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All Inclusive Travel Blog

The Excellence Collection

Here you will find the latest news, stories, travel tips and updates for your vacations with our resorts in The Excellence Collection.

A single country or destination can have anywhere from hundreds to thousands of beaches to choose from. Not to worry, I don't expect you to visit them all. Instead, you can take some of the top beaches from around the Caribbean islands and coastlines and simply visit the best places.
Whilst many beaches in the Caribbean are amazing, and you would surely enjoy yourself on many of them, I am going to give you a very short list of the top sandy spots for your next vacation.

<h2>The best beaches in the Dominican Republic</h2>
When people think about the best and most stunning beaches from around the world, one spot is repeatedly mentioned for its pristine Caribbean sand, continuous winding coasts perfect for relaxing walks, and breathtaking views of the tropical island paradise. Yes, we are talking about the <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/how-to-find-the-best-beaches-in-punta-cana-for-adults/">beaches in the Dominican Republic</a>.&nbsp;
Here are our top two selections for beaches on this lush and vibrant island&hellip;
<h3>1) Uvero Alto Beach - Punta Cana</h3>
If you search for the quietest or most secluded beach in Punta Cana or the Dominican Republic, you will most likely come across Uvero Alto beach. Known for its suitability for romantic moments, private unwinds, and an extremely tranquil ambiance, this beach has become a favorite spot for many.&nbsp;
Since this tropical beach is located just alongside <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/punta-cana/excellence-el-carmen/">Excellence El Carmen</a>, <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/punta-cana/excellence-punta-cana/">Excellence Punta Cana</a>, and <a href="https://www.finestresorts.com/punta-cana/finest-punta-cana/">Finest Punta Cana</a>, this is a really easy place to get to from the comfort of your resort.&nbsp;

<h3>2) Saona Island Beach - Cotubanam&aacute; National Park&nbsp;</h3>
If you desire somewhere a bit further away from the main areas, you should head to the sands of <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/the-saona-island-excursion-in-the-dominican-republic/">Saona Island</a> in the Cotubanama National Park for the day. Whilst you cannot find any accommodations here, it is an amazing place to experience for yourself and well worth the visit.&nbsp;
This untouched oasis is famous for its use in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies and its selection by the Caribbean Travel and Life magazine as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

<h2>The best beaches in Mexico</h2>
Whilst Mexico is famous for many extraordinary things, its west coast is especially well known for its beloved tourist attractions which first and foremost have to be its stunning beaches. With extraordinary white sands, the beaches are so loved here that when the Caribbean sand drifted away, people came and rebuilt the coastlines to continue having gorgeous white sands along their oceanfront.&nbsp;
<h3>3) Puerto Morelos Beach - The Riviera Maya</h3>
Whilst Puerto Morelos does have some public access beaches in the main town, if you head slightly north you will find that the beach connects to more exclusive sands. One great aspect of the water around this Riviera Maya Beach is that it has very few rocks making it easy to swim.&nbsp;
If you are staying in <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/riviera-maya-cancun/excellence-riviera-cancun/">Excellence Riviera Cancun</a> you will find that your section of beach is much more secluded than some of the other bigger and busier beaches. It is also a great starting place for your romantic strolls as you can go up or down that same stretch of sand all evening.&nbsp;

<h3>4) Playa Mujeres Beach - Cancun</h3>
Just north of the busy <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-cancun-hotel-zone/">Cancun Hotel Zone</a>, Playa Mujeres Beach allows you to unwind in serenity. Across the water, you will see the protective barrier of <a href="https://www.belovedhotels.com/blog/enhance-your-couples-vacation-with-a-trip-to-isla-mujeres/">Isla Mujeres</a> which keeps this beach much tidier than some of the others along the coastline and makes this one of the best beaches in Cancun.&nbsp;
If you are staying on these sands you can speak to your resort concierge in <a href="https://www.belovedhotels.com/cancun/beloved-playa-mujeres/">Beloved Playa Mujeres</a>, <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/cancun/excellence-playa-mujeres/">Excellence Playa Mujeres</a>, or <a href="https://www.finestresorts.com/cancun/finest-playa-mujeres/">Finest Playa Mujeres</a> to organize a day trip to the island so that you can also enjoy their exclusive Isla Mujeres beaches. If you do so, make sure to try and visit the sands on the north side first.&nbsp;

<h2>The best beaches in Jamaica</h2>
Whilst Cancun and Punta Cana have had a bigger spotlight over the years, Jamaica has some truly astounding beaches. They set the scene for James Bond and Treasure Island movies and are one of the main attractions of this feel good island. Let me show you a couple of my favorite places to unwind on the sand.&nbsp;
<h3>5) Excellence Oyster Bay Beach - Montego Bay</h3>
Montego Bay is known more for its Luminous Lagoon, but this is truly one of the most unique beaches in the Caribbean due to its extreme seclusion. Exclusive to guests of <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a> is a beach that surrounds the resort on a private peninsula.&nbsp;
With the open ocean on one side and the glimmering lagoon on the other, Montego Bay Beach is a truly remarkable haven for adults who want to get away from the crowds and take some time to enjoy a tropical hideaway. What is more, if you book a Luxury Beach Villa you even get your own private section of the beach just for you.&nbsp;

