Why Ochi Rios, Montego Bay and Negril are the three best resorts in Jamaica

The northern resorts of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, and the western resort of Negril enjoy a year-round tropical climate, with the mountains providing protection from the worst of the wind and rain.

Montego Bay:
Affectionately labeled MoBay, Jamaica’s second largest city is the ideal way to settle into the Jamaican routine. Travel to Jamaica and join other travelers as they revel in the fun atmosphere on the ‘Hip Strip’ (Gloucester Avenue). You can eat, drink and dance the night away in Margaritaville, famous for its water slides, or enjoy live music at the Blue Beat Jazz Bar or on the beach at Doctor’s Cave. Jamaica’s motto is ‘of many, one people’, and nowhere is this more evident than in Montego Bay, where friendly locals and tourists meet and party together.

When the sun comes up, you can book the morning pirate cruise, if you dare, sailing the seas in an impressive 70-foot schooner while learning about the exploits of the infamous Calico Jack and his pirates. And no visit to Montego Bay would be complete without a trip back in time to the 19th century splendor of Greenwood Great House.

You can order quality Jamaican food online, but for the authentic Caribbean dining experience, follow the dizzying scent of bell peppers to one of the plentiful street jerk stalls, where you can gorge yourself on aromatic chicken or beef. Perhaps you’d rather try a house-made beef burger, with an ice-cold ‘Red Stripe’ in hand. Whatever your taste, local and international food is everywhere in Jamaica.

Negril:
Driving southwest from Montego Bay, you’ll pass charming sugar estate ruins as you make your way to Negril’s legendary Seven Mile Beach. Here, on the western tip of the island, you can indulge by staying in the luxurious hotels on the north side or by reserving a room in one of the smaller hotels on the cliffs on the south side. Wherever you stay, a trip to the spectacular cliffs is sure to be on your agenda, perhaps to see the exciting cliff-jumping displays, while listening to live reggae at Rick’s Cafe. At the end of the day, you won’t want to miss one of the world’s great natural wonders: the legendary Negril sunset.

Eight rivers:
From deep rocky gorges to thunderous waterfalls, Ocho Rios is definitely worth a visit. Let an experienced local guide take you up to the stunning Dunn’s River Falls, where crystal clear waters crash 600 feet below you, before heading out through the color and bustle of a local market.

Whether it’s the balmy weather, laid-back atmosphere, reggae beats, or delicious Caribbean food, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Jamaica.

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