Monday, October 18, 2010

Silver Sands Jamaica guide: Falmouth

If you are planning a visit to Jamaica, you can consider setting base in Jamaica villas and cottages on the north coast of the island where Falmouth and other tourist attractions are located. Falmouth is one of the lesser known gems of Jamaica however the place has much to offer.

You can start by visiting the old courthouse which is a gracious Georgian building dating to 1815. It was destroyed in a fire in 1926 but was restored to its former glory.

You can then stroll through the lively old town and relax in its old world charm. Most buildings here date back to the 18th century and reflect the architecture of the age.

Also visit the Falmouth parish church that dates back to 1795. The oldest public building in the town, it is made of brick and stone and is a good illustration of vernacular architecture derived from classical forms.

Also visit the Good Hope Plantation spread across 2000 acres. This coconut and cattle plantation is best explored on horseback. The plantation dates back to the 18th century and the greatest attraction here is the 18th century Great House named Good Hope rising majestically against the dramatic blue–gray mountains.

Finally visit the Luminous Lagoon at Glistening Waters. The lagoon gets its name from the bio–luminescent micro–organisms that inhabit the waters and emit a phosphorescent light when the water is agitated. Enjoy a boat ride after dusk and you’ll be able to see the ethereal phenomenon.

Falmouth is located on the north coast of the island and at a convenient distance for day trips from Silver Sands Jamaica.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Jamaica a popular destination

If you are planning a family trip to Jamaica, you couldn’t have asked for a better holiday destination. This beautiful Caribbean island of the sun, sand and the sea promises fun, activities, adventure and leisure for all age groups. And to make your visit to the island all the more special, you can choose to stay in Jamaica accommodation comprising private villas, cottages and apartments that are not only more affordable than hotels but also provide you all the privacy and space you require to reconnect with your loved ones and spend quality time together away from the crowds.

Most tourist attractions in Jamaica are located on the north coast of the island. These include places such as Ocho Rios, Negril, Port Antonio and Montego Bay. There are numerous accommodation rentals that allow you to be as near or far away as you want. For example, you can choose to stay in Silver Sands villas that cater to families and groups of friends. These villas encompass a private beach and have separate play areas for kids. If you want to go out for some activities meant for adults, the staff will arrange childcare facilities. Should you wish to stay indoors, you can watch the TV, catch your favourite movie on the DVD, listen to some music, or simply lounge in the porch reading your book or enjoying the views of the Caribbean Sea.

As already stated, promises fun for all age groups. Take the case of the Dolphins Cove in Ocho Rios. Here you can enjoy a number of water activities including swimming with the dolphins. There is also a rainforest trail that you can explore and enjoy a picnic within the grounds.

You can also visit the Kool Runnings Park a man-made water park will numerous water slides catering to the adventurous and to the kids.

Then there is the Royal Palm Reserve spread across over 300 acres and home to about 300 species of animals, reptiles, birds and butterflies and over 114 species of flowers.

You can also visit the Luminous Lagoon which gets its name from a rare phosphorescent microbe known as dinoflagellate that is present in the water. The movement of the water causes the microbes to glow and emit a neon green light which gives the lagoon its luminosity.

Vacations today are all about discovering new places as also spending quality time together with your family and loved ones and there is no better way of doing this than by staying in family-friendly Jamaica accommodation rentals.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

How to find vacation rental accommodations in Jamaica

By staying in Jamaica villas, or Jamaica accommodation rentals, as they are also known, you can make your stay unforgettable. You wont have the attention of poolside waiters or hotel servers but you’ll be able to relax in peace in your own space and experience the real Jamaica.

So how to find a Jamaica villa that best meets your requirements?

Step 1

You can read about different areas in Jamaica on the internet or in travel books. Research thoroughly and you will find Jamaica accommodation rentals in Montego Bay Ocho Rios, Negril, Discovery Bay, and other resort towns. If you want to be away from the crowds but near the attractions, you can consider Silver Sands villas, conveniently located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. These Jamaica villas are perfect for couples, families and large group of friends.

Step 2

Browse through the listings on various Jamaica villas sites and compare the nightly or weekly rates for properties located in many different areas. You can also read client testimonials and even ask for references so that when you book your villa you are sure that you won't be the victim of a scam.

