When I arrived at Gatwick airport on a damp, cold November morning, I was feeling nervous but also very excited about what the next few days had in store, as this was my first trip to Jamaica. It was a pleasant surprise to be upgraded to World traveler plus on the flight, which made 9 hour journey to Kingston a very relaxing and comfortable experience. The long transfer from the airport gave me the opportunity to see the sights of the lush green tropical landscape that Jamaica has to offer. When we arrived at Breezes Montego Bay Hotel we were greeted by the friendly staff and were soon in our rooms to settle down for a very welcome sleep.
Mystic Mountain
Bright and early the next morning, refreshed and raring to go, the coach arrived and took us to Mystic Mountain. This offers three attractions – the rainforest sky explorer, bobsled Jamaica and the popular zip line canopy tour. The sky lift explorer takes you above the tree tops to the peak of Mystic Mountain (the view from the lookout tower is stunning!). Then race down the mountain on a Bobsled, this was an amazing experience racing through the rain forest at such a high speed! Then the Zip line Canopy tour takes the rest of journey down the mountain. I was very scared at the start as I don’t like heights, but it was wonderful to see the natural beauty of the tropical rain forest. I would definitely advise a visit to the Mystic Mountain for a day out, it’s a unique experience and great fun!
Dolphin Cove & Dunn’s River Falls
The coach then took us 10 minutes down the road to Dolphin Cove, if you are a Dolphin lover then you will love being able to get in a swim with the dolphins. Also there are plenty of other birds and animals to see in their natural surroundings on the jungle trail walk (look out for Elvis the huge iguana!) You also have the opportunity to swim sting rays and the hammer head shark. The following morning, we went to Dunn’s River Falls, what a breathtaking place! Climb hand in hand up the 600 foot, gently cascading waterfall. I found this to be a very refreshing and rewarding experience. Once you reach the top you can look down and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. I advise you to buy the climbing shoes on offer, but go to the shop before entering the park, instead of hiring them once inside as it is cheaper. Dunn’s River Falls is definitely a must do when in Jamaica, I can not recommend this enough!
Ocho Rios
We then went to the town Ocho Rios, which is in located in the middle of the islands North coast. We visited the Sunset Jamaica Grande hotel for a pirate party and we enjoyed tasting the traditional Jamaican Rum (you must try Appleton Rum!) The night life in Ocho Rios is fantastic and with its lively reggae bars you can get a real taste of the Jamaican culture. It is also very popular with its duty free shopping, the best time to grab a bargain is to shop when the cruise ships are docked. This was my second visit to the Caribbean, I loved Jamaica as it has some of the most magnificent long sandy beaches, spectacular scenery and so much to do and see. There is something for everyone in Jamaica from world class golfing courses to climbing up the famous Dunn’s River Falls. I would love to return to Jamaica and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun packed and adventurous holiday or simply looking for a relaxing getaway.
