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<title>jamaica</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/tags/jamaica</link>
<description>New posts about jamaica</description>
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<title>Jamaica Has Much to Offer</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaica-Has-Much-to-Offer.149811</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Everyone knows that Jamaica offers astonishing scenic beaches with clear blue water stretching as far as the eye can reach. The sun welcomes visitors with its warmth. The variety of beaches available starts with crowded and lively and ends with a quiet spot to take in the sun, possibly with a cool drink in your hand.<br /><br />Yes you can sunbathe and swim but you can also try out windsailing, scuba diving or snorkeling. The wonders of the display of marine life and the reef is beautiful. What a wonderful memory to take home with you. You can also ride a horse along one of the beaches. If you are experienced enough the guide will allow you to ride bareback.<br /><br />You can also choose from one of the two hour guided tours, on horseback. There are some that take you over uneventful but lovely areas. If you crave excitement you can choose the mountain trails. Your escort will entertain you along the way with local folklore and names of scenic spots.<br /><br />Here on the third largest island in the Caribbean which is the birthplace of James Bond and Bob Marley, there are many reggae music festivals. If you happen to visit at the right time, you may find one of your favorite singers or bands giving a concert. Check for dates with your travel agent to reserve tickets.<br /><br />Although the warm tropical breezes and lovely sandy beaches will take your breath away, there are many other things to pursue in Jamaica. There is river rafting, waterfall climbing, mountain biking, ballooning and simply relaxing in a hammock at one of the resorts. <br /><br />Jamaica travel is an experience that no one should miss. There are many places to stay, one to please the family, the newlyweds or the singles looking to become newlyweds. <br /><br />The majority of the population is of African descent. It is however, a melting pot of cultures and ethnic groups from all over the world. It is now home to people of Chinese, East Indian, Arabic, Indian and European ancestry. With the island’s distinct Spanish and British colonial histories, Jamaica has become a favored travel destination for countries all over the world. <br /><br />There are many natural beauties as well as exhilarating, adventurous and historical sites to visit.  Among them are some of the best that Caribbean has to offer. The Bob Marley nine miles tour, the Negril’s day and sunset tour, the Blue Mountain Peak, the Dolphin Cove, and the Dunn’s river falls are some of the most spectacular spots. Some of the other places of interest are the Devon House, the Rose Hall Great House, Little Ochi, Faith’s Pen, Martha Brae. The Island of Jamaica is larger and more diverse than visitors expect.<br /><br />With all there is to see and do it is impossible to explore Jamaica in a few days. From the towering heights of the Blue Mountains to the spectacular waterfalls. From the beaches crystal clear ocean waters which are so perfect for snorkeling to the inland river rafting, Jamaica has it  all. We do warn tourists of the following: you may not want to return home once you experience this amazing place called Jamaica!</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Has-Much-to-Offer.149811"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Has-Much-to-Offer.149811" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:07:41 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>All Cost Included in Jamaican Resort</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/All-Cost-Included-in-Jamaican-Resort.144039</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Looking over a serene beach in the center of Montego Bay, you will find the Sandals Inn which forms part of the novel InnClubs, your path to complete exchange rights at all other Sandals resorts in Jamaica, making it the most excellent all expenses paid vacation youd get anywhere. Sandals Inn is a cosy hideaway having only 52 rooms. You may think this resort is small in size but it's pretty big where warmth and appeal is concerned. Where real room service implies you can have breakfast served to you privately on a terrace with a great ocean view. With the Sandals exchange privilege of "Stay at One, Play at Six" you can make the most of the huge world of water sports and other amenities available at other Sandals resorts close by, making even the smallest Sandals resort extra big when it comes to getting value for your money. Benefit from top-notch facilities at the two nearby Sandals Resorts which include water-skiing and the most wide-ranging scuba diving program in the whole of the Caribbean.</p>
<p>&amp;nbsp; The two connoisseur restaurants at Sandals Inn beckon you to have dinner outside with palms swaying in the breeze under a sky full of twinkling stars. Relish international dishes and enjoy the 24-hour grill which serves your favorites anytime. As a guest of Sandals Inn, you are free to dine at Montego Bay anytime at the other two Sandals Resorts: Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean, giving you the choice of 11 outstanding restaurants, within minutes from each other, having complimentary transfers included. It is Sandals Inn's way of widening your horizons and value at an inn that is the right size for those who wish for a great summer vacation. Amenities in the room include air conditioning, cable TV, coffee or tea maker, complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, in room safe, iron and ironing board, radio or alarm clock, refrigerator and satellite TV.</p>
<p>For activities you can choose from beach tennis, volleyball, billiards, board games or go kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, wind surfing, water skiing, hydro biking or snorkeling. All water sports are included at nearby Sandals Montego Bay. Roundtrip transfers are included. There is also a fitness center if you want to keep fit after having all that food and drink. Spa services are optional and of course, come at an extra cost. You have rooms for massage and facials, besides other rooms for scrubs and body wraps, couples massage and hydrotherapy. Relax, rejuvenate and spoil yourself. Then you also have the Welcome Party, Nightly and Talent Shows, the Piano Bar, Karaoke and a Resident Pianist.</p>
<p>Local tours and excursions are optional and are not included in the package. Sandals does not operate these tours, they are provided by outside agencies. All tours must be booked at the resort directly with the Tour Desk which will help you regarding the schedules and prices. Airport transfers are provided for in air-conditioned buses to all guests who have made their bookings and arrive in Montego Bay International Airport. Sandals Inn is only a 10 minute drive from the airport.</p>
<p>For day-wear at Sandals, one can choose from tank tops, shorts, swimsuits, casual shirts, sundresses and slacks. Come nightfall the attire turns elegant in a casual way. Most restaurants allow elegant dress shorts.</p>
<p>&amp;nbsp;</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FAll-Cost-Included-in-Jamaican-Resort.144039"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FAll-Cost-Included-in-Jamaican-Resort.144039" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 08:24:28 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Best Casinos in Jamaica</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Best-Casinos-in-Jamaica.137017</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Jamaican casinos or gaming lounges as they are more popularly known play host to an array of exciting games such as electronic craps, blackjack, roulette, Caribbean stud poker and video poker among others.</p>
 
