The marine -and fun- city...

Ah! Montego Bay!
The place for sun-worshippers and bonvivants. Beaches, pubs discos and restaurants. All ingredients are available to provide the spoiled holidaymaker an exotic period.
Life is good in Montego Bay; I am talking from my own experience.

"MoBay" sounds better
For most of the holidaymakers Montego Bay ("MoBay" as it is popularly called by the locals) will be the first acquaintance with Jamaica. On Sir Donald Sangster International Airport planes from all over the world with people in a good temper are landing daily.
Everyone is ready to enjoy for a few weeks all the things Jamaica has to offer. Many stay in MoBay, others travel through to other parts of the island.


According to what is said the word "montego" is derived from "manteca", a Spanish word that means something like "butter". Not so dusty as it looks, the Spanish who founded the settlement in about 1655 used the bay as an import- and export harbor of animal fats.

Heavy history
MoBay has, just like most of the other parts of Jamaica, a stirring history. Parts of the town were burnt down several times and in 1831 Sam Sharp led a revolt of the slaves who were living in the area around the town. He had to pay a high price: on 23rd of May 1832 he was hanged by the British on The Parade, the square that still today considered as the center of the town.
During the 20th century MoBay developed to the second town of Jamaica and became the most important tourist center.

Hip Strip
The tourist life in MoBay is concentrated around the "Hip Strip", the Gloucester Av.
Along the most important beaches Doctors Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach stand hotels and places of entertainment side by side. With all touristy facilities and shops the "Hip Strip" and direct environment is a feast for every holiday-lover.

However, MoBay is offering more.
The center of the town is a good example of Jamaican activities. Many shops can be found here too. Furthermore is visiting of the many markets a must. Apart from the fact that shopping there makes fun is walking on such a market a fascinating experience.
MoBay is a town with history too. The many old houses are recalling the Spanish and British domination and certainly are worth looking at.
Around the quays of Harbor St. fish and fruit are brought ashore and sold. A walk uphill in Union St. will be rewarded with a fantastic view on the city.


Real?
But to undergo the "real" Jamaican life you have to leave the city.
In the immediate environment area lot of curiosities such as Rose Hall Great House, the Rocklands Bird Feeding Station and Greenwood Great House.
For the one who is renting car authentic villages as Falmouth and Lucea are in his range. And if he does not like to drive on his own a plenty of guides who can show you the real life are available.

Montego Bay: the marine city. But mainly sun, beaches, shopping, going out and fun!