Showing posts with label vacation villa in jamaica. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vacation villa in jamaica. Show all posts

Monday, May 3, 2010

Gardens in Jamaica

If you are planning an eco-trip to Jamaica, you couldn’t ask for a better holiday destination. Whether you are planning a wedding, going for honeymoon or a family getaway, you’ll find great outdoors to suit your tastes and purpose. Though people usually associate Jamaica with beaches, there is more to the island than simply the sun, sand and sea. For example, Jamaica has some really beautiful gardens that form the perfect settings for weddings, honeymoons and picnics.

St Ann is known as Jamaica’s garden parish and not without reason. It boasts one of the island’s greatest attractions and that is Ocho Rios. There are many beautiful gardens here that are worth checking out. Just to deviate from the topic, it is worth mentioning that you can make your visit to the island all the more special by staying in Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments that are perfect for all groups sizes and budgets. Apart from providing you all the facilities and services of a hotel they also provide you all the privacy, comfort and space you need to reconnect with your loved ones and explore the island at your own leisure and pace. Coming back to the gardens, here are some that are located in and around Ocho Rios.

Coyaba River Garden: Coyaba is an Arawak word which means heaven Stroll through the garden and you will realize why. The grounds are a colourful riot of flowers, ferns, vines and trees. The delicate butterflies fluttering around do their bit to add to the beauty. There is also a river winding its way through the grounds. The garden also has a gift shop where you can enjoy a cup of Blue Mountain coffee. Besides there is also a museum housing a number of interesting artefacts and maps dating back to the Arawak times.

Cranbrook Flower Forest: The garden is spread across an impressive 130-acres and boasts four lawns with barbeque areas and swings perfect for wedding, parties and family picnics. The river winding its way through the property is one of the main attractions here. Go to the riverhead and you’ll see water gushing out of an underground source and falling straight into a natural swimming pool. There are also fishing ponds stocked with tilapia and a river winding its way through the property.

Shaw Park Gardens: The Shaw Parks Gardens are located on the hills overlooking Ocho Rios and form an ideal backdrop for a wedding. The gardens were initially a part of the Shaw Park Estate which became the site for one of the earliest hotels in Jamaica’s north coast.

Friday, March 26, 2010

A trip to Jamaica

A trip to Jamaica

Just returned from a family trip to Jamaica and had a great time discovering the attractions and connecting with the family. A friend had recommended Silver Sands villas and we duly checked out the accommodations. The rates were affordable and the villas looked superb. We chose Seagull Cottage, a beautiful and comfortable 3 bedroom villa overlooking the scenic Silver Sands beach. We couldn’t have asked for a better accommodation option for our trip; the views of the Caribbean from the verandah were stunning. The place was tranquil, the surroundings blissful. The beach was just a few minutes walk away and we had a great time picnicking, relaxing and swimming. Back to the villa, we were treated to the choicest of local dishes by the cook. All our meals, morning, afternoon and evening were served on time. The staff of the villas was really efficient and accommodating and all our wishes were met with and all our queries were answered. Indeed all the staff was local and they not just loved their jobs but also their country and provided us invaluable inside tips and information from what to see, transport, safety precautions etc.

We had a great time at the beach but then wanted to explore the other attractions. The staff suggested Luminous Lagoon and we decided to check it out. We were intrigued by the name and assumed the waters shone under the moonlight and so the name. But we were informed otherwise.

We took a boat ride and discovered why the lagoon had been named so. The lagoon is home to a rare phosphorescent microbe known as dinoflagellate. The movement of the water causes the microbes to move and glow with an ethereal neon-green color, making the lagoon luminous. We were told that this phenomenon could be witnessed only in four places in the world and Jamaica was considered to be the best amongst them. During the cruise, we also stopped to swim in the shallow waters under the moonlit sky.

We also visited one of Jamaica’s most beautiful attractions, the Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios. We climbed up the stone stairs and from the top took in the panoramic views of the surroundings and of the water gushing down over the rock terraces. The falls provided us with immense photo opportunities and we clicked away till to capture the memories till our next visit to Jamaica.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Hotel or Jamaica villa for your vacation?

This is a question that bothers all those who are planning a trip to Jamaica. So which one to choose, a hotel or Jamaica villas? The answer would depend on what you are looking for in your vacation. If it is cost savings and a completely new experience that you want, Jamaica accommodation rentals definitely have an upper hand.

