as also the privacy, freedom and space to explore the island and spend quality time with your loved ones.

To help you plan your trip, here are some tours that you can consider.

Accompong Maroon Tour: The history enthusiasts can consider the Accompong Maroon Tour that takes you to some villages in the southeast of Montego Bay. You can meet villagers and tour the historic sites related to the Maroons, who were the descendents of runaway slaves.

Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park: The Blue Mountain and John Crow Mountain National Park spreads across 194,000 acres and occupies about six percent of Jamaica’s total landmass. It is home to the highest peak of the island, the Blue Mountain Peak rising 7,402 feet above sea level.

Bob Marley Museum: If you are a reggae fan, you simply must visit this museum in Kingston that houses memorabilia related to the great composer and singer.

Dolphins Cove at Treasure Reef: The marine park promises fun for the entire family. You can swim with two lovable bottleneck dolphins and if you want an adrenalin rush swim with some trained nurse sharks.

Black River Safari: Most of Jamaica’s rivers are navigable and open up endless opportunities for water activities such as bamboo rafting and white water rafting. You can also enjoy the Black River Safari that meanders through some of the island’s most scenic locations houses unique flora and fauna.

There are some activities that are strictly meant for adults and if you are travelling with kids you could do well by staying in rentals such as Silver Sands villas Jamaica that are very family-friendly and offer childcare facilities and also have a separate play area for kids.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Attractions in Runaway Bay in Jamaica

If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, you must include a visit to Runaway Bay. There are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy and places that you can visit. There are many Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments located nearby that provide you convenient access to these attractions.

Runaway Bay, a beautiful area on the north coast of Jamaica is located just 10 miles west of the popular resort town of Ocho Rios in the famous North Coast. Runaway Bay is a scenic destination and perfect for those who wish to travel the path less trodden. History has it that this region was originally inhabited by Arawak Indians. It earned its present name in the colonial era when numerous slaves started escaping to the sea from the local beaches.

There is much that you can see and do in Runaway Bay. For one, you can hike around the Runaway Caves. These mysterious caves served as hideouts for various groups over the centuries. It is widely believed that the Arawak Indians originally inhabited these caves. They were followed by pirates and smugglers and later by slaves escaping from Jamaican plantations. This is a popular destination that attracts a huge crowd so it is advisable that you go early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

For a truly chilling experience, you can visit the Green Grotto at Runaway. This is an underground lake, covered by a vaulted cave. The water here is partly tidal saltwater and part freshwater. You can hike around the perimeter on your own or venture in with a guide who will take you in a paddle boat across the waters of this mysterious chamber. While inside, do remember to keep an eye out for crayfish and eels that lurk in the depths.

If you are in Runaway Bay, you simply cannot miss Jamaica’s most popular tourist attraction and that is the Dunns River Falls. This spectacular waterfall cascades down over 600 feet of rocks to the tropical beach below. You can wade right into the water and join a human chain that is hiking to the top of the falls, stopping in the shallow wading pools on the way up. If all the exercise leaves you hot, you can swim in the mouth of Dunns River, which leads to the sea, to cool off. You’ll find the constant mist from the bottom of the falls to be extremely refreshing.

While there, you can also check out the marine park, Dolphins Cove. It promises great fun for the entire family. Aside from other activities, you can also swim with a family of Bottleneck dolphins. And after a fun-filled day of activity and exploration, there can be no better way to round it off by sharing your experiences relaxing in your private Jamaica rentals.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Outdoor activities in Jamaica

Jamaica with its stunning shoreline, lofty mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, navigable rivers, grottos and caves leading right into the heart of the mountains, is considered to be the playground of the Caribbean, offering abundant opportunities for activities from the staid and relaxing to the ones that would give you an adrenalin rush. Also, you can really complete the experience by staying in private Jamaica villas and cottages that are professionally managed and allow you to soak up the culture of the island and explore it at your own time and space.

Biking

Jamaica’s varied terrain is best explored on bike. There are many biking tour agencies offering tours, one being the Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours Ltd that offers all inclusive biking tour in Jamaica's Blue Mountains, the Caribbean's highest mountain range with peaks soaring to 7,402 feet. You can try out the Downhill Bicycle Tour that takes you through breathtakingly beautiful trails with exotic flora and fauna. You can also go out solo but remember to take along a bike repair kit for repair shops are hard to come across.


Hiking

Aside from hiking the Blue Mountains, there are many scenic trails that you can check out including those through the Rio Grande. One especially scenic walk is the 7-hour White River Falls walk along the banks of the White River. An easier walk is the Scatter Waterfalls, where you can float on a bamboo raft across the Rio Grande. The 11km (7-mile) Guava River Trail takes you along the Guava River right into the heart of the Blue Mountains.

Scuba diving

Jamaica’s underwater world is a maze of fish, coral reefs, etched with canyons and grottos and wrecks. The walls at some places start as shallow as 25 feet. The temperature averages 78 to 85 degrees with visibility up to 100 feet. Some of the best dive sites are to be found in Falmouth, and the marine parks in Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Negril.

