Irie Man on September 4th, 2010
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Whaa Gwaan!!!! We want to hear from you. Become a contributor and share with us your Jamaican story. Select register under the login section to the right of this post. Registration is easy and takes less than a minute.Whether it was good or bad we want to hear your story. We are not looking for just another hotel or restaurant review. Instead tell us about that romantic moonlit dinner you ended up having when the lights went out. Or that semi-private beach you found hanging out with some locals. Don’t just tell us about that great 5 star hotel service but share with us the names of the staff who made your stay special. If your visit was plauged with troubles we also want to hear that too. Why? Because we are about the true Jamaican experience. So please register and start writing your story. When finished, read what others have written and spread the word by digging, tweeting, e-mailing or stumbling. Jah bless!

Irie Man on June 21st, 2009
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 The Caribbean Classic Golf Invitational (CCGI) kicks off in Rose Hall, Montego Bay Jamaica on June 24th to 28th. During this period there will be 3 nights of high flying entertainment. On June 24th there will be an International Music and Culture show featuring the likes of Johnny Gill, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, our very own Tessanne Chin and much more.

On Thursday June 25th, the headliner will be Cedric the entertainer along side Billy Bellamy, Tommy Davidson and the very funny Ity and Fancy Cat duo. On Friday June 26th things really get kicking  with the Muay Thai Champions of Champions II Fight. This will see fighters from 12 countries going after the championship belt.Tickets range from US$40 to VIP at US$150 (US$500 on June 26th).

The mission of the The Caribbean Classic Golf Invitational Foundation is to collaborate and focus resources on preparing a new generation of leaders by building a platform for leadership development and innovative project initiatives.To achieve its goal, the Foundations have organized golf tournaments, proceeds of which
will be used to establish computer learning centers in the over 400 primary schools in Jamaica. So if you are planning to be in Jamaica make sure you check out the The Caribbean Classic Golf Invitational (CCGI)  at Rose Hall, Montego Bay Jamaica. After all its for a great cause. Irie!

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Irie Man on May 25th, 2009
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The Spanish Court Hotel recently opened its doors in Kingston Jamaica. This brings the number of higher end Kingston hotels to 5. The others are Hilton, Courtleigh, Pegasus and Knutsford Court. We do have a lot of tourists in Kingston however we also have a large contingent of business travellers.

With no beaches or coconut trees in the heart of Kingston, these hotels are mainly geared towards the business traveller.  For some time now we have had a shortage of hotel rooms in the area and so this fresh new approach to the hotel industry is more than welcome. The Spanish Court Hotel will strike you as a chic boutique, high end space. With all the modern trimmings and beautiful infinity pool they have certainly made a statement and a force to be reckoned with. Find deals to the Spanish Court Hotel or visit their web site.

 

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Irie Man on May 25th, 2009
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Budget airline Jet Blue now flies into Montego Bay Jamaica from JFK. Services started on May 21, 2009. The flights leave JFK at 7:55am to arrive in Montego Bay by 10:51AM. They then leave Montego Bay by 11:50 am to arrive back at JFk by 4:49pm.

Of course you know this means war for the airline companies flying into Jamaiaca. But it also means cheaper fares for you the vacationer. So make sure you add Jet Blue to your list when shopping around for cheap Jamaica flights. They have plans to fly into Kingston in the near future.

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By Tom and spouse from Bershire in Feb 2009.

This was our first stay at a RIU hotel, but the chain had been recommended by others and we had an expectation that standards would be high. It had been a long journey, not helped by flight delays on the way out, and we were tired when we arrived. The hotel entrance was very welcoming and all the hotel staff were quick and very helpful in getting us to our rooms at such a late hour.

Admittedly our room (Block 4) was at the furthest point from the main hotel amenities, but if you don’t mind a five minute walk this isn’t a problem. Be aware that there are no Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Man on March 7th, 2009
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Yes we want to hear from you our valued readers. It only takes a minute and its FREE! Become a Contributor by registering here for your Jamaica Writings account (powered by Word Press). This initial signup will only allow you to make comments so send us an e-mail at info@jamaicawritings.com with your new user name and let us know you want to become a contributor. We will update your profile and when you log back in you will see the “Write A New Post” option…….easy.  