In terms of costs, Jamaica villas prove to be more affordable, especially if you are traveling with your family and need a lot of space. Then again, if you are here for an extended stay, hotels will be very costly. A stay in a hotel over a long period of time can be a strain, especially if you are in a new destination for a long period of time. As a rule, people are more comfortable staying in a home than in a hotel. Once the novelty wears of you want to simply let go and relax, eat what you like, when you like, dress how you like and in a nutshell be what you are. This is not possible in a hotel unless you are cooped up in your room. All the time you have to be formal and this is something that will take its toll in a few days time. Ultimately, holidays are about letting go, about relaxing, about being away from the dictates of civilization. In your Jamaica villa, this is exactly what you can do—free from the cares of the world, you can be with your loved ones and rejuvenate in the healing touch of nature.

So if it is a new experience that you want, if it cost saving you are looking for, and if it is privacy you desire, book a villa in Jamaica and make all the difference to your trip. If all the listings on the net leave you confused, simply reserve your accommodation in Silver Sands villas and get the best quality of services at the most affordable costs.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Jamaica accommodation 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 accommodation 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 a villa but the right Jamaica accommodation rental 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.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Jamaica villas vacations

Travelers to Jamaica will find no dearth of choices for accommodations. You can stay in a hotel, an all-inclusive resort or spend money wisely by staying in Jamaica villas. Reserving a Jamaica villa is the best way to enjoy the scenic island and if you choose your rental judiciously you can really save money and look forward to a more quality experience.

What are Jamaica villas?

These are actually private homes owned by individuals and companies who generally employ property managers to rent it to travelers who come to Jamaica through out the year. These Jamaica rentals can range from one to eight bedrooms and are perfect for singles, couples, families and groups. Usually, these villas have staff including housekeeping staff and chef that works at the site and takes care of the property and guests from morning to night.

The size of the staff varies from villa to villa and can range from two to ten, all of whom are locals. Smaller villas usually include a cook, to prepare three traditional Jamaican meals a day. Then there are rentals that also include butlers, who function more like concierge in reality. His duty is to look after the property, serve the guests drinks and meals, and coordinate with outside companies to link guests with off-site vacation activities. Larger villas can include maid, a bartender, a gardener, and even a driver, who can take you to the much-sought out destinations like Fern Gulley, Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, or Bob Marley's birthplace at Nine Mile.

What is the cost of these villas?

Costs depend on various factors. For example, it will vary from season to season. So during the high-seasons costs will be high; in the low season, you can look forward to great discounts. Then again, the cost will depend on the size of the rental and the amenities it provides. For example, Beach Haven villa, a three bedroom villa in Silver Sands costs around $1000 to $1200 during the low season for a 7 day stay and $1200 to $1600 during the high season and for the same period.

What are some of the best villas?

There are many great villas in Jamaica. To review a large collection of villas, you can browse through Silver Sands villas that offer the best services at the most reasonable costs. As a case point, you can consider the two bedroom Pineapple Cottage in the Silver Sands villas that is perfect for a small family. Amongst its numerous amenities, it includes a private solar heated pool and a hot tub. It is just a few minutes walk from the pristine Silver Sands beach. In case you are traveling in groups, you couldn’t ask for a better option. The cottage shares a large gated lot with Pineapple Villa, which is a 7 bedroom rental unit, making these two properties perfect for large groups and reunions.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Jamaica villas versus hotels

If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, and especially a family trip comprising of grandparents, parents and kids, choosing the right accommodation option would make all the difference to your trip. A family trip can be fun but only when all members of the group are satisfied. A step in this direction is choosing where to stay.

Search the net and basically the choice would fall between two categories, hotels and Jamaica accommodation rentals. A hotel is something everyone is familiar with. Jamaica accommodation rentals, on the other hand, may require some explanation.

In order to spend quality time together in a distant land of their choice, people bought vacation villas, cottages and apartments where they spent some time of the year with their families and friends. These accommodations remained empty for the remaining part of the year and this gave birth to the concept of vacation rental accommodation. What this means that instead of staying in the impersonal environs of the hotel, you can book your own privacy and space and also get all amenities and services of a hotel in the bargain. So you can now book Jamaica villas and cottages for the duration of your stay either directly from the owners or through the marketing agencies that represent them.

These Jamaica rentals are your home away from home and have all the amenities required for a comfortable stay and to remain connected with the rest of the world. These rentals also include the services of a housekeeping staff and chef so you don’t have to bother with the everyday necessities. All you need to do is to forget all the cares of the world, explore the breathtakingly country and rediscover the joys of spending quality time together with your loved ones.

