Top Jamaica hotels
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Jamaica is the Queen of tourist traps. Think about what you are buying before you put out the dough, and most importantly when booking tours or other, make sure it is legit. Go through an agency, not some local on the street. Many tourists in many countries have paid good money to a 'guide' and been left with no guide. Before taking a taxi ride, agree on a farewith the driver, and pay only the agreed upon fare and only after you get to your destination.
Our resort (Sandals) had what they called a 'Party Cruise.' For $60 a person, they take you out on an 'all-you-can-drink' cruise that includes a stop for snorkeling and a stop at the themed restaurant called Jimmy Buffet's Marguritaville. Only, the all you can drink consisted of vodka punch or rum punch. And you had time for only about one drink before you reached the snorkeling site (probably a good thing, drunk snorkelers could be trouble). Then you come up from all that saltwater, so your not exactly craving alcohol. At Marguitaville, you have to buy your own drinks. Pretty expensive, I might add. You stay for about a 1/2 hour, and it's back to the resort. On the way back, the ladies get foot massages (not bad). But the catch is that when the ship gets in site of the dock, they suddenly pull everyone to their feet and start the dancing. At this time is when they start pouring shots...
Yes, Dunns River Falls is a tourist trap but it's a must visit tourist trap. Do go to the falls and definitely climb them and take lots of pics. Don't hire a guide - it's really not necessary. Don't let yourself get harrassed by the hustlers in the little tourist market which you must walk through to exit the park. Oh yes - if you don't want to go barefoot then wear sensible shoes that can be used on slippery rocks and that you won't mind getting wet.
Use the local 'Cambio' to change any money (including travellers cheques) as they give a much better rate than you will get at your hotel. Change money into Jamican dollars, not US, as you will generally get more for your money.
Keep away from Ocho Rios and Montego Bay when the cruise ships are in town. Both these towns have become quite touristy, and although there are some good bars, hotels and restaurants, there are nicer places on the island to explore.
Its safe to leave the resorts as long as your with a few people. The Jamacians are extremely friendly but they want to sell you everything, braid your hair and sell you as much pot as they can! There are back ally markets that you can shop at only if you go in a large group. Make sure you take small bills and don't show how much money you have.
Went to Negril and got out of the taxi in the West end part of the resort - within 20 minutes i was offered two women and a class A drug, stick to the beaten path. There are always beggars, get used to them.There are areas like downtown Kingston that are best avoided due to drugs, violence etc. Stick to somewhere like Pablo's bar ( thats him in the picture) in Belmont, not too far from the guest house or the Peter Tosh memorial, have a cold one, chill out in the yard and meet some of the nicest people on the island.
Avoid the in town shops they are over priced and you can get the same stuff from the locals. My advice is always to shop where the locals shop - you usually get better deals and the locals benefit from the income.
Film is expensive here; bring enough to last your stay. If you are after human interest you may find reactions unpredictable. Many Jamaicans object to being photographed unless they are dressed in their Sunday best. Others object, period. Others demand a money. Others, especially schoolchildren will ham it up for free.If you happen to have a video, you could be swamped by people who want to get in the movies.
When at the town markets, never accept the first price for an item that the merchants try to give you. You can always talk them down in price or go to another stand selling the same item for less. They will always give you a deal if you ASK.
Blue Cave Castle Negril
5 Reviews and 132 Opinions One of the most beautiful spots on the cliffs, Blue Cave Castle actually has its own cave, making it...
Couples Tower Isle Ocho Rios Ocho Rios
7 Reviews and 1157 Opinions We got married on the beach at the all inclusive Couples Tower Island on 10/2/10. I cannot say...
Round Hill Hotel & Villas Montego Bay
9 Reviews and 343 Opinions I got to stay one night (only one night boo!). We arrived at night and left after breakfast. I did...
Reviews and photos of Jamaica attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Jamaica sightseeing.
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Q: We will be stopping at Ocho Rios for one day this January on a Carnival cruise. Do you guys have any ideas for using this short...
A: Well, you can do the touristy things like Duns Falls http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/3e837/19dc08/ and swim with dolphins in pools or sit on the beach and if you can...
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