<h3>6) Doctors Cave Beach - Montego Bay</h3>
It is worth noting that Doctors Cave Beach can get a little busy, so it may not be a place to stay but it does make for a great day out. Often addressed as the island's best beach, it has a unique and interesting story about a British doctor who claimed that the waters had healing properties.&nbsp;
But more than that, it is a fun environment to visit and a nice trip. Note that they do charge admission, so as well as organizing your <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/excellence-oyster-bay-distance-from-airport/">transport from your resort</a> in Excellence Oyster Bay, you would need to pay the entrance fee.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Which beach should you visit next?</h2>
We have gone over just 6 of the many amazing beaches that the Caribbean has to offer. But which one should you go to next? While there are a ton of places that you should visit, and you shouldn't be afraid to explore several beach spots in different locations, the beach that you are really going to be using the most is the one that connects to your resort.&nbsp;
So why not check out the <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/resorts/">All Inclusive resort options</a> and see what their beaches look like? Find something that suits the sort of beachfront ambiance you are looking for and then book your beach lovers trip!

Behold! These Are 6 of The Best Beaches in The Caribbean!

Take a stroll through the tropical sands and discover the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean for you to enjoy during your next getaway.

So you want to know more about Jamaica. Great! This incredible island is full of Caribbean trivia and fun facts about all sorts of things. From historical events to entertainment tidbits and agricultural accomplishments, these are all the cool things to know about Jamaica before you visit.&nbsp;
These may not be the most <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/the-top-montego-bay-airport-travel-tips/">useful Jamaican travel tips</a>, but they should spark your interest, and start getting you excited about this destination and all the wonders that it includes.&nbsp;
So are you ready? Let the fun facts and unlikely quiz answers begin.&nbsp;
<h2>1. See the biggest butterflies</h2>
Jamaica is home to one of the largest butterflies in the world. The unfortunately <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5620688/">endangered Homerus swallowtail butterfly</a> is endemic to Jamaica, has a maximum wingspan of 6 inches, and is one of the 12 largest butterflies from around the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>2. Stay safe from snakes</h2>
Everyone wants to feel safe on vacation right? Well, one thing that can concern travelers in a tropical country is the snakes. In Jamaica though this isnt a problem. In 1872 the mongoose was introduced to control pests but they ended up removing most of the snakes too. Now there are only 8 species of snakes left and none of them are poisonous.&nbsp;
<h2>3. The Goldeneye origins</h2>
Jamaica was home to the legendary writer Ian Flemming. Whilst stationed here and working for British Navy Intelligence, this author wrote all 14 of his famous books here, and later the first movie based on his books was also made in Jamaica.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>4. A cool Winter Olympic story</h2>
In 1988, Jamaica was the first ever tropical country to enter the Winter Olympics. That's right, bobsledding. In memory of this, there is now a jungle bobsled activity that can be enjoyed right here in the jungle.&nbsp;
<h2>5. Fascinating flowers and orchids</h2>
Jamaica is well known for its abundance of flora; and especially its <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/visit-jamaica-the-land-of-orchids-and-exotic-flowers/">beautiful Jamaican orchids</a>. With over 200 species of exotic orchids on this small island, a total of 73 of them are indigenous.

<h2>6. Jamaicans can be fast!</h2>
Yohan Blake, Asafa Powel, Usain Bolt, and more. Incredibly, out of the 5 fastest men known to ever exist on this earth, 4 of them, are Jamaican. On the other hand, of the 10 fastest women in the world, 4 are Jamaican. That&rsquo;s a lot of really really speedy individuals.&nbsp;
<h2>7. Left side drivers</h2>
Jamaica was the first Caribbean country to get independence from Britain in 1962 but some British influences remain. Jamaica is now the largest English speaking island in the Caribbean and everyone still drives on the left hand side of the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>8. Incredible Caribbean rum</h2>
Interestingly, Jamaica has the most rum bars per square mile. Why so much? Well its largely due to its <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/blog/the-best-jamaican-rum-for-every-cocktail-and-occasion/">rich rum history</a>. Jamaica was the first place to make and export rum before piracy. Since then, it has become the national drink and they have created the most expensive rum in the world. It&rsquo;s called Appleton Estate 50-Year Rum and costs&hellip; a lot.&nbsp;
<h2>9. Most music per capita</h2>
Jamaica is a pioneer of musical ability and creativity. You may know that reggae music is Jamaican, but that is just one of their inventions. There is also ska, rocksteady, one drop, mento, Nyahbinghi, folk, drum and bass, soca, reggae-gospel, dub, festival, rubba-dub, roots reggae, calypso, and dancehall.&nbsp;

