Jamaica Travel News

POTD: Halloween at Hedonism II

Halloween is one of the most popular times of the year at Hedonism II. Many guests bring decorations (and not-so-traditional costumes); these guests decorated their room for the annual room decoration party.

Labels: Negril, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 12:27 AM

POTD: Smooth Sailing on Catamaran Cruise

Catamaran cruises are a popular afternoon activity across Jamaica; this shot was taken off the coast of Ocho Rios.

Labels: Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 10:19 AM

POTD: Window Shopping

A jewelry store window in Ocho Rios tempts shoppers in nearby resorts and from the cruise ships.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 12:16 PM

Jamaica's Marketing Plans

Last week at the 30th Annual Caribbean Tourism Conference and Trade Exhibition (CTC-30), the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, laid out some of the marketing plans for the island in the coming years.

Plans call for a targeted expansion of air service. Look for a special focus on new or enhanced service to the UK, Spain, and Eastern Europe. In Asia, key gateways are China and India; in South America, Jamaica's focus will be on Chile and Brazil. Mexico is also an important gateway. North America will remain a prime source for the island's visitors, and Vancouver will play a growing role due to its excellent links to Asian hubs.

Plans also call for increased marketing to the cruise industry. In 2009, Jamaica will welcome the newest and largest ship in the world, a "Genesis class" Royal Caribbean Cruise Line vessel with a capacity for 6400 passengers.

Labels: tourism

posted by Paris & John @ 5:18 PM

American Friends of Jamaica Enjoy Successful Gala

Photo: Ambassador Glen Holden presenting the award to Edgar and Louise Cullman

NEW YORK (October 25, 2007) Successfully raising funds for Jamaican non-profits in health, education and human development and economic advancement, The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) celebrated achievement this fall with its 26th Annual Gala and Auction for Jamaican Charities held on October 9, 2007 at Cipriani 23rd Street, New York City.

This year's prominent event honored Edgar and Louise Cullman with its prestigious International Humanitarian Award for their special love and connection with Jamaica and its people. They have unselfishly given their time and efforts to improving Jamaican lives, increasing awareness and instrumental in raising funds through a multitude of initiatives, including The Tryall Fund and Culbro.

"We are proud of what Edgar and Louise have done to assist Jamaica these past few years," commented Keisha Phipps, AFJ Executive Director. "Their dedication, perseverance and commitment to Jamaica are highly regarded and appreciated." In keeping with tradition, the honorees received an etching of a hummingbird, Jamaica's National Bird, the AFJ's symbol of leadership, philanthropy and service to Jamaica.

As guests shimmied the night away, the 26th Annual Gala and Auction entertainment was provided by Anthem Band and a dance tribute given by the Nina Buisson Contemporary Move. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception with colors of Jamaica cocktails and an exciting array of auction prizes including luxury homes and pottery by Cecil Baugh.

The celebration also marked the appointment of a new president of the organization. Former US Ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb, most recently Florida Secretary of State, will replace Ambassador Glen Holden, who served as Chairman for the past 14 years. President Cobb added, "All of us know what Glen and Gloria have personally contributed and we cannot adequately express our appreciation for what they have done. We have felt Jamaica's embrace in this new chapter."

This year's honorees join a distinguished list of individuals and corporations including: famed fashion icon Ralph Lauren and wife, Ricky Lauren; renowned billionaire and philanthropist Michael Lee Chin; and musician and social activist Harry Belafonte. Last year's recipient was Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, Island Outpost and Palm Pictures who brought international attention to Jamaican culture and also renowned for bringing Bob Marley, Traffic and U2 to the world.

The Benefit Committee was chaired by AFJ Board member Manuela Goren.

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), a non-profit organization, fosters a network of support provided by American multinational corporations with commercial interests in Jamaica, American winter residents, members of the diplomatic corps and Jamaicans living overseas. For more information or to make a donation, please visit AFJ‚s website, www.AFJ.org/gala or call 212-626-6883.

About American Friends of Jamaica:

Since its inception in 1982, the American Friends of Jamaica has raised over $11 million dollars for Jamaica non-profits focused in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. In 2006, 15 grants were awarded to organizations such as Project Help Jamaica, Jamaican Ministry of Education, the Jamaica Society for the Blind and Hanover Charities. In addition to fundraising through special events such as the gala, the AFJ has a comprehensive strategy involving individual giving and partnerships with corporations and foundations such as the Tiger Woods Foundation, Jockey International, Grace Kennedy Limited and Western Union International. In 2006, the AFJ also launched its Diaspora Giving Program, a dynamic initiative that serves to formalize charitable dollars from Diaspora members in the United States to Jamaican Organizations.