You can then write and submit a story (pictures welcome) of your authentic trip to Jamaica. Share with us your experiences good or bad and pass on your little secrets to a great Jamaica vacation. Anchor your story around a main location, hotel or experience (eg. My Negril Expereince, That Great Hotel in Port Antonio or Jerk Chicken etc.). So come on in and register now….its FREE and only takes a minute.

Irie Man on January 14th, 2009
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 Can you see it?? Something is out there…..way out in the Ocean off the coast of Treasure Beach Jamaica. We heard the rumors but had to check it out ourselves. We took the long treck to Treasure Beach through winding roads in St. Elizabeth Jamaica and got lost a couple times. The key is to follow the signs that say Jack Sprat and be careful who you ask questions….not that you are in any danger but most people we asked din’t have a clue and sent us driving all over.

Do you see it now? Seems like a hut in the middle of the sea. There are no buses, trains, yachts or barges going where we are heading. We had to hire a small fishing boat (more like a canoe). Make sure you ask for Tahla or his brother; great guys and yes Tahla is taller. Or better yet ask your hotel to setup a trip for you if you are staying in treasure beach. We stayed at Jakes but there are quite a number of other villas there. You can search Treasure Beach Hotels here or even check out our recent traveller review.

 

Now do you see it?? Yes a bar and restaurant in the middle of the sea. It was an amazing experience. Some creative genius built a hut out of wood in the sea to serve cold bear and lobster dinners. It is a great attraction. The water is only about 5 feet deep at its highest out here and stays that way for miles to the closest town Black River. Inside is basic with a kicthen area where they cook and store cold drinks. They added a platform to the right to accomodate extra crowds and provide an area for relaxation. Our boat captain and crew were tour guides and showed us all the wonders of the sea. They offer food but cooked to order and the menu is limited to whats available or what they have been able to catch. You need to tell your captian before you leave so by the time you get there it’s almost ready. He will call ahead to order. The ride takes about 20 minutes and you will get a few splashes. Here are some of our friends from the trip….think you can identify them? Irie! 

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Irie Man on January 10th, 2009
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Fancy walking on air? Well then Ricks Cafe in Negril Jamaica is the place to be. Ricks Cafe is famous for its magnificent sunsets and crazy cliff jumping crowd. The cliff is about 33 feet high and patrons line up to go sky walking. Every now and then someone pays a local to climb up to the highest point (atop a tree close by) to perform crazy acrobatic jumping down into the deep blue below. It is a daunting jump but I even see kids doing it and felt “hey I can do that”. But researching the web I came across this site and in true Jamaica Writings style we had to share it with our readers. We want all visitors to enjoy the rock in a safe environment so read and take heed.

Rick’s Cafe, Negril, Jamaica, INJURIES: This site is dedicated to supporting past and current victim’s of Rick’s Cafe’s cliffs. Encourage the cafe to adopt safety measures and medical equippment.

Cliff jumping aside Ricks Cafe has a great restaurant serving up suculent dishes and tons of beers to the hungry and thirsty wanderers alike. The vibe is a party atmosphere and you can literally come and hang out all day long. They rent cabanas and towels and will throw in some drinks for a fee (prices vary). This will allow you and your beer drinking, shrimp eating, cliff jumping friends to hang loose all day long by the cliffs. Girls walk around with buckets of cold beer ready to take your order. Every now and then a yacht pulls up with tourists from a nearby hotel. You will find families with small children, teens and the likes it skimpy bathing suites, mature adults checking out the bar and even old chinese couples taking pictures all clad in the latest winter fashion. So in all a great mix and no one is left out. They even have a little stage area with live music and entertainment. Some of the best seats are to the east in the restaurant upstairs where you can get a great view of the sunset. Irie!

 

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Irie Man on January 10th, 2009
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Please join us in congratualting David and Karen from New York USA for our first Traveller Review. Recently we launched a My Jamaica Writings campaign to encourage readers to share their Jamaica experience. Below is the entry from David and Karen with some edits (complete with their pictures). 

As the picture says above Sunset Resort and Villas Jamaica was indeed a piece of heaven. Coming from a big city it was mind bending to wake up to lush green vegetation and the big blue ocean at your door step. This was no ordinary ocean front view but one of those magnificent views straight from a postcard.  

