Friday, April 29, 2011

Waterfalls and natural attractions in Jamaica

If you are looking for a truly unique experience in Jamaica, then you must go off the beaten track to taste the real flavour of this breathtakingly beautiful island. There are numerous waterfalls that are worth seeing. Given that the island is mostly mountainous, you’ll find these waterfalls sprinkled liberally all over the island.

If you are visiting Jamaica you can choose to stay in Jamaica villas, cottages or apartments that are well suited for all tastes, budgets and requirements. Not only are these Jamaica rentals, as they are commonly known, more affordable and cost-effective, but they also provide you all the privacy and space you need to relax, rejuvenate and indulge yourself on the island. These Jamaica villas are staffed by locals who know the island like the back of their palm and can provide you useful tips and insights into what to see and do to get a real taste of Jamaica.

Once you are settled in your villa, you can then plan to go and check out some of the hidden gems of Jamaica. One such treasure is the Two Hills Falls and Park located in South Trelawny.

The drive to the Two Hills Falls and Park starts on the North Coast highway but very soon you will find yourself winding your way into the hills and passing through sugar cane fields and picturesque towns. All too soon, you will reach the edge of a dirt road with a hand-painted sign nailed to a utility pole reading Two Hills Falls and Park. The road will take you through banana and coconut trees to a rustic old bridge made from odd planks of wood and posts buried in the Martha Brae River. From here, you would be able to hear the musical sound of the waterfalls. Cross the shaky bridge and you’ll come to a picnic area with rough benches and tables under tall fruit trees of starapple and jackfruit.

The stunning Two Hills Falls and Park is one of Jamaica’s best kept secrets and is a must visit for those who to appreciate the beauty of nature in peace and quiet.

You can also visit two other falls – the Dunns River Falls in Ocho Rios and Mayfield Falls located about one hour drive from Negril.

Silver Sands Jamaica arranges for tours and transfers to these falls and other places of interest.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

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 rentals comprising private Jamaica 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.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Holiday in Jamaica: Port Antonio

Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, Port Antonio on Jamaica’s northeast coast is a major tourist attraction promising its visitors an unrivalled package of natural beauty, rich local culture, and adventurous activities. If you are looking for a pristine, beautiful and a quiet retreat then this is the place to visit. There is a lot to see and do and so a little bit of planning in advance will ensure that you make the most of your visit.

One really important aspect of your planning should be to decide where to stay. The first thing that may come to your mind would be a stay in a hotel but it is time you considered some other options. For example, Jamaica has great many options of vacation rentals complete with all luxuries and services required for a comfortable stay. The benefit is that by staying in Silver Sands Jamaica, you can get a first hand perspective of the local way of life and you can explore the island at your own leisure and pace. Also a stay in a vacation rental in Jamaica can prove to be more cost-effective especially if you are traveling with family or in a group and are here for an extended vacation. The vacation rentals in Jamaica provide convenient access to Port Antonio and its sights, attractions, entertainment and nightlife options.

Coming back to all the interesting things you can do in Port Antonio, well the list is endless. The beaches here are absolutely spectacular and have not yet borne the brunt of too much tourism. You can still catch a glimpse of what Jamaica used to be before it was swept over by the huge influx of visitors from all over the world. Boston Bay and Blue Lagoon are the more popular ones and attract quite a crowd. San San Beach and Frenchman’s Cove are more quaint, secluded and pretty and offer a perfect retreat from the crowds. Rent a beach lounger and simply relax and enjoy a cool drink while you get that gorgeous tan. If you seek thrill and adventure, you can always try out the various water sport activities including kayaking, snorkeling and diving.

If you have had enough of beaches, you can definitely take a detour one day and head towards Athenry Gardens and Cave of Nonsuch. Marvel at the 1.5 million years old cave as you venture inside to explore its underground beauty by walking through its concrete walkways. You can then meander through the beautiful Athenry Gardens, which offer spectacular views over the island and the sea.

You can also check out the scintillating Somerset Falls. A short ride will directly take you the site of the falls, where you can enjoy a dip in the various rock pools. This region also gives you plenty of reasons to go on a short trek or even mountain biking through the terrains of the majestic Blue Mountains. Make the most of your trip to Jamaica all the more special by a stay in a vacation rental and if you decide on doing so, you can check out Silver Sands Jamaica, a secure community of villas and cottages encompassing an exclusive white sands beach.

Holiday in Jamaica: Port Antonio

Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, Port Antonio on Jamaica’s northeast coast is a major tourist attraction promising its visitors an unrivalled package of natural beauty, rich local culture, and adventurous activities. If you are looking for a pristine, beautiful and a quiet retreat then this is the place to visit. There is a lot to see and do and so a little bit of planning in advance will ensure that you make the most of your visit.

