The classic Caribbean attractions of palm-lined beaches and a wide range of water sports are very much in evidence on this large island, but Jamaica is also spectacularly beautiful.
In a nutshell
Rolling hills contrast with steep gullies and the towering Blue Mountains beg to be explored. Dunn's River Falls is also breathtaking - both the view and the climb! The island?s strong musical culture is everywhere - Bob Marley's legend and music really does live on here. Do visit Nine Mile - his birthplace. Montego Bay is the best resort to be in if you like it lively - it has a vibrant 'Hip Strip' with a good selection of bars and shops. Negril is more laid-back, spread out along a beautiful 7-mile stretch of golden beach. Ocho Rios is a world-class destination. Larger than Negril, its duty-free shopping is very popular and it's well situated to visit all the major attractions.
Sightseeing ideas
Key Events
Jan - Jazz Festival.
Feb - Bob Marley Celebration.
Mar - Spring Break.
Jun - Jerk Festival.
Jul or Aug - Reggae Sumfest.
Aug - Independence/Emancipation (cultural experience).
Getting there
Flight details - You fly direct from London Gatwick to Montego Bay on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service. Alternatively, if you are staying in Ocho Rios, Virgin Atlantic now offers flights from Gatwick to Kingston.
Flight time - Approx 9 hours 45 min.
Time difference - GMT -5 hours.
Language - English.
Currency - Jamaican dollar J$.
Star attractions
- 200 Miles of Beautiful Beaches
- Spectacular Mountain Scenery
- River Rafting
- Great Nightlife
- Downhill Biking in the Blue Mountains
- Tumbling Waterfalls
Handy stuff
Local Living
Small beer - £1.50.
Can of coke - £1.30.
Loaf of bread - £1.50.
Bottle of wine - £15.00.
The above are approx local supermarket costs.
Additional info
Beaches and Diving
Jamaica has some magnificent beaches, including Negril Beach, which stretches for miles, and the sublime Frenchman's Cove. Water sports abound, and with shallow reefs, walls and caverns, it makes for superb diving.
Island Life
Glide down the Martha Brae on a bamboo raft or safari up the Black River. There are also plantation houses with colourful histories, Dunn's River Falls to climb and Dolphin Cove to swim with bottlenose dolphins.
Lively Nightlife
The nightlife is extensive in Jamaica. Although low-key in Negril, Rick's Cafe is a popular place to be at sunset. In Montego Bay, 'Hip Strip' is known for its bars playing reggae long into the night, and Ocho Rios boasts some lively bars and restaurants.
World-class Golf
Jamaica is home to several world-class golf courses, including the Caribbean's oldest at Manchester Club. Most are located in and around resort centres, making them easily accessible. All abilities are catered for.
FREE Island Experience
For those in need of a bit of retail therapy, Virgin Holidays is running a FREE duty-free shopping trip, including a stop at the ever-popular Margaritaville bar, and a COMPLIMENTARY drink to get you in the Jamaican mood!
Total Flexibility
Tailor-make your ideal Caribbean holiday by combining hotels we feature in different destinations. Try a twin- or triple-centre holiday across the different resorts of Jamaica or combine with a US city or theme park visit.
Weather and climate