Labels: tourism

posted by Paris & John @ 4:11 PM

POTD: The Original James Bond Beach

Located west of Ocho Rios, this is the original James Bond Beach, the spot where Ursula Andress made her famous entry out of the water in Dr. No. It is located west of Ocho Rios near Laughing Waters. This shot was taken from the private beach at Roaring Pavilion Villa and Spa.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 11:17 AM

POTD: Somerset Falls, near Port Antonio

Somerset Falls, located west of Port Antonio, is a tranquil stop, far quieter than Ocho Rios's Dunn's River Falls and more accessible than many other falls in the Portland area. Lush rainforest surrounds the walk up to the falls and the highlight of the visit is the chance to board a small boat and actually go beneath the falls into a small cave. This photo was shot as we entered the cave beneath the falls.

Labels: Photo of the Day, Port Antonio

posted by Paris & John @ 2:46 PM

Jamaica--For the Day--For $99

If you're considering an island wedding or honeymoon, here's the chance to check out Jamaica for just $99 a person. which includes roundtrip airfare on Air Jamaica. You can visit Sandals Royal Caribbean & Private Island in Montego Bay for a one-day getaway featuring roundtrip champagne flights, a preview of all the amenities offered as part of a Sandals Resorts honeymoon, as well as access to jewelry connoisseurs from Colombian Emeralds International, wedding consultants, a bridal expert from Bride’s and Modern Bride magazines, and more.

Departure Cities: The ‘test drive’ offer is available from New York (JFK), Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago and Philadelphia for six remaining dates.

Dates: Flights depart in the morning and return the same evening on October 31, November 14 and 28 and January 16, 23 and 30.

The Day's Activities: If you're considering a wedding, you'll have the chance to learn about Sandals Resorts’ exclusive Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons® collections and can obtain information on getting married at any of the 12 Sandals Resorts in the Caribbean.

Additional highlights of the day include: a champagne beach barbecue, live music and entertainment, snorkeling and a variety of waters sports, as well as time to relax on the beach. Plus, couples can sample Sandals Resorts’ exclusive Red Lane® Spa and unwind at the signature swim-up pool bar. Whether it’s swimming, sunning, sailing or walking hand-in-hand on the sand, it’s all included for the day.

Prizes: Sandals’ ’Test Drive Your Honeymoon’ program also includes prize giveaways throughout the day, representing more than $5,000 in fabulous gifts! Couples will be vying for matching Satin Finish engraved wedding bands from Colombian Emeralds International, a wedding gown from Mon Cherie, a $250 gift certificate from 1-800-FLOWERS.com, a $100 Visa gift card from Bank of America, and even a Sandals Resorts Luxury Included Honeymoon, with roundtrip airfare on Air Jamaica. Additional prizes include items from Beverly Clark Collections, Destination Romance by Dawn and Johnson & Johnson. Plus, each couple will receive a VIP beach bag filled with free goodies.

Couples who book a minimum six-night stay at any of the 12 Sandals Resorts within two weeks of their ‘test drive’ visit, will have the cost of the day trip credited to their honeymoon reservation.

For more information:
• call 1-800-SANDALS (1-800-726-3257)
• visit www.sandals.com/testdrive

Labels: Montego Bay

posted by Paris & John @ 3:31 PM

POTD: Red Stripe

Red Stripe beer is almost a symbol of Jamaica. This photo was taken at Rick's in Negril.

Labels: Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 12:00 PM

Work Underway on Mystic Mountain

We're always impressed by the number and variety of attractions in the Ocho Rios area and, starting next May, there will be one more: Mystic Mountain. Ground was broken earlier this year for the attraction in the Drax Hall area of Ocho Rios.

When completed, visitors will experience Jamaica's rainforest terrain from 700 feet above sea level. The attraction will feature:

• a bobsled coaster ride
• an aerial tramway canopy tour
• a Jamaican athletic heritage museum
• a water park and other unique offerings and more

We'll keep you posted as we hear more on the development of this new project!

Labels: Ocho Rios

posted by Paris & John @ 1:58 PM

POTD: Sunset at Sunset Beach Resort

Thanks to its position on a peninsula, the aptly named Sunset Beach Resort west of Montego Bay offers a spectacular view of the sunset, the best outside of Negril.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 1:41 PM

POTD: Grave of Annie Palmer, Rose Hall

The last stop on the tour of Montego Bay's Rose Hall greathouse is at the grave of Annie Palmer, former mistress of the house. Some believe Annie murdered three husbands and countless slave lovers at the house.

