Grand Jamaica

Quick Tips:

For a quick tip: make sure before you get on the airplane to Jamaica you have lots and lots of one dollar bills, because everyone has their hand out. (If you are American, they think just because of that you have money, and believe you should give yours to them.) But one way to get out of it, do it yourself, don't let anyone touch your bags and you won't have to tip.
Again be forceful, strong about yours.

Best Way To Get Around:

If you must get around, don't do it yourself because Jamaicans (I believe) don't have rules of the road. they just drive all over-it's a wild road race! Try to take a shuttle, the best option, or a cab. Oh, and even though the brochure says you don't have to tip, they expect you to.

Best thing-just stay at the resort... and relax, if you can.

The resort is very nice, except for one thing. The only thing I found bad about this resort was in my room... it was the sofa/chair. It smelled as if it had never been cleaned/shampooed. But other than that, everything was great! Lots of pools, with a bar at each one, two beaches (one nude and one regular). I believed there were two or three restaurants, one formal and the rest casual. Room service is provided all day until 9pm. The first day we arrived, there was a contest going on and many other activities throughout the week, also a huge luau was given (food and entertainment) it was great! There are also plenty of water sports, such as canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc.

Dunn's River Falls Park is the perfect environment for fun and relaxation for the entire family. The Dunn's River cascades over a number of rock terraces on its way to the sea and a beautiful beach. The stepping stones of the falls allow easy access up and down their 600 feet, under a stimulating shower. You can climb the falls in a human chain led by experienced Falls Guides, during the guided tour there is a small pool like part within and you do a little fall in. Pause at the "massage parlour" and experience the soothing effects of the water as it cascades to the sea.

The resort had a deal where you could go to the Botanical garden and Dunn River Falls. Well, I understand why it was a deal, because unless you are really into flowers then its a great deal for you, but if you could care less, its still a good deal cause you get to see a little more of Jamaica at the same time. But, the garden wasn't that exciting. A beautiful place to take pictures, but other than that I did not find it very interesting.

The side-of-the-road markets are okay. You may be able to find some interesting items, but if you can, talk them down from their high price, and then move on, because the next shop or market will have the same thing. One tip, though: some people find it a little intimidating, because the shop owner calls out to come over and buy, but remember that you are in control. But don't get too cocky, because you are still in an unfamiliar place.

Now, I went to a shopping center in Montego Bay, and they had more of variety of items, but they stick to their price and you can't really talk them down.

But there are plenty of markets all over Jamaica, with plenty of shops to explore.