Step 3

Determine how much you intend to spend on your vacation villa. You'll find both inexpensive and luxury accommodations in Jamaica, making vacation home rentals affordable for any traveler. You might want to factor in plane fare, expenses while you're gone (such as pet-sitting or child care services), car rental costs and fees for any activities you're planning.

Step 5

Contact the owners or the marketing agents of the Jamaica villas and see if the property is available or has already been booked. You can also ask to see more photos of the property and whether you can speak with past customers. Ask questions such as whether you need a deposit, what amenities the house has and how you obtain the key.

Step 6

Rent the vacation villa, cottage, studio or apartment that appeals to you and fits your budget. Make the booking with a credit card rather than with cash or check in case of any problems down the road. If you find the property was misrepresented, you can leave and dispute the charge.

Why Jamaica rentals are perfect for a family holiday

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.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Adventure holiday in Jamaica

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.

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 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 Jamaica rentals that are 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.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Wedding venues in Jamaica

Wedding venues in Jamaica can accommodate a quiet ceremony for couple alone or a pull-out-stops extravaganza for hundreds of guests. Regardless of size you can choose from an array of Jamaica accommodation options ready to accommodate your needs.

From barefoot seaside ceremonies to lavish, flower-strewn gazebos, your dreams for a perfect wedding in Jamaica will become a reality.

Yearn for a sunset ceremony at the water’s edge? Many rentals such as Silver Sands villas offer this option, as well as gazebos overlooking out to sea. Make a few simple choices and the marriage coordinator you hire will do the rest. Professional wedding planners eliminate much of the hassle and guesswork in your arrangements. These coordinators handle paperwork and find the perfect clergyman, decorator, caterer and musicians for your ceremony. Spacious Jamaica villas have rooms for wedding guests to stay on and continue celebrating. Compare the costs of accommodations for your guests, and you will find renting private Jamaica villas will be quite economical.

Perhaps you’ve been dreaming of a sunset ceremony on a deserted beach. Negril, with its seven miles of pristine white beach awaits your pleasure. You can also go further out into the waters. Sailboats offer sunset ceremonies in the waters of Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

Some catamarans are large enough to accommodate 25 to 100 persons and a band comfortably, with room to dine as well. You may want to wed in a cool and mountainous verdant setting with spectacular views. What about taking your vows in the mist of a waterfall? Several spectacular cascades in Jamaica include Dunn’s River Fall in Ocho Rios, Reach Falls in Port Antonio and YS Falls on the south coast. If it suits your mood, you can wade right into the falls.

Dream of yet another picture-perfect venue. Begin your life together walking through gardens sloping down to the sea at Frenchman’s Cove in the Port Antonio area.

Then there are Jamaica’s botanical gardens, which are so extensive that some say this island must be made of flowers. Several of the most extraordinary gardens are Hope Botanical Gardens in Kingston, Cranbrook Flower Forest outside of Ocho Rios and Shaw Park Gardens and Coyaba River Gardens in Ocho Rios.

What ever your idea of a dream wedding, be sure that it would become a reality in Jamaica.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Jamaica attractions: Spanish Town

If you are visiting Jamaica, you can consider setting base in Jamaica rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments that are at an easy distance for day trips to Spanish Town.

Spanish Town is a World Heritage Site that traces its roots to the time of the Spanish occupation. It was the center of the Spanish community till it was uprooted and the island taken over by the British in 1655.

Spanish Town was the former capital of Jamaica. It is home to many fascinating buildings such as the Cathedral Church of St. James, which dates back to 1714, the King’s House, the House of Assembly, and the Court House. Then there is the Taino Museum which houses the relics of the Arawak Indians, the original inhabitants of the island.

Also see the Rodney’s Memorial built in tribute to Lord Rodney who is believed to have saved Jamaica from a combined invasion of the French and English in the Battle of the Saints in 1782.

For golf enthusiasts there is the Caymanas Golf and Country Club. This 72-par, 18-hole championship course has been in operation since the 1950’s and is known for its elevated tees and challenging 12th hole.

Browse through the lively market, shop for local crafts and haggle for the best prices. If all these activities leave you tired, realize that you can go back and relax in your Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments and be treated to a sumptuous meal prepared by your very own chef.