One area where Jamaica villas score over hotels, as is obvious from the above, is in terms of privacy and space. The second is these rentals can prove to be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you are there for an extended stay. For example, you can eat in home cooked food in your own dining room. Not only would this prove cheaper, especially when you consider eating out all three times a day, if you stay in a hotel, but it would be easy on the stomach as well.

Then again, you may want to spend some time alone away from the children. Alternatively, the children would also want to spend time on activities that interest them the most. Most Jamaica rentals also provide child care facilities. For example, Silver Sands villas, a secure community of villas, cottages and apartments provides childcare facilities and also has special pool for kids and also play areas to keep them busy. Here, they can mingle with the children of other guests and make new friends. You can also go out and enjoy yourself, secure in the knowledge that the kids are in safe hands. All this is not possible if you decide to stay in a hotel.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Jamaica villas travel guide: Suggested Itineraries

In a world where people are hard pressed for time, taking a vacation has become really difficult. Gone are the days when you could take long leisurely breaks. Today, vacations are all about a lean-and-mean break with too much packed into ridiculously short a time. Well it doesn’t have to be that way. A well planned itinerary can take you places (literally) and ensure holidays don’t turn into an activity that you do but a time when you let go, relax and rejuvenate, leaving all the cares of the world behind. If you are planning a travel to Jamaica, here are some possibilities you can try.

Tour the countryside

Jamaica is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Caribbean countries and the reputation is well-deserved. Drive around the island, appreciate the dramatic landscape, and capture the untamed beauty on camera for memories of a lifetime. To make the best of your tour, you can consider taking a driver. The reasons for this are many. First, an experienced driver will know where to take you. Second, you can concentrate on the scenery and finally, the most important—the scenery is spectacular; the roads aren’t.

Wear a seatbelt if you are sitting on the front seat and not just to obey rules. Drive along the roads and you’ll realize how badly you need it. Breakdown assistance is limited in urban areas and practically negligible in rural sectors.

Go Jamaican

If your vacation spills over to the second week, it is time to read the finer print. Once you are done with the beaches and scenery, its time to do in Jamaica as Jamaicans do. So for some time, develop a temporary amnesia, forget the lifestyle back home and go Jamaican. Try getting your hair braided into deadlocks or learn Jamaican patois, the unofficial language of the island. Research the Rastafarian religion to better appreciate the lyrics of reggae music. While you relax on the beach, give some thought to the construction of the jerk pit in your backyard. And as you savour the sumptuous jerk on the beach, ask lots of questions about the spices used during the cooking process.

Shop till you drop

What’s a vacation without shopping? Do buy the knick knacks sold by the beach vendors but also take out time to venture into the heartland. Jamaica, as a shopping destination does not disappoint and apart from the rum, there is much on offer. Browse through the visible body of work by the Jamaican artists or buy the magnificent woodcarvings.

Stay in Jamaica accommodation rentals

Make your visit to the beautiful island all the more memorable by booking your own privacy and space for these are what the Jamaica accommodation villas provide. Be pampered by the staff of the Jamaica villas, savour the choicest of local dishes prepared by the efficient chefs, spend quality time with your loved ones while recollecting the joys of the day in your own living area and watch the sun setting in the distant horizon from your own terrace. In Jamaica, with so many rentals, you will be spoilt for choice. And if you don’t know which villa to choose, try out the Silver Sands villas that provide the best services at the most reasonable rates.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Jamaica villas: A relaxing alternative to a hotel stay

Most people who come to Jamaica for a holiday come here for a blissful tropical escape, to relax on the beaches and to discover its natural attractions. However, a visit to Jamaica can be made all the more special by staying in Jamaica villas. So what is special about Jamaica villas? Well for one, Jamaica has pioneered the concept of all-inclusive resorts with villas, cottages, condos, studios, and apartments to suit all tastes and budgets.

Jamaica villas have given a whole new dimension to travel. A visit to Jamaica is not just about discovering beaches and attractions but about rediscovering each other with these majestic attractions forming the perfect backdrop. You can rekindle the bond in your relationship in the privacy and space that only a home can provide. Your Jamaica villa is your home for the time of your stay but it is different in that the housekeeping staff and chef will take care of all your needs and so you don’t have to worry about the daily chores from which you have escaped from. All you have to do is to sit back and relax and concentrate on spending quality time together while basking in the joys of Jamaica.