Golf

Jamaica is a golfer’s paradise offering many challenging golf courses than any other island on the Caribbean. Set against the backdrop of mountains and the sea, they not only provide a true test of the game but are also very picturesque. Some of the best are to be found in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay, all at a convenient distance from Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas and cottages facing the sea and encompassing a private white sandy beach perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Jamaica holidays: Ocho Rios and Montego Bay

Jamaica is the land of sun, sand and the sea and those looking for a dream Caribbean escape could not ask for more. However, apart from the natural attractions, Jamaica also offers the best of what tourists look for in their trips to distant lands. This would include fine dining, shopping, and golf courses, to name but a few and in this regard, Jamaica does not disappoint. For those looking for more than just the beaches, should head to Montego Bay and Ocho Rios

While there are a lot of hotels in Jamaica, the island is better known for its exclusive holiday rentals beautiful Jamaican villas, condos, cottages and apartments to cater to all tastes and budgets. The advantage of these holiday homes is that they provide you privacy and space as also more flexibility in terms of planning your activities and tours. Besides, these Jamaican villas are perfect for spending quality time with your loved ones and if you are on an extended stay, you can even invite your family and friends to spend some time with you without incurring any extra costs.

Activities in and around Montego Bay and Ocho Rios

Doctor's Cave Beach: This is considered to be one of the most popular beaches in Jamaica. It is located right on the "Hip Strip", and provides convenient access to restaurants and night life.

Rosehall Great House: This is the famous home of the infamous Annie Palmer (The White Witch of Rosehall), who was known for her murderous ways to both husbands and slaves.

Greenwood Great House: This was the former plantation home of the Barrett family. Elizabeth Barrett Browning spent time there during her childhood. The house still contains furnishings and personal items belonging to the family.

Rocklands Bird Sanctuary: As the name itself suggests, the sanctuary is a magnet for the bird enthusiasts. Here you can see countless variety of birds including the Streamertail Hummingbird, the National Bird of Jamaica.

For the golf lovers, Jamaica offers a number of championship courses including the
Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, Half Moon Golf Club and the Tryall Club, rightfully rated as one Jamaica's best.

Dunn's River Falls: These falls are undoubtedly the main attraction of Ocho Rios. The water of the Dunn's River cascading over the rock terraces to the sea forms a pretty sight. If you wish, you can also climb up the stepping stones leading to the water fall and stand under the shower. There is a Dunn's River feast every week with dancing, music, and swimming.

Dolphin Cove: You can enjoy a fun filled day swimming with the dolphins. This is one activity your kids are sure to enjoy.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Advice on travel to Jamaica

The Caribbean island nation of Jamaica is famous for the sun, sand and sea as also rum, reggae and great outdoors. The island’s largest airport is Montego and cruise ships dock near Ocho Rios bringing in a million tourists every year, if the figures of the Jamaican Tourist are anything to go by. For the convenience of the tourists, there are many Jamaica accommodation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments located close by. Savvy travellers to Jamaica can find rentals that suit any budget.

Tourist destinations

Most tourist activity in Jamaica is focussed in Ocho Rios. To be near the action, you can choose to stay in Ocho Rios apartments overlooking the Ocho Rios bay. The area is famed for the Dunn’s River Falls, with water cascading down a series of protruding rocks forming a natural staircase which tourists can climb up with the help of a guide. Then there is Negril, known for its spectacular beaches and equally stunning sunsets. The notable beach here is the Seven Miles Beach, counted amongst the best in the world. The capital of Jamaica is Kingston, a must visit for those who are interested in Jamaica's history and its vibrant arts and music scene. While any one of these cities makes a good base for exploring the island, visitors can also check out surrounding smaller towns. Falmouth, a sugar plantation town near Montego Bay, Rio Bueno near Ocho Rios and Petersfield near Negril to get a glimpse of rural Jamaican life and admire the colonial architecture.

Accommodations

Jamaica offers a wide range of accommodations ranging from five star resorts to fully furnished apartments. Most budget minded vacationers prefer to book Jamaica villas and cottages because that allows them to arrange their own entertainment and meals and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Food and drink

Jamaican cuisine greatly relies on the native produce comprising chicken, pork and fish. You’ll find jerk stands everywhere serving jerk, which is meat seasoned with peppers and spices and grilled over a hot fire made of pimiento wood and mixed in fiery jerk sauce. If you don't want it spicy, you can ask the cook to leave off the sauce. Besides, you can check out other local specialities such as rice cooked in coconut milk and native red beans.

Jamaica is also famed for its Blue Mountain coffee, which is prized for its smoothness. The island is also home to Red Stripe beer, available in both light and regular varieties, and Appleton Rum. Infact, you can even tour the Appleton Rum factory south of Montego Bay along the Black River.

Shopping

The local currency is the Jamaican dollar; however US dollars are also commonly accepted from local jerk stands to duty free shops. Whether you are in the beach or in the towns you will be beseeched by vendors selling local crafts. Be firm but polite if you don’t want to purchase. For souvenirs, you can buy local paintings, wood carvings and pottery as well as items crafted from shells and coconuts. Coffee, jerk seasoning and rum cakes are also good buys.

Safety

While you will always be safe within your community of Jamaica villas and cottages, exercise some common sense while venturing out. Don’t go out alone after dark, avoid carrying too much cash or flashing expensive watches and jewellery. You may be asked to purchase marijuana or other drugs on the streets, but realize drugs and possessing marijuana is illegal in the country.