Forget crowded hotels, noise and searching for parking. Instead, enjoy the privacy of your own Jamaica villa with a beautiful beach and stunning views. Sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea with magnificent sunrises and sunsets.

Now that you have established your accommodation, there are many activities available on the island for you to choose from. You can go swimming, snorkeling, diving, or just take it easy and relax. If you like hiking, go to the mountains. Jamaica has many guided tours that will make the experience safer and more enriching. Tours will take you on a jungle canopy tour or raft ride down Martha Brae, make sure you go with a local expert who knows the ropes.

Another fabulous experience is diving with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios. This magnificent property has a natural cove that is surrounded by 5 acres of lush tropical jungle. Visitors have the opportunity to interact and swim with the dolphins. You can also swim, hold and feed Caribbean sharks. This is an experience of a lifetime. If you are looking for relaxation, enjoy its white sand beaches, with a tropical environment as well.

Enough of outdoor activities, plan to spend a morning on the Wassi Art Pottery Factory Tour. This pottery is famous for its unique and colorful Caribbean pottery, which is handmade, all unique designs that will make you smile. You’ll also be happy to know that they’ll ship your purchases worldwide so you don’t have to worry about breakage and extra baggage.

Another place not to miss is Harmony Hall. This beautifully restored 19th-century building was once a Methodist mansion, and now boasts a fine collection of works by Jamaican artists and sculptors. The winter season will include original crafts and jewelry from local artists.

Bob Marley’s birthplace and mausoleum is located in a sleepy town called Nine Miles in the St. Ann Hills, visit the mausoleum of the late reggae superstar, Robert “Bob” Marley. This is a very interesting walk, a trip out of the ordinary. It has been said that you might even meet his mother.

Firefly, once a vacation retreat for luminaries, is the historic home of playwright Noel Coward, who has played host to Queen Elizabeth II, Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor. Stop to learn about this beautiful house that got its name from the luminous insects that come out at night.

Jamaica has some wonderful annual events that you may want to plan your vacation around. This way, you’ll know exactly when to reserve your villa in Ocho Rios.
The Ocho Rios Seafood Festival is August 6 and the Jamaica International Jazz Festival is June 11-19.