These villas give you a first hand perspective of the local way of life. You can live like locals amidst the locals and gain an insight into their ways and culture. Instead of eating hotel food for everyday of your stay, you can have the chef prepare for you the choicest of local, home cooked dishes.

These Jamaica villas provide convenient access to all the major attractions in Jamaica. The friendly yet unobtrusive staff will arrange tours and transfers and will also advice you on what to see and what to do.

Besides, these Jamaica villas are located in all-inclusive resorts which also provide childcare facilities and play areas. If you want to spend quality time with your spouse or partner, you can leave them is safe hands and indulge in your favorite activity.

Search the internet and you will come across numerous listings for Jamaica villas. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all deliver what they promise. One way to book a villa you can trust is to check for client testimonials. If you are not sure which one to book, you can try Silver Sands villas that not provide the services they promise but the most reasonable rates as well.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Silver Sands villas for the best vacationing experience

Jamaica is an idyllic holiday destination promising lots to see and do. You can make your trip to the idyllic paradise all the more memorable by staying in the Silver Sands villas. Jamaica is well-known for its all-inclusive resorts so what makes these villas so special?

For one Silver Sands villas are ideal for couples, families and large groups traveling together. This secure community of villas, condos and cottages encompasses a private beach where you can find your own quiet space. If you are traveling with children, they would be able to make friends with children of other guests staying in Silver Sands villas.

Each villa, cottage and condo is tastefully furnished and well equipped for a comfortable stay. Each rental has a dining room, kitchen, living area and private balcony from where you can enjoy the views of the Caribbean. The services of a housekeeping staff and a cook are included in the package. Besides, additional services such as childcare facilities can also be arranged.

There is also a community area, bar and grill, and a tennis court on the premises. There is also a separate child play area on the premises. The romantic villas are perfect for those on a honeymoon or wish to exchange their wedding vows here.

Silver Sands villas are located on Jamaica's famous North Coast, about 30 miles from the airport, midway between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. They are just a mile North of the small town of Duncans and ten minute drive East of the historic town of Falmouth. So by staying in Jamaica villas you can be as far or near as the crowds you want. As an added advantage, these villas provide convenient access to the main attractions of Jamaica.

Friday, February 26, 2010

Silver Sands resort in Jamaica

Jamaica is a popular holiday destination boasting numerous beautiful vacation resorts catering to families and couples who wish to spend quality time together and explore the scenic island at their own leisure and pace.

One such resort is the Silver Sands resort with Jamaica villas and cottages surrounding a beautiful white sands beach. A secure community of Jamaica villas and cottages, the fabulous Silver Sands resort offers, as already mentioned, a safe, clean, private beach for you to enjoy your vacation rental holiday in Jamaica. The resort features a great variety accommodation options ranging from cottages to villas for two to a large group.

These vacation villas are perfect for families and couples who wish to spend quality time together. The resort features many facilities and so you don’t really have to venture out far for anything. Some of these include a club house, bar and grill, and a large patio overlooking the private beach which never gets crowded. There is also a lovely romantic gazebo on the end of the Silver Sands Jetty where you can even exchange your wedding vows. The resort all has its own villa mart where you can shop for groceries, gifts and souvenirs.

Silver Sands resort is very child-friendly and has a special play area for children. The beach is safe and the kids can play around and make friends with other children while you sit back and relax. In case you want to go out with your spouse, the staff will arrange for childcare facilities so you can enjoy some intimate moments together without worrying about their safety.

You can laze away the hours at the private beach or go snorkelling to discover the coral reefs. In the evening, enjoy leisurely strolls or go power walking or jogging on the estate. There is lots to do on the Silver Sands resort; however if you wish to venture out, the resort will also arrange a tour to the nearby Ocho Rios. If you wish to go on your own, the attentive staff will arrange for transport and will also advise you on what to see and do.

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Tips for choosing a Jamaica villa

If you are traveling to Jamaica and have decided to book a vacation villa, all you have to do is to enter the term ‘Jamaica villa’ in the search bar and within seconds, you will be bombarded with choices. But before you click on the first result, visit the website and book the villa, it is important that you do some research and then make an informed choice. A wrong decision can spoil your well deserved holiday and to prevent that from happening, we have mentioned here some tips to choose the right Jamaica villa.

To find the perfect Jamaica villa, begin from the beginning, which means back to the internet. Browse through the results of your search and do a comparative study of what the villas are offering. First, you will get an idea of the type of services and amenities provided by the Jamaica villas. You will also get an idea of the rates of Jamaica villas, condos, cottages, apartments and studios. This will help you decide on the property which is well within your budget.

