My and my fiance will be going to Ochos Rios in 2 two weeks...?

Question

we will be staying at the Sandals resort there and I know there are a lot of things to do within the resort. But does anyone have any suggestions on what else we can do there? Any tips on getting around, shopping and interacting would be great there. I have never been to Jamaica and want to experience the best I can in 1 week. Thanks for your help. :D

Answer 1

Basically you should stay on the premises of the Resort. If you go to the waterfalls beware of the "Vendor Trap" at the end. When I was there, this guy gets all friendly with my friend  and asks him his name and his wifes name. In about 30 seconds he had carved their names on a walking stick and demanded $75!

I stopped to look at some cigars and the guy would not shut up and practically chased me into the parking lot!

Unfortunately Jamaica is a very poor country and depends on tourists for money.  If you go outside your resort, you will be constantly accosted be extremely aggressive people trying to sell you stuff, including drugs, car services etc. etc. if not just plain robbed or mugged. Another favorite expression there is "No pressure, mon" -- while they are pressuring you in the extreme -- in Negril people were coming right up to us and trying to put necklaces around our necks!

I went to Jamaica once and did not stay in an all inclusive resort -- I would NEVER go back there.

Answer 2

Hi there,

There are so many things to do and see in Jamaica.  It's really hard to narrow down everything for a week stay.

It's very easy to take a taxi in Ocho Rios right from your Sandals resorts.  Just decide on the price with the driver before you go.  

Definitely do the Canopy Tour.  What fun!  The most favorite thing I've ever done in Ocho Rios.  You can book that right through the resort or on line at Chukka.  The Chukka guides are Jamaican and the experience is professional and excellent.

Shopping is close by about 10 minutes by taxi at the Tah Mahal Shopping Centre.  Typical tourist shopping...

Dunn's River Falls is a first time must for everyone....don't forget to bring a pair of water shoes or rubber sole shoes.  The falls can be slippery.  You can "hire" a guide to help you get up the falls.  Not a bad idea doing that.

Harmony Hall if you are interested in arts and Jamaican crafts.  Worth the taxi ride as it's a bit out from town.

If you golf then definitely Sandals Golf and Country Club.  Even if you don't golf it's worth going out and renting a golf card and cruise the course.  Spectacular views!

Don't miss a couples massage at Sandals Red Lane Spa.

Shaw Park Gardens is the place to go to see some of Jamaica's natural floral and beauty.

Check to see if there is anything going on at Margaritaville in Ochie while you are there.  It's a fun place.

Have a great time!

Answer 3

Re the "vendor trap" at DRF:

When you're done climbing the falls, don't go out the "exit", but go back to the "entrance".  You'll avoid the vendors that way.  Both lead to the parking lot.

Answer 4

Hi Katie, I am happy to know u r coming to Ja.  I really am not happy with Big Tig's answer. Jamaica might be poor financially but  we are VERY RICH spiritually morally, aca demically,etc. We have the warmest,most sincere human beings. Hey lets face it, there is good and bad everywhere, and if you are wrongly involved at home and bring it here then hey, you'll yield bad results.

    On the other hand, Dunn's River and Dolphin Cove are must sees.You can swim with or pet dolphins at at D/C  or climb the 650 ft Dunn's River Falls. I have been a Tour Guide 4 19 yrs, LOOOOVE  my Jamaica and will be only too happy 2 share more . Come to Jamaica and feel alright.Best Wishes to you and your boyfriend Katie.

Answer 5

Yeah, go to Dunns, go to Dolpin Cove, and ride some horses on the beach.....

But also, go to the clock tower in Ochi ( Ocho Rios ), and get a few patties from Juicy Patti & watch the people...go to the outdoor market & get some fruit.....go up the road to Pineapple to a place called Bi Bi Bips & get a drink and watch the ocean from 200 feet up....catch a taxi and tell the driver to take you to Raggae Beach and go for a swim.....

All these activities will give a better picture of Jamaica & its people, not the resort or tourist traps. And feel safe...despite the crime you hear about ( mostly in Kingston ), no one will bother you....except maybe some beggers.

Answer 6

I just got back from Jamacia 2 weeks ago. Here are somethings to keep in mind.

1. Jamacia is a very poor country, don't go wandering around by yourself. Always go with a group who has its own transportation. Also cars in Jamacia have different colored licence plates based on what the purpose of the car is. Pay attention.

2. Go to Dunns Rivers falls but buy a good pair of water shoes or they will make you rent them.

3. Jamacia is a pretty small place, a week is pleanty of time, don't rush.

4. There is a lot of good marine life, try to go scuba or at least snorkle.

5. There are lots of places with Dolphin shows and encounters, way cool.

Have Fun!

Favorite quote from Jamacia: "It's not a problem, just a situation"