One really important aspect of your planning should be to decide where to stay. The first thing that may come to your mind would be a stay in a hotel but it is time you considered some other options. For example, Jamaica has great many options of vacation rentals complete with all luxuries and services required for a comfortable stay. The benefit is that by staying in Silver Sands Jamaica, you can get a first hand perspective of the local way of life and you can explore the island at your own leisure and pace. Also a stay in a vacation rental in Jamaica can prove to be more cost-effective especially if you are traveling with family or in a group and are here for an extended vacation. The vacation rentals in Jamaica provide convenient access to Port Antonio and its sights, attractions, entertainment and nightlife options.

Coming back to all the interesting things you can do in Port Antonio, well the list is endless. The beaches here are absolutely spectacular and have not yet borne the brunt of too much tourism. You can still catch a glimpse of what Jamaica used to be before it was swept over by the huge influx of visitors from all over the world. Boston Bay and Blue Lagoon are the more popular ones and attract quite a crowd. San San Beach and Frenchman’s Cove are more quaint, secluded and pretty and offer a perfect retreat from the crowds. Rent a beach lounger and simply relax and enjoy a cool drink while you get that gorgeous tan. If you seek thrill and adventure, you can always try out the various water sport activities including kayaking, snorkeling and diving.

If you have had enough of beaches, you can definitely take a detour one day and head towards Athenry Gardens and Cave of Nonsuch. Marvel at the 1.5 million years old cave as you venture inside to explore its underground beauty by walking through its concrete walkways. You can then meander through the beautiful Athenry Gardens, which offer spectacular views over the island and the sea.

You can also check out the scintillating Somerset Falls. A short ride will directly take you the site of the falls, where you can enjoy a dip in the various rock pools. This region also gives you plenty of reasons to go on a short trek or even mountain biking through the terrains of the majestic Blue Mountains. Make the most of your trip to Jamaica all the more special by a stay in a vacation rental and if you decide on doing so, you can check out Silver Sands Jamaica, a secure community of villas and cottages encompassing an exclusive white sands beach.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Jamaica: A favorite destination with the British holiday makers

Though a majority of tourists in Jamaica are from the USA, the beautiful Caribbean island attracts a fair share of tourists from Britain. There are various reasons for the growing popularity of Jamaica for the British holiday makers.

For one, the island offers a wide range of affordable Jamaica villas and cottages that are perfect for family reunions and large groups. During the high season these Jamaica rentals can be heavily booked and so those planning a visit during this period (December to April) should make sure to book their Jamaica accommodation well in time. During the low season the weather still remains warm albeit a bit unpredictable but there is plenty of action to look forward to and also you can avail special discounts and packages.

Another reason for its popularity with the British is the fact that it is the largest English speaking nation in the Caribbean. Both the countries also have a shared history – Jamaica was colonized by the British and its culture and imprints are still to be found in the country.

Jamaica is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination but there is plenty in store for families and specially for the sports enthusiasts. The island has eleven golf courses with four of them in Montego Bay, which was voted as the leading beach destination in the world for the year 2010.

Places of interest on the island include Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Kingston and Port Antonio. Jamaica rentals communities like Silver Sands Jamaica arranges for tours and transfers for the convenience of their guests.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Jamaica as a family-friendly destination

For most people Jamaica is the ultimate romantic destination providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable wedding or a honeymoon. However, there is much in store for the entire family including beaches, marine parks, reserves and more. If you are planning a family holiday in Jamaica, you can consider setting base in family-friendly Jamaica rentals because they allow you a lot of flexibility in enjoying the various pleasures of the island.

First, these rentals provide you all the privacy, space and freedom you require to explore the island at your own leisure and pace. Most rentals have their own kitchen which means you can eat what you like and when you like. This also helps you save money as eating out all the time can be very expensive. Also most rentals include the services of a cook so you don’t have to cook your own self. Then again, there are some rentals like Silver Sands Jamaica that provide child care facilities, a separate play area for kids, car seats absolutely free of costs and also arranges for high chairs and cribs if families inform in advance. These rentals also include amenities such as books, board games, DVD players, CD players etc. so you can also stay in and spend some quality time together or just relax amidst scenic surroundings. Also worth mention is the fact that these private villas or cottages have their own gardens where you can have parties and BBQs and invite your friends over.

Jamaica is synonymous with beaches and there are many beaches, for example, beaches in Montego Bay where the waters are calm and are perfect for swimming and a variety of other activities.

Dolphins Cove in Ocho Rios is a premier family attraction where people of all age groups will find something to do. You can swim with adorable dolphins, explore rainforest trails, enjoy river rafting trips and picnic on the beaches. For the adults, there is a swim with trained nurse sharks on the offer and if this does not appeal to you, you can enjoy a shark show from dry land.

