A Week in Paradise in Jamaica

You’ll fly into Montego Bay today, one of the island’s largest cities. Your tour guide will help you to get settled into your hotel, and give you pointers for a few free hours in the city. A few can’t-miss things to see in Montego Bay include stepping right into the sand at Doctor’s Cave Beach and Bathing Club. The beach is popular with visitors and incoming cruise ships dock there. Visit Gloucester Ave., also known as the “Hip Strip” for T-shirts and other souvenirs, and Sam Sharpe Square, the central gathering place in the city which honors one of the country’s national heroes, Sam Sharpe.

Today you’ll take a trip to the Rose Hall Great House. This plantation home dates back to the late 17th century and offers a stunning view overlooking the ocean. Legend has it that the woman who called Rose Hall home practiced voodoo and black magic, and they say her spirit still calls the place home. You can tour the house during the day or opt for a spooky, nighttime tour if you prefer.

 Travel along the coast to the westernmost tip of the island – Negril. Check out the Negril lighthouse, the Royal Palm Reserve, any of the area’s pristine beaches, the Blue Hole Mineral Springs, or Barney’s Flower and Hummingbird Garden. End your day watching the brave cliff divers and what many consider the most spectacular sunset on the island.

Falmouth is another of the popular stops for cruise ships. Locals have made it a very hospitable place with plenty of places to eat, drink, and be merry. Explore the Falmouth Historic District or the Good Hope Estate, which is a former working sugar plantation. You can even arrange for a rafting trip down one of the rivers that traverse the island on unique, handmade rafts.

Today the group will visit Dunn’s River Falls, the country’s most famous waterfall. The falls fall over natural steps smoothed by the constant water. Visitors don their bathing suits and water shoes, and carefully climb the falls to soak in its pools. You’ll also trek to Nine Mile, the birthplace of Bob Marley – one of the country’s most famous natives. Visit his home there, now a museum.

Head further north and east to Port Antonio today. Here you’ll find a mixture of ecosystems including mountains, jungles and beaches. Winnifred Beach is popular for snorkeling. You can also opt to watch the surfers, or take in a lesson Boston Beach. Also be sure to visit Central Market Square for authentic Jamaican goods and crafts.

After an adventure-filled week, it’s time to leave paradise. Your tour guide will deliver you back to Montego Bay where you’ll board your flight for home. Stop at duty-free for a bottle of authentic Jamaican Rum before take off.