Ocho Rios Travel Forum

I basically have hardly even been out of my own state as far as travel. Now I am going to Ochos Rios for my honeymoon in Late May, early June. I am really looking forward to it but have lately read a lot about the crime rate and scary roads. Can anyone tell me if these concerns are valid and if the road from the airport in Montego to Ochos Rios is scary to travel? Thanks!!

We just got back from our third trip to Jamaica and we have never encountered anything unpleasant. That's not to say that crime doesn't exist but most travelers to Jamaica don't see it. I have found the Jamaican people to be friendly, the country beautiful and you can have a lovely relaxing vacation here.

I assume that you are going to be staying at a resort and will be leaving the driving to someone else, I would not advise renting a car for a travel novice as they drive on the left side of the road, roads are not terribly well marked and Jamaican roads are not the best although they have greatly improved over the last three years, esp. the main road between MoBay and Negril (haven't been to Ocho since 2002).

On the last two trips we have hired a private guide to take us around the island and I would highly recommend at least one day trip from your resort. We used Barrett Adventures and found the prices to be competitive with the hotel offered tours. The website is www.barrettadventures.com. They also offer pickup from the airport, our transport was included with our package so I'm not sure if they are more than just grabbing a taxi.

Any more questions, feel free to drop me a note.

I have been to several islands in the Carribbean, and although Jamaica has a reputation for crime, it is very safe as long as you know not to go off the beaten track by yourself at night....just like many cities in the US, such as NYC or Washington, DC. I was in Ocho Rios last year and stayed at the Jamaica Inn, which was incredible, and felt TOTALLY safe. The people are so friendly !! Many people stay at their resorts and never leave, which I would NOT suggest. Although all the resorts and beaches are lush, you will really have a much better time if you visit "downtown" Ocho Rios for eating, shopping and a little sight seeing. {Since Sandals is all inclusive you will be tempted never to leave, but you should, at least for a couple of afternoons}. There are, of course, some very pushy vendors in the market areas, but just keep walking if you really don't want to buy. I never once felt unsafe. There are fun restaurants that you can have a taxi take you to. I would not suggest driving yourself. It's very aggressive and you really need to know the roads. Who wants to be bothered with that nonsense ? Have a GREAT time and DON'T WORRY !! It's a BLAST !!!!

My wife and I went to Ocho Rios in March 2004. The shuttle from Montego Bay took about 2 hours, not so much scary as "under construction" . There is quite a bit to see other than the road ahead.
About the crime rate, I'm sure the is one, but I wouldn't
be overly concerned. Most if not all resorts are limited access (gated). We felt safe walking in town. The staff where you are staying should advise you if you have concerns.
One last tip: The Almond Tree and Evita"s are two good restaurants with great views.

You should have no problems at all if you just watch out for your surroundings. Just like any other "strange" city or town. The "tourist traps" (aka Dunns Falls) can have very pushy vendors, but if you are not interested in their wares, just say so and keep walking. Like any other vendor in tourist places, they're just trying to make a living.

Get out and explore (Kingston, etc), don't stay so attached to the (glorious) beach that you just stay in one spot...