Endless Holiday

The Caribbean has always been a popular vacation destination among travelers from around the world. However, Jamaica has its own unique charm with which few islands can compete. Famous since the 1920s for its exotic flowers, picturesque beaches, green meadows and mountains, state-of-the-art resorts, and friendly residents, it has now become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Montego Bay is Jamaica’s second-largest city and is one of the greenest areas of the island.

It is not surprising that Montego Bay is a top choice among many island hoppers. It also lures artists to its shores every year, as capturing its beauty on canvas is a favorite activity among both experienced and novice painters. The friendly residents of the island ensure that visitors feel as if Montego Bay is a home away from home.

An Intriguing History

Montego Bay was discovered in 1494 by Christopher Columbus. Jamaica remained a Spanish Colony until Oliver Cromwell’s army took over the island in 1565. When Cromwell’s rule was over, Montego Bay began operating as a sugar port and this activity continued until the 1930s. An act of Parliament in 1980 declared Montego Bay a city, and tourism is now its major trade.

Accommodation Options

Unlike some island destinations, Montego Bay provides a broad range of options with regard to accommodations. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts, standard hotels or inns, villas, quaint bed and breakfast establishments, or rental homes through private owners.

Activities and Attractions

Vacationers also have a vast array of attractions and activities from which to choose. Visitors can relax on the beach with a tropical drink and a good book, or spend the day indulging in water sports or taking a guided excursion through Jamaica’s lovely, unspoiled inland. There are also several state-of-the-art golf courses for those who enjoy golfing while on vacation. The following are some additional landmarks and attractions in Montego Bay:

Croydon Plantation

Nestled in the Catadupa Mountains, this working plantation offers a breathtaking, picturesque view of the waterfalls, wild flowers and lush vegetation by which it is surrounded. Merely strolling through the grounds of this tropical paradise allows one to capture the true flavor of Jamaica. Visitors can also sample delicious, exotic fruit drinks, all of which are made on the premises. Guided tours of the facility include a sumptuous barbequed lunch, complete with Jamaica’s famous Blue Mountain Coffee.

Greenwood Great House

Situated in St. James Parrish, the Greenwood Great House is an outstanding example of late-1700s architecture. Built by the Barrett Family–from which hailed the famous poet, Elizabeth Barrett Browning–the Greenwood Great House is filled with spectacular antique furniture, rare musical instruments, Wedgwood china, oil paintings of the family, and an entire library of rare books. A tour of the Greenwood Greathouse is a one-of-a-kind experience that deserves a place on every visitor’s must-see list.

Half Moon Equestrian Center

Horseback riding enthusiasts are always pleased with what they find at the Half Moon Equestrian Center. Here, vacationers can enjoy a variety of equestrian activities, including riding on adventurous trails in the rugged countryside, taking jumping lessons, or riding on the beach at sunset. Gentle horses and experienced trail masters await visitors of all ages at the Half Moon Equestrian Center.

Rocklands Bird Sanctuary

Those who enjoy bird watching should plan a visit to the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary in Montego Bay. This rustic, relaxing environment features a country cottage and a lovely garden where visitors can hand feed Grass Quits and wild hummingbirds. A terrific place for photo opportunities, the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary offers nature lovers a truly unforgettable experience.

Shopping and Dining

Restaurants and bars are found in abundance in Montego Bay as well, all of which offer authentic island fare. Many restaurants also feature American, Italian and Asian dishes. Shopping is another fun and interesting activity in Montego Bay, and one of the most popular markets is The Shoppes at Rose Hall. This complex is home to over 30 stores offering essentially anything one could desire, such as souvenirs, fragrances and cosmetics, jewelry, apparel, and specialty goods. Additional restaurants are found in this area, including a gourmet establishment, an international bistro and several cafés featuring Blue Mountain Coffee and locally grown tea.

Weather

Montego Bay’s average temperature in the summer is 82 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures remain pleasant throughout the winter as well, averaging 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean typically create a pleasant breeze in Montego Bay, which is especially enjoyable in the heart of summer. The island’s rainiest month is May and heavy rain also falls between August and September.

With its spectacular scenery and its wealth of activities and attractions, those who vacation in Montego Bay can anticipate an exciting and memorable experience.