Five Reasons to Visit Montego Bay Today

Let's face it - Montego Bay has a bad reputation.  I've talked to many clients who haven't been to Montego Bay but don't want to go because they've heard it's dirty, busy, dangerous, etc.  The reality is that Jamaica is a beautiful country with friendly people and a lot of things to do.  The beaches are picturesque, there are resorts for any type of traveler and it's got great food.  Read on for five reasons why I think you should plan a trip to Montego Bay today!

Sunrise in Montego Bay

Easy To Get To
Sangster International Airport is right outside of Montego Bay.  There are direct flights from many U.S. airports and the flight is pretty quick.  A direct flight from New York or Chicago is right around four hours.  Once you land, many of the resorts are a 10-15 minute drive from the airport (one of my favorites clocks in at 11 minutes).  By the time you finish your ice cold Red Stripe, you'll be pulling into your resort!

Red Stripe is especially refreshing on a hot day

Great Resorts
As far as resorts go, there are many great options for everyone.  If you are traveling with your kids, there are many beautiful places with fun kids clubs, age-appropriate sports and other activities, menus that cater to the little ones and pool areas just for kids - some with full on water parks!  If you're traveling with friends and want a fun and lively atmosphere, you can find that here too.  Whether you want a place that has themed party nights, foam parties at the pool, dj's spinning great music day and night and a very lively nightlife, Montego Bay has you covered.  If you are traveling with your significant other and prefer something more romantic, you also have many choices.  There are relaxing resorts with butler service, candlelit dining and beautiful, private suites with private pools and hot tubs to ensure the romance happens!

Great Food
There are lots of great food options in the Montego Bay area.  Even though many of the resorts are all-inclusive and have delicious restaurants, it's worth exploring to try some of the local specialities.  Jerk chicken, which is spiced and smoked, is one of the most well-known Jamaican dishes.  There are also great options from the water - peel and eat shrimp, grilled snapper and lobster in a slightly spicy, garlicky butter sauce are three that you can't go wrong with.  Don't forget to wash all of these down with another ice cold Red Stripe or try a drink with Jamaica's Appleton rum.  I personally love it with some ginger ale - it's very refreshing on a warm afternoon.

Jerk Chicken - Yum!

The Hip Strip
Montego's Bay Hip Strip, otherwise known as Gloucester Ave, is the main street in Montego Bay.  There are many bars, restaurants and stores along this road and it is in walking distance to many resorts.  You can find Margaritaville for fun, day or night, Doctors Cave Beach for relaxing on a beautiful beach, The Pelican Grill for traditional Jamaican food and plenty of stores and street vendors for all of your souvenir shopping.  There is also no shortage of people watching here, and really, what's better than sitting on a deck on a beautiful day, sipping a drink, and watching the people go by?

Doctors Cave Beach in Montego Bay

So Much To Do
Don't get me wrong - I can spend all kinds of time relaxing on the beach with a good book and a cold drink.  However, I also love doing things in the destination that I'm vacationing in.  No matter what you like to do, you can find it in Montego Bay.  Do you like water sports?  You're covered with snorkeling, sailing, diving or fishing.  If you want to relax, there are many beautiful beaches to hang out on.  There are historical buildings to visit and tours that you can take to give you more insight into Jamaica's interesting history.  If you like the outdoors and excitement, there are options for hiking or ziplining.  If you're a golfer, there are several challenging and scenic courses in the Montego Bay area.

I think that Montego Bay is great for almost everyone as there is so much to enjoy, regardless of what you are looking for.  If you're ready to book your trip to Montego Bay, I'd be happy to help.  You can contact me here!