Tourist Sites

The trip was amazing. After being greeted at the airport in Montego Bay, we were treated to a two-hour, entertaining and informative, transfer in an air-conditioned bus to our resort in Ocho Rios. Midway to our destination we made a stop where we were able to purchase souvenirs, grab a bite to eat or just enjoy a refreshing Red Stripe.

We had the pleasure of staying at the All-Inclusive, Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa. Upon arrival at the Sunset Jamaica Grande, a live Jamaican band greeted us. We were escorted to our ocean view room, with a beautiful view of the dock area and the Caribbean Sea.

Our room had two double beds with a sitting area, a small balcony with deck chairs and a table. The room was very clean with a nice sized bathroom and an in-room safe. There are two beach areas with paddleboats, kayaks and water bikes.

There are ample beach loungers to relax and watch the cruise ships disembark in the bay. There are also two hot tubs, five pools, one with a replica of the Dunn’s River Falls that cascades from the lobby. There is also a children’s area at the resort.

The resort has several restaurants. The Grand Palm Buffet that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The South Beach Grill and the Lighthouse Grill that offers jerk chicken and sandwiches from 10AM until 1AM. There is also the Jamalicious Café that serves traditional Jamaican fare for lunch and dinner. There are also three reservation only restaurants. La Diva that specialized in Italian food. The Ginger Lily, which serves Asian Cuisine, and the South Beach Grill, an outdoor restaurant specializing in Jamaican/American dishes.

I would recommend making reservations for these specialty restaurants upon arrival.

On Tuesday nights there is an outdoor Jamaican themed beach party with a Jamaican style buffet, live entertainment including a steel drum band and fire dancers. The hotel has eight different bars, including a disco and two swim-up bars

I am more than excited to get out and hit the slopes again this year! I have been dreaming of pulling my skis from storage since last year at this time. Those mountains of snow are almost in my reach.

Young and old alike will take to the slopes this year to continue the 5,000 year long tradition of skiing that brings millions of people, including myself, exhilaration and a sense of freedom.

Here are some ski trip tips that I have learned over the past few years:

The Length of Ski Trips Should Depend on Schedule and Budget

A ski vacation can be enjoyed at any length of stay. Any vacation can be custom designed by a travel specialist to optimize a skier’s interests during their stay.

Packing can be Tough

Packing for a ski trip generally is more of a burden than packing for any other trip. Make sure to make a list of everything you will need. Don’t forget that on ski trips you will need inner and outerwear so you can fully enjoy your experience.

Get the Right Gear

Make sure before hitting the slopes that all gear is thoroughly inspected. Properly fitting boots are vital for skiers. Boots should feel snug, but comfortable.

Know Before you Go

Before making reservations at a ski resort evaluate your priorities. Depending on skill level, some resorts may be better than others. Some welcome children, while others are more geared toward adults. Make sure to find the best option.

Eat Right

To get the most out of your ski adventure, make sure to eat a hearty breakfast filled with carbohydrates and protein. These foods will boost energy needed for an active day.

I generally use a travel agent to plan my ski trips. I don't have enough time in the day to make all the arrangements. My travel agent at Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit in Fargo know exactly what I like and knows how to make my passion for skiing come alive. Let me know if you want their information.

I have to make it to at least one of these this year:

SKI Magazine’s Top 10 Ski Resorts for 2007

Deer Valley, UT
Vail, CO
Whistler/ Blackcomb, BC
Aspen, CO
Snowmass, CO
Park City, UT
Brekenridge, CO
Beaver Creek, CO
Steamboat, CO
Sun Valley, ID