From these, many other genres of music have come into existence. Not only is this the home of Bob Marley and Shaggy but Kool Herc is often credited with being the one to start rap and hip hop music.&nbsp;
<h2>10. Top consumer of Cranberries</h2>
Here's a very random fact about Jamaica. Cranberries do not grow on the island and thus have to be imported in but they are so extremely popular on the island that they have become the top consumer of cranberries per capita. Cranberry also mixes nicely with rum.
<h2>11. One of the best coffees</h2>
Jamaica is well known for having one of the rarest, <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/what-everyone-ought-to-know-about-the-best-caribbean-coffee/">best, and most expensive coffees</a> in the world. It's called Blue Mountain coffee because it is grown on Blue Mountain which is coincidentally Jamaica's highest point and a UNESCO world heritage site. The high elevation alters the coffee flavor but it also makes it very hard to harvest.&nbsp;

<h2>12. An island of plenty</h2>
The original inhabitants of Jamaica called the island &ldquo;Xaymaca&rdquo; which literally means &ldquo;land of wood and water&rdquo;. Later when Christopher Columbus came to the island he is noted as having said that Jamaica was the fairest island that eyes have beheld.
<h2>13. The underwater mountain</h2>
Jamaica is actually one giant mountain but you wouldn't know it to look at it. This is because the country sits on the top of an underwater peak that rises from the ocean floor. Want a mountain vacation? Technically, from the moment you arrive, you are already walking up a mountain.&nbsp;
<h2>14. The best luminous lagoon</h2>
Home to one of the most vibrant <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/visit-jamaica-and-enjoy-one-of-the-best-bioluminescent-bays-in-the-world/">bioluminescent bays</a> in the world, Jamaica welcomes travelers to come and swim in the sparkling waters and see them glow in Montego Bay which is right next to <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a>.

<h2>15. An American beer recipe</h2>
The famous red stripe beer that is a frequent beverage enjoyed in Jamaica is not as Jamaican as it seems. Whilst it is made here, the original recipe was bought from someone in Illinois, in the United States.&nbsp;
<h2>16. An unrecognized lingo</h2>
The Jamaican people speak a specific <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/blog/learn-more-about-the-creole-language-with-jamaican-patois/">Creole English</a> known as Patois or Patwah. Whilst it has its own vocabulary, grammar structure, and pronunciation, and over 2.5 million people speak it, it has not yet been officially recognized as a language.&nbsp;
<h2>17. Early advancements in Jamaica</h2>
Jamaica is always ahead of the curve. They had electricity and running water before the United States did, were the first country in the western hemisphere to build a railroad, the first British colony to establish its own postal service, the first Caribbean island to launch a website, and one of the most efficient telephone systems.&nbsp;
<h2>18. Pirates of the Caribbean</h2>
Port Royal in Jamaica is famous for its pirate origins. Whilst it is very different today, its history of piracy in the 16th century remains. This is a place that was known to have been occupied by the legendary Welsh pirate Henry Morgan and his band of privateers. By about 1660 give or take a few years, Port Royal was known as a pirate utopia and the island also became a spot for both Blackbeard and Calico Jack.&nbsp;

<h2>19. The current King of Jamaica</h2>
Whilst the country is independent, as a Commonwealth realm, Jamaica's monarch and head of state was Queen Elizabeth II, and is now King Charles III of England. This is largely a symbolic role however since he is not head of the government, which makes its own decisions.&nbsp;
<h2>So what did you learn?</h2>
Now you know a bit about the country and some of its unusual and fun facts, it's time to plan your travels. The information you now have is just the tip of the iceberg and there are an amazing amount of things to <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/guide-to-jamaican-culture-for-your-stay-in-oyster-bay/">learn about the culture</a>, language, customs, traditions, lifestyle, and more.&nbsp;
Many of these can only be properly understood by experiencing it firsthand. So why not take a look at <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/rooms/">suites in Excellence Oyster Bay</a> and see if you can find a time where you can keep learning about this Caribbean destination?&nbsp;

Interesting Caribbean Trivia: 19 Fun Facts About Jamaica For Travelers

Learn about the incredible island of Jamaica with this list of fun facts and interesting trivia. How much do you know about this destination?

You are in the process of organizing the best vacation you will ever have. Likely you are attempting to make every detail of this glorious experience extraordinary so that you and your spouse-to-be can bask in each other's company under the most luxurious, tropical, and incredible circumstances possible.&nbsp;
This leads to the question, &ldquo;Where should you go?&rdquo; Indeed, with so many Caribbean islands and a host of tropical mainland destinations to choose from you certainly have a lot of different places to look through.&nbsp;
Not to worry, though. I am here to help. Come and read with us as I share some of our best tips for finding your <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/top-destinations-for-all-inclusive-resorts/">ultimate honeymoon destination</a> in the Caribbean.

