Situated in the heart of Jamaica and characterized by gushing waterfalls and fern-clad cliffs, Ocho Rios was once described the explorer as ‘the fairest island ever eyes beheld.’ Today it is known as one of the hottest spots in Jamaica and offers a combination of tranquil beauty and stunning attractions. A holiday in this part of Jamaica promises to offer a fun-filled and joyous experience, which will motivate you to come back to this paradise time and again.
However, if you really want to make your holiday a memorable event, you should consider staying at one of the Ocho Rios apartments. It is worthwhile to stay in a vacation rental home in Jamaica because they not only give you the choice to stay among beautiful surroundings, but also experience a luxurious lifestyle. Once you have comfortably settled down in at your Ocho Rios condo, you can relax and chalk out a well thought out plan of visiting the important sights and attractions.
There are many interesting attractions that will keep you occupied all day long, however, if you were to start at one place, the ideal spot would be Dunn’s River Falls. It is a magnificent series of falls that cascade from a height of 600feet and trickle down slippery steps to finally join the vast expanse of the blue sea. You can even climb up the steps and reach the top of the waterfalls, and then from there, proceed to the vibrant and a colorful local market.
If you are traveling with your kids, you must take them to Dolphin’s Cove. Here your kids and you can enjoy watching the adorable antics of the dolphins and even swim with them.
However, this is just the beginning of your exciting adventure in Ocho Rios since there is much more that this beautiful paradise offers. A visit to the Coyaba River Garden and Museum will give you the opportunity to enjoy a colorful display of a species of different flowers and plants. Among the many beautiful varieties, one, which is worth marveling at, is the multi-colored New Guinea impatiens, also known as Busy Lizzie.
Ocho Rios is also famed worldwide because it is known to be the home of the legendary writer Ian Fleming, who made this place his base for penning down the famous James Bond novels. You can visit his hilltop home Goldeneye and also enjoy live music performances in the evening at the popular James Bond Beach.
You can round up your day of fun and activities by heading to the warm comforts of your Jamaica villas. Here you will be well taken care of and looked after by courteous maids and housekeeping staff. Various entertainment options such as CD/DVD player, TV, Internet access will make you feel completely at home. These villas in Jamaica are well surrounded by scenic vistas and amazing beach views, therefore not allowing you to face even one dull moment. So, get set to plan a holiday in this magical wonderland called Ocho Rios in Jamaica.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A day in Kingston in Jamaica
Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, is one of the most fascinating places on the island. Settle down in your Jamaica accommodation and then plan a day tour to Kingston. In fact, there are some Jamaica rentals that arrange for day trips to the town.
You can start your tour by catching the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place on the hour every hour and then follow it up by paying homage to the nation’s icons such as Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley. You can also visit the Redemption Song statues in Emancipation Park, which commemorate the end of slavery in 1838.
Once you have had your full of history, you can then explore the art scene. Visit the
National Gallery, situated in tranquil surroundings by the waterfront. The works in the gallery aptly reflect the exuberance and vitality of post-independence Jamaican art. Some of the highlights here include The Conversation by Barrington Watson, a lyrical, evocative testament to the nobility of Jamaican women and the arresting works by Albert Huie and sculptures by Edna Manley.
If all this browsing makes you hungry, head to the foothills of the Blue Mountains that are at a half hour’s drive from the town and compliment your meals by the views of the undulating hills and the sea beyond.
On your back, stop at Devon House, a colonial mansion built in 1881 by George Stiebel, Jamaica's first black millionaire, The house is set in extensive grounds and is surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns. The priceless period décor reflects bygone grandeur and racial pride. Post-tour, enjoy a coconut ice cream in the gardens.
If you are Kingston, you have to visit the Bob Marley Museum at Hope Road, the home the global reggae icon. Wander through his spartan bedroom, the kitchen where his vegetarian meals were prepared and the room, complete with bullet holes in the wall, where he survived an assassination attempt in 1976. The interactive museum sheds light on the man behind the myth.
Finally, visit Port Royal, which was some 400 years ago described as “the most sinful city in the world”. Today, it does not live up to its reputation for debauchery, however the tales of the bygone era are still alive.
After a fun filled day, return to your Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments and be treated to the most sumptuous local delights prepared by your chef.
