Tipping
by choochy420
A lot of people ask about tipping in Jamaica. I have found in my travels that most of the working Jamaicans barely make a sustainable salary and rely heavily on tips.
Therefore I tip pretty heavy when I get good service and when service is not all that great I still give them at least 15%.
Another thing to remember is to agree on cab fare before getting in a cab. A lot of tourists get trapped by not asking "how much" and get suprised when the driver charges what he wants, leading to an altercation. No one wants a hassle like that on vacation, so to avoid it always ask first, then tip accordingly.
I also am not in the practice of "haggling" with vendors. If I like something at a craft stall, I usually pay what the asking price is if I really want it. I think it is kind of rude to beat them up on pricing. Think about it, how many wood carvings do they have to sell a day to feed their families??
Be courteous and respectful of the locals and you will get it back.
Mayfield Falls Mineral Springs
by jessiem
Located in the mountains of Westmoreland, about an hour from Negril is Mayfield Falls. A short, scenic hike takes you to the falls where you find the river of mineral water, known for its healing properties. Mayfield Falls has 21 pools of jacuzzi-like water, underwater caves and cliff diving. There's a bar on the property if you need some rum punch to quench your thirst. Lunch is available, but call first to make sure the restaurant is open during the off-season. The trip is about 3-4 hours including your drive from Negril. Mayfield costs $15 in addition to your taxi drive, which can be expensive.
Bring water shoes if you have them. If not, you can rent some shoes for about $3 US. Also bring a towel, camera, sunscreen and sunglasses.
Touristy excess
by dustmon about Ricks Cafe
I have been coming to Negril for over 35 years, now, and seen Ricks grow from a fun place to eat, swim, and drink up the sunsets, to the mega-bar it is today. I always walk through once on my trips to Negril just to get the vibe, but it is usually pretty crowded and loud. Drinks and food are pretty expensive, but try a Daquiri while there. Also fun to watch the guys diving from the trees surrounding the cove----snorkling around Ricks used to be spectacular, but is mostly fished out these days. There is a local group trying to get money to "Re-do" some reef around Negril so that maybe fish will return. Red Stripe Beer
Jamaican soul food
by dustmon about Sips and Bites
This is the place to go for a real Jamaican breakfast, or ackee and saltfish--one of Jamaicas National dishes....No frills here but cheap prices and local flavor---they also do regular American breakfasts and lunch and dinner as well---good stews at night with real Jamaican foods and veggies. Located right past Rock House Resort on the cliff road. This is definitely real Jamaican food, no doubt and highly recommended.
closed on saturdays Brown stew chicken
BEACH!
by Sininen
If you love sunbathing Negril definately is your place. Sand is fine and white, the beach streches for miles, water is crystal clear and turquoise and warm. Ideal place for a relaxing holiday and having gorgeous suntan.