Spring Break in Jamaica

Negril, Jamaica was all about white sandy beaches, gorgeous sunsets, refreshing pina coladas, hair braiding and snorkeling with colorful fish. Very touristy but a treat to watch locals jump off a 120ft. cliff into the water, while listening to great music at one of the best locations along the shore - Rick's cafe. Friendly, smiling staff at the Riu Negril but we were not quite enamored by the all inclusive experience.

Travel agents, Trip Advisor and friends suggested there aren't many family friendly alternative options. 'Irie Mon' - No Problem as they say in Jamaica. Our next stop was the sprawling Richmond Hill Inn in Montego Bay with gorgeous views, tiled floors, iron scroll work, antique furniture and eccentric owners, offered everything that the all inclusive did not. Sipping rum by the poolside bar while watching the sun set and chilling out with family - priceless!

Took us an hour to climb the Dunn River Falls, a definite highlight of the trip. Rafting on Martha Brae was special because of the conversation with the locals, managed to get on the potter's wheel at Wassi Art pottery and bit into fresh fruit at the local market. Had cricket conversations with the cabbies, read up on history from the guidebooks and caught snippets of great reggae music everywhere. Even the Coldwell Banker signs all over the island did not remind me of home or work.

The direct fight to Philadelphia brought us back to Downingtown real soon. Watched Cool Runnings yesterday, a Disney movie about the Jamaican Bobsled team. Trying to hold on to the vacation just a little longer...

So did we miss anything special? Which part appealed to you the most? Did I convince you to put Jamaica on your list of destinations?