You can start your tour by catching the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place on the hour every hour and then follow it up by paying homage to the nation’s icons such as Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley. You can also visit the Redemption Song statues in Emancipation Park, which commemorate the end of slavery in 1838.
Once you have had your full of history, you can then explore the art scene. Visit the
National Gallery, situated in tranquil surroundings by the waterfront. The works in the gallery aptly reflect the exuberance and vitality of post-independence Jamaican art. Some of the highlights here include The Conversation by Barrington Watson, a lyrical, evocative testament to the nobility of Jamaican women and the arresting works by Albert Huie and sculptures by Edna Manley.
If all this browsing makes you hungry, head to the foothills of the Blue Mountains that are at a half hour’s drive from the town and compliment your meals by the views of the undulating hills and the sea beyond.
On your back, stop at Devon House, a colonial mansion built in 1881 by George Stiebel, Jamaica's first black millionaire, The house is set in extensive grounds and is surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns. The priceless period décor reflects bygone grandeur and racial pride. Post-tour, enjoy a coconut ice cream in the gardens.
If you are Kingston, you have to visit the Bob Marley Museum at Hope Road, the home the global reggae icon. Wander through his spartan bedroom, the kitchen where his vegetarian meals were prepared and the room, complete with bullet holes in the wall, where he survived an assassination attempt in 1976. The interactive museum sheds light on the man behind the myth.
Finally, visit Port Royal, which was some 400 years ago described as “the most sinful city in the world”. Today, it does not live up to its reputation for debauchery, however the tales of the bygone era are still alive.
After a fun filled day, return to your Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments and be treated to the most sumptuous local delights prepared by your chef.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Jamaica tours and adventures
Guided tours are a great way to explore the island of Jamaica. Most tourist attractions are located on the north coast of the island. If you are planning a trip to the island you might wish to consider setting base in the several Jamaica rentals that are at a convenient distance for day trips yet far from the crowds to let you savour the moments in peace and in the company of your loved ones.
To help you explore the best of what Jamaica has to offer, here are some tours that you can consider.
Accompong Maroon Tour: The tour initiates you to the amazing history of the island. The tour takes you to some villages in the southeast of Montego Bay, the island’s second largest city. You can meet villagers and tour the historic sites related to the Maroons, who were the descendents of runaway slaves.
Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park: The park is the largest conservation area in Jamaica. This is definitely a must visit for the nature enthusiasts who can explore unspoilt forest trails and also hike up to the Blue Mountains peak at 7,402 feet above sea level. The views from the peak are amazing and each step of the climb is well worth the effort. The park also includes the Hollywell Park, a natural treasure in its own right.
Blue Lagoon: This is not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon of the movie fame. However, it is equally if not better than the one it shares its name with. You can admire the shimmering 200-feet deep swimming hole with the colours of the water ranging from cobalt blue to the emerald green.
Bob Marley Museum: Jamaica is synonymous with Bob Marley and if you are a reggae fan, you have to visit this museum in Kingston that houses memorabilia related to the great composer and singer.
Dolphins Cover at Treasure Reef: You can spend a fun-filled day swimming with two lovable bottleneck dolphins. The adventurous can also try swimming with trained nurse sharks. There are rainforest trails that you can explore and also enjoy a picnic on the pristine beach.
Black River Safari: Journey up the Black River and you will be able to see crocodiles lolling on the riverbank. The safari gives you the perfect opportunity to glimpse the varied flora and fauna of the island. Some safaris are not meant for children and so if you are travelling with small kids, you can consider staying in family-friendly rentals such as Silver Sands Villas Jamaica that provide childcare facilities and also have a separate play area for kids.
To help you explore the best of what Jamaica has to offer, here are some tours that you can consider.
Accompong Maroon Tour: The tour initiates you to the amazing history of the island. The tour takes you to some villages in the southeast of Montego Bay, the island’s second largest city. You can meet villagers and tour the historic sites related to the Maroons, who were the descendents of runaway slaves.
Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park: The park is the largest conservation area in Jamaica. This is definitely a must visit for the nature enthusiasts who can explore unspoilt forest trails and also hike up to the Blue Mountains peak at 7,402 feet above sea level. The views from the peak are amazing and each step of the climb is well worth the effort. The park also includes the Hollywell Park, a natural treasure in its own right.