Labels: Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 11:43 AM

Gleaner Reports Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall Sold

The Sunday Gleaner is reporting that Montego Bay's Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall has been sold to a Swiss company and that the hotel will keep its Ritz branding but undergo an upgrade and expansion.

For more details:
• visit "Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall sold," Jamaica Gleaner, Oct. 21

Labels: Montego Bay

posted by Paris & John @ 11:36 AM

POTD: Quiet Moment, Ocho Rios

A guest at Couples Ocho Rios enjoys a quiet moment at the ocean's edge.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 8:17 PM

POTD: Walkerswood Foods

Whether you're interested in Jamaican food from the point of view of a diner or a chef, we think you'll enjoy the Walkerswood Jerk Country Tour. The tour, which takes place at the Walkerswood factory near Ocho Rios, includes a look at the many plants that play a role in Jamaican cuisine and a visit to Mother Thyme's Spice Garden where "Mother Thyme" (above) will explain how local plants have historically been used both in terms of health and cooking on the island. A visit to the factory itself includes a chance to taste many of the sauces and condiments made here.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 3:14 PM

POTD: View from Goldeneye's Restaurant

View from the restaurant at Goldeneye, the Island Outpost resort located at author Ian Fleming's former Jamaican home. Fishermen return from sea to unload the day's catch, some of which will find its way into gourmet dishes at the small resort.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 8:58 PM

POTD: View of Port Maria from Firefly

Although Noel Coward didn't write "A Room with a View" from his home in Jamaica, the view from his house Firefly definitely fits the bill. The second floor office offers this spectacular view of Port Maria. The next time you're visiting Ocho Rios, try to schedule a tour of Firefly; it's a quiet getaway from the resort areas and a peak back at Jamaica's celebrity history as well.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 10:57 AM

New Contest for JamaicaTripper!

It's time for a new contest for JamaicaTripper! This month we're pairing up with our sister site, CaribbeanFamilyTripper.com, for a contest that features the youthful side of Jamaica with prizes including a book on Bob Marley's childhood in Nine Mile by daughter Cedella Marley. For rules and all the prizes, see our contest page. Good luck!

And congratulations to Jonathan in Bennington, Vermont; he's the winner of our first JamaicaTripper contest!

Labels: JamaicaTripper news

posted by Paris & John @ 10:45 AM

POTD: View from Greenwood Great House

The second floor balcony at Greenwood Great House, located just east of Montego Bay, offers a spectacular view of the Caribbean.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 9:06 AM

Malaria, Dengue Reported in Jamaica

After the "all clear" signal in terms of malaria a few weeks ago, there has once again been malaria reported in Jamaica along with dengue, problems brought on by the growth in the mosquito population after Hurricane Dean. For more on the problem, see the following story in the Jamaica Gleaner:

Jamaica Gleaner News - Health alert! - Cases of dengue, leptospirosis and malaria reported in Jamaica - Friday | October 12, 2007

Labels: tourism

posted by Paris & John @ 9:50 PM

POTD: Chapel at Sandals Montego Bay

Sandals Montego Bay is one of the few resorts in the Caribbean with its own traditional chapel on site, a popular place for weddings and vow renewals.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 3:58 PM

POTD: Firebreather at Half Moon Village

A firebreather performs to a convention crowd at Half Moon Village, a shopping and dining area located just east of the Half Moon resort.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 3:23 PM

Half Moon's Fern Tree Spa Opens

The new Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Honourable Bruce Golding, cut the ribbon on October 6 to mark the opening day of the new Fern Tree, the Spa at Half Moon.

This is no typical spa resort but a 68,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor spa that will serve as a sanctuary for mind and body. The resort, which has been undergoing a 15-month project which also included the addition of six beachfront spa suites.

Features: The Fern Tree Spa complex houses a relaxation lounge, yoga pavilion, hydrotherapy swimming pool, sculpture garden and several water features. Couples can reserve the plantation-style couples massage room, bedecked with wooden millwork, pitched ceilings and private patio with dipping pool. Families, wedding parties and groups will enjoy the spa cottage, with a separate living room and spa treatment rooms.

Spa Elders: Fern Tree will introduce guests to a Spa Elder, a guide versed in the art of using Jamaica's natural therapeutic remedies, to guide, create and counsel clients on a path to wellness with bespoke programs and regimes. With more than 35 years of experience, Stella Gray, the Chief Spa Elder has been creating these treatments for decades. The elder individually meets with guests to develop treatments for their specific needs. The majority of her therapies come from the natural herbs and botanicals grown in the on-site garden that she personally tends.

Spa Menu: The spa's menu includes signature spa treatments, such as the Jamaican Bush Bath and the Jamaican Green Coffee Envelopment, as well as personalized therapies made by the Spa Elder. In addition, options specially created for men, teenagers and kids are also available.