 

It was just amazing with the almost clear blue sky and brilliantly bright sun hovering over. At dusk you can imagine the sun romancing the sea as they kiss good night…aahhhhh. I could go on and on about the view as that alone would be good enough for me even if we were to sleep in a tent. However it didn’t stop there. The service at Sunset Resort and Villas was great. It’s a small hotel in my scheme of things and very rustic. Certainly not five star ammenities but if that’s what you are looking for you are better off in Negril and Ocho Rios. 

The rooms are basic and have themes. Some are large, others small….some open into each other to accomodate larger crowds. To be honest my husband didn’t like our room which was themed starfish which had this blue ocean theme material draped over everything from curtains to the lamp. But it certainly gave the room personality. There was also running hot water and air conditioning.  The restaurant was just a few tables at the front by the pool. Meals are cooked to order and have a local feel but they cater to some limited  international cuisine. 

The people are nice and the business is family owned. The managers live close by and help around in the kitchen and you will often see their children running about. Lovely people. So if you are ever heading to Jamaica make sure you check out Sunset Resort and Villas in Treasure Beach Jamaica. David and Karen NY USA.

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Irie Man on December 14th, 2008
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Beautiful isnt it! Well that could be be you laying there by the pool. Yes Sandals Jamaica is offering discounts up to 45% plus air fare deals. But wait….there’s more. Breezes Jamaica  is offering rooms for $86 night and every 5th night free! Well with the economy nowadays you may think it’s a bad time to travel but like the witty Marshalls ad on TV says….there is nothing wrong with being shopportunistic. The US economy has broad reaching effects and Jamaica has started to feel the effects.

Bookings for January are down 30% so far and the goverment is already ramping up marketing campaigns with planned US$3M budget. Look out for big bill board ads in the port districts of New York. In addition expect to see more mega deals like mentioned above as Jamaica resorts fight for survival. Sandals already have plans to lay off staff and smaller hotels will be closing their doors. But in the middle of all this turmuoil you the customers will benefit from all the falling prices.

 Yes some people may be struggling and cannot find even the discount fares but not all. Others are more caustious than suffering. That select group should take advantage of the situation and book that trip to Negril because a year or two from now it’s going to cost you four times more. So think of it as future savings today. For the hottest deals going on right now search key words Jamaica Deals or Jamaica Vacation Packages here.

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Irie Man on December 12th, 2008
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Jamaica Christmas! I bet a bunch of you are wondering what its like. Well like most other cultures we have a special drink, special food and special activities. The Jamaica Christmas drink is Sorrel (seen top left). Its a plant whose blossom is used to make a very different tasting drink. It’s hard to describe but can be so delicious when spiced just right. We also love fruit cake. Now our fruit is very special and there are family traditions that go back years with special recipes etc. Our fruitcakes usually have lots of raisons and other fruit spices. To get that special flavor just right many will soak the fruit ingredients in rum for up to a year before using to make their special batch of cakes. We also like the traditional stuff at Christmas dinner like ham (a must!), chicken, fish, roast beef and the works.

In terms of activities Christmas is a time to visit friends and family and because we are a religious set we attend mass. You will see alot of us who would not normaly go to church out and about on Christmas Sunday. We also like to Party and some of the best parties are held around this holiday season. But the most festive of activities would be what we call Grand Market night which is the night before Christmas. Here the streets are blocked off and shopping goes into the wee hours of the morning. Much the same I am sure like many other places around the world. So in actuality we aren’t that much different but we do carry our own flavor. Irie!

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Irie Man on December 7th, 2008
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Strawberry Hill Jamaica is regarded as heavenly to most vistors. Nestled amongst the Jamaica Blue Mountains, Strawberry Hill is located a few minutes drive outside the main Kingston area. Coming from the Kingston Airport (best entry point) the drive would be about 1 hour. But beleive me it’s worth all that time and much much more. The drive alone up the hill through narrow roads, steep cliff sides and lush green vegetation is enough to get you in the mood for a lovely mountain side paradise.

It is quiet, secluded and not your average beach front 1,000 room resort. As the name suggests be prepared to go up and down steps and slopes as you traverse the property (not the best for mobility challenged individuals). Soon after arriving you will appreciate the “HIll” in Strawberry Hill. Nevertheless the service is excellent, the views breathtaking and the food world renowned. Strawberry Hill is one of those places you take a very important international client for lunch or dinner. Movie Stars and the likes have been known to drop in (literally by hellicopter) from time to time.