Blue Lagoon: This is not to be confused with the Blue Lagoon of the movie fame. However, it is equally if not better than the one it shares its name with. You can admire the shimmering 200-feet deep swimming hole with the colours of the water ranging from cobalt blue to the emerald green.
Bob Marley Museum: Jamaica is synonymous with Bob Marley and if you are a reggae fan, you have to visit this museum in Kingston that houses memorabilia related to the great composer and singer.
Dolphins Cover at Treasure Reef: You can spend a fun-filled day swimming with two lovable bottleneck dolphins. The adventurous can also try swimming with trained nurse sharks. There are rainforest trails that you can explore and also enjoy a picnic on the pristine beach.
Black River Safari: Journey up the Black River and you will be able to see crocodiles lolling on the riverbank. The safari gives you the perfect opportunity to glimpse the varied flora and fauna of the island. Some safaris are not meant for children and so if you are travelling with small kids, you can consider staying in family-friendly rentals such as Silver Sands Villas Jamaica that provide childcare facilities and also have a separate play area for kids.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
River rafting in Jamaica
Jamaica provides plenty of opportunities for water activities with one being river rafting. Whether you are on a family trip or a honeymoon, this is one activity you can add to your itinerary. And just to add that if you are travelling to the island, you may also wish to consider staying in Jamaica rentals such as Silver Sands Villas that comprise private Jamaica villas and cottages located in beautiful settings facing the sea.
Coming back to river rafting, one option is to try out rafting tours available on the Black River, White River, Martha Brae and Rio Grande. You can just sit back, relax, enjoy the dramatic landscape that opens before your eyes and watch the wildlife. The rafts, which are approximately 30-feet are captained by experts who not only ensure you have a safe journey but also that you enjoy your experience by regaling you with interesting information about the island. If you are looking for something really romantic, you can also enjoy a moonlight river rafting tour.
You can also try out white water rafting as there are plenty of fast paced water locations in Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Ocho Rios. Should you wish, you can also hire the services of a local guide to help you navigate the rapids. White water rafting tours are also easily available and usually are three to five hours long.
Before booking a tour, do make sure to study what is included in it. Some tours include picnics and drinks while others do not. If they don’t, take care to carry along bottled water because it can get pretty hot out there on the river. Also, remember to take sunscreen and mosquito repellents for if you go unprepared, bugs and the sun can ruin a perfect rafting trip.
As a closing note, if you are on a family trip and are travelling with kids, you can consider staying in private rentals such as Silver Sands villas that not only provide childcare facilities but also have a separate play area for kids. So you can go out for rafting or any other activity meant for adults secure in the knowledge your kids are happy, occupied and well taken care of.
Coming back to river rafting, one option is to try out rafting tours available on the Black River, White River, Martha Brae and Rio Grande. You can just sit back, relax, enjoy the dramatic landscape that opens before your eyes and watch the wildlife. The rafts, which are approximately 30-feet are captained by experts who not only ensure you have a safe journey but also that you enjoy your experience by regaling you with interesting information about the island. If you are looking for something really romantic, you can also enjoy a moonlight river rafting tour.
You can also try out white water rafting as there are plenty of fast paced water locations in Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Ocho Rios. Should you wish, you can also hire the services of a local guide to help you navigate the rapids. White water rafting tours are also easily available and usually are three to five hours long.
Before booking a tour, do make sure to study what is included in it. Some tours include picnics and drinks while others do not. If they don’t, take care to carry along bottled water because it can get pretty hot out there on the river. Also, remember to take sunscreen and mosquito repellents for if you go unprepared, bugs and the sun can ruin a perfect rafting trip.
As a closing note, if you are on a family trip and are travelling with kids, you can consider staying in private rentals such as Silver Sands villas that not only provide childcare facilities but also have a separate play area for kids. So you can go out for rafting or any other activity meant for adults secure in the knowledge your kids are happy, occupied and well taken care of.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Jamaica off the beaten track
If you are looking for a truly unique experience in Jamaica, then you must go off the beaten track away from the crowds to taste the real flavour of this breathtakingly beautiful island.