<p>Until recently, the Jamaican government did not support casino-style gambling. It was just in April 2008 that Jamaican Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, gave the green light to develop the first legal casino house in the country. However, many resorts have been granted special licences that allow them to operate on their premises. As a result, you can now find casinos/gaming lounges popping up in tourist areas such as Kingston, Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.</p>
 
<p>A far cry from the grand casinos of Las Vegas, Jamaican casinos still have something to offer players. A warm, cosy place to gamble where you don't have to worry about con artists trying to rip off your coins, and oh, you only have to be 18 years old to gamble or drink in Jamaica. Isn't it lovely?</p>
 
<p>Here is a list that will make your quest for the best casinos in Jamaica go smoothly:</p>
 
<h3>Kingston</h3>
 
<p><img src="%%IMG1%%" alt="" /></p>
 
<p>On the southern end of the island, a must stop for those who want to roll the dice on their luck is The Terra Nova Hotel and Monte Carlo Gaming. With 137 gaming options including roulette, slots and track betting, a gambler is sure to have a good time here. Guests can all enjoy a full bar filled with an assortment of Jamaican rum, a restaurant that can suit even the pickiest of eaters and great service from a cordial staff. The Terra Nova Hotel has 44 rooms and rates start at US$139 per night for a standard room in the summer.</p>
 
<p>Also featured in Jamaica's capital is The Acropolis Gaming and Entertainment Centre. Opened in 2005, this Jamaican casino hosts about 150 slot machines, a restaurant and a bar. It's about 12,000 square feet and is owned by Supreme Ventures Limited that operates the Jamaican Lottery, Cash Pot, Lucky 5, Pick 3 and other games popular among Jamaicans.</p>
 
<p>The Villagio Gaming Lounge, also operated by Supreme Ventures Limited, is located in the 303-room Hilton Kingston hotel, near the pool. The Villagio offers gaming on slot machines and games such as Roulette, Royal Ascot Horseracing, Blackjack and Three Card Poker. The gaming lounge also boasts one of the best in cocktails and entertainment and is open at 11:30 a.m. each day and closes at 3:00 a.m. the following morning. Rooms start at US$229 per night.</p>
 
<h3>Negril</h3>
 
<p>&amp;nbsp;</p>
 
<p>Situated in western Jamaica, Negril is a hotbed of tourist activities. The town boasts myriad fun-filled adventures which happen on and off the beaches. One such adventure that happens off the beach is casino gambling and in Negril it gets no better.</p>
 
<p>Located inside the adult-only, notorious party spot Hedonism II is a casino that houses 20 slot machines. Fully decorated with Caribbean flair and decked out with a bar that serves nothing but the tastiest alcoholic beverages, the 280 room hotel offers the gambler an experience like no other. Rooms start at US$136 per night.</p>
 
<p>Grand Lido Resort and Spa in Negril is yet another resort that offers a delight to the gambling crowd. Boasting a slew of exciting slot machines and nightly entertainment, the resort comes complete with a bar, many restaurants and 210 rooms that guests can retire to once they have had enough fun. Rooms start at US$349 per night.</p>
 
<h3>Ocho Rios</h3>
<p><img src="%%IMG3%%" alt="" /></p>
 
<p>Moving to the northern coast of the island is Ocho Rios, a place where any kind of jet setter is guaranteed to have a great time, for a starting price of US$175 per night. Just like Negril, Ocho Rios is home to another clothing optional, party centre that just offers a little gambling to boot. Opened after the success of Hedonism II, Hedonism III houses 20 slot machines and a great opportunity for constant entertainment for the uninhibited adventurer. Just like Vegas, what happens at a Hedonism resort stays there and that's a promise.</p>
 