As a word of caution, do not be carried away by a classy website. More than the design it is the content that counts. This means that you read everything you can about the Jamaica villa in question. Find out as much as you can about the facilities and amenities offered by the property. For example, the villa in question may be providing you with a well equipped kitchen but are the services of a cook also included. In all probability, you may want to cook once in a while but not all the time. Then again, spend some time thinking on what facilities you would definitely require to make your stay comfortable, say, TV, DVD player, Internet etc.

Also see how well the villa is connected to the attractions in Jamaica. Does the villa staff provide services like arranging for transport and tours? Also does it offer childcare facilities. This is important if you are traveling with small kids and there may be times when you would want to spend quality time with your spouse. In such a situation, you would definitely want your children to be well taken care of while you are away.

Again, if you are taking your pet with you, ensure that the villa is pet friendly or there might be awkward situations later on.

Also browse through the website and see what other information it offers in terms of what the island has to offer. Most genuine websites would go out of the way to provide all the information they can to their guests to ensure that their stay is a memorable one.

Finally, go through the testimonials of the previous customers. They can be faked, but if the website is genuine it won’t have a problem in providing you references to validate their authenticity.

An informed decision is always a wise decision. So search carefully and then once you are satisfied with all the details, book your Jamaica villa and look forward to a rewarding trip under the Caribbean sun.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Why choose a Jamaica villa?

You can make your trip to Jamaica all the more special by booking a Jamaica villa in a beautiful resort. You can definitely stay in a hotel but what makes these Jamaica villas all the more special is the fact that apart from the services that you would associate with a hotel, these rentals also provide you the privacy and space that only a home can provide.

Given the complexities and demands of the modern age, people don’t really get time to spend time with their families and loved ones. So today, travel is not just about discovering new places, but also rediscovering and reconnecting with each other. A reunion in the lap of nature can rekindle the special bond between couples and families and if this is what you want from your trip, then you must stay in a Jamaica villa. The reason is obvious; you cannot reconnect amidst the prying eyes of strangers. A villa in Jamaica gives you the opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones and rejuvinating the emotional bond that has been scarred by the cares of daily life.

In terms of costs also, you stand to gain because at the cost of less than a hotel room, you can book a vacation home for your entire family. This especially holds true if you are there for an extended stay. Then again, a stay in a hotel would mean that you have to eat out everytime. In your own Jamaica villa, you can cook your own meals or alternatively, have the cook prepare you the choicest of native and other dishes. Needless to say, apart from eating what you want and when you want, you can also save on money.

Jamaica villas are located in all-inclusive resorts which means you get all the facilities and numerous options to keep you busy within the complex itself. However, if you wish to venture out, the helpful staff would advise you on what to see and where to go as also make the travel arrangements for you. If you don’t want to take your children along, they would also arrange childcare facilites. A stay in a Jamaica villa therefore means complete peace of mind and no care in the world.

So on your next visit to Jamaica, stay in a vacation home and make your visit all the more special.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Silver Sands Villas guide to natural attractions in Jamaica

Jamaica has pioneered the concept of the all-inclusive resorts, which means you can rent a Jamaica villa, cottage or apartment within its premises and enjoy all possible facilities within the compound without having to venture out for anything. However, there are some natural attractions that are worth exploring, outside the walls of the resort and one such attraction is Holywell Park, one of Jamaica’s best kept secret.

Holywell is described as a ‘park within a park’ because it is actually located in Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park (BJCMNP), 35,00 feet above sea level. Bathed in tropical mist, the park is perfect for recuperating from the wear and tear of everyday life. On a clear day, you can see as far as Kingston, Portmore and Port Royal. Part of the park was destroyed by the hurricane Gilbert and Ivan but was extensively replanted with pine trees, and today it stands resplendant as ever.

Needless to say, the park is a haven for those looking for a eco-tourism adventure. For the wildlife enthusiasts, the biggest charm is the rare flora and fauna encompassed in its boundaries. Here you can see the Jamaican Boa the largest snakes in Jamaica and Giant Swallowtail Butterfly, the largest in the Western hemisphere. If you are timing is right, you can also view a rare bamboo species that flowers once every 33 years. The park also houses the world’s tiniest orchids. If this was not enough, it is also home to the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee.

