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Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Montego Bay
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Montego Bay One of the most appealing and sought out places/resorts in Jamaica, Montego Bay is one of the most welcoming, foreigner-friendly locales in the Caribbean. With deluxe hotels, cosmopolitan touch, and thriving business center, it is almost a home away from home for many vacationers. The rate of visitors has risen greatly, and prices have risen accordingly as well, but there truly is something for everyone in Montego Bay. Its tourist-trap credentials and booming industrial center create a balance of high-falutin entertainment and budget attractions. This balance allows anyone from just about anywhere to enjoy what Montego Bay has to offer. It is calm, yet fun; easygoing, yet booming. Not barren, but certainly not crowded, is the perfect spot for someone looking for a bit of enjoyment along with the R&R.
When to go:
The balmy temperatures in Montego Bay could not get better. Staying between 90F (30C) and 70F (20C) the climate is superb albeit for one factor, rain. Spring and autumn see downpours on a consistent basis, and though winter and early-summer are much drier, there is always the chance of rain. Of course, these conditions are expected for a coastal location in the Caribbean, but if youd like to stay dry, winter is your best bet. Of course, this means winter is high-season; although, peculiarly enough, service seems to get better during this time. If youre willing to chance yourself with the rain, travel during August, when the Reggae Festivals are in full swing. Reggae Summerfest and Reggae Sunfest bring local and international musicians from all over the world, and create quite an enjoyable experience.
Getting there and around:
Donald Sangster International Airport is Montego Bay and the surrounding areas connection to a great number of cities around the world. Flights from the US, Europe, Asia and Australia arrive everyday, and the airport is outfitted to accommodate anyone from just about anywhere. There is a currency exchange available, though many Montego Bay locations gladly accept US dollars. Be sure to hold onto or keep a close eye on your luggage because theft is a common issue here. The three kilometers to the city centre are quickly covered by the taxis, cars, and vans available outside the terminal. Most people arriving in Montego Bay have previously booked accommodations, therefore free transportation is provided; otherwise youll have to take a taxi or rent a car.
Most people travel the area by taxi. Theyre not very cheap, but theyre not a drain either. If youre staying within the city center much of the time, walking from place to place is perfectly possible, and you can rent a bicycle or motorcycle if youre in the mood for a ride or a cruise.
Attractions:
Most of the places that attract visitors to Montego Bay are the resorts. There are a great number along the coast and a few inland, but if youd like to explore a little history while youre here, you can make your way to two of the most famous (and infamous) sites in Jamaica.
Rose Hall is the most frequented of the two, and this is simply because of the legendary tale that involves the house. It was built from 1778-1790, and though the land which accompanied the property was enormous (about 6,000 acres), its size has since been cropped. The story with the house is of Annie Palmer, who allegedly killed numerous husbands here and was herself killed here soon thereafter.
The Greenwood House is smaller, but, some say, nicer. Its a cozy abode which has gone under less restoration than Rose Hall, but still attracts many by its traditional Georgian style. The library here is filled with books as old as 1697, and a collection of china, paintings, musical instruments, and antique furniture is on display.
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