Spa Suites: The six new signature beachfront spa suites are adjacent to the spa. The suites provide all the comforts found in a traditional hotel suite along with added features and services of a personal spa. Each spa suite features an expansive bedroom with sitting area, an oversized bathroom, a personal studio that can be used for private en-suite treatments, personal fitness or yoga and a private patio overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Special features of the spa suite include an organic spa refreshment bar and spa bath bar.

Labels: Montego Bay

posted by Paris & John @ 3:25 PM

POTD: Cruising Up the Black River

The Black River, named for the peat deposits that stain its waters, is a favorite day trip for visitors to the South Coast or to Negril. Cruises ply these rivers and offer visitors a chance to see the mangrove-lined banks that are home to numerous bird species as well as the Black River's most famous residents: crocodiles.

Labels: Photo of the Day, South Coast

posted by Paris & John @ 3:13 PM

POTD: A Cold Jelly along Bamboo Avenue

Young jelly coconuts tempt many travelers to stop as they make their way through the scenic drive known as Bamboo Avenue on the South Coast. Here tall bamboo bend over the road and form a tropical canopy.

Labels: Photo of the Day, South Coast

posted by Paris & John @ 11:28 AM

Couples Resorts Sponsoring Second Honeymoon Contest

Here's an interesting contest we just received word of: visitors to the newlywed website TheNest.com can enter to win a second honeymoon to Jamaica, courtesy of Couples Resorts, by playing the website’s newest interactive game.

The Prize: The grand prize, valued at approximately $3000, is a “Second Honeymoon” getaway for two that includes two roundtrip tickets to Montego Bay, Jamaica and five nights all-inclusive accommodation at the winner’s choice of one of the four Couples Resorts properties.

Dates: TheNest.com sweepstakes lasts from October 1 - October 31, 2007.

How to Enter: To enter, participants can fill out an entry form at www.thenest.com/games/marriageinvaders . The winner will be selected and notified in November.

Labels: Negril, Ocho Rios

posted by Paris & John @ 11:20 AM

POTD: Jerk Pit at Scotchies Too, Ocho Rios

Scotchies, located on the east side of Montego Bay on the North Coast Highway, has long been a favorite jerk stop for travelers and now it has some competition: Scotchies Too. Located in Ocho Rios, the popular jerk restaurant opened in late 2006 and offers all the treasures of the pit: jerk pork, jerk chicken, jerk sausage, you name it.

Labels: food, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 11:24 AM

POTD: Sunrise over Montego Bay

Another day begins for Montego Bay, as seen from the towers of Sunset Beach Resort.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 8:06 AM

POTD: Bayside Restaurant, Couples Ocho Rios

Bayside Restaurant, one of many restaurants at the all-inclusive Couples Ocho Rios, is literally perched over the water. Seaside diners enjoy (not just a great Italian dinner) but the gentle lapping of the surf beneath them and the sound of evening frogs in the hills.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 10:07 AM

POTD: Dunn's River Falls

If you know one picture of Jamaica, it's that of Dunn's River Falls, the spectacular cascade of water that comes from the mountains down to the sea. The climb starts at the beach and visitors work their way up the falls with the help of local guides. If you're not visiting from a cruise ship, try to plan your visit to the falls on a day when cruise ships aren't calling in Ocho Rios; you'll find the falls far less crowded.

Labels: Ocho Rios, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 10:28 AM

POTD: "The Black Farmer" Visits Mafoota Farm

Late last year we traveled with a group of journalists from the US, UK, and Canada accompanying Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, better known to UK readers as "The Black Farmer." Emmanuel-Jones produces a line of specialty food products including The Black Farmer® sausages in the UK. As a young boy, he lived in Jamaica. A film crew recorded his visit to the island including this stop at Mafoota Farm, a cooperative farm located south of Montego Bay. The farm provides many of the local products used by chefs at the Sandals resorts.

Labels: Montego Bay, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 7:10 AM

Island Outpost Offering Fitness Options

Jamaica's resorts aren't waiting until January to start thinking about fitness resolutions, and Island Outpost, always an innovator, is promoting a healthier lifestyle with several fitness offerings.

"Instead of that spinning class, trade it for mountain biking in Jamaica. Skip the laps in the pool for a swim in the Caribbean Sea. Running on the treadmill? Forget it. Get up and get out and into the countryside...staying in shape has never felt or looked so good," says Andria Mitsakos, president and CEO of AMPR. "Island Outpost's collection of hotels in Jamaica helps release the stress and elevates the spirit with adrenaline-packed programs to stay fit and motivated throughout the year!"

