Jamaica

Jamaica is our home away from home. The people are so warm and welcoming that they have quickly become a part of our family, making it a destination we continuously return to. From fun aquatic adventures to excursions by land, Jamaica is an excellent destination perfect for a family trip out into the Caribbean. 

In the mountains along the northeast coast, you’ll find Port Antonio, the soul of Jamaica. There are no cruise ships or all-inclusive resorts here. Unbelievable scenery, food, culture and hospitality will keep you coming back year after year. "Bless up!"

Negril, Jamaica is a perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle, but still feel like you are experiencing something to write home about. It cannot get any more local than this. Negril is on the Western most of Jamaica (cue the sunsets!) and home to Jamaican Jerk (well, everywhere is!), Jamaican cliff divers, Rick’s Cafe, intimate, boutique resorts, and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Caribbean waters everywhere you go. If you’re looking for a little adventure, a little wellness, a little culture and a little solitude, honestly, don’t look further than Negril. Only 1.5 hours from Montego Bay, you’ll give yourself a little of this and that and come home feeling refreshed and anew! P.S. Don’t forget to pack your snorkel!

I had the pleasure of staying at Iberostar Grand Rose Hall in March of 2024. This gorgeous all-inclusive resort located in Montego Bay, Jamaica is the perfect location for an adults only vacation. From the attentive staff to the beautiful resort to the delicious food, this resort is sure to please!

Jamaica is the perfect getaway from the east coast for a workcation, offering an ideal mix of business-ready amenities and tropical ambiance. With its short flight times, professionals can quickly transition from their desks to the beach. The island boasts decent internet connectivity in many hotels at no additional cost, adequate for most business tasks—though not ultra-fast. As you toggle between work calls and leisure, the scenic views of vibrant beaches and verdant mountains make Jamaica a picturesque yet practical alternative to the typical office environment.

This past February, I had the pleasure of staying with a group of friends at the Half Moon in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Half Moon is unique as rooms range from single standard hotel rooms to villas that can accommodate up to 14 people. My group originally booked a five-bedroom garden-view villa but, upon arrival, we were upgraded to a six-bedroom oceanfront villa.

Living in New York, January is always a cold and slightly dreary month after the holidays. My favorite way to escape the January blues is make sure I have a warm vacation destination to look forward to in January.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the best warm vacation destinations in January!

As I’m writing this guide, I’m sitting on a beach lounge chair in the private villa in Jamaica watching the sun rise over our infinity pool. It’s definitely worth planning an island getaway in January to a warm destination to soak in some fun.

Jamaica is one of those places that is simply contagious with its lively nature, beautiful scenery and turquoise ocean. The birthplace of Bob Marley, home to reggae, Rastafarian lifestyle, Blue Mountain coffee and, of course, the famous Jamaican slang – it is an island filled with unique character. While primarily a destination for beach relaxation, Jamaica offers an array of aquatic activities ranging from waterfalls to cliff jumping, scuba diving, spectacular beaches and more.

Excellence has been a brand that has piqued my interest for a while, so my husband and I spent five nights at Excellence Oyster Bay over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday weekend and had an excellent stay. I highly recommend this property, and the Excellence brand for clients that are looking for an elevated all-inclusive experience, but might not think of themselves as "all-inclusive" people.

When you come to Montego Bay, all you have to do is take the ten-minute shuttle to the Half Moon (provided by the hotel) and the rest will be taken care of for you... without ever having to leave the property.