Travel and holiday guide

Jamaica lies in the heart of the Caribbean Sea around 100 miles south of Cuba. Though just 146 miles long and 51 miles wide, the landscapes in Jamaica range from high mountains and rainforests inland, to white sandy beaches at the coast - this is a lush tropical island that has delighted visitors from afar for hundreds of years.


The most surprising aspect to this idyllic island is the totally relaxed pace of life. It's true that the Jamaican hotels carefree way is world-famous; it's just that it's impossible to understand just how laid-back everyone is until you've actually visited! It's a wonderful moment when you realise that this stunning island is going to live up to all your expectations.

Of course the main reason people come to Jamaica is for those breathtaking tropical beaches. All of the main resorts are on the coast, and all offer great facilities, lots of activities and friendly locals. Imagine a tropical beach scene with shallow waters, gentle waves and palm tree-fringed sands... well, that's Jamaica!

Montego Bay
Perhaps the most famous of Jamaica's resorts. Nowadays in Montego Bay you'll find mostly modern developments with an excellent range of international jamaican hotels, bars and restaurants - though you'll often turn a corner and encounter some breathtaking 18th and 19th century architecture from those turbulent historical times.

Negril
There's less bustle here than in some of Jamaica's resorts, because Negril has traditionally attracted artist and musician types. So the rural feel has been maintained, apart perhaps from modern developments at the rugged West End, where you'll find a fine selection of bars, jamaican hotels, restaurants and clubs. Beach lovers will find the Seven Mile Sands aptly named.

Ocho Rios
A well-established, purpose-built resort, right in the middle of Jamaica's north coast makes Ocho Rios a perfect base if you want to explore many of Jamaica's attractions. Added are a good range of international restaurants, low key nightlife attractions and a variety of craft markets and duty free shops.


Runaway Bay
This truly relaxing resort is set on a quiet stretch of coastline, with an easy going atmosphere. There are a number of sandy beaches nearby

Falmouth
A typical Jamaican holiday guide village set on white sandy beaches with a selection of craft stalls and souvenir shops and a weekly market. Falmouth was designed by British settlers, based on the UK town of the same name.

Braco
Attracting beach lovers and sun worshippers, Braco stretches along the water's edge between Falmouth and Runaway Bay - putting both within easy reach for shopping and sightseeing. With no 'centre' as such, its sandy shoreline is hemmed by quality hotels offering varied facilities for sport and leisure. A good choice for watersports enthusiasts.