OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA

Jamaica is the third largest island in the Greater Antilles of the Caribbean Sea. Lush green mountains and beautiful beaches surround the picturesque harbor of Ocho Rios.

The Jamaica's lifestyle is a mix of world cultures and is famous for it 'Don't Worry' atmosphere and reggae music. Kingston is the capital of this island paradise.

Jamaica's climate is ideal for winter escapes with an average year-round temperature of 86 degrees. The island boasts 12 golf courses and has a wide variety of water sports (Snorkeling, Scuba diving, swimming, Para-sailing....) available for your pleasure. One site not to be missed is the Dunn River's Falls. Where you and other island visitors climb the 600-foot, tiered, waterfall, linked hand-in hand, to the top. There is a wooden staircase next to the falls for the less adventurous. At the bottom of the falls is located a beach and the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

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A visit to the Enchanted Gardens allows you to become one with the tropical gardens, 14 waterfalls and exotic birds found in this beautiful rainforest. You can also visit the Brimmer House, which is a working Plantation that dates back to the 18^th Century. The Stables at Brimmer House have been converted into a number of boutiques, which feature Jamaican arts and crafts.

For a more causal experience, there is a leisurely, 2-seated, bamboo-raft ride down the Martha Brae River to enjoy the lush greenery of the island of Jamaica. Each raft is assigned a captain to steer the 2 person bamboo raft down the 2-mile long river.

Jamaica is a great place to visit and I highly recommend the Dunn River Falls trip (if you are stable footed and mobile). On the cautious side, it should be noted that there is a high availability of drugs in Jamaica and Americans are frequently and openly solicited to purchase them. In addition there have been instances where personal belonging have been stolen including money, watches and wallets from un-suspecting tourists. It is highly recommended that any excess jewelry, money or other valuables be left aboard ship.