Those looking for some great outdoor activity, will not be disappointed. The park offers four hiking trails with the most famous being the one that takes you past a scintillating waterfall and a river. The park, in fact, has ten rivers flowing through it. And if you get tired of all this activity, you can take a cool, refreshing dip in the numerous ‘watering holes’ found here. That would definitely make you hungry and so you can check out the
Numerous covered gazeboes and picnic tables perfect for relaxation and ejoying your food while observing nature.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Beaches in Jamaica: Boston Bay Beach

Jamaica is one of the world’s most famous beach holiday destinations offering many pristine, white-sand beaches caressed by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. You can spend your family vacations in luxurious Jamaica villas, apartments, condos, cottages and apartments located in magnificent resorts that promise a wide array of of incredibly exciting and fun activities for every age beneath the Caribbean sun. There are numerous beaches in Jamaica waiting to be explored and one such beach is Boston Bay Beach.

Located on the eastern coast of Jamaica, the beach is approximately 4.9 miles from Athenry Gardens. It is quite close to Priestman's River, which means that once you have your fill of the beach, you can also explore the colorful town. The beach is one of the less crowded ones in Jamaica, which means that you can find your own quiet corner and at the same time be as near the natural attractions as you want.
The golden sands of the beach are perfect for a family picnic or simply lazing away the hours in the sun getting a glorious tan. You can enjoy the sounds of the water crashing against the rocky and rough bay or if you want more action, simply grab a surfboard and go conquer the waters. You can enjoy a number of activities including surfing, diving and snorkeling. You can also mingle with the local crowds and during weekends enjoy musical performances.

If you are hungry, you don’t have to venture out far. The beach is dotted with a number of vendors selling delicious jerk meals. If you are staying in a Jamaica villa or any other vacation rental, you would get access to a well-equipped kitchen, which means you can pack your own picnic basket and bring it to the beach. Alternatively, there is the Blue Mountain Inn where you can head to for a meal in less informal surroundings.

As stated above, Boston Bay Beach also provides convenient access to some of the most magnificent natural attractions of Jamaica. You can visit Athenry Gardens, which is located at about 4.9 miles to the west of Boston Bay. On the other hand, if you are interested in the history of Jamaica, you can go to the Lighthouse in Port Antonio, which is located 7.8 miles to the west of Boston Bay. Then there are other attraction such as Rio Grande Rafting, Somerset Falls, and Blue Mountain-John Crow National Park that are well worth a visit.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Jamaica’s natural attractions: Luminous Lagoon

Jamaica is a visitor’s delight and those who come here, usually do so for relaxing in the sun, sand and sea. However, there is more to Jamaica than its exotic beaches. The country abounds in natural attractions, one of which is Martha Brae River and its spectacular Luminous Lagoon in the Montego Bay region.

A legend has it that the Spanish Conquistadores captured a local woman and forced her to disclose information about a gold mine. The woman finally agreed and took them to the mine’s cave where she used her supernatural powers to change the course of the river. The waters went crashing into the cave and drowned the Conquistadores.

The river is excellent for affordable bamboo rafting adventures. Per raft rates for day time trips are about US$30 per couple and one small child up to ten years of age. This includes a 4.5 hours trip with refreshments included. The rafting adventure provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural environment and view of Jamaica’s unique animal life.

You may well wonder why the name Luminous Lagoon. The best way to find an answer to this is to enjoy a rafting trip at night because under the moonlit sky, the “glistening waters” of the Luminous Lagoon really shine. You can book a special nightime rafting tour which would include a delicious seafood meal and then at sunset, you would be taken to a tour of the world-famous lagoon.

There is another reason, why the lagoon is so named. It is home to a rare phosphorescent microbe known as dinoflagellate that lives where the warm fresh waters of the Martha Brae River meet the salt waters of the Caribbean. The constant flow of the water of the river causes the microbes to move and glow with a neon-green color. The entire effect is nothing less than ethereal especially when you see the fish swimming in the water for they look more like moving stars. In fact this effect can be witnessed in just four places in the world and Jamaica is considered the best place to witness it.

During the cruise, you can also stop for sometime and swim in the shallower portions of the lagoon. Needless to say it is very romantic swimming amidst the ‘stars’ amdist the tropical ambience surrounded by the mangroves.

You can reach Luminous Lagoon Montego Bay & Ocho Rios. If you are staying in an all-inclusive Jamaican resort, the accommodating staff would also advise you on booking the tour.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Safety tips for your Jamaican trip

Jamaica is a traveler’s delight. Offering lots of sun, sand and sea, this land of reggae and jazz promises everything that you would want for a dream Caribbean vacation. There are plenty of sightseeing opportunities as also things to do both in water and land. However, to ensure that your trip is a smooth one, you must keep certain safety measures in mind.