Island Outpost offers two types of fitness retreat getaways - the adventure and the holistic (meditative or spa). Whichever fits the mood or personality, guests who are active on an Island Outpost vacation recharge their body, mind and soul and even receive a sense of motivation to continue back at home, stronger, healthier and ready to take on the world! Shaping up comes easy at the following hotels:

Strawberry Hill (Blue Mountains)

For the overworked, rest assured, yoga is king here and private yoga retreats are offered seasonally at Strawberry Hill. Pure fitness amidst the cleansing mists of Jamaica's Blue Mountains boost morale and holiday spirits, especially with fall retreats such as the Healthy Living program offering Yardi Fitness, H20 Cardio and Resistance Training and guided by
professional instructors and Jamaican vibes. Healthy Living is offered in September and November.

A-listers and Zen-seekers seek tranquility throughout the year here with mountain trails for bicycling, walking and jogging. Trekking through the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park or swimming at the nearby Upper Reach Falls rejuvenates muscles while snorkeling and fishing at nearby Lyme Cay island add to the fun.

Rates: Rates for Strawberry Hill start at $395 based on double occupancy now through December 19, 2007 and then $595 December 20, 2007 through April 19, 2008.

Jake's (Treasure Beach)

The funky bohemian hideaway Jake's lures the adventurously fit minded with the off road Jamaican terrain right at its doorstep. Guests can opt to go hiking, biking and kayaking solo (and rent their own equipment) or team up with local Andy Nembhard who operates a guided service out of Jake's.

Whether it's off-roading or taking a leisurely ride through this sleepy fishing village, professional mountain bikes will help make the journey a comfortable one. Jake's is also a great place to go on a walking/hiking tour -- guests can choose from several different suggested routes listed in their in-room guides that will have them meandering along the coastline all the way to the nature reserve at the Great Pedro Bluff. Early morning kayak trips along the coasts of Frenchman's Bay, Calabash Bay and Great Bay can also be organized. And new this season guests can enjoy weekly yoga sessions at the Calabash Gazebo.

Now in its 13th year the Jake's Jamaican Off-Road Triathlon takes place every spring, featuring a 500-meter ocean swim, a 13.7-mile mountain bike course and a 4.3-mile cross-country run and can be done as a team or individually. The race is the main fundraiser for Breds Treasure Beach Foundation, a local non-profit that helps raise funds for sports, education,
environmental initiatives and health programs in the small fishing village of Treasure Beach.

Rates: Rates for Jake's start at $95 based on double occupancy now through December 14, 2007, and $115 between December 17, 2007 through April 19, 2008.

Goldeneye (Oracabessa)

The island escape that inspired Ian Fleming's James Bond novels remains a hotbed of action and thrills. To hone 007-sharp reflexes and channel the Bond spirit, risk-takers mix daring explorations into their workouts with Jet Ski safaris, snorkeling, kayaking and deep-sea fishing.

A mini-triathlon challenges guests to 20 miles each of walking/jogging, kayaking and swimming. Guests with a competitive itch opt to defy the laws of physics with Jamaica's Fat Tyre Festival on February 10, 2008.

Rates: Rates for Goldeneye start at $660 based on double occupancy through December 18, 2007 and $840 December 19, 2007 through April 18, 2008.

The Caves (Negril)

On the westernmost tip of Jamaica atop volcanic cliffs, The Caves provides aquatics with guided snorkeling tours through the caves and grottoes exploring the exciting life that lies beneath. Most leap right off the tropical cliffs with tightened abs and glutes for that extra work-out. Guests kick-off their day with morning yoga, free of charge, with Rosa, the hotel's certified yoga instructor.

Rates: Rates for The Caves start at $495 per room, double occupancy, now through December 19, 2007. The Caves is all-inclusive which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, house wines and spirits. In addition to snorkeling equipment, water rafts, bicycles and kayaks are available.

For More Information:
• call 1-800-OUTPOST or 44 (0) 1895 450 731 in the UK
• visit www.islandoutpost.com

Labels: Kingston, Negril, Ocho Rios, South Coast

posted by Paris & John @ 5:10 PM

POTD: Hedonism II Prude Beach

Hedonism II in Negril boasts the Caribbean's highest repeat guest rate. Guests are drawn to the resort's anything goes atmosphere...the "Be wicked for a week" slogan here just about says it all! The beach directly behind this pier is the resort's "prude" or clothed beach. Notice all the empty chairs? It's easy to see which of the resort's two beaches--clothed and unclothed--draws the crowds!

Labels: Negril, Photo of the Day

posted by Paris & John @ 2:22 PM