Our long-weekend in Montego Bay — Jamaica+ a must-do-list of things to see — places to go.
Jamaica was our first trip overseas for our little group, #ThreesCompany. I’ve had my eye on this country for a while — many amazing Jamaican friends.
It was early March, right around when people started talking about Covid-19, and my partner had told me the virus would worsen, so I wasn’t sure if we should cancel. After googling COVID and Jamaica, I found that it was not one reported coronavirus case in Jamaica, so I decided to keep my ticket and go.
We flew in from three different cities and met at the airport at our destination — as we always do — this time, Montego Bay. It was a couple of security changes that made me question if I had made the right decision, but the uplifting Jamaican vacation-vibe that met us outside took my mind off the coronavirus. We got help finding our cab, and off we went — super excited.
We drove about 5 mins from the airport to our airbnb. 14th Floor corner apartment with a breathtaking view of the #1 beach in Jamaica — “Doctors Cave Beach” ($6-day pass for “outsiders).
We were right in the middle of the “Hip Strip,” the center of Montego Bay, where all the action is. Our building was old, but the view alone was worth every penny.
Doctors Cave beach has daily activities from water trampolines to boat and yacht trips. Not to mention a couple of hilarious bartenders that couldn’t stop serving us drinks. (And one fell in love, poor guy. Hooooolly! 😆)
I have to admit we got kind of stuck there — in the bar… lol. A mix of Covid-19 fears and not sure what would be open, just being happy that we were together on the beach — enjoying the small things in life!
Jamaica’s Must-Do’s
1. Green Grotto Caves — a great adventure! Subterranean lake and impressive natural limestone rock formations.
2. Dunn’s River Falls and Mayfield Falls. Beautiful (cold) waterfalls with stunning surrounding nature. It’s the most popular attraction for a reason.
3. Dolphin Cove. Marine attraction — here you can swim with dolphins, sharks, and stingrays.
4. Oracabessa Bay Fish Sanctuary. Go here if you’re looking to go scuba diving.
5. Oracabessa — is a beautiful town not far from Ocho Rios. Bob Marley used to live here.
6. James Bond Beach — is a popular beach with a famous Caribbean music venue.
7. Rose Hall. Here you can learn about Jamaican history, culture, and its legends.
8. Blue Mountain Coffee Tour. Bicycle through the Blue Mountains and see waterfalls, coffee plantations, and gorgeous scenery. Make sure you stop for a Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee.
9. Mystic Mountain. Take the ski lift and enjoy a gorgeous view of the Caribbean Sea. Or if you want an adrenaline-kick, you should take the Jamaican Bobsled Rollercoaster. Go zip-lining through the mountains. Next time Holly? Sandra?
(Recommendations By The Locals)
Jamaica has so much to offer, chill beach life, adventure, and all kinds of thrilling exhaustions. Trippers from all over the world come here to enjoy a luxurious Caribbean vacation. The best time to visit Jamaica (for your wallet) is between mid-November to January.
Also, as someone that worked in the hospitality space for… forever — November and December is the ideal time to have your destination wedding here — if you’re looking for a romantic event on a Caribbean island.
Our favorite clubs were Pier1, known for Friday night dinner & afterparty, and on Saturday, we went to Margaritaville — both great choices.
One other thing, private taxis are super expensive, more than we would pay in the states. For example, going from our apartment and driving about 15 minutes would be $30 — F.Y.I
We went shopping downtown (just outside our door). Souvenirs to bring home, unique Jamaican clothes, beach accessories, bags, jewelry, and bikinis. Jamaica is also known for its Rum. Oh my, you have to try a Jamaican Rum cake with Jamaican Coffee before your leave. (for my coffee-lovers)
Jamaica is a great pick for anybody going on a vacation — just pick the right spot for you.
The food, parties, beaches, culture, and people — I loved it all.
City breakdown:
PORTLAND: Beaches, rafting, and peace. You might see a Moviestar walking by you.
KINGSTON: Nightlife, entertainment, and restaurants.
OCHO RIOS: Touristy, lots of beaches and hotels.
MONTEGO BAY: A mix of Ocho Rios and Kingston.
NEGRIL: For the Hippy hearted
YOU CAN SEE OUR VIDEOS IN MY BLOG: https://www.tessmia.com/9-things-you-should-do-in-jamaica-if-you-want-to-have-fun/