Has anyone ever been to Montego Bay, Jamaica???

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shadyxl

Wow kristen, some of these messages are disheartening. Look, it depends on what type of traveler you are.

Most older people or people with family find it more comfortable to stay in the resort. But how many nights of karaoke and drunk old men dancing can you stand.

Now, montego bay in the day is different from Montego bay in the night.
During the day you'll encounter a lot of poor workers who will compete with other poor workers to try and sell you items. So harrassing can happen. But's it's not meant to be rude it's mostly "hey miss, check out my stand, or hey pretty lady pls just take a look at my items." The best thing you can do is IGNORE them or say sorry, I left my money behind, I'm just looking. Works for me all the time. But it has calmed down A LOT since new laws are in place. But if you want to avoid it all together, avoid the market place and just visit a regular store. Problem solved.

As far as wearing Jewelry and rings like that other commentor stated where she had to take off her ring. Don't mind that, a lot of the local people are used to rich tourist and see jewelry all the time. They are poor people so of course they will stare, but tourism is their bread and butter and they will not rob you. when it comes to tourist they believe in "look but don't touch." Any of the above people who bashed them will have a hard time finiding a newspaper article about how a tourist was robbed or hurt by a local. They don't belive in biting the hand that feeds them.

Moving on, if you're young then you'll like Montego bay at night because Jamaica has the most bars per square feet than any other country in the world. Jamaica likes to party. Check out jimmy buffets Margaritaville. Or any local hot spot. The locals are different at night, they are americanized, fun and love to drink and dance. Jamaica is knowed for it;s friendly people. You'll find a younger crowd at night so chances are they've been to america or are used to foriegners and you'll also find a lot of foriegners so nothing will happen to you. I've been to Jamaica a million times.

And yes, it is dirty but what do you expect, you're going to a 3rd world country not disney world. The more fun you have depends on how uptight you are. Jamaica has one of the highest ratios of return tourist trips and there is a reason why.

Question

"Come to Jamaica and feel alright!!!" Don't listen to all those haters. Every city in the world has its dangers. Montego Bay is what you make it. It is a wonderful place. Just be smart and you'll enjoy your stay.

Melanie T

Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and is a very popular tourist destination. Kingston is the capital and largest city in Jamaica and is located on the southeastern coast of the island.

Some of Jamaica's popular vacation and resort areas include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, and Negril among others. Jamaica is a mountainous island including the well known Blue Mountains in the east. The highest point is Blue Mountains Peak at over 7400 feet. There are also many rivers in Jamaica and visitors can enjoy the experience and scenery of river rafting. Jamaica is surrounded by beautiful beaches. Some of the well known beaches are Doctor's Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach in the Montego Bay area, Seven Mile Beach by Negril, Treasure Beach on the south coast, Boston Bay Beach and Frenchman's Cove by Port Antonio, Turtle Beach and Mallard Beach in the Ocho Rios area as well as Dunn's River Beach by the Dunn's River Waterfalls in the Ocho Rios area.

Montego Bay, a popular resort and tourist area, is the second largest city after Kingston in terms of population and is located on the north coast. One of the attractions not far from Montego Bay is the Martha Brae River with bamboo rafting and the Luminous Lagoon, one of Jamaicaâ€™s beautiful wonders. In the Ocho Rios area, also located on Jamaicaâ€™s north coast, visitors can enjoy the hike from the beach to the top of the Dunn's River Waterfalls in a guide led group and this is one of Jamaicaâ€™s major tourist attractions. Port Antonio is also very beautiful and itâ€™s located further east along the northern coast. In this area one can enjoy river rafting on the Rio Grande, a visit to the Blue Lagoon and much more. There are many other attractions and activities of interest in Jamaica. Jamaica is also known for Reggae music. There is much more to see and do in the beautiful island of Jamaica.
Excursions i recommend are:
Horseback riding, Blue Mountain Plantage and most important the RIO GRANDE trip... That's the best ever!!! I love Jamaica and i'm addicted to the Orange Juice... can't drink the crap they sell here anymore....
Enjoy!!!
i'm sooooo jeallous

Mel

http://www.seejamaicacheaply.com/sightseeing_tours_excursion_jamaica.html

GlitznGlamour

First of all your choice is a good one. Jamaica is the best travel destination ever. Im from Montego Bay and there are lots of stuff you can do to get the most out of your trip. It all depends on the type of person that you are.
Mobay is what we Jamaicans call a 'hip strip' meaning there's is always places to go and stuff to do.

There is the world famous Doctor's Cave beach if you love sea and sand. This is just one of the many beaches in Mobay. You could also visit Aquasol Beach as well.

If you are an entertainment and food lover then Pier One on the Waterfront is the place to be. It has a Marine Park and an excellent resturant and bar. They also have happy hour from 5-7 where everyone gathers around and listens to live entertainment. There is also a reggae party there every Friday.

