3 Things the Internet Gets Wrong About Jamaica

Let’s talk about Jamaica, because the internet has some feelings about it. And a lot of them are… wrong.

Jamaica is one of my favorite Caribbean destinations, and I’m always a little sad when a client says,“We’ll visit any island except Jamaica.”

I’ve lost count of how many times someone has told me:

• “We heard it’s not safe.”

• “We’ve already been there.” (after spending four hours at a cruise port)

• “There’s not much to do besides sit on the beach.”

Let’s clear up a few things, shall we?

1. “It’s not safe.”

Here’s the truth: the U.S. travel advisory for Jamaica has been adjusted down. It’s now at the same level as most of Western Europe.

Even when the advisory was higher, it was never for the whole country. It focused on a few high-crime areas outside of Kingston. For context, Kingston is 2 to 4 hours away from the resort areas where most travelers stay—Negril, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios.

I personally travel to Jamaica several times a year, often solo, and I have never once felt unsafe. In fact, I’ve encountered some of the friendliest, most joyful, most caring people I’ve ever met while in Jamaica.

2. “We’ve been there.”

Have you?

Because if your only experience of Jamaica was a cruise stop or a single resort stay, I promise—you’ve only scratched the surface.

• Negril feels totally different from Ocho Rios

• Montego Bay has its own energy

• South Coast is something else entirely

Writing off the entire country after one visit is like saying you’ve “done Europe” because you saw the Eiffel Tower.

3. “It’s all beach and no culture.”

Sure, Jamaica has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. But that’s only part of the story.

It also has:

• A visit to the home of Bob Marley in Nine Mile

• The Appleton Rum Estate

• River rafting, hiking, waterfalls

• Street food tours and jerk chicken that ruins you for life

This is a place with real heart. And yes, you can absolutely lie on the beach with a drink in your hand, but that’s certainly not all you can do.

So… where should you stay?

That depends on your vibe (and your budget).

• If you want luxury with tons of included perks and top-tier service, you can’t beat Sandals.

• If you want something a little more laid-back with amazing food and a great value, Couples Resorts is a fantastic option.

Both are adults-only, both are beachfront, and both offer way more than just sun and sand. And yes, I’ve personally been to all of them—so when I recommend something, it’s because I’ve actually seen it.

Thinking About Jamaica?

Let’s make sure you get the right trip, not just a room with a beach view. Whether it’s your honeymoon, your third (or thirtieth) getaway together, or a just-because-you-deserve-it kind of trip, I’ll make sure it’s done right.

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