Montego Bay was first settled by the Spanish in 1510. Centuries later ,Mo’ Bay as it is known by the locals, is Jamaica’s second largest city and among the top Caribbean vacation destinations with travellers from around the world. This is a city with an intriguing history that locals proudly share through legends, monuments and historical sites. Believe it or not, Montego Bay’s history is almost as spectacular as its beaches. Throughout the city and the surrounding area you will find links to Jamaica’s colonial past and the former slave trade that flourished here. There are a few remaining plantations and estates, many of which are surrounded by legend and mystery, including the well known estate, Rose Hall Great House. Rose Hall Great House was completed in 1790 and was said to be the grandest home on the island. Legend has it that one of the former residents of the estate, Annie Palmer, also known as the White Witch of Rose Hall, killed a number of husbands and lovers at the house before she herself was murdered. Annie Palmer was buried on the property and her ghost may still wander the estate. They say that the remains of three of her husbands rest there as well. The guided tour at Rose Hall Great House is definitely worth the trip. Greenwood Great House is also worth a visit. It was built during the 1760’s and contains an excellent collection of antiques including instruments, carriages and slave shackles. In downtown Montego Bay you will find the statue of Sam Sharpe, a Jamaican preacher who led an unsuccessful slave rebellion in 1831 and was hanged for his role in the uprising.

Montego Bay is the tourism centre of Jamaica and for good reason. First of all, the beaches are absolutely spectacular. Miles of pristine white sands and warm waters, water sports, beach activities and soothing reggae rhythms are some of what you can expect when you hit the beach in Montego Bay. The area offers visitors plenty of choice when it comes to beaches. Whether you are looking for a little relaxation or some fun in the sun, you will find a beach to suit your needs. Doctor’s Cove Beach is the most popular in Montego Bay. Perfect for families, couples and fun seekers in general, Doctor’s Cove Beach is great for swimming and other water sports as well as unbelievable snorkelling along the coral reef just off shore. The beach also has a number of restaurants and bars so you can spend the whole day if you want. The beach does however charge a small fee for use. Dead End Beach is much less crowded than the other public beaches and is a part of the Montego Bay Marine Park. There are no facilities here, so pack a lunch, your snorkel gear and a good book and enjoy a day all to yourself.

There are so many ways to spend your time in Montego Bay, that it is hard to choose how you want to fill your vacation itinerary. Boat cruises are very popular in Mo’ Bay. Party cruises, fishing charters, glass bottom boat tours or catamaran cruises are all yours for the choosing. Golf is also becoming a favourite past time here and there are some exquisite courses in Montego Bay including Half Moon Golf Club, Tryall Golf Club and White Witch Golf Club. If you plan on doing some shopping in Montego Bay, be prepared for an experience in patience. The vendors can be quite aggressive - not unfriendly, just quite eager we’ll say. If you are not interested, a firm but friendly “no thank you” should do the trick and if you are planning on making a purchase be sure your bargaining skills are sharp. Montego Bay is a Caribbean destination like no other where it is easy to get swept away in island living. Montego Bay enjoys a warm, tropical climate. The temperatures remain pretty consistent throughout the year with an average between 26˚C and 30˚C. From May to November, Montego Bay experiences its wettest weather receiving frequent heavy showers. Like most Caribbean destinations, the rains usually don’t last long so it won’t really put a damper on your vacation. June through November is also hurricane season however Jamaica is rarely hit by such storms.