Hey Everyone!
Wow, I feel like I haven’t said that in a long time! Even though it feels completely weird being away for so long, I had a LOT of stuff going on. For starters, I just got back from my trip to Hong Kong and Thailand. I plan to do a recap later on this week so be sure to stay tuned! It was so AMAZING! Before I talk about that trip, I want to share 5 things you must do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. If you remember, I went to Ocho Rios in June. My family and I were there for my brother and sister-in-law’s 10-year anniversary. I can’t believe it took so long for me to write about it. Clearly I’m slipping. LOL! Although I’ve traveled all over the world, being in Jamaica has much more meaning to me than any other place. My family is from there so it feels like going home. I definitely need to visit more often.
If you plan to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica anytime soon, there are a few things you absolutely MUST DO! The island is breathtaking. One of the best things about Jamaica, besides the warm and friendly people (and the FOOD), are the beautiful rivers and mountains. If you’re a lover of nature, then this is definitely the place to visit!
Here are 5 things you absolutely must do in Ocho Rios:
Dunn’s River Falls
Climbing this beautiful waterfall is one of Jamaica’s most popular tourist activities. If you plan to visit Dunn’s River Falls and make the climb, be sure to factor in about 1 – 1.5 hours. There are two ways to go up: You can go up in a human chain-link with a group of people and a tour guide OR you can brave it and go up alone. Regardless of your choice, make sure you wear water shoes. As someone who has gone up the “hard way”, I can tell you, those rocks are VERY slippery. The water is also extremely cold. Probably the coldest I’ve ever felt in my life. Climbing the waterfall is a great workout and the water, though cold, feels magical. My mother used to say that you could wash your sins away in those waters. Cost is about $20 USD for adults and $12 USD for kids.
Island Gully Falls (Blue Hole)
This hidden treasure, which is also called Secret Falls, is tucked away in the hills of the White River Valley. Ever dream of swinging on vines like Tarzan? Well you can do that here. This is also a great spot for swimming and jumping off of the waterfalls. I haven’t had the pleasure of visiting this one yet but it’s definitely on my list for the next visit! Cost is $15 USD for entry.
Dolphin Cove
Never in my life could I have imagined that I would actually swim in the water with dolphins. I did the dolphin encounter on our trip and instantly fell in love. After all the documentaries I’ve seen on dolphins and how sweet they are, I have to admit, I didn’t believe it. They truly are gentle giants though. I enjoyed hearing the story of some of the dolphins they saved. It’s comforting to know that they’re being treated with love. Price of general admission is $49 USD and dolphin packages ranging from $99-$199 USD.
Horseback Riding Tours
If you’re traveling with a partner when you go to Ocho Rios, there’s nothing more romantic than a horseback ride through the waves! There are several companies that offer horseback riding at prices ranging from $70-$130 USD.
Fern Gully
This winding stretch of road is really a MUST See! Imagine being surrounded by lush greenery everywhere you turn. That’s what it’s like in Fern Gully. There are approximately 300 varieties of fern here. How insane is that?! This is a great place to get souvenirs from local craftsmen or just to take a leisurely walk through the emerald color surrounding you! Cost is free minus the price of a taxi.
There you have it! I’ve come to a conclusion with regard to writing about my travels. From now on, I’m going to provide more valuable travels tips. Whether it includes “Things to Do” or “What to Pack”, I want to make sure you’re getting something out of reading about my travels. Having experience as a traveler can be a big help to others who haven’t started yet.
