Official Language:
English
Secondary Language:
Patois
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Currency:
Jamaican Dollar & US Dollar
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Population:
Approximately 100,000 people call Montego Bay home
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Montego Bay Jamaica: Best time to visit between November-April. The temperature is fairly stable year-round, so it's possible to visit in other months as well. Winter coastal-area day temperatures are in the 70s-80s °F/23-32°C. June-September is usually in the 80s-90s °F/30-35°C. Nights tend to be 5-10°F/3-5°C degrees cooler everywhere. Temperatures in the hills and mountains are usually cooler than on the coasts by 5-10 °F/3-5°C degrees.
The hottest time is July-October, when the humidity, heat and hurricane possibilities are the highest. Most rain falls between May and October, but even then, it generally comes in brief showers and seldom ruins anyone's vacation. (June and September, less so), temperature and on occasion the rains can be very heavy indeed.
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Port: Ships dock at Freeport, approximately 3 miles from town.
Montego Bay, is Jamaica's busy second city located on the northwest coast. Montego Bay owed its past prosperity to butter, sugar and bananas, yet today it is tourism that keeps Montego Bay a popular cruise destination. The heart of Montego Bay is Sam Sharpe Square. Named in honor of the slave who led the bloody "Christmas Rebellion" in 1831. This helped to expedite emancipation on Jamaica. The square is a popular gathering spot now where you can find local vendors selling refreshments, & snacks. Montego Bay will show you its fine examples of Georgian architecture. This is a style emphasizing classic proportions. A favorite amongst tourists is the Town House, which was built in 1765 for a wealthy sugar planter.
Outside Montego Bay you can discover the famous Doctors Cave beach or perhaps try the calm river-rafting on the Martha Brae. Dunn's River Falls is a must for cruise ship passengers who have not been to Jamaica. The falls are located just west of downtown Ocho Rios. You will find the cool mountain waters plunging 600 feet to smooth limestone beds below, and streaming under the roadway to enter into the turquoise blue Caribbean Sea. Explore the sights and culture of Montego Bay with a visit to the 18th century Jamaican plantation homes like the famous Rose Hall, or to the Appleton Sugar Estate.
First, came the Arawaks, who were members of the dominant North American peoples who inhabited most of the Caribbean islands during the point when Columbus first sighted Jamaica in 1509. After a few decades passed the Arawaks had left the island, after falling victimd of disease and enslavement. To replace the Arawaks on the sugar cane plantations the Spanish then imported slaves from Africa.
The British arrived next, and captured the island from the declining fortunes of Spain in 1655. Under British control, English immigrants arrived and the sugar cane and cacao industries were expanded, along with the help of the continued importation of slaves. Jamaica, then became one of the world's principal slave trading nations, and continued as such until the abolition of slavery which came in 1838.
With the abolition of slavery, huge populations of former slaves left the fields and fled to the interior. With or without the slaves, someone had to work the plantations. The importation of slaves from India and Asia took place next.
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Attractions |
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Fort Montego
Ruins of the 18th century British fortress, offering spectacular views of Montego Bay harbor.
Sam Sharpe Square
Previously named Charles Square, this is the gathering place that was later named after the slave who initiated a rebellion in 1831.
Georgian Court
A courtyard which separates two restored 18th century homes. Home to an art gallery and a restaurant as well.
Croydon Plantation
Slightly inland from Montego Bay, take the tour of this working plantation highlighting Jamaica's agricultural history and future.
Martha Brae River
A 30 foort bamboo raft that will take you through tropical foliage down the Martha Brae River. Receive a personal narration during your journey down the river.
Ipswich Caves
See more than 1,000 limestone caves that have been discovered in Jamaica. Visit the caverns in Ipswich and catch a glimpse of the underground world.
Appleton Rum Factory
Take a tour of the estate where Appleton rum has been made for more than 2 1/2 centuries. Sample a cocktail!
Shopping
When buying your souveniers dont forget the Blue Mountain Coffee, jerk seasoning, and the flavored rum and liqueurs.
Montego Freeport Shopping Centre: Duty-free shopping as close to your ship as possible! Many shops found here also have downtown branches.
Half Moon Village/Rose Hall
For fine duty-free shops, souvenir shops, clothing, and dining options.
Gloucester Avenue: Shopping for those who are fans of strip malls.
Montego Bay Crafts Market: Find the perfect gift of straw crafts, handmade dolls. woodcarvings, and leather items.
Golf
Montego Bay is home to 4 championship golf courses, leaving you plenty to choose from.
1) The White Witch Golf Course at The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall Resort.
2) Three Palms Ocean Course at Wyndham Rose Hall Resort & Country Club
3) The Half Moon Golf Course
4) The Tryall Golf Course & Tryall Club
Beaches:
Rose Hall Beach Club
Walter Fletcher Beach
Freeport Beach
Doctors Cove Beach
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More Information |
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Web: www.jamaicatravel.com
www.cruisemontegobay.com
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