The Caribbean - Suggestions for first time Jamaica

Hubby and I are considering an all-inclusive stay in Jamaica for the first week of November. We would like to stay at a resort where we could go out and do some local activities (restaurant, nightlife, rain forest...) and not have to stay only at the resort. I've looked at some Sandals and some of the Couples' San Souci resorts.

I've read from other posts that there is more to do in Negril than Mobay, but what about Ocho Rios?

We are looking at some of the higher end rooms. Is the butler service worth the extra cost over concierge? Are the signature properties that much better?

Thanks in advance for any tips. :)

Since you are willing to go out and experience Jamaica, something many all-inclusive guests are not, I'm wondering if you wouldn't be happier in a higher-end place that is not all-inclusive. Please note that some all-inclusive resorts will discourage you from leaving except on excursions they have organized. Some actually have guards to keep you in, and will not let you leave without taking down your names.

Negril is set up perfectly for the independent traveler, so you'll find lots of restaurant and nightlife choices. Most of the nightlifers will be other tourists. In MoBay you can get connected into a more local scene, if that's what you're looking for. MoBay has its gritty parts, and while I have never felt personally unsafe in Jamaica I did see a man shot dead across the street from me in 2003. The police explained that he was a drug dealer from Kingston and said they were very happy to have "finished him off." :rolleyes:

Ocho Rios is built entirely for tourists, and priced accordingly. On many days you will need to navigate between hordes of people from cruise ships anywhere you go. The one clear advantage Ochos has over Negril and MoBay is in gardens, if that is an interest.

Jamaica does not have a real rainforest, but at either Negril or MoBay you will be within range of YS Falls, which is a better experience than Dunn's River Falls near Ochos.

Regret I can't offer any advice about butlers or concierges in Jamaica. But I encourage you to go and have a great time!

Thanks, ohioflyer. I think you have a point about staying somewhere that isn't all inclusive. I have to admit having a guard to keep me in/check my name is NOT appealing at all. Maybe a compromise of somewhere with a good club level. I'll start looking at that.

As somebody who used to live in Jamaica and work in tourism, I'll be delighted to offer advice for your stay.

HOWEVER, if Jamaica gets a direct hit from Hurricane Dean this weekend this would SERIOUSLY impact the island and what will be available. H. Gilbert as a Cat. 3 destroyed it in places and it took a year or so to get lots of things back together, Dean is a Cat. 4 and predicted to be a Cat. 5 by the time it hits so I'll hold off making any suggestions until after the weekend.

Agree that it is pointless to discuss anything 'til the wind settles. You need to really know your own comfort level for adventure before deciding what to do in Jamaica. And remember, there is a reason for so many AIs on this island.

Well, fortunately Dean has left the north coast tourist ares intact.

There are many new, upscale resorts that have recently opened up. Iberostar, Riu and the Ritz are all very nice properties.

I think it is great to get out and explore the island however I would recommend hiring a driver rather than renting a car. The cost difference is minimal and the driver will know his way around and be able to fill you in on many interesting topics and destinations.

Enjoy! I'll be there myself in a couple weeks.
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