<h2>Start with the key details</h2>
First, we need to have a basic understanding of what is possible for your vacation together. This means sitting down and asking yourself two basic questions.&nbsp;
<h3>What is your budget?</h3>
By knowing how much money you have to work with, you can better comprehend the options that are going to be available to you both. It also allows you to stop and consider your finances so that you can set aside additional funding to enhance your honeymoon and create a vacation to remember.&nbsp;
<h3>How long are you going for?</h3>
It is also important to know how much time you can or would like to spend on your honeymoon. You may have to consider how much time you can get off work, how long you can be away from home responsibilities, or simply how far your funds will go. Though a longer vacation is always nicer if your money is limited it may be best to enjoy a more elaborate shorter vacation than a less exciting long one.&nbsp;
<h2>Make a honeymoon wishlist together</h2>
The next phase of your destination planning is to talk with your husband or wife-to-be and ask them what sorts of things are important to them for an amazing honeymoon experience. Have them write them down and do the same yourself.&nbsp;
Once you compare your honeymoon wish lists you will both start to understand each other's dream destination requirements a little better. However, there are two additional things that you will need to do.&nbsp;
Start by remembering that this is a honeymoon where your goal is to show your love to each other. This starts long before the vacation begins and may require that you plan some things for the other person or compromise on some of your own ideas.&nbsp;
Secondly, try not to over-plan. These lists are guides to get a feel for the overall place you should visit, but it does not mean that you have to do everything all in one go. Pick just a couple of the most important points from both lists and use that to help guide you to your perfect Caribbean destination.
<h2>Check out the resorts in each destination</h2>
Even if you find a gorgeous destination that has beautiful beaches and wonderful culture that you would love to immerse yourself in, it is really the place where you stay that is going to mold the experiences that you get to enjoy during your honeymoon.

For this reason, you should investigate the <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/resorts/">different types of resorts</a> available in each destination. Do they tick all the boxes for your perfect vacation? Make sure that you do some thorough research into the different options, facilities, suites, and resort locations so that you get everything you want in this once-in-a-lifetime escape.&nbsp;
<h2>Compare the ambiance of each location</h2>
At a quick glance, a beachfront resort on one Caribbean island might look the same as another.&nbsp; But as you dig a little bit deeper you can start to see that each place has its own feel, its own culture, and its own overall ambiance that sets the mood for your memories to be made.
Here are a couple of examples.&nbsp;
If you visit Mexico you can enjoy the warm hospitality that is both homely and comforting whilst you indulge in mouthwatering cuisine and engage in a very active environment that invites you to join in a lot of activities and cultural engagements.&nbsp;&nbsp;
In Jamaica, you get the true feel of the iconic Caribbean lifestyle. With vibrant colors, flavors, and music, you get a lively atmosphere that is full of smiles and exotic offerings.

The Dominican Republic is known for its pristine beaches and its tranquil setting where you can spend the days laid back under a palm whilst enjoying the perfect weather and tropical island feel.&nbsp;
<h2>Choose your ultimate honeymoon destination</h2>
Ultimately, your perfect vacation and the best destination for your couples trip is going to depend on your personal preferences. However, these top tips should point you in the right direction and help you come to a sound conclusion so that you and your partner can enjoy the Caribbean honeymoon that you deserve.

The Best Tips on How to Pick Your Perfect Honeymoon Destination in The Caribbean

Looking for the perfect honeymoon destination? Come and explore the best spots in the Caribbean for your romantic time together as newlyweds.

What language is spoken in Jamaica? What language is Jamaican? You may already know that despite its diverse origins, Jamaica is an English speaking country. However, did you know that there is another language that exemplifies the true Jamaican spirit? This is Patois (Patwah) or what is commonly known as Jamaican Creole.&nbsp;
This beautiful form of local Caribbean speech has had profound effects on the <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/guide-to-jamaican-culture-for-your-stay-in-oyster-bay/">Jamaican culture</a>, identity, and perception over time and it continues to be a very important aspect of this island's heritage.&nbsp;
Come and see what Patois is all about, learn a few Jamaican phrases, and look forward to practicing some Creole English during your next vacation.&nbsp;

<h2>Is it a Language or a dialect?</h2>
Some people may reason that the Creole language in its many forms is just English with an accent, however, this is not the case. Jamaican <a href="https://www.encyclopedia.com/literature-and-arts/language-linguistics-and-literary-terms/language-and-linguistics/patois" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Patois</a> is a creolized English meaning that it has adapted and changed over time adopting portions of other languages and speech patterns.&nbsp;
Approximately ninety percent of the words used are English with the other ten percent being derived from, Arawak, French, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, east Indian, and African languages.
Whilst most creole forms of speech have not been officially recognized by their countries as languages, written forms of patois do exist along with grammar structure and systemization. For many speakers, however, this is purely a verbal language and the rules are very loose in their use.
Jamaican Patois is a very relaxed way of speaking that doesn't try too hard to be perfect, but as a direct result, the words flow like poetry and a strong cultural beauty is found through its unique speech patterns.&nbsp;
<h2>Where did the Jamaican way of speaking come from?</h2>
Whilst phrases and expressions can be traced back to places and events, the rhythmic tones of expressive pronunciations have evolved over time without any clear confirmation of their origins. The almost musical dance of words that patois envelops has emerged from a diverse culture with an extremely varied mix of people throughout time.

