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Concierge Notes & Travel Guides

The Island Journal

Curated Jamaican travel notes, insider packing guides, foodie secrets and port-day logistics, written by our private concierge team.

Guests climbing Dunn's River Falls on a private shore excursion
Must read · Shore Excursions

Best Private Cruise Ship Excursions in Jamaica

Ditch the crowded cruise-bus tours and spend your port day your way, two signature attractions, lunch and shopping, back on board with time to spare.

Read the guide · 5 min →

Sangster International Airport arrival sign in Montego BayArrival Guides

Safe & Comfortable Jamaica Travel Guide

From skipping the immigration lines to stepping straight into an air-conditioned private vehicle, here is how to arrive in Jamaica the easy way.

4 min readRead guide →
Guests river tubing on a private Jamaica water excursionPacking Advice

Ultimate Packing Guide for Jamaica Water Excursions

Waterfalls, rivers and blue holes, here is exactly what to bring so you can enjoy every splash without a worry.

3 min readRead guide →
Beachside fire show performance at night in JamaicaNightlife

Experience Jamaica After Dark: Clubs, Fire Shows & Beach Dinners

Reggae basslines, beach bonfires and candlelit dinners on the sand, your guide to enjoying Jamaica at night in safety, comfort and style.

5 min readRead guide →
Guests stopping for authentic local Jamaican foodFood & Culture

The Ultimate Jamaican Foodie Guide

Jerk pits, flaky patties and fresh jelly coconuts, how to eat like a true local and blend the best food into your private day trips.

5 min readRead guide →
Guests relaxing on a bamboo raft along a Jamaican riverIsland Excursions

Bamboo Rafting in Jamaica: Martha Brae vs. Lethe River

Two rivers, two magical moods. Here is how Martha Brae and Lethe compare, and why you honestly cannot go wrong with either.

5 min readRead guide →
Arrival sign at Sangster International Airport, Montego BayArrival Guides

First Timer's Guide to Jamaica

Landing in paradise for the first time? From the airport to tipping etiquette, here is everything you need for a smooth, confident first trip.

6 min readRead guide →
Seven Mile Beach in Negril, JamaicaDestination Guides

Montego Bay vs. Ocho Rios vs. Negril

Vibrant MoBay, adventurous Ocho Rios or laid back Negril? Here is how to choose your perfect home base, and how to enjoy all three.

6 min readRead guide →
Candlelit private dinner on the beach in JamaicaRomance

Top 5 Romantic Couples Experiences in Jamaica

Candlelit dinners on the sand, sunset sails and slow river floats for two. Our favourite ways to fall in love with Jamaica, together.

5 min readRead guide →
Guest on a rope swing over the turquoise river at Frenchman's Cove, PortlandIsland Excursions

Top 5 Hidden Gems in Jamaica Most Tourists Never See

Beyond the busy resort strips lie quiet coves, emerald waterfalls and slow rivers that most visitors never find. Here are five of our favourites.

6 min readRead guide →