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The anything-goes atmosphere of the “irie” isle is evident in Ocho Rios, a favorite destination of “James Bond” author Ian Fleming and playwright Noel Coward. Their former vacation homes are here; so, too, is an assortment of tourist-friendly attractions, from the cool, welcoming current of Dunn’s River Falls to the roller coaster rides of the Mystic Mountain amusement park.

But beaches are the best bet for trips to this region. A number of romance-ready resorts hug Ocho Rios’ coastline, taking full advantage of white sands, turquoise waves and the steady sun that warms the north coast of Jamaica. A few public beaches remain here, too, with reggae bars and rum punch stands ready to service swimmers and sunbathers. A number of neighboring coral gardens also lure snorkelers -- cruise ship passengers have a number of catamaran-tour-and-diving excursions at their disposal when planning their time underwater.

Language: English     Currency: Jamaican dollar, US$