Then there is the Kool Runnings Park, another activity park where you can enjoy several amazing water slides along every quarter mile of the river. Then there are other activities you can indulge in such as exploring Captain Mikie's Coconut Island where great food and games galore awaits the kids. You can see the Anancy Village and enjoy the go-kart and bungee trampoline. You also wouldn’t like to miss the Park Mascot, Mikie Manatee, doing the "Mikie Skank" on the Kool entertainment stage.

As already stated above, staying in private Jamaica rentals can make all the difference to your trip. If you don't know which one to choose, you can consider Silver Sands Jamaica in the famed north coast of the island.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Gardens in Jamaica

Jamaica is an exotically beautiful country known for some great outdoor attractions. If you are planning a honeymoon or wedding in Jamaica, you couldn’t ask for a more romantic destination. This is not to say that it has nothing to offer for the family. As a holiday destination, Jamaica has it all from beaches and sand to mountains and rainforests and from reserves and parks to exotic gardens offering dream wedding locations and picnic spots for the families.

One of the most sought out destinations in Jamaica is Ocho Rios in St Ann parish. In fact, St Ann is also referred to as a garden parish given the fact that it boasts plenty of lush greenery overflowing with flowers, vines and trees. And in case you wish to stay near Ocho Rios, you can check out the Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas and cottages that is perfect for all group sizes, couples and families here for a family getaway or a wedding or honeymoon. Silver Sands villas has its own stretch of private beach and offers plenty of activities to keep you busy. It is also within convenient distance from some of the most beautiful gardens in Ocho Rios some of which are listed below.

Coyaba River Garden: The garden which means paradise or heaven in Arawak is nestled in the hills and provides brilliant views of the breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. Stroll through the garden and you will realize that its name is fully justified. The manicured garden has on display a colourful riot of flowers made all the more vibrant with the constantly fluttering butterflies. Then there are the ferns, vines and trees that add their bit to the scenic surroundings as also the crystal clear streams gurgling through the grounds. The garden also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and enjoy a cup of Blue Mountains coffee. Besides, there is also a museum where you can browse through artefacts dating back to the Arawak times.

Cranbrook Flower Forest: Spread across 130-acres this garden is another jewel in the crown of Ocho Rios. The ground boasts four lawns with barbeque areas and swings perfect for wedding, parties and family picnics. There are also fishing ponds stocked with tilapia and a river winding its way through the property. The main attraction here is the riverhead where the water gushes out from an underground source into a natural swimming pool.

Shaw Park Gardens: Located on the hills overlooking Ocho Rios the Shaw Parks Gardens form a perfect setting for a dream wedding. The gardens were part of the Shaw Park Estate owned by a Jamaican family till the 20th century when it became the site for one of the Jamaica’s earliest hotels in the north coast.

Aside from the gardens Ocho Rios also boasts one of Jamaica’s most sought out attraction and that is the Dunn’s River Falls, a scintillating waterfall with a natural staircase leading right to the top of the falls from where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the scenic surroundings. And to make your stay all the memorable, you can also choose to stay in Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments that give you all the privacy, space and comforts you need for your stay as also the opportunity to explore the island at your own leisure and pace.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Cruise destinations in Jamaica: Ocho Rios and Falmouth

Jamaica welcomes more than one million visitors to the island most of who arrive by cruise ships. Ocho Rios, Jamaica’s premier tourist town, is also the cruise-capital of the island. The town has much to offer to the visitors and for their convenience there are a number of vacation rentals comprising private Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments within the immediate vicinity.

The Dunns River Falls are the signature attractions of Ocho Rios. It is not just the spectacular sight of the water cascading from a height of more than 600 feet over a series of limestone rocks that captivates the visitors. More exciting is the fact that you can climb up the steps to reach the top. Go to the falls and you will see people joining hands and forming a human chain to balance their way to the top. The climb is safe and fun and if you wish you can take a guide along. If you wish, you can also opt out in the middle of the climb because these steps also lead to dry land. And don’t forget to take your waterproof camera along.

Near the falls is the Dolphins Cove, a marine park which is perfect for a full day of family fun. One unique activity on offer is the swim with the dolphins. After a brief orientation from the instructors, you can go into the water and swim, play and cuddle the dolphins. There is also a jungle trail in the rainforest which you can explore and also see the rare flora and fauna. Also on offer is a hilarious shark show. However, if you are adventurous enough you can also try feeding and swimming with the trained nurse shark accompanied by an instructor. And if all this leaves you tired, you can enjoy a picnic on Treasure Reef.