First, instead of staying in all-inclusive resort or hotel, 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 Jamaica 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. If you are staying in Silver Sands villas, the place would be just an hour’s drive away. The staff would arrange transport for you and en route the driver would take you through a journey into the countryside where you can slip back in time and get a glimpse of the real Jamaica.
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. The journey will take you through some picture postcard perfect places such as Queen of Spain Valley, Wakefield, and Dromilly. If you are interested in architecture, you will get plenty of opportunities to see beautiful old country houses from another century.
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. There are areas for fires and camp-style cooking.
There are small farms all around and if you are lucky, you may meet one of the local small farmers, who will be happy to show you his ground. If it is natural beauty, peace and serenity that you seek, Two Hills Falls and Park is where you will be able to experience it all.
First, instead of staying in all-inclusive resort or hotel, 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 Jamaica 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. If you are staying in Silver Sands villas, the place would be just an hour’s drive away. The staff would arrange transport for you and en route the driver would take you through a journey into the countryside where you can slip back in time and get a glimpse of the real Jamaica.
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. The journey will take you through some picture postcard perfect places such as Queen of Spain Valley, Wakefield, and Dromilly. If you are interested in architecture, you will get plenty of opportunities to see beautiful old country houses from another century.
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. There are areas for fires and camp-style cooking.
There are small farms all around and if you are lucky, you may meet one of the local small farmers, who will be happy to show you his ground. If it is natural beauty, peace and serenity that you seek, Two Hills Falls and Park is where you will be able to experience it all.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Activities in Jamaica
If you are travelling to Jamaica, there is lots that you can do, see, explore and discover on its beaches, mountains, coastline, rainforests and more. Also you can make your trip to the island all the more special by staying in Jamaica rentals that especially cater to families or groups of friends who wish for some privacy and space to spend quality time together amidst the island’s beautiful surroundings.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, here are some activities that you can consider.
Biking
The agency, Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours Ltd offers all-inclusive, all-day biking tour in Jamaica's Blue Mountains, the Caribbean's highest mountain range. One of the best tours is the Downhill Bicycle Tour, which gives you the perfect opportunity to appreciate the panoramic vistas as also the exotic flora and fauna. The tour also includes a Jamaican brunch and lunch at a local cafe. This is a guided tour and you are also provided safety equipment. Besides, you also get some time for a refreshing waterfall swim. You can also go for solo cycling. However, note that there are not many bike repair shops so remember to take along a repair kit.
Golf
Jamaica offers more major golf championship courses than any other nation in the Caribbean. Some of the best ones are to be found in Montego Bay. If you are a golf enthusiast, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas, a secure community of Jamaica villas and cottages in the famous north coast, with convenient distance of Montego Bay and Runaway Bay. The Cinnamon Hill Ocean Course at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club is ranked among the top-five golf courses in the world. You can also check the North Shore SuperClubs' Runaway Golf Club at Runaway Bay and Sandals Golf & Country Club at Ocho Rios.
Hiking
Besides hiking the Blue Mountains, you can also hike the various trails through the Rio Grande Valley. One of the highlights is the 7-hour White River Falls jaunt along the banks of the White River. If you are looking for an easier walk, you can try out the Scatter Waterfalls, floating on a bamboo raft across the Rio Grande. The 11km (7-mile) Guava River Trail takes you along the Guava River right into the heart of the Blue Mountains.
Horseback riding
You’ll find the best riding opportunities on the north shore. Jamaica’s most famous equestrian centre is Chukka Caribbean Adventures less than four miles away east of Runaway Bay. They have on offer horseback ride and swim tour that takes you on a guided ride along some scenic routes then finally along a beach where you can ride bareback into the sea.
Scuba diving
Underwater Jamaica opens up a world of coral reefs, etched with canyons and grottos with sheer vertical walls. The temperature averages 78-85 degrees with visibility upto 100 feet. The best diving sites on the island can be found in Falmouth, and the marine parks in Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Negril.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, here are some activities that you can consider.
Biking
The agency, Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours Ltd offers all-inclusive, all-day biking tour in Jamaica's Blue Mountains, the Caribbean's highest mountain range. One of the best tours is the Downhill Bicycle Tour, which gives you the perfect opportunity to appreciate the panoramic vistas as also the exotic flora and fauna. The tour also includes a Jamaican brunch and lunch at a local cafe. This is a guided tour and you are also provided safety equipment. Besides, you also get some time for a refreshing waterfall swim. You can also go for solo cycling. However, note that there are not many bike repair shops so remember to take along a repair kit.