<p>Also in Ocho Rios is The Treasure Hunt, which is home to slot machines, bingo, poker and video poker. In total there are 120 gaming machines, so no matter what kind of game you feel most comfortable playing, you are sure to find it at Treasure Hunt.</p>
 
<p>The Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort is home to 80 machines which include slots and electronic blackjack. Resting on 17 acres of well manicured lawns, The Sunset Jamaica Grande houses 730 rooms starting at US$557 for a minimum three night stay.</p>
 
<h3>Montego Bay</h3>
 
<p>In the tourist hotspot of Montego Bay lays The Coral Cliff Hotel. Situated on Jamaica's famed Hip Strip, this Jamaican casino is open all day long. So you can hit anyone of the 120 slot machines housed on the property to your heart's content.</p>
 
<p>And people do linger for hours on end at The Coral Cliff Hotel. With a tropical jungle d&amp;eacute;cor that appeals to your desires and free drinks for all its guests, who could possibly tear themselves away from the chance to hit the jackpot, or stay at this treasure of a hotel in Jamaica. Rooms start at US$70 per night.</p>
 
<p>Inside The Holiday Inn Sunspree, an all inclusive resort is a small casino that houses about 50 slot machines. This cosy little spot tucked away in a 524 room resort is the perfect spot for beginners to enjoy a little spin on the slots. Rooms start at US$200 per night.</p>
 
<p>So the next time you visit Jamaica make sure to try your luck at one of the casinos, who knows, you might just hit the jackpot.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FBest-Casinos-in-Jamaica.137017"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FBest-Casinos-in-Jamaica.137017" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 03:39:18 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>What to Look for in Bargain All Inclusive Vacations</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Practical-Travel/Budget-Travel/What-to-Look-for-in-Bargain-All-Inclusive-Vacations.124502</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>First off the best deals you find may not be the best place to visit.</p>
 
<p>You will find many deals offering discounted prices on a resort which at the time may sound good, but remember you are getting what you pay for.</p>
 
<p>Check out all the details before you book.  Look up the resort on the Web and check out any traveller reviews.</p>
 
<p>Find out what the food is like and the condition of the property and rooms.</p>
 
<p>Look for the star ratings on multiple websites as some may rate it lower then others.</p>
 
<p>Your best bet is to look for a four or five star resort and try and stay away from anything that has a lower rating. If not you could be in for a big disappointment upon check-in.</p>
 
<p>Make sure that the food at the resort has good ratings or you may find yourself living off potato chips and soda if the food is not up to quality standards.</p>
 
<p>Check out other resorts in the area that may be under construction or if the one you are looking at is undergoing any renovations.  This could be a factor in why the price is so low.</p>
 
<p>Look up the traveller reviews and send an email anyone who had a recent visit, they can give you the whole scoop on what is good and bad about the resort.</p>
 
<p>At times the resort may be having a last minute sell-off due to cancellations or under bookings and it may be a deal of a lifetime.  But it is best to exercise a little caution.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FPractical-Travel%2FBudget-Travel%2FWhat-to-Look-for-in-Bargain-All-Inclusive-Vacations.124502"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FPractical-Travel%2FBudget-Travel%2FWhat-to-Look-for-in-Bargain-All-Inclusive-Vacations.124502" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 03:38:07 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Summer Festivals in Jamaica</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Summer-Festivals-in-Jamaica.117610</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Jamaica is a beautiful island to visit all throughout the year, but if you are planning to visit Jamaica in the summer there are a few summer festivals, events and national holidays that you must attend, partake in or witness to truly experience a Jamaican summer holiday.</p>
 
<p><a href="http://www.jamaicaculture.org/jazz/" target="_blank"><strong>The Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival</strong></a></p>
 
<p>The Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival is an eight day festival held annually to showcase local and international talents in the field of Jazz. The Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival 2008 will be held on June 8-15. This summer festival in Jamaica hosts free concerts everyday comes complete with photo exhibitions of famous Jazz artists on display. The creators of the Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival works with the Youth Programme in Jamaica to enrich the lives of young Jamaicans through their music program, mentorship and sponsorship</p>
 
<p><img src="%%IMG0%%" alt="" /></p>
 
<p>The Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival started in the summer of 1991 as an experimental one day event called The Ocho Rios &amp;ldquo;Mini&amp;rdquo; Jazz Festival. From there, it quickly gained much deserved recognition in Jamaica and across the globe. Many tourists come to Jamaica during the summer to hear the melodies and musical styling of local and international Jazz greats.</p>
 
<h3>International Reggae Day</h3>
 
<p>International Reggae Day is held on July 1 each year to celebrate the impact of Reggae music around the world. People across the world first celebrated International Reggae Day in July1994, when millions of persons went online to listen to the broadcast of Reggae music streaming live from Jamaica. People who followed the on air and online media festival on International Reggae Day are also greeted with messages from popular Jamaican artists such as Jimmy Cliff, urging people online to support Reggae music.</p>
 