It consists of 12 handcrafted 19th century Georgian style cottages. The have deluxe villas, one bedrooms and some studios. The property also houses the Strawberry Hill Spa. The hotel is rich with history with its beginnings as an 18th century coffee plantation owned by the British Royal  Family. It then evolved after being purchased in 1972 by Chris Blackwell, famous for launching the career of Bob Marley. Strawberry Hill’s Bar and Conference Room is home to a significant photographic tour of music’s most influential players over the past four decades. Guests at the mountaintop retreat can visually experience personal photos from Mr. Blackwell’s collection, which includes shots of U2, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Mick Jagger, Phil Collins, Millie Small, Sinehead O’Conner, Peter Tosh, and Sting (and studies from the Adrian Boot Collection).

So if you are planning that getaway to Jamaica make sure you put Strawberry Hill on the list. It’s luxury so it aint cheap. However if you can afford to its a trip of a life time. Search for Strawberry Hill here. Do enjoy…Irie!

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Irie Man on December 4th, 2008
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If you happen to be in Jamaica this weekend make sure you check out the Reggae Marathon in Negril on Saturday December 6, 2009. It starts early morning in view of the moon lit sky and along the famous Negril seven mile beach. Its a world renowened Jamaican event complete with chanting Rastafarian drummers who set the stage for the Reggae runners.

Yeah man! On cue from the starter, torchbearers raise their flaming bamboo torches in a ritual that has become the signature of the start to the Reggae Marathon. As the horn blows, the runners are off and jammin’!…….check it out at Jamaica Reggae Marathon.

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Irie Man on November 29th, 2008
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The Palmyra Resort & Spa was named ‘One of the Top 10 Most Exciting Home Developments in the World’ by prestigious Travel + Leisure Magazine (March 2007), and announced a 5-star award winner at the 2007 CNBC International Property Award. Prices range from US$451,000 for studios to $3.55M for villas. 

Capturing the magical essence of Jamaica, The Palmyra Resort & Spa offers second home buyers unparalleled indulgence in a tropical island setting. A Leading Hotel of the World, this elegant sanctuary is the island’s first to offer its guests the added luxury of the Caribbean’s finest signature spa, a spectacular 30,000-square-foot facility with VIP suites, private outdoor treatment and relaxation areas, aromatic steam rooms, vitality pools, lifestyle showers and ice fountains. 

The beautiful shore of Rose Hall Montego Bay has not been named the ‘Gold Coast’ without valid reasons.
Home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, exclusive resorts, luxury shopping and historic landmarks such as the Rose Hall Great House, it is considered one of the last hidden gems in the Caribbean.
Over the last years, Jamaica and especially Rose Hall has become a shrewd for real estate investors, who can purchase a Jamaican island home with magnificent ocean view for over 30% less than in other Caribbean islands.
Jamaica is one of the most accessible islands in the Caribbean and with now great infrastructure in place, the Gold Coast can be accessed in less than 15 minutes from the Montego Bay airport.
Only few places in the world will match the lifestyle available to residents of The Palmyra. The private and pristine setting with incomparable amenities and platinum-level service standards will make it the ideal retreat for you and your family to enjoy for generations to come. Irie!

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Irie Man on November 28th, 2008
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Dubbed the “Art Of Music” the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival will kick off from January 22-24, 2009 at the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course in Rose Hall just outside Montego Bay Jamaica. It’s a three night festival which drew 40,000 people in January 2008 and 2009 will be even bigger and better. So far we have seen the likes of Alicia Keys, Michael Bolton, Diana Ross, Air Supply, Shaggy and much much more. For the upcoming show The O’Jays, Lionel Richie, Estelle, Maxi Priest and more will be blazing on stage.

For the best in Hotels for the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival check out the Rose Hall Resort, Ritz Carlton or Half Moon Resort. Those are certainly luxury and in very close proximity and hence on the pricier side. For a more economical stay close by check out the Holiday Inn Sun Spree Resort which is just a few minutes up the road. Further into the Montego Bay town (20 mins from the event) you can try a myriad of hotels like Breezes Montego Bay, Sandals Montego Bay, Gloustershire, Doctor’s Cave etc. Search for Montego Bay and Rose Hall hotels here.

For further details you can check out www.airjamaicajazzandblues.com. For even better tips and tricks that will ensure you enjoy your stay, check us back at Jamaica Writings under our Music or Attractions category. Irie!

