Hi - I'm sailing on the Imagination in June, 2003. I talked 2 of my sisters into going on this cruise with me and, rather than wait until the last minute, I've started obsessing about Ochos Rios. Any helpful suggestions about tours that were fun, enjoyable, not a waste of money, would be greatly appreciated.
Hi - I'm sailing on the Imagination in June, 2003. I talked 2 of my sisters into going on this cruise with me and, rather than wait until the last minute, I've started obsessing about Ochos Rios. Any helpful suggestions about tours that were fun, enjoyable, not a waste of money, would be greatly appreciated.
This is not my favorite port.The country is beautiful but the poeple are obnoxious.I would suggest a ship tour to Dunns River Falls or some of the gardens in the area.Do not venture off on your own for your own safety!Spend the extra money and book with the ship in this port and be prepard to use a "firm" NO THANKYOU !After the tour go immediatly back to the ship.Sorry to spoil your dreams but I would say 75% of people agree with me.Many Previous passengers just stay on the ship in Jamaica.
I have to agree. We spent a week in Ocho Rios at an all-inclusive resort two years ago, and with the exception of taking the Dunn's River Falls tour offered through the resort, we never left the resort property because it was just not safe. That and it is a very dirty and poverty-stricken island. The 2-hour bus ride to and from the airport was enough sight-seeing to know we didn't want to see anymore. It was just so sad!!
But the resort property was beautiful, the beach and ocean incredible, and the Dunns River Falls trip well worth it.
Have never been there, and never intend to go. Do yourself a favor and go into the State Department website about travel warnings. This has been an ongoing thing for sometime now, and travel agents have these warnings. Why the cruise lines continue to go there is beyond me. I spoke to many people that have gone there, and they stated the same thing as the previous posts, they would never get off the ship. Even met a crew member on one of our cruises that was born and raised in Jamaica, and he wouldn't get off the ship. That tells me a lot.
I'm really beginning to regret that I suggested this particular cruise,, only because of this particular port. Peat Taylor is beginning to look like the way to go. Thanks to all.
Hi KathyK: I have visited Jamaica three times and have always had a wonderful time. Have never experienced any problems and if you are lucky enough to meet cab drivers such as George Garden in Ocho Rios who do their best to show you the best of their country, you will also have an enjoyable visit. Enjoy your cruise...Jamaica is a lovely place. Cruiseman
[This message was edited by cruiseman on January 27, 2003 at 04:59 PM.]
We were there in 2000 on the Carnival Destiny. We did the Dunns River tour from the ship. It was alot of fun. Be prepared to give your guide a tip when you get to the top. He even takes soaking wet US dollars! There are MANY very agressive vendors as soon as you step away. They follow you until you get back in the bus. Don't even acknowledge them! They will not give up!
As long as you stick to a tour and expect the pushy people trying to sell you stuff you'll have a wonderful time. We really did enjoy Jamaica (we're going back to get married!) but the vendors are a bit much. I hear Peat Taylor is awesome so I wouldn't worry! Have fun!
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