Jamaica 2009

Having been to Jamaica awhile ago it was good to go again. We flew into Montego Bay into quite a rain storm, made it through customs and were on our way to Couples Tower Isle (formerly Couples Ocho Rios). The roads have changed considerable-extremely nice and we would have rented a car; however, the steering on the opposite side of the states AND the driving on the opposite side of the road. Combining those 2 elements we decided on tours and walking ourselves. The island has much beauty as well as poverty (like anywhere). The people that we met (locals) are very personable and do appreciate the tourisn. The drive to Ocho Rios is about 1.5 hours and very interesting. The beaches in the Montego Bay and Negril are some of the finest. The beaches in Ocho Rios are nice, but not like the "sandy" beaches we all desire. We took off walking one day up into the hills and met some locals and they were wonderful and we felt safe everywhere we went. So much to do-snorkeling, kayaking, zip lining, the famous Bob sled adventure, Dunn's River Falls (which is a must) and of course the local Jamaican Jerk Chicken. Don't be afraid to buy it from the street vendors as it is safe. You will get asked to buy the local "crop", but just tell them no and they will leave you alone. There are many resorts, cruise ports, etc. to visit in Jamaica and next visit we will work our way over to the Kingston area and see that side of the island. Can't see everything in 7 days.