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Irie Man on November 26th, 2008
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One of the items in our little black book of “Must Dos” in Jamaica is to try Jamaican Jerk Chicken. Here chicken is roasted over open flames sometimes with special wood to catch the right flavour. The fire wood is one key ingredient in addition to the many peppers and spices used to season the chicken before cooking and based it while being jerked. Often times you can grab the jerk chicken right off the grill and enjoy some explosive flavour. However it doesnt stop there. Another great addition to the flavour is the Jamaican Jerk Sauce. These sauces come in various flavours and varieties but normally have a spicy kick to them.

Jamaicans love spices…really hot spices. So be careful when trying jerk chicken. You should ask the chef how hot the chicken and or sauce is. Some great chicken spots are Scotchies in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios as well as Boston Jerk in Portland (famous for their roasted pork as welll). You can also get Jamaican jerk chicken in just about any hotel or restaurant here but to get a real local tates try Pan Chicken.

Jamaica Pan Chicken is just that…..chicken cooked in a pan. Or metal drum to be more precise. As seen above the drum is cut along its length and turned into a jerk pit. This easy and quick implementation allows for mobility. While travlleing thrpugh various towns in Jamaica these pan chiken men/women can be found dotting street corners.

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Irie Man on November 25th, 2008
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Jake’s Hotel located in Treasure Beach Jamaica is one of the Caribbean’s most romantic hideaways. Its an earthy, rustic and sensual luxury boutique hotel nestled on a romantic cliff side setting. This Jamaica hotel was named after the family’s pet parrot and designed with inspiration from Moroccan, Indian and Adobe influences as well as the work of Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi. Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Man on November 24th, 2008
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Rose Hall Jamaica located just a few minutes outside of Montego Bay is the perfect setting for a tropical paradise wedding. Though many Jamaica resorts offer wedding packages the beautiful backdrops available at the Rose Hall Resort and Spa will leave you in awe. They even have a package for golf lovers…yes a golf themed wedding. Here luxury meets, tropical, meets raw natural beauty cultivated by mother nature and old world colonial pioneers.

Be sure to check out their wedding photo gallery to get a feel for the various options available. From white sand beaches to dreamy water falls to ancient ruins and they dont stop there. Their world class chefs have catered for kings, presidents, dignitaries and now you. You could even end up in the royal suite for free depending on the size of your wedding party staying at the hotel. Their creativity knows no boundries with even a uniquely crafted Spa theme wedding (what better way to get rid of those butterflys).

Visitors who have used this resort for their Jamaica Wedding give it the thumbs up. They do however recommend that you research and also check and double check your chosen options with the resort on arrival. So check em out and plan that special day in Jamaica at the Rose Hall Resort. You can research the phrase “Jamaica Weddings” here. Irie!

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Irie Man on November 23rd, 2008
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Do any of these pictures look interesting to you? How about a walk with the lengendary Bob Marley or the buzz of a humming bird’s wings while it eats out the palm of your hand. Yes we have lovely sun, sand and sea but so much more outside those hotel walls.  So buckle up and enjoy these great Jamaica tours…..

Dunns River Falls or Rafting on the Rio Grande are historical favourites but the Zip Line Jamaica tour has carved out a special place in the hearts of thrill seekers. Here you traverse or slide along cables hanging among the tree tops. They boast the largest in the Caribbean. Visitors say its a must do even if you are afraid of heights. They said they felt extremely safe with the abundance of staff and professionalism (see also Chukka Canopy Tours). ATV Tours are also very exciting. They come in various flavors depending on location. For example those in Ocho Rios love the Wilderness ATV Tours and marvel at the level of controlled freedom they have to do fun stuff.

For those reggae music lovers the Nine Miles Jamaica Tour is an excellent way to get closer to the legendary Bob Marley. Here lies the remains of Bob Marley in a mausoleum made entirely of Ethiopian marble. This little village was his birth place and where he wrote many songs. Visitors say they felt a spiritual connection and the amazing mountain side scenery was so in sync with the lengends reggae music….sooothing and powerful.  Great tour to learn not just about Bob but the rastafarian culture and its place in Jamaican history.

To cool things down get on a falls tour or go rafting. Some favourites for vistors are Reach Falls in Port Antonio, YS Falls in St. Elizabeth and of course Dunns River Falls in Ocho Rios. You can go rafting on the Martha Brae in St. Ann or Rio Grande in Port Antonio. Click our find it link above and do proper research for the best value and read the reviews. 