<div></div>
 
<p>But International Reggae Day in Jamaica goes far beyond on air and online media displays. In Jamaica, there is an annual International Reggae Day Festival held in Kingston that features many local Reggae artists, Jamaican poets and dancers. Each year an International Reggae Day Award is presented to a Reggae artist whose creative work extols the virtues and spirit of Reggae music. In the rest of the island there are many local events in places such as Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios; just ask your hotel for any event they have planned for International Reggae Day or local celebrations nearby.</p>
 
<p><a href="http://www.reggaesumfest.com/V2/test/" target="_blank"><strong>Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest</strong></a></p>
 
<p>Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest is not only the biggest and best attended summer festival in Jamaica, but it is also the biggest Reggae festival in the world. Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest is a week-long summer event held each year on July 13-19 in the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay, except for the Tropical Beach Party.</p>
 
<div></div>
 
<p>This summer festival has grown considerably in notoriety since its start in summer 1993 and many popular American, European and local acts grace the stage night after night to fuel the excitement of the events. Local artists such as Damien Marley, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Shaggy, Beres Hammond and Sean Paul are popular among Reggae Sumfest fans from across the globe. The events at Reggae Sumfest are split into categories such as Reggae Night, Dancehall Night, International Artists Night etc. Visit <a href="http://www.reggaesumfest.com/V2/test/" target="_blank">Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest</a> for ticket prices and other details to this summer festival.</p>
 
<h3>The National Festival of Arts</h3>
 
<p>The National Festival of Arts is a summer festival in Jamaica that starts at the beginning of summer and ends on August 6 each year. At the National Festival of Arts, many Jamaican artists sell their local arts and crafts, which are sure to add value to anyone's travel souvenir collection. Local competitions are held during The National Festival of Arts to showcase not only Jamaican artistry, but also to showcase other areas of Jamaican culture: the summer festival features competition in culinary arts, speech, drama, painting, sculpture and dance among many others.</p>
 
<h3>Emancipation Day</h3>
 
<p>Emancipation Day is a Jamaican national holiday held on August 1 to commemorate the day slaves in the British Empire were finally emancipated. Story has it that slaves traveled to the hilltops of Jamaica on the eve of Emancipation Day to meet the dawning of a new day in their history on Friday August 1, 1838. And today, Jamaicans still mark this day in history by reenacting the reading of the Declaration of Emancipation and paying homage to their ancestors.</p>
 
<p><img src="%%IMG1%%" alt="" /></p>
 
<p><a href="http://www.emancipationpark.org.jm/gallery/index.php" target="_blank">source</a></p>
 
<p>Each year the Jamaican Prime Minister gives a speech that is broadcast live on local television from Emancipation Park. Emancipation Park is a newly-built Jamaican landmark in Kingston, built for the purpose of remembering the past: Jamaica's historical figures, national heroes, as well as to commemorate the growth of Jamaica since August 1 1838. Emancipation Park is a well-manicured landscape filled with palm trees and beautiful flowers and on Emancipation Day, many Jamaicans fill the park listening to Reggae music, celebrating and awaiting the Prime Minister's speech. This Jamaican summer holiday should not be missed if you want to learn about the culture of Jamaica.</p>
 
<h3>Independence Day</h3>
 
<p>Jamaica celebrates its day of national independence on August 6, just five days after its Emancipation Day celebrations. For this reason, the beginning of August marks a month of national and cultural pride among Jamaicans. Jamaica gained its independence from Britain on August 6, 1962 and since then it has been celebrating the birth of a new, independent country with annual firework displays across the island.</p>
 
<p><img src="%%IMG2%%" alt="" /></p>
 
<p>On Independence Day in Jamaica, many Jamaicans flock to the beaches to enjoy music, jerk chicken, fish and festivals and an all round day of fun in the sun. Jamaica's National Marching Band also marches in the streets of Kingston on Independence Day and a Float Parade also happens in Kingston, Jamaica's capital city.</p>
 
<p>.At night, people across Jamaica have many street dances in their local communities, where they indeed sweat up a storm and celebrate all that it means to live in a free nation. There is no better time to celebrate independence than in the summer and Jamaicans are prime examples of this idea. No matter what part of the island you are on, you are sure to find local Independence Day events, displays and celebrations that you can attend.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FSummer-Festivals-in-Jamaica.117610"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FSummer-Festivals-in-Jamaica.117610" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 May 2008 04:17:29 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Jamaica's Hottest Nightclubs</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaicas-Hottest-Nightclubs.107884</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[																<p>When the sun sets on the Jamaican horizon and gives way to the intoxicating moonlit sky, it is time to work up a sweat in one of Jamaica's hottest nightclubs. Though Jamaica is traditionally known for its street parties (dances), more traditional nightclub venues are becoming a staple in Jamaican nightlife, especially in the hub of tourist areas.</p>