No one has been able to properly define its history, but we are thankful that this vibrant and colorful way of speaking has come into existence. Something that is very clear to see however is the British influence in etymology and pronunciation throughout Patois. This is understandable since the <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/Best-All-Inclusive-Resorts-in-Jamaica/">stunning island of Jamaica</a> was a British colony in 1707 before gaining independence in 1962.
This does not mean that Jamaican Patois comes from Britain though. Rather, through its African roots and association with British colonizers, Jamaica came up with this way of talking all by itself.
<h2>Learn some Patois for your next getaway</h2>
Whether you want to understand a few phrases in this gorgeous language or you wish to be able to say a few things in the local lingo, learning some Patois can be fun and it gives you a deeper insight and understanding into the culture.&nbsp;
Here are a few things that you might hear in Jamaica:
<ul>
<li>Hello, how are you? -&nbsp;&ldquo;Wahgwaan?&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Im OK -&nbsp;&ldquo;Mi Irie&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Do you speak Patois? -&nbsp;&ldquo;Yuh know how fi chat Patwah?&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Sure/Ok -&nbsp;&ldquo;Ya Mon&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Where are you from? -&nbsp;&ldquo;Frah wha pawt yuh deh?&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>I'm from&hellip; -&nbsp;&ldquo;Mi deh&hellip; &ldquo;</li>
<li>See you tomorrow -&nbsp;&ldquo;Inna Di Morrows&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Goodbye -&nbsp;&ldquo;Mi gaan&ldquo;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Beautiful Jamaican sayings:</h3>
The older the moon the brighter it shines -&nbsp;&ldquo;de olda de moon, de brighter it shines&rdquo;
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Meaning: the older a person gets the more beautiful, wise, and precious they become.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
What went wrong in the morning cannot be fixed in the evening -&nbsp;&ldquo;Wha gawn bad a maanin, cyaan kum gud a evelin.&rdquo;
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Meaning: it is unwise to spend time worrying about problems that cannot be fixed.</li>
</ul>
The new broom sweeps clean, but the old broom knows all the corners. -&nbsp;&ldquo;New broom sweep clean, but owl broom noe dem cahna&rdquo;
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Meaning: we should find a balance between the young and the old to benefit from fresh ideas with valuable experience.</li>
</ul>
One hand washes the other -&nbsp;&ldquo;Wan han wash de oda&rdquo;
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Meaning: If someone does something nice for you, you should repay the favor.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
A good friend is better than money in your pocket -&nbsp;&ldquo;Good frien&rsquo; betta dan packet money&rdquo;
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Meaning: Real friendships hold more value than material possessions.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Head to Jamaica to hear some Patois!</h2>
Whether you listen to the local radio or you hear the local vendors greeting you good morning, when you are in the country, you are bound to hear plenty of Jamaican lingo.&nbsp;Whilst it is easy enough to understand and most resort staff use more standardized English, being in the Patois environment is going to transport you to a world of Caribbean vibes and tropical feels.

If you want to practice some Patois or want to immerse yourself into the Creole language and lifestyle, head to Montego Bay and find yourself a nice place to stay. Our recommendation is <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a> for adults only.&nbsp;Located on a private peninsula adjacent to the luminous lagoon, you can enjoy enveloping ocean views and a real Jamaican setting.

Learn More About The Creole Language With Jamaican Patois

Have you heard of Jamaican Creole? Come and discover the language experience and learn some basic Patois phrases for you to try out during your next escape.

Plunge into Jamaica&rsquo;s crystal-clear waters and explore Montego Bay Marine Park, a vibrant underwater paradise filled with coral reefs and marine life.
If you&rsquo;ve ever dreamed of swimming through clear blue waters surrounded by colorful coral reefs and tropical fish, it&rsquo;s time to go scuba diving in Jamaica. This Caribbean island is famous for its <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/montego-bay-reggae-sumfest/">reggae music</a>, culture, and hospitality, and below the surface lies a world just as vibrant and full of life.
From shallow reefs for first-timers to deep dives for seasoned explorers, Jamaica offers something for every diver. And at the heart of it all sits Montego Bay, home to the renowned Montego Bay Marine Park, a protected underwater paradise that showcases the best of Jamaica&rsquo;s marine life.
Whether you&rsquo;re planning your very first dive or already certified, scuba diving in Jamaica can turn your next vacation into an unforgettable adventure.
<h2>Why Jamaica is a top diving destination</h2>
Scuba diving in Jamaica is simply spectacular. The island&rsquo;s warm, turquoise waters maintain an average temperature of about 80&deg;F (27&deg;C) year-round, offering ideal diving conditions. Visibility is often up to 30 meters, and calm currents make it perfect for both beginners and experts.
Underwater, you&rsquo;ll find colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and the occasional sea turtle gliding past. Some sites even feature small caves and old shipwrecks, adding a touch of mystery to your dive.
<h2>Montego Bay: The heart of diving in Jamaica</h2>
If you&rsquo;re wondering where to dive first, Montego Bay is the perfect place. It&rsquo;s one of Jamaica&rsquo;s most popular resort areas and a hub for marine exploration.