Another off the wall adventure tour is the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary in Montego Bay (18769522009). Vistors are in awe with the beatiful sanctury where among others, you get to hand feed humming birds (the Jamaica national bird). They said the experience was great for kids but watch out for the price (about $15 per person). I dont thinks thats so expensive though….your miles away from stress in a forest sorrounded by humming birds…in Jamaica paradise…..so cough up the dough :) .

There are many more great tours to feature so check out the recommended tour links on our Blog Role in the side panel to your right or click on our find it link above and have fun…Irie!!

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Irie Man on November 5th, 2008
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One of the most beautiful and luxurious resort towns in Jamaica is Rose Hall. Located to the north and just a few minutes from the Montego Bay Airport, Rose Hall brims with scenic beauty along the coast. Rose Hall Jamaica is home for some of Jamaica’s top resort hotels like the Ritz Carlton, Rose Hall Resort and Half Moon Resort.

An iconic landmark in Rose Hall is the Rose Hall Great House previously owned by Annie Palmer, aka the White Witch of Rose Hall. Folk tales tell of her black magic powers and they way she murdered her many husbands and lovers. To this day many still swear they see her ghost wandering the halls of the great house. That aside its a charming place to visit tucked away on a beautiful plantation. For those not into haunted houses there are also some great championship golf courses to try out.

 

 

At the Half Moon Hotel there is the award winning White Witch championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and recently renovated by Roger Rulewich. There is also the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course designed by von Hagge and Baril and located next to the Rose Hall Resort. But whatever your pleasure you will no doubt agree that luxury abounds every facet of these high end resorts. Rose Hall is a great place to get married in Jamaica or to invest in real estate. Shopping in Rose Hall Jamaica can also be a treat. The recently constructed Shops at Rose Hall have a great selection of jewelry and gifts to choose from.  So whatever you desire Rose Hall is the place to be. Irie.

 

 

 

 

 

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Irie Man on November 5th, 2008
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Reggae is usually the first thing people think of when you mention Jamaica music. Though reggae is the dominant theme behind our music it is good for us to also appreciate its growth, development and evolution. Slavery has no doubt had an impact on our Jamaican culture and music to include reggae as it draws on our African roots. These roots are responsible for the rythmic beats and tunes now popular worldwide.

Most will agree that it all started with Jamaica Mento Music from as early as the 1920s then migrated to Jamaica Ska in the 50s then evolved to reggae. There is an incredibly rich history behind the music. These sounds represented various movements and cultures and morphed or eveolved with the times, moods and lives of real Jamaican people. In trying to explain the reggae movement it is probably best to compare it to rap, grunge or punk rock music. In essense when they were born they were the underdog reserved for the underground. Reggae was to Jamaica as hardcore rap is to the USA. It was the poor and underprevileged in Jamaica who encouraged the growth of reggae. Ironically after reggae hit the international scene it did not belong to the poor anymore. From the ghetto we needed a new underdog….a new rebellion and Dance Hall Reggae was born (more on that later).

Though we will be reporting our own views on the subject there are still a number of sites providing a plethory of information on reggae. These are our favourites so have a look and check back with us later. Irie. Reggae, Reggae Movement, Bob Marley, Dance Hall Reggae.

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Irie Jamaican on September 21st, 2008
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Reach Falls Portland 1

Hey man what a gwaan! If your heading to Port Antonio Jamaica (same as Portland Jamaica), then here are four great activities. First go visit Reach Falls. Visitors rave about its beauty and consider it a must see. It is a guided tour so there is a small cover charge but the place is complete with changing area and life gaurd. 

Blue Lagoon Port Antonio Jamaica 4Another must is to take a dip in the Blue Lagoon.  Visitors consider it one of the most beautiful spots in Jamaica with the color of the water changing throughout the day with the mood of the sun. It is indeed a magnificent pool (52m deep) fed with fresh water springs before emptying into the sea through a narrow funnel.

Another favourite is to take a ride via bamboo raft down the Rio Grande river. This scenic tour is relaxing and can be very romantic for couples looking for that spark island style.