If you are the historic type, you can visit the world famed Rose Hall Great House. It is a grand estate and was once the home of Jamaica's legendery 'white witch' Annie Palmer. Its said to be haunted. Its very interesting to visit.

There is also the Montego Bay craft market, which many tourists adore. Here you can purchase basically anything your heart desires. They have a range of souvenirs and genuine Jamaican items.

There is also the Margueritaville Sports Bar and Grill. Its one of the most popular spots. The open-air room contains four bars, several big-screen televisions and a dance floor overlooking the water. Of course, the bartenders specialize in margaritas. Eats include pizza, hamburgers and sandwiches. Enjoy the waterslide and hot tub out back. Theme nights include a Red Stripe fest as well as Karaoke and bikini contests. You never know what's in store at this popular hot spot.

Also since you're coming in July, this is just in time for our annual 'Reggae Sumfest' which everyone hails as 'the greatest reggae show on earth'. This is held in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay and features five nights of critically acclaimed local and international acts. Thousands of tourists flock Montego Bay for it every year.

These are just a few of what happens in Mobay. Trust me, you will enjoy every minute of your stay.

Sherona B

Montego is no more dangerous or dirty than NY or London or any other city. U will have a good time as long as u dont play the fool.

BABY BELL

I went to Negril in Jamaica a few years back and passed through Montego bay, if u get a chance to go to the black river then do also u can swim with Dolphins and there is the Bob Marley trips, look at day trips that take u out of Montego bay and see a bit of the place it is really beautiful.
And then just find a nice spot on the beach and relax!! gorgeous beaches! and go to some of the reggae nights they do on the beach they are great.
Ill also add having read others that yes u will be hassled to buy things! but this is a poor country and most of their money is made from tourists u just have to be tolerant of it, i found that if u are respectful but firm when u decline there is not a problem.
I should probably add that there are some dodgy places around so dont wander of on trips on ur own, go on the designated group trips that the reps do and they wont steer u wrong, Jamaica is great if u stay in the tourist places and the beaches. Dont let any of it put u off going its a lovely place and i cant wait to go back, u just have to be sensible and remember personal security.

Why go to another country if you don't plan on mixing it up with locals? I have been to JA several times and have never stayed in a resort.........way too expensive and who wants to hang out with other people from North America and Europe? Pack a backpack with some light clothes and travel around the island. Go into the hills, go to some sound clashes, buy food from street vendors and open your mind! Peace out!

diamond

yes it's a very nice place a peacful area of tourism just relax and enjoy ur self

dsl_s24

me and my friend are planning a trip to montego bay next july. we've been reading up on it and are going in july because thats when they hold one of the biggest reggea concerts (red stripe reggea sumfest) with tons of local talent and major names from the u.s. like 50 cent and missy elliot!! i cant wait!!

FRECKLES

JUST GOT BACK 3 DAYS AGO!!

thisisnotdel

Unfortunately, I've never been to any cities nor Jamaica itself, although my sister has been to Negril, Jamaica, she said the vacation was alright. I believe Montego Bay is more safer than Kingston.

Good luck and be safe.

flightpillow

Like the other's said I wouldn't go off on your own....Margaritaville MoBay is fun, mainly because of that water slide and the trampolines. The water slide has a pretty good drop, and goes into deep water, though.........Rocklands Bird Sanctuary might be fun.

beachloveric

I went with my sister and we wandered out the resort, you know to see the locals instead of just other holiday makers. Well, everywhere we went they were staring at my sisters engagement ring, she had to take it off. She got really bend out of shape, we bought some things and never got the change as the person who sold us the stuff disappeared and the new sales person pretended she did not speak English. I was not too bad as I have hitch hiked all round europe. But she was scared. We ended up getting a cab back after checking with a cop that the cab driver was okay. There is a lot of poverty, the guys are ten feet tall and broad. However, it is a beautiful place just be careful and do not wander off on your own. Keep away fromo the markets as they have narrow lanes and professional robbers, people stare at you. So any activities will have to be provided by the resort so you can stick together.

maivas229

Jamaica is a great place. You will enjoy staying in Mo-Bay.I have stayed there several times and my only regret is that my stay was not longer.Go and enjoy yourself.There will be so much to see and do.

1Cheapcruise

Have a great time!! I been to the Island 7-8 times and always was treated very nice! Jamaica is like any other place on earth, you need to use common sense when traveling out of the country.

TINKERTOY ..... the 1 & only

Like others have said, don't go off on your own, don't even take taxis that don't originate at your hotel or you may get ripped off. Do go do the Martha Brae river rafting trip/tour if you can. Also if you can get a tour to Dunn's River FAlls that is worth the trip. Then just enjoy the beach and activities at your hotel. If you do go into the marketplace DO NOT PICK UP ANYTHING THAT YOU DO NOT PLAN TO BUY. Once you pick up something they expect you to buy and will pressure you to do so.

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