Here, you&rsquo;ll find dive sites just minutes from the shore, as well as experienced local operators who make planning your dives easy. Montego Bay&rsquo;s reefs are known for their vivid color and abundance of marine life, including snappers, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and stingrays.
<h2>3 reasons to go diving in Montego Bay</h2>
1. Convenience Located on Jamaica&rsquo;s north coast, Montego Bay is easily accessible from the island&rsquo;s main international airport.
2. Great dive infrastructure From certification courses to guided dives, the area is full of certified operators ready to help you explore safely.
3. Luxury and comfort With upscale resorts nearby, you can balance adventurous dives with relaxing, all-inclusive comfort.
Montego Bay makes it easy to add an underwater excursion to your trip or plan an entire diving vacation.
<h2>Montego Bay Marine Park: Jamaica&rsquo;s underwater sanctuary</h2>
Discussing scuba diving in Jamaica would not be complete without mentioning the incredible Montego Bay Marine Park, sometimes referred to as the Marine Park Montego Bay.
Established in 1991, this protected marine area was created to conserve the region&rsquo;s coral reefs, mangroves, and diverse sea life. Within the park&rsquo;s boundaries, fishing and anchoring are restricted, which allows coral ecosystems to thrive naturally.

Diving inside the Marine Park Montego Bay feels like stepping into another untouched world. You&rsquo;ll glide through gardens of brain coral, sea fans, and barrel sponges, all swaying gently with the current. Among the reefs, you can see <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/blog/learn-about-sea-turtles-and-hatchling-conservation-in-jamaica/">hawksbill turtles</a>, angelfish, and colorful parrotfish.
The park is also ideal for snorkeling, so even non-divers can enjoy its beauty. It&rsquo;s a place where conservation and tourism work hand in hand, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore its immersive underwater charms.
<h2>Practical tips for scuba diving in Jamaica</h2>
To make the most of your adventure, keep these helpful tips in mind:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The best time to dive is from December to April, which is the dry season, when you can expect calm seas, warm weather, and excellent visibility.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Equipment: Bring your own gear or rent from one of the many certified dive operators in Montego Bay.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Respect marine life: Follow park rules and don&rsquo;t touch the corals or feed the fish. Small efforts go a long way in protecting this fragile ecosystem.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Other activities: Between dives, enjoy snorkeling, boat tours, or simply unwind on Jamaica&rsquo;s soft, sandy beaches.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Stay close to the adventure</h2>
Not sure where to stay in Montego Bay? <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a>, located on its own private peninsula, offers the opportunity to enjoy a luxurious stay while being close to the diving action. It&rsquo;s perfect for travelers who want to experience the thrill of diving while enjoying exceptional comfort on land.

After an exhilarating morning at the Montego Bay Marine Park, return to your well-appointed suite and relax with panoramic ocean views, world-class dining, and <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/miile-spa/">soothing spa treatments</a>. Every detail, from personalized service to thoughtful amenities, creates the perfect balance between adventure and indulgence.
Whether you&rsquo;re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an escape from the everyday, Excellence Oyster Bay provides a refined home base for exploring Jamaica&rsquo;s marine treasures.
<h2>Frequently asked questions about diving in Jamaica</h2>
How is scuba diving in Jamaica for beginners? It&rsquo;s fantastic! Jamaica offers many calm, shallow dive sites that are perfect for first-timers. Certified instructors guide you through every step.
Do I need a certification to dive? For full dives, yes, but many operators offer Discover Scuba Diving experiences, allowing beginners to try diving without certification, or you could alternatively try your hand at snorkeling.

What equipment do I need? Most dive centers provide everything from tanks to wetsuits, or you can bring your own gear if you prefer.
Are there night dives in Montego Bay? Yes! Night dives reveal an entirely new side of the reef, where you can see lobsters, octopus, and glowing bioluminescence under the moonlit sea.
Does Excellence Oyster Bay organize dive excursions? Absolutely. The resort concierge can help you arrange certified tours and packages with trusted local dive operators.
Scuba diving in Jamaica is an experience that connects you with <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/visit-jamaica-the-land-of-orchids-and-exotic-flowers/">the island&rsquo;s natural beauty</a> in the most immersive way possible. From the coral gardens of Montego Bay Marine Park to the comfort of your luxury resort, every moment invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and discover the Caribbean from a whole new perspective.&nbsp;
If you are ready to plan your scuba diving vacation in Jamaica, book a stay at <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/offers/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a> now!

Scuba Diving in Jamaica: Explore Montego Bay’s Marine Park

Take a deep dive into the underwater world of Jamaica as you discover the ocean wonders of scuba diving off the coast of Montego Bay.