Rio Grande Rafting

Another great suggestion from visitors is to take the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Plantation Tour which takes you up into the hills of the Blue Mountains. You will be in awe at the wonderful scenery and will feel rejuvenated by the fresh island air. Check with your local guide or hotel for the best options on this tour.

Blue Mountains 2

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Irie Jamaican on September 14th, 2008
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Negril Beach_2

Ah yes…..Negril Jamaica. Prestine white sands, water so calm it feels like a pool, free spirited inhabitants lots of bars and great Jamaican food. That sums up Negril Jamaica. No doubt the biggest attraction in Negril is its seven mile white sand beach. Second would be its vibe which is not only suitable for the wild party bunch but also for those looking for some quiet relaxation time. One only needs to plan their trip properly to land in the fab town of Negril at the right time. If you are into Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on September 11th, 2008
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Goblin_Hill_Villas1 Goblin_Hill_Villas_room1

Port Antonio Jamaica is a quite unspoilt natural beauty. Its hotels and villas are a true reflection of the destinations simplistic but exotic vibe. One of the many Hotels and Villas travellers love in Port Antonio is the Goblin Hill Villas shown above. Visitors rave about the view of San San beach and the Port Antonio Bay. As you can see the view through the bedroom window is breath taking. Port Antonio Hotels are Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on September 8th, 2008
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Usain Bolt 2

Usain Bolt and his larger than life personality returned home today and was greeted with much fan fair. Virgin Atlantic coordinated his travel by air and he was picked up in his brand new BMW and chauffeured through the city before arriving at his welcome press conference. There were dignitaries like the Prime Minister and other proud Jamaicans, some who travelled miles just to see the star arrive.

Usain Bolt made history in Beijing when he not only won three gold medals but achieved world records in all three as well. He was successful in the 100m, 200m and 4X100m. Go Usain Bolt go!!!! Irie :) .
Usain Bolt 1

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Irie Jamaican on September 7th, 2008
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Here at Jamaica Writings we bring you the most up to date Jamaica Vacation Deals. September is the beginning of what we call the shoulder season in Jamaica. This represents the down period in the travel season just before Christmas. It usually runs from September to November (official Jamaica tourist winter season starts December 15). During this off season many Jamaica resorts will promote cheaper vacation packages to keep the hotel occupancy up.  

Our research so far has found the following interesting packages: Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on September 6th, 2008
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Port Antonio Jamaica Marina

Fishing fans!!!!!!!!! Get ready!!!!!!!!! The 45th Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament gets under way at the Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio Jamaica from October 04 to 11. The great thing about it is you dont even have to fish to enjoy it. That’s because the Port Antonio event goes beyond just Marlin fishing with parties and food/drinks a plenty from many local and international sponsors. Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on September 1st, 2008
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Sandals_Jamaica

All Inclusive Jamaica Hotels and Resorts can be found in every major tourist town on the island. This includes Negril, Montego Bay, Trelawny, Ocho Rios and the South Coast. They are usually relatively large and exotic like Sandals Jamaica shown above. The Jamaica hotel industry prides itself on being a pioneer in the area of all inclusive hotels worldwide. In particular the Super Clubs group to include Jamaica hotels like Breezes, Grand Lido, Hedonism and Star Fish.

All inclusive usually means Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on August 1st, 2008
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Bob Marley Smoking 
Search for Marijuana in Jamaica here. “Yes it is illegal to smoke marijuana in Jamaica”. You would be surprized how often I have to say these words. In my travels I always run into people curious about Jamaica and they often always ask obout ganja smoking. Ganja is the word we use in Jamaica for Marijuana or some will say “spliff”, “weed”, or “sensi”. Though illegal you only need to Read the rest of this entry »

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Irie Jamaican on July 19th, 2008
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Fern Gully 3

Driving through the rolling hills of St. Ann Jamaica, towards or from Kingston, you will come up on this lush green paradise of fern. Fern gully is an oasis of nature to the city dweller. It connects the tourist town of Ocho Rios to Kingston. As its name suggests it meanders down (or up) a hill side covered in fern. It has long been a facination of Jamaicans and tourists alike. With its popularity with the tourist some crafty Jamaicans have setup shop to sell their wares along the way. 

Fern Gully 2

If you do happen to visit Ocho Rios make sure you stop and check out what the Jamaican craft world might have to offer. Oh…and remember to keep an open mind. Those toilet paper holders can be a shock to the unsuspecting traveller. 

Fern Gully 1

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