Travel in groups

Jamaica is famous for its all-inclusive resorts where you can rent your own private Jamaican villa, condo, studio and apartment. Some of these resorts such as the Silver Sands resort encompasses a private beach and also provides facilities, services and plenty of activities to do within its protected environs. However, should you wish to venture out, you should travel in groups instead of venturing out alone to ward off unwanted interest.

Avoid venturing out after dark

After dark, it is advisable to remain in crowded tourist areas and at all costs you should avoid the inner cities. Also avoid some problem areas such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Spanish Town.

Maintain a low profile

For your own safety, don’t flaunt valuables such as expensive watches and jewelry. Keep important documents under lock and key in your own private apartment. When traveling out, just keep the amount of money you would require rather than carrying all of it.

Carry mosquito repellants and bug sprays

Use mosquito repellants and bug sprays to protect yourself against tropical diseases and also to ward off ants from your luggage.

Precautionary measures on the beaches
It is advisable to watch your steps while walking along the beaches and especially in the waters to avoid being stung by the sea urchins. Similarly, when going scuba diving and snorkeling, avoid disturbing the marine life for your own and its safety.

Drink bottled water

Even though tap water is claimed to be safe for drinking, you should opt for bottled drinking water. Bottles are recycled in Jamaica, however, the part under the cap remain untouched so do remember to wipe the mouth before drinking.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Honeymoons in Jamaica: Planning ahead

If you are planning a honeymoon, there is one destination that you should consider and that is Jamaica. Located in the Caribbean, the island of sun, sand and the beautiful sea provides the idyllic background for a romantic interlude. A honeymoon in Jamaica means an opportunity to bask in the glory of nature—beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, mountains, and also the perfect chance to discover each other. To make the best of your visit, a little planning ahead could make your trip all the more memorable. Here are some tips to help you plan ahead.

Research for the right accommodation

This would require some patience but a little bit of research can take you a long way. You can start with finding the right accommodation. While there are good hotels you can consider, you can also book a Jamaican villa, cottage, condo or apartment that is all inclusive in terms of facilities and services. You can make your honeymoon really special by staying in beachfront cottages or villas or ones that give you the fabulous ocean front views. Some of these Jamaican apartments also offer special packages and discounts for a certain period of stay, marriages and honeymoon. So a little bit of planning can help you cut down costs.

Booking flights

You can cut down costs by booking flights if you are a bit flexible with your timings. There are sites that offer last minute packages and so if you are lucky, you can get yourself a spectacular bargain. Then there are some other sites that give you an idea of whether you should book at that time or wait for the prices to go down. There are chances that you may miss the flight altogether but in probability, you will get a good bargain especially if it is the off-season.

Planning an adventure activity

Jamaica gives you endless opportunity for outdoor activity which you can enjoy together. Small things together done together can bring you closer and to help you decide what to do, you can consider the following activities.

1. Blue Mountains tour

The Blue Mountains, in the northeast of Kingston, have more to offer than the world-famous Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee that’s grown there. You can explore the majestic green peaks, which are part of 195,000-acre John Crow Mountain National Park either on foot, on bicycle, or by car. The caffeine addicts can visit coffee plantations such as the Jablum Coffee Factory.

2. Dunn’s River Falls tour
Located in Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls are one of the island’s top attractions that are perfect for a Jamaica honeymoon, especially when you consider the fact that you can climb to the top of this spectacular formation that looks like a giant wedding cake.

3. Dolphin Cove tour

Dolphin Cove is situated next to Dunn’s River Falls and is Jamaica’s premier marine amusement park. You can visit the Jungle Trail, which is populated by exotic animals and tropical birds. But for those on a honeymoon, the highlight is the chance to swim with the dolphins.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Jamaica: The ideal Valentine’s Day destination

Love is in the air and there is no better destination than Jamaica to rekindle the romance in a relationship or connect with your loved ones. John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, sums it all when he says, “From our tranquil waters to the lush tropical surroundings, couples will find Jamaica presents an ideal getaway to escape the everyday and celebrate their relationships.” And with the added increase in airlift, thanks to new services from JetBlue Airways and AirTran Airways, reaching this exotic destination has become easier than never before.

