Go Shop View archives

• Island Village Shopping Center

  Shop and tan simultaneously at this open-air mall with over 30 shops and attractions to choose from. Music and entertainment while you browse clothing, books, souvenirs, "reggae wear," and Bob Marley memorabilia make this a wholly pleasant shopping experience. (9/2011)

  Turtle River Rd, Ocho Rios
  876-675- 8995
  islandoutpo...and_village
  

• Bob Marley Experience & Theatre

  Honor the 30th anniversary of Bob Marley’s passing at this shop, which is the perfect space to absorb all things Marley—a documentary on the big screen, music and images— and take a piece of the legend away via memorabilia such as CDs, T-shirts and books. (9/2011)

  At Half Moon Shopping Village, Rose Hall
  876-953-3449

• Old Fort Craft Park Market

  This market, which fronts Howard Cook Boulevard near the crumbling remains of Fort Montego, boasts more than 150 vendors (all licensed by the island’s Tourist Board). Among the diverse offerings are wall hangings, shell jewelry, wooden sculptures and wovenstraw pieces. It's a great place to haggle for a souvenir. (9/2011)

  Howard Cooke Blvd

 

Go See View archives

• Belvedere Estate Tour

  This family-owned estate— one of the first sugar plantations in Jamaica— is set on 1,000 acres just minutes away from Montego Bay. Nature lovers will enjoy the natural beauty of its rivers and waterfalls, as well as numerous exotic plants and birds. (9/2011)

  Twin River Farms, Chester Castle
  876-956-7310

• RAFTING ON THE MARTHA BRAE RIVER

  Thirty-foot bamboo rafts have been plying this scenic river for over 40 years. The romantic, three-mile ride lasts for about an hour. Listen to your captain recount the legend of the Arawak witch whom the river is named for, or go for a refreshing swim. The tour ends with a visit to Miss Martha’s Herb Garden. (9/2011)

  Montego Bay
  876-940-6398
  jamaicarafting.com
  

• Appleton Express

  Named for a train that once carried day-trippers across the island, this tour takes visitors to the legendary Appleton Distillery aboard a luxury bus, where they can learn how the favorite local rum is made, from start to finish (plus get a complimentary bottle to take home). Trips leave from Montego on Tuesday through Thursday, and also stop at Ipswich Caves. (9/2011)

  From local hotels to Appleton Rum Distillery St. Elizabeth Parish
  876-952-3692
  appletonrumtour.com
  

 

Go Eat View archives

• The Pelican Restaurant & Grill

  The Pelican has been a Montego Bay culinary landmark for decades. This popular breakfast spot is known for its scrumptious Jamaican meals and friendly atmosphere. Try their breakfast potatoes and fruit smoothies. $$ (9/2011)

  Gloucester Ave
  876-952-3171

• THE HOUSEBOAT GRILL

  Dine on a houseboat overlooking the Bogue Lagoon while taking in the breathtaking hills that surround the city. This romantic fine dining spot is famous not only for its ambiance but for its fabulous Caribbean-infused fare such as sauteed tiger shrimp in spicy coconut curry. $$ (9/2011)

  Southern Cross Blvd, Montego Freeport
  876-979-8845
  www.thehouseboatgrill.com
  

• Calabash Restaurant

  This spot, perched on a hill 500 feet above the sea, is known for its fine food, excellent service and starstudded crowd. The extensive menu includes Jamaican staples like she-crabs, as well as other favorites like filet mignon and poached fish. $$ (9/2011)

  At Winged Victory Hotel 5 Queens Dr
  876-952-3891

 

Go Party View archives

• Blue Beat Ultra Lounge

  The city's first martini and jazz bar is like an upscale version of Margaritaville. Lounge on the outdoor deck overlooking the Caribbean while sipping a "Brown Sugar" (made with Godiva chocolate liqueur, Baileys Irish Cream, and Smirnoff Black), or groove to the fresh beats of the night’s DJ. (9/2011)

  Gloucester Ave
  876-952-4777
  margaritavi...lounge.html
  

• MARGARITAVILLE

  These Jimmy Buffet-themed restaurants are studded all over the US, but the Caribbean branch of the chain has an advantage over some of the rest: It’s actually on a beach in a tropical paradise. It serves 52 varieties of margaritas. (9/2011)

  Gloucester Ave, Montego Bay
  876-952-4777
  margaritavi...ribbean.com
  

• REGGAE SUMFEST

  At this staple reggae event, you’ll not only get a taste of local dancehall and reggae acts, but also international artists (Usher took part in 2010) who always come prepared to entertain the lively crowds each night. July 17-23. (9/2011)

  At Catherine Hall
  876-953-2933
  reggaesumfest.com