Jamaica is a naturally beautiful island located in the Caribbean and surrounded by the crystal blue waters of South and Central America. Called the "The fairest isle that ever eyes beheld" by Christopher Columbus, Jamaica is a lush and fertile country with large tracts of pristine natural beauty. Sadly these areas are changing and the effects of man in a poor country can be found all over but that does not stop the wonderful outdoor experiences one can find in this tropical paradise.
Jamaica is as diverse in its people as the bountiful lands surrounded by sea and filled with grand mountains, wide plains and rainforest jungles all over. Jamaica has a tropical climate with warm to hot temperatures year round and there a number of year round activities for guests from all over the world to enjoy. Jamaica has been a popular tourist destination since the 1960's when major ports were built in Ocho Rios and then Montego Bay. Great cruise ships dock in "Ochi" as it is known locally, every day with 1000's of single day visitors arriving en masse to enjoy time shopping or taking tours to the many great local attractions.
Major tourist attractions like Dunns River Waterfalls are designed for mass traffic and can accommodate groups of any size on some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Dunns River is one of the few fresh water rivers in the world which dumps into the sea and is an integral part of the near shore reef and ecosystem. You can spend a great day here snorkeling the reef and hiking up the waterfall in the fresh spring waters.
Dunns River is actually the most popular attraction in all of Jamaica but there is much more to see in and around Ocho Rios. The second most popular adventure would be a road trip to St Ann and the Bob Marley Mausoleum where the reggae legend is buried. Bob Marley put Jamaica on the map and his influence is still felt all across the island where he is praised as a saint by many for his inspirational political message of peace and unity. Bob was a follower of political poet Marcus Garvey whos birth home is a short distance from the coastal road between Ocho Rios and the Marley home. It makes a great diversion for a look at the real Jamaica as you cross into less traveled lands outside the major resorts and see the Garvey home.
Ocho Rios comes from the Latin for "eight rivers" although that is misleading as there are fewer than 4 major rivers in the area. The White River offers excellent river rafting and tubing rides down the winding river and through a tropical jungle. See birds and wildlife in the natural Jamaican experience as you float down a river under the canopy of trees with your Jamaican river guide. Looking for more thrill in your adventure? How about a zip line ride over a river gorge? Imagine the exhilaration and thrill of sliding high above the river in a harness and make a zip line adventure part of your jamaica vacation plans.
Ocho Rios has some of the prettiest coastline in the world with the azure blue waters of the Caribbean a great way to spend the day. Ocho Rios Beach is in the center of it all but the secured beach feels miles away from everything on a quiet afternoon. The beaches of Jamaica are hot and the sun can be very strong even when you feel cool in the breeze. Keep hydrated and wear a good sunblock and sun hat whenever you are outside in the Jamaica sun. Beach activities such as wave runner or jet ski rides plus parasailing, snorkeling and much are also available.
Ocho Rios is a great place just to walk around with lots of culture and history available for the adventurous traveler willing to deal with some hustlers and street people on the way. Jamaica is a poor nation and panhandlers and beggars can often times scare or offend visitors. Treat them with respect and a simple "No" and you should be fine close to the cruise ship ports and the main town square. For anything outside the main city we suggest you find a reputable tour company in Jamaica to get you there and back in a safe and efficient manner with some personalized information provided by and experienced guide and driver.
No comments:
Post a Comment