It might be onerous to imagine now, however Ocho Rios was as soon as little greater than a sleepy Jamaican fishing city. Although that picture is at odds with the vacationer hotspot it has change into, there’s nonetheless extra appeal and serenity within the city than you would possibly count on. Sure, the checklist of issues to do in Ocho Rios contains the standard seashores and vacationer fare, however with a historical past that features pirates, waterfalls, spies, and reggae legends, this Jamaican city shortly proves it’s something however extraordinary.
What You Have to Know
Jamaican climate is usually fairly constant yr spherical, with two brief wet seasons operating from Could to June and September to November. Having mentioned that, there’s actually no dangerous time to go to Ocho Rios. Most actions are unimpeded by rain, and storms are comparatively rare. Whereas hurricanes are comparatively uncommon within the space, it’s finest to test the forecasts if you happen to’re touring between June and November, simply to be on the secure facet. Cut price hunters ought to look to journey close to the tip of the yr, within the November to mid-December interval, when flights and resorts supply their finest offers.
Exterior of climate, remember that Ocho Rios, like many main vacationer locations, could be residence to some seedy characters. Pay attention to your belongings always, and, if you’re planning excursions, use trusted tour companies and people advisable by your resort. Self-guided excursions are usually not advisable. In different phrases, simply ensure you’re in good fingers earlier than you begin your relaxation and leisure. Talking of r n’ r, don’t overlook to carry loads of sunscreen and pack your trunks!
Cruise Ships vs. Resorts
Earlier than you really set foot in Ocho Rios, nevertheless, it’s finest to determine the way you’d like to go to. The Jamaican port city is kind of common with many main cruise traces (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and so forth.), all of which permit company to enter city for the day as they make port. A few of these ships supply pre-planned shore excursions which are value trying into, although you too can tour with a neighborhood company if you happen to so select. A cruise ship stopover will permit you to see at the very least a number of of the main highlights right here and mix them with distinctive experiences elsewhere within the Caribbean. Be aware that whereas the overwhelming majority of cruises embrace an all-inclusive eating bundle, you’re greater than welcome to pattern the native delicacies if something on the town catches your eye.
In case you actually wish to dig into this lovely metropolis, or on the very least spend greater than a day within the space, you’re higher off reserving a resort. There are numerous respectable choices right here, together with the well-known Jamaica Inn, which has performed host to the likes of Marilyn Monroe, amongst others. The resort presents packages for any event, although they have an inclination to vary all year long. Hermosa Cove presents resort facilities in a boutique villa bundle, and different contenders embrace Moon Palace Jamaica and the adults-only Sandals Royal Plantation. Whereas non-resort lodging can be found, resorts come strongly advisable on account of their all-inclusive service and invaluable capacity to rearrange excursions of the realm and native points of interest. In fact, that’s solely if you wish to depart the resort within the first place!
There’s one downside to this selection, nevertheless: worth. Whereas resorts place you proper within the lap of luxurious, they might at occasions be much more costly than their rivals at sea. Remember to test cruise and resort pricing to verify no matter alternative you make is best for you.
Nature Explorations
Simply past its borders, Ocho Rios provides strategy to gorgeous Caribbean environments and not-so hidden gems. The stand out points of interest listed here are town’s dozens of cascading waterfalls, with probably the most well-known – Dunn’s River Falls – topping numerous itineraries. It’s not onerous to see why. Dunn’s River Falls incorporates a distinctive, terraced construction that makes it best for climbing. If ever you’ve ever dreamed of scaling a waterfall, that is the place to do it.
Dunn’s River Falls just isn’t the one space with a waterfall value visiting right here. The Blue Gap, a collection of jungle swimming pools linked by falls, is a extra secluded attraction that’s steadily rising in reputation. The realm is nice for a swim or as a spot to beat the crowds, at the very least for now. For a extra serene various to both of those two main points of interest, try Turtle River Falls and Gardens, residence to gentler waters and loads of hammocks.
Ocho Rios’ pure magnificence stretches far past its wondrous waterfalls, nevertheless. When planning your excursions, maintain an eye fixed out for names akin to Dolphin Cove and Inexperienced Grotto Caves. In fact, basic actions akin to tubing, snorkeling, and easily hitting the seashore are nonetheless extra nice methods to benefit from the pure splendor Ocho Rios has to supply.
Music and Tradition
All through its historical past, Ocho Rios has had greater than its justifiable share of pleasure. From pirates akin to Henry Morgan to extra fashionable legends like the nice Bob Marley, dozens of well-known people have left their legacies within the space – legacies which you can go to in the present day. Solely a fast drive away from Ocho Rios, 9 Mile village is legendary because the birthplace of Bob Marley. Excursions right here will take you thru city to see museums and different websites from the reggae wailer’s life, in addition to his mausoleum.
One other well-known birthplace awaits you nearer to city: GoldenEye. The one-time residence and writing retreat of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, GoldenEye now serves as a resort and resort. Whereas the resort has expanded upon the unique grounds considerably, you do have the chance to remain in Fleming’s precise residence, do you have to be keen to shell out the additional money. Close by stands Firefly, the Jamaican retreat of Fleming’s buddy and playwright Sir Noel Coward. This residence stands in the present day as a museum that gives each fascinating historical past and stellar views of the island shoreline.
Meals and Further Lodging
Whereas cruise ships and resorts get many of the press, it’s potential to go to Jamaica on a funds as nicely. With prices within the low to midrange space, resorts such because the Blue Home Boutique Mattress & Breakfast, Kaz Kreol Seaside Resort, and Mystic Ridge Resort nonetheless supply nice facilities akin to swimming pools and included breakfast. Remember to try these choices, particularly if you wish to avoid wasting cash for excursions or eating experiences.
Talking of eating, Ocho Rios hosts all the pieces from full-service eating places to meals stands and seashore bars. Bear in mind that costs vary accordingly. In case you’re in search of a style of the Caribbean, you may’t beat Ms. T’s Kitchen ($$-$$$). Residence to brightly coloured decor, jerk rooster, and different native recipes (vegan and vegetarian choices out there), Miss T’s is the epitome of Jamaican eating. Christopher’s ($$-$$$) is one other nice choice on this vein.
These in search of one thing inexpensive shouldn’t fret simply but. Loads of cheaper ($) Jamaican choices exist as nicely, akin to Scotchie’s, Mother’s, and Ocho Rios Village Jerk Heart. Every presents delicious seafood, incredible jerk barbecue, and favorites akin to goat curry, and can permit you to take a break out of your trip and dwell like a neighborhood. Whereas Caribbean delicacies is king right here, worldwide choices can be found as nicely. This choice contains Italian choices, American-style quick meals, and a shocking variety of Indian eating places.
Unsurprisingly, there are a variety of choices out there on the subject of booze. Whereas most resorts supply their very own bars and drink service, Ocho Rios has a lot to give you, too, from Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Information, a bar celebrating Jamaican sports activities and leisure, to Bamboo Blu, a full service seashore bar the place you may calm down and soak within the surrounding paradise. On the finish of the day, there’s no higher place to relax.
Header photograph by neufal54 on Pixabay
