Where should I stay in Jamaica?
(410 Reviews)
99% Recommended
Pam MacIntyre
Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic ...
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic part of the world?
I was fortunate enough to visit both the North and South Islands, and what I love about New Zealand is that it offers the perfect blend of laid-back charm and action-packed adventure, all while being nothing short of epic.
The country is home to endless national parks, a rich Maori culture, and unforgettable experiences like sailing through the sounds while dolphins playfully follow your yacht. And let’s not forget the awe-inspiring moment of witnessing a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura—talk about jaw-dropping beauty!
Oh, and did I mention wine? If you’re a fan of great wine (and who isn’t?), New Zealand is a must-visit for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and more. How do I know? Because I couldn’t resist visiting a winery or two during my travels!
Honestly, I could go on and on about the magic of New Zealand, but if you’re reading this, you already know you want to explore this incredible part of the world. Let’s work together to create your perfect New Zealand adventure!
Australia
Let me start by saying, I’ve wanted to visit Australia since I was a child. Why, you ask? Well, to pet a kangaroo, of course! And yes, I did! Not only did I pet a kangaroo, but I actually fed FOUR at the same time. Childhood dream come true, right? And I can’t wait to go back for round two.
While I was in Sydney, I had the chance to experience the spectacular Vivid Sydney Festival, celebrating its 10th year. It was honestly WOW! Never in my wildest dreams did I think Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. But coming from Minnesota, their “winter” felt more like our fall—absolutely ideal! Seeing the Sydney Opera House light up during the festival was something I’ll never forget.
And then there’s the Blue Mountains region—so lovely to explore on foot. From there, we ventured to Hunter Valley (known to the locals as "The Hunter"), where wine flowed freely, and every glass was more delicious than the last.
Australia’s size is truly hard to grasp until you’ve experienced it firsthand. To put it in perspective: Sydney would be in Florida, Cairns (home of the Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine, Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas, Melbourne would be in New Orleans, and Perth would be in Los Angeles.
Whether you're dreaming of visiting the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef, immersing yourself in Aboriginal culture, swimming with whale sharks, or gazing upon the majestic Uluru, Australia has endless possibilities waiting for you.
Let’s make your dream trip to Australia a reality—one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
Horse on the Beach in Jamaica
Jamaica is absolutely one of my favorite islands in the Caribbean for so many reasons. Like many islands, there are resort options at varying price ranges to fit your vacation budget. You do not have to stay in the most expensive resort, to have a wonderful experience. I can help you navigate where to stay in Jamaica, and find the right resort for you.
Jamaica has been blessed without seaweed issues. It has some of the safest drinking water in the Caribbean. It's also very stringent with tourism safety. Their government has certain safety in place to ensure resort safety, including criminal background checks.
With over 150 Attractions approved by the Jamaica Tourist Board, it has the most attractions in any Caribbean Destination. Some of the MANY tours include: Rivers, Caves, Golf, Botanical Gardens, luminous lagoons, Blue Mountains Sunrise tour, Horseback riding, Kayaking, Jeep Safari, Zipline, Bobsled, Swim with Dolphins, ATV & Bird Watching. You may wish to choose an area based on the tours you wish to experience.
Montego Bay: The Complete Resort
Montego Bay is where you fly in to for your Jamaican adventure. There are dozens of fabulous resort choices right in this area within 30 minutes of the airport. You'll have shopping, central access to several tour options and a variety of various levels of resorts to choose from. You could either choose to stay here the entire time, or do a split stay with say Ocho Rios or Negril. Ocho Rios and Negril are anywhere from approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours away from Montego Bay. It makes a perfect split to end your Jamaica trip in Montego Bay to break up the drive to the airport.
Ocho Rios: The Centerpiece of Jamaica
Ocho Rios is a very lush, mountainous and tropical area with many pristine cove-like beaches. The mountains here push towards the ocean creating the cove effect. Creating a very naturally intimate feel. Ocho Rios is where the rushing waters of Dunn's River Falls flows. With tucked away stalls filled with local arts, souvenirs other fun items to bring back home such as wood carvings, Blue Mountain Coffee (tastes amazing), Jamaican Jerk Seasoning, Reggae music AND don't forget about the delicious local rum—Appleton Jamaican Rum. The craft market of Ocho Rios ranks up there in one of my more fun shopping experiences in my travels. On your way to Ocho Rios you'll drive through another resort area known as Runaway Bay/Trelawny. While they've got some great resorts here to stay in, this is more for the traveler not interested in going to a town for shopping. Runaway Bay/Trelawny is half way between Montego Bay & Ocho Rios.
Negril: The Capital of Casual
Ah Negril, the crown jewel of Jamaica! Famous for its stunning sunsets & 7-Mile stretch of sugar white sands. Couples Resorts was there very first to use the All-Inclusive Resort concept. The Seven Mile beach is the crème de la crème of beaches. The Seven Mile beach being connected to the town of Negril, you will run into more beach vendors though, which some people prefer to avoid. You may wish to consider a resort on Bloody Bay Beach (The name came from it being formally a whalers port). While you'll still have a few beach vendors, not nearly as many.
Port Antonio: Naturally
Birthplace of Jamaican Tourism, popularly stated as the most picturesque part of Jamaica. Little has changed really in 40 years. It’s very popular for bird watchers & nature enthusiasts. Home of original jerk style cooking.
South Coast: Off the Beaten Track
The perfect retreat for Nature Lovers, Soft Adventure Tours, Home to Breds Treasure Beach Foundation, Host of the Calabash Literary Festival, Community-Based Tourism and Home of Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum. Pelican Bar was listed as one of the “Top 10 coolest bars in the world (South Coast).” It has brilliant beaches and fantastic food, and is one cool place to drink. The Pelican Bar is a floating driftwood structure, is accessible only by boat. It's known for rum punches, red stripe beer and delicious lobster curry.
Kingston: The Heartbeat of Jamaica
Kingston is the most authentic destination in Jamaica. Great for bar hoping experience if that's your scene. Home of The Blue Mountains - A UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting incredible coffee! Kingston has the greatest mix of cultural and historical diversity in Jamaica.
If you're seeking a modern or Caribbean rustic resort together we will find the right resort for your next stay. Now you may have a better idea of the area(s) you may wish to explore.