 
<p>Catering to the entertainment pleasures of all kinds of jet setters, Jamaica's nightclubs offer an array of musical styles and that keeps patrons coming back for more.</p>
 
<h3>Margaritaville, Montego Bay</h3>
 
 
<a target="_blank" href="http://flickr.com/photos/anup/88212241/"><img alt="" src="%%IMG2%%" /></a><br/><br/>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.margaritavillecaribbean.com/index.php"><img alt="" src="%%IMG0%%" /></a>

<p>Located in the heart of Montego Bay's Hip Strip, Margaritaville got its name from the world-class helpings of margaritas bartenders serve up at this trendy club. A prominent hotspot among teens, locals and tourists, the three-level club sits on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.</p>
 <object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6MgTwklE5nU&amp;hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6MgTwklE5nU&amp;hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

<p>During the day Margaritaville is a sports bar and cafe, but at nights this place truly comes alive. Step unto the thumping dance floor on the ground floor, go to the second floor to enjoy live music or go and have a tropical Jacuzzi experience on the water-themed third floor. Here you can find floating lilo beds, a 110 foot water slide leading from the rooftop to the Caribbean Sea below, two water trampolines; anything for your aquatic pleasure.</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://flickr.com/photos/dave77459/1468720293/"><img alt="" src="%%IMG1%%" /></a>

 
<p>Margaritaville serves pizza, hamburgers, sandwiches, traditional Jamaican eatery and an array of pricy drinks. Entrance fee is US$15 and tour buses are available for pickups and drop offs at nearby resorts.</p>
 
<h3>Amnesia Nightclub, Ocho Rios</h3>
 
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.theamnesia.com/index.htm"><img alt="" src="%%IMG4%%" /></a> <p><img alt="" src="%%IMG3%%" />
</p>
<p>The name says it all. At this trendy nightclub in Ocho Rios you can party all night to your heart's content. But beware, there is a good chance you won't remember a thing in the morning. If the hard partying doesn't do you in the tasty beverages served at this club coupled with the high tech sounds and flashing lights sure will.</p><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1aGKlp3C64o&amp;hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1aGKlp3C64o&amp;hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

 
<p>At Amnesia international music flourishes and so more visitors than locals are attracted to this booming venue. Amnesia comes complete with an open air patio, two dance floors, a different part theme each night its open and features many celebrities, entertainers and guest DJs. The club is open from Wednesday to Sunday.</p>
 
<h3>Acropolis Disco, Ocho Rios</h3>
<p>A favourite among locals, Acropolis Disco offers the best in Reggae, Dancehall music, Hip Hop, R&amp;B and Pop music. The loud pulsating music draws patrons in. Dance to your heart's delight at this Ocho Rios hotspot for a fee of US$5. The club is open 9pm - 5am from Monday to Sunday.</p>
 
<h3>Asylum Nightclub, Kingston</h3> <object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Av-kynr3qNo&amp;hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Av-kynr3qNo&amp;hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

<p>This nightclub is a staple of Jamaican nightlife in Kingston. It is so popular that traffic outside the club is often backed up. With patrons so eager to party till they go crazy it's no wonder why. They flock here to experience thumping sounds, crowded dance floors, well stacked bars and the occasional offering of live music that keeps them coming back again and again.</p>

<p>The club features Ladies Night, Dancehall Night and Oldies Nights where selections from the DJs drive the crowds crazy. The Asylum nightclub is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9pm - 4am and on Fridays 5pm- 4am.</p>
 
<h3>Quad, Kingston</h3>
 

<a target="_blank" href="http://flickr.com/photos/88203791@N00/330313251/"><img alt="" src="%%IMG6%%" /></a>


<p>Fast becoming the hottest, most exclusive nightclub in Kingston, Quad is a clubber's paradise. This multi-level nightclub boasts a jazz cafe, the Oxygen nightclub and the famed Voodoo Lounge. Christopher's Cafe is located on the first floor and has a beautiful decor, a baby grand piano and an Appleton V/X Bar, serving the best in Jamaican rum. Christopher's Café has live music on Thursdays with an artist contribution of J$300 or US$5.</p>
 <a target="_blank" href="http://flickr.com/photos/88203791@N00/330311928/"><img alt="" src="%%IMG5%%" /></a>
<p>On the second floor the Oxygen nightclub opened every Wednesday, Fridays and Saturdays is an America styled pop club that features all the best music. Wednesday nights features music from the 80's and 90's, while the weekend features the styling of American top 40 mixes.</p><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BhYNmL5Rdj4&amp;hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BhYNmL5Rdj4&amp;hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

