Island Village

Jamaica has been taking great strides over the past few years to promote tourism to their wonderful Island.   Their culture has long been imitated.  Reggae music permeates thru-out the Caribbean as a driving force of music industry, and the warmth and hospitality of the Jamaican people is known world wide.  While other countries talk of how to attract tourists and new industry, Jamaica has been actively building.  

Island Village of Ocho Rios is a prime example.  Located at the cruise ship port, it calmly beckons travelers to come explore.   Jamaica's first theme park opened in the Spring of 2002, and with a totally Jamaican influence as evidenced by the owner and developer, Chris Blackwell, ex-Bob Marley Manager.  The Reggae Explosion museum is a total immersion into the music that swept the world and brought a tiny nation into the limelight.  The word 'wow' is probably quite apt to describe what the Reggae Explosion Museum has to offer. It presents a graphic history of Jamaica's popular music history. It exhibits the noise, vibrancy and paradox that is at the heart of reggae music and by extension, Jamaican life.  Music videos, recorded tracks and interviews, showing on numerous monitors throughout the museum, completed the story by providing the matching soundtrack.

 Visit the gallery of fine artwork by Jamaican Artists and Artisans in air conditioned comfort.   The finely crafted carvings capture the pride of culture and passion of a very unique people.  As one slowly walks thru to gaze upon paintings which pull the observer into a world which many have never experienced.  The exuberant colors, warm textures of fabric, wood and canvas combine with the pulsating musical sounds from  outside to totally envelope the individual.

Jimmy Buffet’s famous eatery "Margaritaville" takes a prominent position at Island Village.  The food is wonderful and the drinks are ever flowing.  Mr. Buffet has been spotted many times walking about the crowd, enjoying the music.

The Eight Rivers Casino is available for those interested in a bit of gambling in modern air-conditioned comfort.  The mood is very relaxing and fun, the games some of the best that the Caribbean has to offer.

Sprinkled thru out the complex are various eateries, a wonderful coffee shop, ice cream shops, cyber cafes, and video game shops.   Wide boardwalks meander gracefully thru the Island foliage creating a restful unhurried atmosphere.  

World-class fine Jewelers with an incredible selection of Diamonds, Emeralds, Rubies and Gold are waiting to show you this seasons new styles.  Carrying a large variety of designer items, fine watches or that delightful one of a kind item, the duty free Jewelers of Jamaica can easily help you fulfill your dream.

Perhaps the most exciting part of Island Village is the incredible amphitheater which features some of the finest musicians in the Caribbean.   

The open air environment and ample seating  creates a relaxing afternoon or evening.  The culture of Jamaica is expressed wonderfully in her music.  The management of Island Village has carefully intertwined the beautiful environment with perhaps Jamaica's most valuable resource, the warmth and talents of her people.  For more on current Jamaican Music News and reviews, Click Here.

There is a wonderful beach area for both young and old alike offering comfortable chairs and areas of sun and shade.  The teenagers will enjoy the water trampoline and diving into the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean.

It can no longer be said that Dunn's River forms the only worthwhile attraction site in Ocho Rios. Many speculators now realize the area's potential since the Island Village project,   the new Dolphin Cove aquarium, the Roaring River Water Falls and the Llandovery Gliding Tour.   Tourists and investors are once again  discovering the fun and excitement that is Jamaica. 

RUINS at the FALLS. This beautiful property is centered around a 40 ft waterfall and lush tropical gardens, and promises a cool morning vibe. The historic and garden tour highlights the properties infamous past. Hear its legendary tales of mystery and intrigue while touring its gardens filled with a wide selection of exotic fruits and flowers. Sample these fruits, hear about the curing properties of Jamaica’s many herbs and spices, soak in the natural whirlpools or just relax by the lily, fish or turtle ponds.

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