NEGRIL, JAMAICA

UNDERWATER

Welcome to the land of Reggae and Rasta. There are lots of possible destinations in Jamaica. We chose Negril for its laid-back reputation and the beautiful Seven-mile beach where no building can be taller than a palm tree.

We weren't divers yet when we took this trip, so can't tell you a lot about the diving opportunities, but the snorkeling was excellent! Calm conditions, warm clear water, and an abundance of fish.

The best places to snorkel are along the cliffs on the west end of Negril. Access is via ladders from the rocks - no beach at all! Check out the little caves and rock bridges along the shore. We found great snorkeling at: Xtabi and The Rockhouse

These are hotel & restaurants perched on the rocks. Most places will let you use their ocean access if you have a meal or drink there. We'd go for breakfast, snorkeling & sun and pretty much hang out all day.

There are also other fun things to do on the water. Rent a sailboat or a sea kayak. Or take a ride on a "banana boat" if you dare!

TOPSIDE ATTRACTIONS

Seven-mile beach is a beautiful expanse of golden sand that's great for swimming, sunning, and generally watching the world go by. There are small places right on the beach where you can buy a Red Stripe Beer and a sandwich. Try a club sandwich, and don't be surprised if it features slices of the reddest hot dog you've ever seen. Pretty tasty.

You don't really even have to leave your beach chair--people will wander by and try to sell you anything you might need & many things you don't need. Be sure to take a stroll and check out the diversity of crafts, clothes, musicians, etc set up right on the beach. Ya gotta learn to bargain and sometimes just politely say no! We found the people very friendly.

Everywhere you go there is great "feel good" reggae music. We visited right before Christmas, and really enjoyed all our old favorite carols to a reggae beat. Lots of places have live music. And be sure to try the local food including jerk chicken and peas and rice.

They say the place to be at sunset is Rick's Cafe on the North End. We stopped by, but found the packed party scene was not for us. There are tons of good restaraunts and nice bars to while away the evenings. No problems, mon!

For those wanting to venture to other parts of the island, I understand Kingston (the home of reggae legend Bob Marley) is a good bet for music lovers, there are rivers and waterfalls, and the Blue Mountains where they grow the famous coffee. Jamaica is remarkably diverse. We stuck to the beach this trip.

We stayed at Negril Tree House & thought it was great. Nice clean airy rooms, each with their own porch. Good location on the beach.