Destination: montego bay

Population: 3 million

Language: English

Climate: High 70s–Mid 80s

Currency: Jamaican Dollar/U.S. Dollar

Size: 4,411 Square Miles

ne of the largest islands in the Caribbean, Jamaica has whatever you're looking for: mountains, rivers, waterfalls, rain forests, upscale resorts, small reclusive villas . . .

If at all possible, extend your cruise with a stay in Montego Bay, the epitome of the sun-and-fun, tanning-and-cocktail-sipping Caribbean. A wide assortment of resorts awaits you, and Valtur sells pre- and post-cruise hotel stays at the Wyndham Rose Hall Resort & Country Club, the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, the Tryall Club, and the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort.

For those arriving for their cruise aboard the Valtur Prima, sightseeing in Jamaica may prove somewhat difficult. American passengers currently arrive for check-in on their first day too late to take Valtur's shore excursions (those excursions are purchased by Europeans who have boarded the ship in Cuba or Mexico). CruiseHavana suggests you settle into your cabin upon arrival, then enjoy a lazy day poolside aboard the ship, or go ashore and catch a cab to somewhere nearby. The town of Montego Bay offers an extensive arts and crafts market just a few minutes' ride from the pier, or for a more festive afternoon, try the Margeuritaville Bar. Just don't have too many margaritas - the ship sails at six thirty.