Negril vs. Montego Bay & Ocho Rios

MsSunshine · October 5, 2008

Hi all, I'm on the search for the perfect weddingmoon location. I was wondering what is the difference between all three of these popular spots? Does one location offer more things to do? what location is cheaper to stay? and which has a beautiful beach? I'm looking for some relaxion and would like to do an exursion. We will probably stay for 3 or 4 nights. I appreciate any kind of feedback to help me decide. Thanks for your help

Lilpaisley · October 5, 2008

I asume you are talking about the areas in general and not a specific resorts. I have been to Jamaica 3 times already and my wedding will be my 4th.

I haven't been to Negril, so I can't speak to much about that area, but it is the area known for the best beaches and being more of a laid back area.

Montego Bay seems to be the most well known of the tourist areas. It has what is called the 'hip strip' of clubs and shopping. It also has some of the great historical attractions like Rose Hall. It is close to the airport and the drive to the resort will be short. The plane noise bothers some people (depends on the resort)...but I kind of liked it. Everytime a plane went over all I could think of was how glad I wasn't on it

Ocho Rios falls stlightly in between MoBay and Negril. Allot of the cruise ships use this area as the port (some do use MoBay) and it can get crazy and crowded when they are in port. It has great beaches and still has some fun night llife and attractions. It's close to Dunns river and Shaw park.

If you want relaxation and great beaches...I think your best bet is Negril.

barrow · October 6, 2008

I am from Jamaica and I am having my wedding there. I love Ocho Rios for its' tourist sites. It is about 2hours from the airport but, well worth the trip. Montegobay is filled with mosquitos and the night life is a little dangerous for me, but hey it all depends on what you are looking to feel, see, and how you want to spend your time. Nigril is far as well from the airport. It is far into the country so that is why your time would be more relaxed. That is a place for a honey moon. All the fun spots either in Montegobay or Ochie is way to far if you want to do more than one thing in a day. Time is most important for me especially with friends and family comming down. They need to be able to get to the fun fast not spend all day trying to get to it and not have to be under time contraints.

MsSunshine · October 6, 2008

I am from Jamaica and I am having my wedding there. I love Ocho Rios for its' tourist sites. It is about 2hours from the airport but, well worth the trip. Montegobay is filled with mosquitos and the night life is a little dangerous for me, but hey it all depends on what you are looking to feel, see, and how you want to spend your time. Nigril is far as well from the airport. It is far into the country so that is why your time would be more relaxed. That is a place for a honey moon. All the fun spots either in Montegobay or Ochie is way to far if you want to do more than one thing in a day. Time is most important for me especially with friends and family comming down. They need to be able to get to the fun fast not spend all day trying to get to it and not have to be under time contraints.

Oh wow I had no idea about the mosquitos in Montego Bay. Thanks for letting me know the difference.

MsSunshine · October 6, 2008

Oh wow I had no idea about the mosquitos in Montego Bay. Thanks for the clarification on all three locations. Thanks again ladies!

~*petals*~ · October 6, 2008

To echo what the rest have said: Montego Bay (where the airport is located) is about 1.5-2 hours away from both Negril and Ocho Rios, in opposite directions.

For a honeymoon, I'd recommend Negril & Ocho Rios. I got engaged on a vacation to Ochi and we took our first vacation together to Negril about 4 years ago & been to Jamaica lots over the years.

Negril is home to the 7-mile beach. It's a long white-sand public beach. There are tons of hotels up and down the strip. Here is a link to a map: http://www.negrilinfo.com/sitebuilde...camap42008.pdf

There are also lots of boutique hotels on Negril's beautiful cliffs.

Ocho Rios is home to lots of the tours that are offered, and it's also home to beautiful waterfalls. My cousin got married there a few years ago, and it was lovely.

All three cities have a nightlife (Margaritaville in all 3, Jungle Nightclub in Negril, Club Amnesia in Ochi), but it just depends on your personal taste.

Check the Jamaica Tourist Board site for more info. Happy planning!