Welcome to Jamaica's national beverage. That's right, rum is at the heart of <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/blog/guide-to-jamaican-culture-for-your-stay-in-oyster-bay/">Jamaican culture</a> and heritage, and today we are going plunge into the depths of light and dark rum from Jamaica so that you can find the best rum for your sophisticated tastes.
This is an article that will teach you that if life gives you lemons, you should exchange them for a good glass of Jamaican rum.&nbsp;
<h2>The origin of pirate rum</h2>
Rum is generally associated with pirates and even more so after movies like Pirates of the Caribbean and this has never been truer than with Jamaican rum. After all, one of the most well-known rums from Jamaica, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, has a pirate character right there on the bottle. So did pirates drink Jamaican rum? Yes, they did.&nbsp;

But is there any pirate connection to the rum we drink today? Well, yes. Whilst pirates did not make the rum themselves, they were very avid drinkers and rum was the most readily available liquor in the Caribbean region at that time. What kind of rum did pirates drink then?
Well since they weren't the most sophisticated drinkers, pretty much anything they could find. This usually meant rum grog which is a combination of whatever rum they found with sugar, lime, and water. You can still buy pirate rum which is designed to mimic what the pirates of those times used to drink but now we also have a much wider and much more established selection of rum to choose from.&nbsp;
<h2>What is the best Jamaican rum?</h2>
Whilst we can easily say that the best rum is the rum you enjoy most, there are some Jamaican rums that work better than others for different reasons. In the following list of subheadings, we are going to highlight some of the best Jamaican rum brands so that you can boost your knowledge on this licor type before you head to the island of rum.
<h3>The best Jamaican rum brands</h3>
First, let's establish quality. These are the 4 big rum brands in Jamaica that are known to bring out some of the best rums for <a href="https://www.theexcellencecollection.com/blog/which-are-the-10-best-cocktails-to-drink-on-the-beach/">all sorts of rum drinks</a>.&nbsp;
<img src="https://05e57498c754ef16a357-dd35090954f9d016e24fbeadadc8a8f7.ssl.cf1.rackcdn.com/u/blogs/Best-jamaican-rum-brands-to-try-on-vacation.jpg" />
<h4>1) National Rums of Jamaica</h4>
If you are new to Jamaican rum, you might still be familiar with some of the different bottles associated with this big brand. This rum maker started in 1959, is owned by Maison Ferrand, a Jamaican sugar company, and Demerara distillers, and is the company that produces the following rum:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Captain Morgans</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Port Royal</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monymusk</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Royal Jamaican&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smatt&rsquo;s&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Myers</li>
</ul>
<h4>2) Appleton Estate rum</h4>
This brand was previously known as J Wray &amp; Nephew and is now owned by Gruppo Campari. Their distilleries have been continuously providing us with delicious rum since 1749 making them the oldest continuous rum distillers in Jamaica. Here are the rums that they are known for:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Appleton</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wray &amp; Nephew</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">J. Wray</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blackwell</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Coruba</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Charley&rsquo;s JB</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Edwin Charley</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Conquering Lion</li>
</ul>
<h4>3) Hampden Estate rum</h4>
This brand is a family-owned business currently under the holding of the Husseys. Also known under the name Everglades Farms Limited, this brand has a long and interesting history going back to 1753, but rum has only been made by them since 2010. Their signature rums include:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hampden Estate&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hampden Gold</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rum Fire</li>
</ul>
<h4>4) Worthy Park Estate rum</h4>
Owned by the Clarke family, their distilleries started way back in 1741. This makes them the oldest rum makers in Jamaica, but they did stop production for a few decades which is why they don't hold the title of longest-running rum makers. Their rum brands are the following:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Worthy Park</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rum-Bar</li>
</ul>
<h2>Our top selections of the best rums in Jamaica</h2>
Now we get to the really fun bit. Our list of rum selections is based on each use and setting. Whether you want a great rum mixer or something that will knock your socks off, this list will give you some great rum selections for your next tasting tour.&nbsp;
Note that personal preference may mean that you have other favorites but these are definitely some other rums that you should also try in addition to your most loved Jamaican rums.&nbsp;

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">
<h3>What is the best rum in Jamaica?</h3>
</li>
</ul>
Whilst there are iconic bottles like the Appleton Estate 17-year-old legend, the Dunderhead Rum, and the bottles from over 50 or 100 years ago, the best buyable rum in Jamaica is one that constantly gets repeated on all the top 10 lists. It is also one that is frequently mentioned in rum-tasting tours by rum connoisseurs.&nbsp;
The best rum in Jamaica is the award-winning Appleton Estate 12 year. It's versatile, it's popular, it's aged to perfection, and it's just an overall delight to drink.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">
<h3>What is the strongest Jamaican rum?</h3>
</li>
</ul>
Jamaica is famous for its overproof rums that go above and beyond the percentage mark. These are licors for the bold, and the brave, and should be handled with caution.&nbsp; Here are the <a href="https://thelonecaner.com/tag/strongest-rums-in-the-world/">strongest rums of Jamaica</a> in order of ABV percentage.
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">86.2%: Rom Deluxe Wild Series No. 17 from Hampden Estate&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">85.6%: L&rsquo;Esprit Still Strength 2019 Unaged White Rum by Worthy Park Estate&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">75.5%: Cut Overproof Spiced Rum (blended with rum from Trinidad)</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">75.5%: Appleton 151 Proof Jamaica Rum by Appleton Estate</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">74.8%: Plantation Extreme Number 4 by National Rums of Jamaica</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">
<h3>What is the best rum for Mojitos?</h3>
</li>
</ul>
A lot of experienced bartenders love using Hampden Estate Rum Fire rum since it is a flavorful white rum creation with a higher alcohol content than most (63%) making it easy to make a great mojito even with a smaller shot. This can make the drink flavors clearer and allow for better carbonation of the cocktail.&nbsp;

