Religious Meetings on Jamaica's North Coast

For many groups, the North Coast resort areas are synonymous with Jamaica tourism. For many, this is the land of fun in the sun, although this resort area is also filled with small towns that offer a look beyond resort life. Many groups utilize programs such as the Jamaica Tourist Board’s Meet the People program to arrange for visits with local residents, matched by common interest. Groups can attend church services, enjoy a home meal, or visit local schools through the program.

The tourism industry began in Montego Bay; today this coastal community remains a top stop for many groups. Home of the north coast’s international airport, groups can also take commuter flights from Montego Bay to other resort areas. From here, groups can journey west to Negril, known for its relaxed style and numerous small properties. East of Montego Bay, Ocho Rios is considered the garden capital of Jamaica and is home to accommodations ranging from all-inclusives to villas. Runaway Bay holds the title as a small but quickly growing resort area, and, on the east end, Port Antonio is favored for its ecotourism activities and quiet pace.

Ocho Rios has recently been in the religious market spotlight as the host of the Jamaica GospelFest, held in April. The US-based promotion featured a well-known lineup of both American and Jamaican gospel artists. The city hosts the annual “Fun in the Son,” a unique gospel fest aimed at spring break visitors. “It is mostly targeted to the spring break travelers but we find that it appeals to all age groups,” notes JTB’s Bullock. “The event has been very successful.”           

Along with numerous all-inclusive resorts, the north coast is also home to many small properties and villas. These venues offer an intimate setting for groups; also, groups can do a buy-out of many small properties especially during off season months. For many groups, the opportunity to closely interact with the community makes smaller properties attraction. Programs such as the Jamaica Association of Villas and Apartments or JAVA (800-845-5276, www.villasinjamaica.com) feature properties that range from cliffside Negril cottages to seafront villas in Ocho Rios to private villas. Smaller groups often enjoy the bonding experience of villas; most Jamaican villas are staffed with a cook, gardener, and housekeeper.