<p>The bewitching Voodoo Lounge located on the top floor plays all the trendy music of today and yesteryear. Wednesdays offer music in the now while on Fridays and Saturdays you can enjoy the Bee Gees, Cyndi Lauper or Destiny's Child with a selection of classic hits from the 70's , 80s and 90's. The Voodoo Lounge offers yet another level of excitement where patrons can go to the outdoor decking and enjoy a spectacular view of Kingston.</p>
 
<h3>Club Hurricane in the Hedonism II, Negril</h3>
 
<a target="_blank" href="http://flickr.com/photos/bonitajamaica/535400719/"><img alt="" src="%%IMG7%%" /></a>

<p>Located in the notorious home of the uninhibited crowd of Hedonism II, Club Hurricane features Pop, Techno, Reggae and R&amp;B music and is opened nightly from 10:30pm - 5am. There are many events that take place all year round including: Halloween celebrations, toga parties, and a spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations to name a few, which makes this nightclub really enjoyable. But nothing quite draws visitors to Hedonism II like the non-judgemental, anything-goes attitude that appeals to those who want to let go and live free of their inhibitions, on or off the dance floor.</p>
 
<h3>The Jungle, Negril</h3>
 <a target="_blank" href="http://www.junglenegril.com/Jungle-Dancers.jpg"><img alt="" src="%%IMG8%%" /></a>


<p>At The Jungle their slogan is "Unleash the Animal," and it's a dare to get you to party like you've never partied before. The Jungle is open Wednesday through Saturday with a cover charge of US$9 for men and US$7 for women. That's unless of course it's Thursday (Ladies' Night) where women enter free before midnight. Wednesdays boast the international hits of today, Fridays are special events nights and Saturdays feature a crowd-roaring selection of music from DJ Rusty. You are sure to enjoy The Jungle.</p>
 


<p>Whatever your taste in musical entertainment and nightlife, Jamaica has got it all. From Pop, R&amp;B, Reggae, Rock; just rest assured that it is here. Boredom in Jamaica is simply out of the question.</p>														<a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaicas-Hottest-Nightclubs.107884"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaicas-Hottest-Nightclubs.107884" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:08:26 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Jamaica: Saint Thomas Parish</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaica-Saint-Thomas-Parish.50115</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Here we have another Parish on the beautiful island of Jamaica.  Named Saint Thomas, it has a population of 93,000 as of 2001. It is geographically situated at the south-eastern end of Jamaica in the County of Surrey.  We currently find a preponderance of British sounding names for almost all the cities. Originally named by the Spaniards back in the sixteen hundreds, with the arrival of the British everything was gradually renamed to resemble "cities back home." Saint James Parish covers an area of 742.8 square kilometers.</p>
 
 <p>School children of Saint Thomas will memorize their capital city as Morant Bay and agriculture and manufacturing as their foremost industries.  Some major cities are Golden Grove, Bath, Sea forth, and Port Morant. Yallas is a town that will cause US readers to wonder if the city of Dallas in Texas was derived from Yallas.  According to size, Saint Thomas is the ninth largest.</p>
 
 <p>Christopher Columbus landed on Jamaica in 1494, two years after "discovering" America. Many people find it difficult to think of it as a discovery since the indigen population had been there for forty thousand years as humans evolved. On the island lived a large number of Tainos/Arawaks. Cattle were introduced to Jamaica by the Spaniards. In Morant Bay and Yallahs in this parish.  In 1655 with the British capture not only did the British take over but they invited residents from other colonies to join them.  Unfortunately two thirds of the immigrants came down with illness (fever of some type) and died.  The group included the Governor of Nevis and his family.</p>
 
 <p>Next came the French invasion.  That was in 1674.  Admiral Du Casse captured many slaves from the British.  The word settler sounds like it would describe a group of good people.  The word invaders does not carry the same connotation.  In either case it seems to be the indigen population that suffers.</p>
 
 <p>The Morant Bay Rebellion is a fascinating part of Jamaica's history.  In 1865 the ex-slaves were going through a period of severely unfair situations.  When Paul Bogle led a large group of farmers to ask the Governor to grant land tenure in a fair way it ended up starting a civil war.  At one point when the authorities (they had already been refused help from Governor Eyre in Spanish Town) tried to repel them, the protesters threw stones at them.  The volunteers responded by shooting into the group.  Seven of the protestors ended up dead.  Their retaliation was to return later and burn down the  Courthouse.  The unfortunate citizens trapped inside tried to escape but were shot by the rioting crowd.  </p>
 
 <p>George William Gordon, one of the British rulers attempted to help the farmers and workers.  No good deed goes unpunished.  His fellow Brits took him out and hung him.  The next day they also hung Paul Bogle.  Before this entire rebellion was ended the British had killed more than 430 people. It was a sad period in the history of Jamaica's Parish of Saint Thomas. </p>
 