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">
<h3>What is the best rum for rum and coke?</h3>
</li>
</ul>
Cocal cola is undoubtedly the best rum mixer there ever was. But which rum goes best in your Cuba Libre? Everyone has their preference whether it be white rum, dark rum, spiced rum, or a golden rum. Personally, I think that the best Rum and coke combination is one that brings out the dark flavors of your soda.&nbsp;
My recommendation would be to use Captain Morgan's original spiced rum which is often available but if you can find it, Myers dark rum is the superior choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">
<h3>What is the best rum for Pi&ntilde;a Coladas?</h3>
</li>
</ul>
Many experts might recommend something like the Appleton Estate 8-year reserve, however, a Hogo rum brings a lot more fun and flavor to your Pi&ntilde;a Colada. What is a hogo rum you ask? It's a special quality of rum only found in Jamaica where the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunder">dunder</a> is used to inspire more flavor similar to what sour mash does with whisky.&nbsp;
This results in earthy and what they call &ldquo;Funk&rdquo; tastes. The top rum option for a Pi&ntilde;a Colada would therefore be the delightful hogo rum and funk rum. I would recommend Smith and Cross Jamaican rum for its old-timey flavors but since it is not technically made in Jamaica, my go-to option would be Dunderhead Caribbean rum.

<h2>Enjoy a rum tour in Jamaica</h2>
Once upon a time, there were hundreds of incredible Jamaican rum distilleries scattered about the island. Over time, however, these have whittled down to just the following six existing rum distilleries.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Appleton Estate</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hampden Estate&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Innswood&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Clarendon&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Long Pond&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Worthy Park Estate</li>
</ol>
Unfortunately, however, not all of these distilleries let tourists explore their rumtastic experiences. Not to worry, we have checked them out and highlighted which ones you can visit for a Jamaican rum tour&hellip;
<h3>Appleton Estate rum tour</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour location: St. Elizabeth, Jamaica</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour quality: They are the first distiller to offer a rum tour in Jamaica making it a well-refined well-working tour experience. It's smooth from start to finish.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour duration: Approximately 2 hours</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour tip: Make sure you try their Jamaican rum punch and some of their 12-year Appleton rum. It is absolutely lovely&mdash;<a href="mailto:marketing@seasonstours.com">contact Seasons Tour</a>s to book this tour right away.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Worthy Park Estate rum tour</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour location: St. Catherine, Jamaica</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour quality: Since they have only been doing tours since 2019, the rum tours are not quite as seamless as some of the others. However, the rum is still amazing!</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour duration: Approximately 2 hours</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour tip: Try to reserve the tour in advance since they do not accept last-minute walk-ins, and don't miss out on trying their wonderful Jamaican rum cream.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Hampden Estate rum tour</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour location: Trelawny, Jamaica</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour quality: The most interactive and personal rum tour you can take. With less crowds and more direct attention from the staff, it's more intimate and exclusive.&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour duration: Approximately 2 hours</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tour tip: The rum punch here is worth every sip. Make sure you enjoy it to the full but save some space for the rum tasting at the end.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2>Enjoy Jamaican rum in your resort!</h2>
Whilst a rum tour is great if you want to plan a day out and see the history and origins behind each bottle's creation, you do not actually need to go very far to try some amazing Jamaican rum.
Yes, even in your resort, you are sure to find a wonderful selection of Jamaican rum brands for you to choose from. Better yet, they are right on the doorstep of your accommodations, and they are part of the All Inclusive package so there is no extra cost.&nbsp;

Top Tip: If staying in <a href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/">Excellence Oyster Bay</a>, look for the Appleton Estate 12-year rum in the Excellence Club lounge along with the Rum coffee alexander and the Appleton Estate signature cocktail. Additionally, if ordering a rum cocktail, make sure you tell the bartender which white or dark rum you would like them to use so that you can maximize the mixology to your preferences.&nbsp;
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and plan your next visit to Jamaica so you can try some of the best Jamaican rum in the heart of the Caribbean.&nbsp;

Uncover The Best Jamaican Rum For Every Cocktail And Occasion!

Learn about Caribbean rum with this ultimate guide to the best rum in Jamaica with a detailed list of the best rum brands and bottles for every drink.

Things to enjoy in Jamaica

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