Ocho Rios for a great vacation

Ocho Rios is one of the top tourist towns and is located on the north side of Jamaica. The name is spanish for eight rivers, which is most likely a misnomer for Las Chorreras - the waterfalls- and was the original name given by the spaniards, when they landed on the island, due to the many waterfalls they found in the region. There are also many rivers in the area, but not eight.

Jamaica is divided into Parishes, and Ocho Rios lies in the Parish of St Ann, along the north coast of the island. It is often referred to as the "garden parish" because of its lush foliage.

Visitors, to the island, enter via the International Airport in Montego Bay, they will travel about an hour and half - depending on traffic - to get to Ocho Rios - pass many small towns and large resorts that dot the highway and the coastline.

The island has lots of lush tropical foliage and natural attractions, in the Ocho Rios area these are the top attractions, located only a short distance from the many large resorts, and offering a variety of sights.

1. Dunns River Falls is rated the top attraction in Ocho Rios. The falls are about 600 feet high, and are terraced like giant steps, some of them were formed from natural erosion, but some are man made, and the guides use them as stepping stones, to lead groups through the falls. There are also several small pools, interspersed among the falls where stops are made for swimming. Within the parklike grounds is a restaurant, a pub and a internet cafe - all overlooking the river. It is believed that the river and falls got their name from the family that owned the property - in the early 1900s. For those who do not wish to walk through the dold waters, there is a walkway that runs along one side of the waterfall. A good tip to known when visiting the falls - wear swimwear, aqua socks or an old pair of shoes, as the rocks can be very slippery, and bring a waterproof camera.

2. Fern Gully lies outside the city limits, it is a rocky gorge where over 500 species of ferns can be found growing in a 4 mile area. The foliage here is so thick that it blocks out the sunshine in many parts, it is a sight that has to be seen to be appreciated.

3. A fifteen minutes drive, from the Falls one can enjoy the thrill of riding a "tube" through the rushing rapids and placid pools of "White River", with the ultimate 20 foot plunge into the deep blue river.

4. For an exhilarating bobsled ride visit "Mystic Mountain" in Jamaica's rainforest. While there visit "Rainforest adventures" to experience the Sky Explorer Ride, the camopy ziplines, and Mystic watgerfall and infinity edge pool. Then enjoy a well-deserved lunch at the restaurant overlooking the bay.

5. For that "pulse quickening ride" drive your own bobsled from the railway station - a replica of a early 1900s railway station - along a gravity-driven 3,280-feet plunge - with twists and turns. The good news is, you can congtroll your own speed, make it fast and furious, or leisurely, as you head for the bottom.

For more leisurely pursuits, there is horse-back riding through the waves and warm waters of the Caribbean Sea or into the mountainside. And while a visit to "Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville" is less hair-raising, it is just as much fun - relax on the sun-kissed private beach, spend time in the rooftop whirlpools, try the waterslides, and don't forget the swim-up bar where drinks are served. For fans of "Bob Marley there is a jeep safari to his birthplace and final resting spot, but do not expect to hear any reggaa music.

Places to stay
In the town of Ocho Rios, there are many All-Inclusive Resorts as well as many smaller hotels and Inns. The large Resorts are built on acres of gardens and lawns with golf courses, tennis courts" and miles of sandy beaches. Besides the accommodations, there are restaurants, swimming pools and excellent day spas. Guests have access to an array of water sport equipment, beach activities, snorkleing and dive excursions and beach and pool games.

For those not staying at one of the large resorts, the towns has many fine restaurants, lively bars, shopping boutiques and places for entertainment. The miles of white sandy beaches are open to the public and the market in town carries local arts and crafts, souveniers, rum and other Jamacian specialties.

With the arrival of several cruise ships, daily, the town always has a festive atmosphere over which flows the strains of local Jamacian music.