 <p>It wasn't until 1969 that Paul Bogle was named an official National Hero.  One of the others honored with the title was George William Gordon who had tried to do what he considered the right thing.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Saint-Thomas-Parish.50115"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Saint-Thomas-Parish.50115" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2007 06:15:05 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Jamaica: Saint Mary Parish   </title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaica-Saint-Mary-Parish.50116</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>One of Jamaica's smallest parishes is Saint Mary.  The capital, Port Maria is located on the coast.  A large number of reggae singers were born there, among them Capleton, Lady Saw, Ninja Man and Tanya Stephens. Port Maria was the second city on the island, built by the Spaniards in sixteen sixty-five. Santa Maria lost its name of Spanish origin when England took over in sixteen fifty-five. They renamed it and it became known by its current name. The foremost town is now known as Port Maria. Coastal towns seem to grow the fastest in industry and tourism value.</p>
 
 <p>As for the terrain it is mostly mountainous with the highest point being 4,000 feet above sea level.  Although Jamaica is considered to be a tropical island the climate can vary in most parishes including this one.  There are underground rivers in this area.   Above ground are the Rio Nuevo, the Wag Water and the White River.  The land close to these rivers tends to be swampland.</p>
 

 <p>Probably due to the fact that it is one of the smallest and poorest parishes on Jamaica, one would guess that tourism was not the primary source of jobs.  Agricultural production seems to be decreasing although bananas and breadfruit among the crops grown are popular food.  On the positive side are the good schools that it is known for.  Some of the graduates hold important positions in banks and other businesses.</p>
 
 <p>Located in Middlesex (county of) it had a population of 113,000 as of 2001. The land area covers 610 square kilometers.  The crops of coffee and citrus, cocoa to coconuts are still produced in addition to sugar cane of course.  The people also raise livestock.  The fact is though, agriculture is on the decline.  There has been talk of developing the land for parcels of housing and other buildings.  Being inland makes the land less valuable as a resource.  Although I'm sure that any citizens in all of Jamaica can get to the shoreline to enjoy the ocean though.</p>


 <p>Some business ideas for Jamaica's citizens to explore might be designing swim suits as well as other light clothing.  Since livestock is flourishing they could open a livery stable or two for horseback riding.  Being inland they might want to consider raising and training the horses to supply stables closer to the ocean and therefore more profitable due to the tourist trade.  Another thing to think about might be building boats of all sizes.  There must be a need for many boats of all types. Any luxury items and souvenirs to sell to the many visitors might be lucrative.  It is a fact that over one hundred thousand people from all over the world flock to Jamaica each year.  The beauty of the land, the many activities and the friendly people who make their trip pleasant are all influencing visitors to return year after year.</p>


 <p>Among visitors who can afford the luxury, they might fly their wedding attendants and all the guests to Jamaica for a grand celebration.  This is usually movie stars, oil billionaires and others with financial advantage.  The hotels cater wonderful weddings on the beach with an outdoor or indoor reception afterwards.  With the trend among movie stars being multiple marriages, Jamaica will be busy catering possibly three or four weddings for each during their lifetime.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Saint-Mary-Parish.50116"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Saint-Mary-Parish.50116" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2007 06:15:05 PST</pubDate></item>
<item>
<title>Jamaica: St. James Parish</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaica-St-James-Parish.50114</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>Located in Cornwall Parish at a latitude of 18°31'N and a longitude of 77°59'W Saint James Parish covers an area of  595 square kilometers.  The capital city is named Montego Bay.  For American readers the name Montego was made famous by a song done by "The Beach Boys" way back in the nineteen-sixties.  In 2001 the population was counted as roughly 178,000 people.  The predominant industries are tourism of course, along with agriculture and manufacturing.  Jamaica has seven officially named National Heroes.  One of them, Samuel Sharpe, was born in this Parish.  He passed away in eighteen-thirty-three.</p>



 <p>During the Spanish occupation Montego Bay had a unique industry.  They exported lard.  In the forests were many wild hogs and they became the source of supply.  An amusing part of the folklore of the area is that Montego was once known as "Bahia de Manteca" which sounds exotic to the reader of the English language, but the joke is on us.  The name is interpreted to English as "Lard Bay."  When the English began their rule of Jamaica, this was said to be one of the island's poorest parishes.  As it prospered, so did the naming of places, towns, etc. after the British.  King James II. was given respect by naming the St. James Parish after him.  He was honored by Sir Thomas Modyford, first Governor.  This entire area grew and flourished as it moved into the growing of sugar cane.</p>



 <p>Along with the plantations came the advent of slavery, a dishonorable part of Jamaica's history.  Fire destroyed parts of Montego Bay through the seventeen hundreds and the early eighteen hundreds.  Then in eighteen thirty-one a rebellion against slavery was initiated by Samuel Sharpe.  As you recall he is a National Hero of St. James.  It was through his efforts and that of the English in general that slavery was ended.  Many fought and died to achieve this.  As is usually the case, the slave-holders protested them being freed.  Samuel Sharpe was hanged for his achievements of planning the rebellion.  He would be proud to know that Emancipation was achieved in eighteen thirty-four.</p>



