The most notable travel fact about Jamaica is that it is the birthplace of the modern all-inclusive resort. The north coast of the island, particularly in the area of Negril and Seven Mile Beach, is lined with all-inclusive mega resorts that charge one price at the door to take care of all of your vacation needs, from your accommodations to meals to every imaginable recreational activity, all within a gated, guarded complex, safely sheltered from the outside world. From the colorful family-friendly getaways of the Franklin D. Resort to the racy pleasures of the adults-only Hedonism resorts, there's an all-inclusive to suit your needs. There is also a congregation of mega resorts around Montego Bay. They may not offer as much for one flat price, but you can still enjoy an entire vacation without ever leaving the guarded grounds of the resort.
Many traveling to the Caribbean looking for sunbathing opportunities are invariably drawn to the island beaches, but some of Jamaica's prime bathing spots are in the tropical rock pools, many at the bases of waterfalls, to be found along the inland rivers and streams. Here, you can relax in the cool, clear water dappled in sunlight while enjoying the scenery and listening to the sounds of the surrounding jungle. However, Jamaica is also more densely populated than many other islands, so if you're looking for that quiet sensation of complete seclusion, it will be a little harder to find here.
The natural beauty of Jamaica is unquestionable, but the feature of the land that most sets this island apart from the rest of the Caribbean is its people. More than 2.5 million people call Jamaica their home. The people of Jamaica are a strong-minded and vibrant people, passionate about social and political issues and outspoken about their opinions, yet warm and fun-loving at heart. They share a spirituality that stands in contrast to the hedonistic lifestyles of some of the upscale resorts, and they have a unique culture with intoxicating music, colorful dress and tantalizing cuisine that is all their own. The streets of the cities are alive with a range of sights, smells and sounds that you won't find anywhere else.
If you love to shop and bargain for prices, the island street markets will be an unforgettable experience. They are loud, crowded, colorful and lively, with countless merchants selling every imaginable product. There will likely be street performers on the corner, calypso bands playing to the crowd and a gamut of tantalizing sounds and smells to draw your attention. However, Jamaican vendors can be notoriously aggressive and will rarely take no for an answer, so be prepared to be firm. For those not prepared to engage in these kinds of social interactions, a trip through the market might not be pleasant.
There are many faces of Jamaica, many more than can be seen in one visit to the island. There are around 1.2 million visitors that go to Jamaica every year, many of them on return visits, to bask in the sun, dive in crystal clear waters, hike through misty mountains or talk down prices at the market. Once you're there and you've dined on jerk meats and conch fritters, washed them down with Red Stripe beer and danced to reggae or calypso until the sun comes up, you'll find there's no place on earth quite like the island of Jamaica. If you want to surround yourself with breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant people, Jamaica provides both with bravado. Call us now to book your holiday to Jamaica on 0800 011 1001.
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