Golf
Jamaica offers more major golf championship courses than any other nation in the Caribbean. Some of the best ones are to be found in Montego Bay. If you are a golf enthusiast, you can consider staying in Silver Sands villas, a secure community of Jamaica villas and cottages in the famous north coast, with convenient distance of Montego Bay and Runaway Bay. The Cinnamon Hill Ocean Course at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club is ranked among the top-five golf courses in the world. You can also check the North Shore SuperClubs' Runaway Golf Club at Runaway Bay and Sandals Golf & Country Club at Ocho Rios.
Hiking
Besides hiking the Blue Mountains, you can also hike the various trails through the Rio Grande Valley. One of the highlights is the 7-hour White River Falls jaunt along the banks of the White River. If you are looking for an easier walk, you can try out the Scatter Waterfalls, floating on a bamboo raft across the Rio Grande. The 11km (7-mile) Guava River Trail takes you along the Guava River right into the heart of the Blue Mountains.
Horseback riding
You’ll find the best riding opportunities on the north shore. Jamaica’s most famous equestrian centre is Chukka Caribbean Adventures less than four miles away east of Runaway Bay. They have on offer horseback ride and swim tour that takes you on a guided ride along some scenic routes then finally along a beach where you can ride bareback into the sea.
Scuba diving
Underwater Jamaica opens up a world of coral reefs, etched with canyons and grottos with sheer vertical walls. The temperature averages 78-85 degrees with visibility upto 100 feet. The best diving sites on the island can be found in Falmouth, and the marine parks in Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Negril.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Tips for planning your Jamaica holiday
Jamaica is known for its sun, sand, reggae and rum. Add to that beautiful rainforests, majestic mountains, stunning waterfalls and dramatic landscapes and you will understand why it is so popular as a holiday destination. Here is some information that can help you plan your trip to the island.
Accommodation: The island boasts a wide range of Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments to suit all group sizes and budgets. Ranging from the ultra luxurious to the comfortable and everything in between, these rentals are professionally managed, provide all the facilities of a hotel and are your home away from home on the island.
Currency/bank: The island’s currency is the Jamaican dollar. The US dollar is also widely accepted. You’ll come across many licensed cambios and bureaux de change so you can get the money converted here on the island. In a rare case if you don’t come across any money exchange, you can visit the bank and get the money exchanged there. The ATMs in the country also accept international bankcards with Visa, Mastercard, Cirus, and Plus logos. You can also avail of credit card advances, cash traveler’s checks, and other financial service. The exchange rate varies from day to day and so you can shop around for the best deal.
Climate: Jamaica enjoys year round tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degree F, though slightly lower at the mountains. Carry along light cotton clothes, swimwear as also a light sweater if you plan to go hiking.
Communications: In Jamaica, you can avail direct international telephone service 24 hours a day. The telephone operators will readily help you with third party transfers and credit card calls also. Jamaica rentals such as Silver Sands Villas provide internet access as also phone, fax and cable services as part of the package.
Accommodation: The island boasts a wide range of Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments to suit all group sizes and budgets. Ranging from the ultra luxurious to the comfortable and everything in between, these rentals are professionally managed, provide all the facilities of a hotel and are your home away from home on the island.
Currency/bank: The island’s currency is the Jamaican dollar. The US dollar is also widely accepted. You’ll come across many licensed cambios and bureaux de change so you can get the money converted here on the island. In a rare case if you don’t come across any money exchange, you can visit the bank and get the money exchanged there. The ATMs in the country also accept international bankcards with Visa, Mastercard, Cirus, and Plus logos. You can also avail of credit card advances, cash traveler’s checks, and other financial service. The exchange rate varies from day to day and so you can shop around for the best deal.
Climate: Jamaica enjoys year round tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degree F, though slightly lower at the mountains. Carry along light cotton clothes, swimwear as also a light sweater if you plan to go hiking.
Communications: In Jamaica, you can avail direct international telephone service 24 hours a day. The telephone operators will readily help you with third party transfers and credit card calls also. Jamaica rentals such as Silver Sands Villas provide internet access as also phone, fax and cable services as part of the package.
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