It seems fitting that Ocho Rios is the home of Jamaica’s so-called James Bond Beach, because in this land of swaying palm groves, verdant jungles and lapping, aquamarine Caribbean waters, one could easily imagine the man himself lounging with a martini under the sun. No wonder then that between the sprawling gardens and infinity pools of the various hotel resorts and luxury villas here, Ocho Rios is hailed as a one of the island’s jet setter favourites!

That said, there are still plenty of hotspots open to the casual traveller, with swimming in the secluded Blue Hole, climbing trips to the gushing Dunn's River Falls and tubing rides down the White River forming some of northern Jamaica’s most popular excursions. Ocho Rios tour guides will further recommend reggae pilgrimages to Marley’s resting place at Nine Mile just along the coast, while some will no doubt endorse expeditions to Columbus Park, or the shadowy tunnels of the Green Grotto Caves.

Of course, sleepy Ocho Rios itself also boasts earthy Caribbean seafood joints, bursting at the seams with patties and saltfish, and beach hunters are never disappointed by the wealth of paradisiacal spots that stretch out to both the east and west along the shore.