Falmouth, the emerging cruise destination in Jamaica, is less well-known than Ocho Rios but is fast taking its rightful place in the tourist map of the island. This beautiful town of the Georgian era traces its history to the 1700s when it was the leading port in the Caribbean. The 1800s saw Falmouth emerge as the wealthiest town in Jamaica because of the sugar plantation. The town preserves much of its interesting history. The development of the new pier which will become functional in January 2011 is expected to give the much needed impetus to the tourism in and around this town.

Chukka Caribbean Adventures, the award-winning tour operator company that was once again honored during the recently concluded World Travel Market held in London between 7 to 10 November, has invested heavily in the town to woo tourists with unique tour experiences. The government too has done its bit to spruce up the historic buildings and refurbish the roads and highways leading to the town. People and more especially Jamaica rentals such as Silver Sands Jamaica are upbeat about the business opportunity this opens for them.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Natural attractions in Jamaica

Jamaica is generally seen as a beach destination but beyond the sun, sand and surf, there is a treasure trove of natural attractions to be explored in its reserves, parks and botanical gardens. Most of these can be found in and around the famed north coast of the island. For your convenience, you can choose to stay in Silver Sands Jamaica, a secure community of Jamaica rentals on the north coast of the island.

You can start with the Swaby's Swamp Safari in Falmouth. In fact this well preserved Georgian-era town is in the limelight for the opening of a new pier that is expected to give a huge boost to the number of visitors coming here. Coming back to the park, this four-acre mangrove swamp and reserve is home to the Cashoo Ostrich Park which also doubles as a working farm. Apart from the ostriches, the crocodiles too attract a fair share of visitors. Guided tours are available and you can go hiking the beautiful trails or spend time in the fruit orchards.

The most famous park on the island is however the Blue Mountains and John Crow National Park. As is obvious from the name, the park encompasses two ranges of mountains and is also home to the highest peak on the island, the Blue Mountains peak rising to a height of 7402 feet above sea level. The park also houses the largest remaining rainforests on the island. Needless to say hiking and camping are the favorite activities here and catering to the needs of the visitors there are many tour operators offering guided tours. The most sought out tour is the tour that starts from Mavis Bank and passes through elfin woodlands to reach the summit at 7,402 feet. The park is home to 28 species of birds and there are 150 other migratory species that make their stop here.

You can also visit the Montego Bay Marine Park, which is home to several species of stingrays, moray eels, sharks, numerous other types of fish and sharks. You can also admire the coral reef formations and walk through the dense areas of mangrove trees, which serve as home to a wide variety of wildlife. The park also offers excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.

The Royal Palm reserve also deserves a mention. Set in Great Morass swamplands across 7000 acres, the park supports diverse creatures such as crocodiles and a wide range of birds, including herons and egrets, living amongst the mangroves. Also located here is the Negril Watershed Environmental Protection Area, dedicated to tropical preservation and protection.

For the bird enthusiasts, there can be no other place like the Marshall's Pen, which was a plantation in the 1800's. Today it is a bird sanctuary housing the native birds as well as also the migratory birds that make their stop here.

These are just some of the parks and reserves found on the island but they do support the fact that there is more to the island than its beaches. so choose your ideal Jamaican villas and once you are settled in, get set to explore the beautiful and well-preserved natural attractions of the island.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Water activities in Jamaica

Jamaica is a treasure trove for the people who are interested in water activities. There are various Jamaican rentals such as Silver Sands Jamaica that encompass their own stretch of pristine white sandy beach where the guests can swim and snorkel in privacy. Other than that there are many activities they can enjoy on the island.

There are many tour operators that offer guided tours and two very famous ones include:

Dolphins Cove: This is Jamaica’s premier water park where you can enjoy a host of activities including a swim with the dolphins. For this, the instructor would give you a brief orientation, after which you can go into the water and frolic and swim with the friendly mammals.

Guided tours are available for Dolphins Cove which include apart from swim with the dolphins exploring jungle trails in the rainforests. This activity allows you to watch up and close some exciting birds, tropical fish, and reptiles.

There is also a tour for swimming with trained nurse sharks. You’ll be accompanied by trained shark encounter specialists into the water where you can swim and feed the sharks. However, if this is a bit too adventurous for you, you can enjoy a shark show from land.

River tubing safari: Most of Jamaica’s rivers are navigable which means you can enjoy a number of activities including kayaking, tubing, white water rafting, canoeing and bamboo rafting to name a few. One tour in great demand is the river tubing adventure on the Great River. For this, the instructors will give you an orientation complete with safety tips after which you can enter the tube and float down the river. The guide will provide you an interesting and informative commentary along the way. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery as it unfolds and even glimpse the indigenous Jamaican animals on the banks of the river.

These tours give you an insight into the type of water activities you can enjoy on the island. Silver Sands Jamaica books exciting tours with the Chukka Caribbean Adventures, an award-winning tour company that operates exciting tours both on land and water.