 <p>Covering 594.9 square kilometers with 1524 meters being above sea level.  Two rivers run through it.  One appropriately named the Montego River the other the Great River.  There are smaller ones but these are the main ones.  There is a lot of limestone in two-thirds of the parish.  In Montego Bay are the commercial (industrial) section and the tourist section.  It is divided in half.  Can you guess which half is located along the shore.</p>



 <p>The citizens of Montego Bay work mainly in the tourist industry.  Jamaica is a popular honeymoon destination.  Some people who are able to afford it will fly their entire wedding party and guests to the island for their ceremony. No wonder one in four people work in the tourist industry.</p>


 <p>One major attraction is Rose Hall Great House. Built in seventeen-seventy, it has a total of over 100,000 visitors per year. There is a fascinating ghost story attached to this home. A woman named Annie had lived in the house with her then husband John Rose Palmer. The Legend (short version) is that Annie murdered all three of her husbands.  Her slaves later killed her by strangulation. As in every chilling ghost story, her spirit is reputed to inhabit the house to this very day.</p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-St-James-Parish.50114"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-St-James-Parish.50114" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2007 06:14:54 PST</pubDate></item>
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<title>Jamaica, Trelawny Parish</title>
<link>http://www.trifter.com/Caribbean-&amp;-Latin-America/Jamaica/Jamaica-Trewlawny-Parrish.50086</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[<p>The northwest part of the island is home to the county of Cornwall.  The capital city is named Falmouth.  With a land area covering 87.4 square kilometers and a population of 74,000 (as of 2001) Trelawny Parish is the fifth largest parish in Jamaica.  Among the list of city names are Clarks Town, Wakefield, Duncans and Albert Town.  The most interesting town name, possibly the most interesting on the entire island is a city named Wait-a-Bit.</p>
 
 <p>The southern portion of Trelawny sits in an area that is not fit for human occupants. Called Cockpit Country it is designated as a nature preserve with 27 species of birds, and also home to the largest butterfly in the entire Western Hemisphere.  It is the beautiful Swallowtail Butterfly.  </p>
 
 <p>In the area are sinkholes and approximately 48 caves.  Two of them Windsor and Carambie Cave are especially lovely.  Some of the caves have drawings on the walls.  These were done by the Taino people.  It isn't noted whether or not they are from ancient times.  Four main rivers, the Quashie, Cane, Rio Bueno and the Martha Brae complete the landscape in Trelawny Parish.</p>
 <p>The citizens of Trelawny Parish are employed in manufacturing jobs, agriculture and tourism.  Of course sugar cane is grown but also coconuts, ginger, coffee, pimento, bananas, yams and strawberries.  Some are working in the commercial fishing industry with up to thirty boats going out each day.  Diminished from a flourishing business is the sugar production.  There are only eight factories producing sugar on the island.  Of the eight, two of them are in Trelawny Parish.  Among all industries, it is the tourist portion that is flourishing the most.  Some major hotels are located here also.  One has an interesting name, The Starfish Hotel.  It is amusing to think of all the swimming pools at all these hotels that are considered necessary on an island surrounded by water. </p>
 <p>Falmouth the capital city has been thriving due to the need for a port from which to export sugar and other products.  Quite the social center Falmouth has two major newspapers.  Perhaps part of its popularity stems from the fact that the Parish that Falmouth is in was named after Sir William Trelawny who was the Governor of Jamaica at the time.</p>
 <p>With the British influence it isn't surprising that the government is is modeled after that of UK.  The Queen appoints a Governor General.  His role is ceremonial as is the Queen's in UK.  The Prime Minister has executive powers along with a cabinet,  It resembles the structure of the American System.  The Representatives are elected officials and number sixty, while the twenty-one Senators are appointees. There is a Judicial System also and though Jamaica voted for independence it remains a part of the Commonwealth.  </p>
 <p>The entire island of which Trelawny Parish is a part, covers an area of 10,991 square kilometers (4,244 square miles).  It has a mountainous terrain with the mountains rising to 4000 feet above sea level.  Climate being tropical is a major attraction to the 100,000 tourists that fly in each year.  Total population in 2006 was estimated at 2,643,800 people.  Two languages are listed, Patois and English.  Surprisingly, children are obligated to continue school only until the age of fourteen.  Employment of about 1.25 million people is seventeen percent in industries, almost eighteen percent work in agriculture and a whopping sixty-four percent are in the service industry.  This of course is in the tourist industry.  This magnificent island brings joy into the lives of the many visitors and the people of Jamaica welcome them...  </p><a href="http://www.pheedo.com/click.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Trewlawny-Parrish.50086"><img src="http://www.pheedo.com/img.phdo?x=&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.trifter.com%2FCaribbean-%26amp%3B-Latin-America%2FJamaica%2FJamaica-Trewlawny-Parrish.50086" border="0"/></a>]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2007 06:03:45 PST</pubDate></item>
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