Jamaica is all set to spice up its appeal by offering a great selection of romantic activities and getaway packages and what with the Valentine’s Day falling over the long President’s Day weekend, the timing is just right to whisk away your loved one to this idyllic paradise.

Romantic retreats

If you are in Jamaica, you simply have to stay in an all-inclusive holiday resort encompassing beautiful villas, cottages, condos and apartments to suit all tastes and budgets. If you are on a romantic vacation, you would definitely need all the space and privacy to rediscover each other and add spark to your relationship and this is exactly what makes the Jamaican villas so appealing. These homes also have kitchenettes/kitchens where you can prepare your own meals, enjoy a candlelight dinner or dine, in the terrace accompanied by the gentle winds and music of the waves washing ashore. To make your trip convenient and hassle-free, these vacation homes also take care of the necessities including airport pick up and transfers, tour arrangements and transfers, child care facilities etc.

Destination weddings

There is no time like the Valentine’s Day to say the magical ‘I do’ and again no better destination than Jamaica to say it. Perfect weather and perfect locales, you could not ask for more for a fairytale wedding setting. The wide range of wedding locations in Jamaica includes beaches, mountains, rivers, country, gazebos and stunning waterfalls. Resorts in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Kingston, Negril, and Port Antonio provide the best of services and locations. Guests can hire the services of an on-site wedding coordinator to help plan the special day including decoration for the ceremony, arranging flowers for the bride and groom, reception dinner including wedding cake for the wedding group etc.

Special tours

While in Jamaica, you can take advantage of various tours that are arranged entirely for your benefit. For example, there is the Dunn's River & Ocho Rios Special arranged by the Silver Sands resort that takes you to Columbus Park in Discovery Bay, followed by a drive through the 2 mile Fern Gully above Ocho Rios and then a stop in Ocho Rios for lunch and shopping. After lunch, the tour continues to Coyaba Gardens in Ocho Rios and then Dunn's River Falls, where you have enough time to climb the Falls.

There are special packages for special days and so for Valentine’s Day, Dolphin Cove, Jamaica’s premier amusement park, offers couples an up close and personal experience on the Dolphin Encounter. Couples who book a select encounter together can take advantage of a 50 percent discount on one encounter on purchasing a full-priced encounter.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Jamaica travel guide: 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, Montego Bay, the second largest city in Jamaica, is the perfect destination. It is the hub of the tourist activity on the island, and apart from providing convenient access to the much sought after beaches, it also provides access to shopping plazas and exclusive restaurants.

Accommodation in Montego Bay

While there are a lot of hotels in Jamaica, the island is better known for its exclusive holiday resorts encompassing 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

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.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Jamaica tourist guide: Discovery Bay

Discovery Bay is a town in Saint Ann Parish in Jamaica. It is a land of verdant hills, crystal clear waters and beautiful landscapes stretching as far as the eyes can see. One of the most prominent tourist attractions in Jamaica, Discovery Bay enjoys a unique place in the island’s history for it is widely believed that it is here that Christopher Columbus landed in 1494, and so the name.

Accommodation in Jamaica

Jamaica is known to be the birthplace of the concept of all inclusive vacation resorts as an alternate to a hotel stay. Accordingly, you will find a number of Jamaican villas, cottages, condos and apartments suited to your needs. Hotels too are good but one reason why the vacation villas are so successful here is that they allow you to explore the country at your own leisure and pace. They also prove to be more cost-effective especially if you are on an extended stay or you wish to invite or entertain your friends.

Activities in and around Discovery Bay

One of the main attractions in Jamaica is the Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, which in Spanish means eight rivers. There are steps leading up the world-famous falls and once up, you can take in the panoramic views of the surroundings.

Then there is the Dolphin Cove, which is a marine amusement park perfect for enjoying a picnic or swimming with the dolphins.

Jamaica’s beaches promise lot of fun and adventurous activities. You can take a boat and go out fishing or if you wish you can indulge in white water rafting, kayaking, diving and snorkelling, and ofcourse, swimming.

Jamaica still has some working plantations which are definitely worth a visit. You can take a guided tour or go on horse back to explore the scenic trails.

The Green Grotto caves are not to be missed. There is a crystal clear lake in the caves located between Discovery and Runaway Bays. Fragments of pottery and adzes were found here suggesting that the Arawak Indians took shelter here at some point of time.

Those interested in golf will not be disappointed. There is a championship golf course, SuperClubs Golf Club at Runaway bay that offers a challenging game amidst beautiful settings.