The Good, Bad and Ugly on Jamaica
So I went to Jamaica in November 2018. This was my first time, but because I didn't read any blog posts before planning, my experience was okay, but it could have been better. I decided to write this post because you never know who may need the help! So below are some PRO's and CON's from my trip along with a little advice.
PRO's on clothes...(cute right?) Layers baby!
We scheduled our trip for the week of Thanksgiving, partly because this holiday is a little overrated and because it's close to my birthday. It was 40 degrees here in Houston, so I was all bundled and toasty warm going to the airport in a sweatshirt and leggings with no shirt underneath, but when we arrived in Montego Bay, it was 86 degrees. I was extremely uncomfortable because we had to wait outside for the resort shuttle. I strongly suggest you dress in layers that way when you arrive in Jamaica you can peel them off and not sweat to death!
Besides bug spray and sunscreen, I suggest SPF 50 Sports Sunscreen, dresses are the extra most bestest. Honestly, I wouldn't take a bunch of different outfits unless you're staying for weeks on end. I took 15, and didn't wear half of them. Knowing what I know now, dresses are cool and comfortable and can convert from an outing to a beach cover up.
PRO's on when to Go..we all know about Peak and Off-Peak, but just in case Peak is "pricey"-Dec. thru Apr. and Off-Peak less "pricey"- May thru Nov., but there is a third option to watch out for...Rainy season May thru June and Oct. thru Nov. Off season also has less crowds, boutique summer sales, no waiting at top restaurants and reduced activity rates. Speaking of activities, go with the flow. You wanted a vacation, so do just that. Don't try to schedule a bunch of adventures or site seeing trips just be easy and don't worry be happy.
CON's (literally) Keep your cat eye open.
While waiting for our shuttle bus, there were literally 20+ mom and pop shuttle shops trying to gain your business, and it was so overwhelming, that I would suggest you get a resort with a shuttle service OR add transportation to your package. Be on your P's and Q's because it's easy to get on the wrong shuttle.Secondly, be friendly, but not too friendly because they will follow you or try to help you with your bags so you can give them money.First time, Adults only. I suggest that you DON'T TAKE YOUR KIDS the first time out. It was cool once we arrived at the resort, but the conditions at the airport were not kid-friendly. Also, because marijuana is legal in Jamaica, our driver was offering us blunts and eatables, but also told us he had a connection if we wanted to get it later. He also offered to come back and get us that night and take us to parties outside of there resort and I was like WTH???
My trip was almost ruined due to the driver telling us about how bad the conditions are in the little shanty towns and how everything is so expensive for the people who live there. He said a lot of them only make about $30 a week. I don't know if he was trying to get us to feel sorry for him, but it was lightweight awkward!Last, but not least. Montego Bay was nice and very relaxing, but picture sitting on the beach with your tropical drink and the next thing you know is you're holding your floppy hat because a plane is flying right above you. Yes, Montego Bay houses the International Airport, so although we were only a 10 min ride away, we had to endure the noise. It's not so bad at night, and it's hard to hear once you're in your room, but it is noticeable.
That's my thoughts, and in conclusion, the PRO's outweighed the CON's, but take it all into consideration.
Happy Planning!