I'm a bit confused on somethings.

[FromHereToThere]

:confused:

What is the allure of Jamaica that so many people want to go there?

 

If your sailing Alaska and land is on both sides of your ship, what's it matter what side you are on?

 

Which is more important, being on the ship regardless of cabin location, or being specific with your cabin number?

 

Why do people complain about how much they have to spend on thier little ones to cruise in the middle of July, isn't space at a premium then? And will your child even remember?

 

If you're going on vacation, why so much do people want to bring comforts of home? (ie coolers, game consoles).

 

Just curious im sure there are some interesting answers out there:D

[oysterfiend]

On tripadvisor I have read that Jamaica is not so friendly as the Yucatan Mexico

[Kurbanfan]

:confused:

What is the allure of Jamaica that so many people want to go there?

 

Jamaica is very beautiful.

 

If your sailing Alaska and land is on both sides of your ship, what's it matter what side you are on?

 

For us it doesn't matter what side we are on on any itinerary.

 

Which is more important, being on the ship regardless of cabin location, or being specific with your cabin number?

 

Specific cabin for us. We plan our cabin around our entertainment. Which is midship next to the elevators.

 

Why do people complain about how much they have to spend on thier little ones to cruise in the middle of July, isn't space at a premium then? And will your child even remember?

 

We didn't start cruising until ours was grown. I agree with you but many others feel differently.

 

If you're going on vacation, why so much do people want to bring comforts of home? (ie coolers, game consoles).

 

Only a cooler for us. If the ship supplied them I wouldn't.

 

Just curious im sure there are some interesting answers out there:D

 

Thast's my story and I'm stickin to it:D

 

[maxamuus]

Im guessing its all a matter of personal preference. I wouldnt book a cruise that stopped in Jamaica personally. So many other nice places that are a LOT safer.

[shipty2]

I love Jamaica and have been 5 times not counting cruise stops. You can drink the water and they speak English and as long as you are polite the people are wonderful. And I have never heard of a shark attack near Jamaica which makes it near the top of my list of best beaches.

[firefly333]

I want to go to Jamaica to buy Blue Mountain coffee, the best in the world :D

[ItaliaAmerCruzLady]

No big allure of Jamaica here, it was ok, we did do a nice excursion, but, who needs all the drama

dont know about Alaska, but being on the port side of the ship is sometimes more picturesque than starboard. It was that way in SanJuan, we were on the wrong side.(nice view of garbage heap)

I dont care where on the ship I am, but I do prefer a balcony

we dont travel with little ones, but we are stuck going during peak season because I work in a school and thats when our vacations are. Stuck paying premium prices

We bring nothing of the sort for coolers or videos, the ship entertains us, feeds us and I dont see the need to bring a cooler. maybe a little insulated bag for excursions, but even then, you can always find a place to get refreshments. :p

[papa1952]

Im guessing its all a matter of personal preference. I wouldnt book a cruise that stopped in Jamaica personally. So many other nice places that are a LOT safer.

:rolleyes: If I'm ever on another cruise and it stops at Jamaica, it will just be another fun day on the ship. :mad: You couldn't pay me to get off. Done that once, never again.:D

[*Mach*]

I love Jamaica and have been 5 times not counting cruise stops. You can drink the water and they speak English and as long as you are polite the people are wonderful. And I have never heard of a shark attack near Jamaica which makes it near the top of my list of best beaches.

 

Amen... I've been going to Jamaica since the early 80s and I've NEVER had a problem. All I've found were lots of straight up folks desperate to make a living. Treat them with the same respect that you treat anyone at home and you'll have a great time.

 

I suspect that it's the folks that run away or glance at the Jamaicans in disgust that create their own problems. Would you expect a different reaction in any major city or tourist destination in the US ? Probably not.

 

The milk of human kindness goes a long way toward healing hearts. Give the Jamaicans a break and at least form your own opinion rather than buying into exaggeration and hype.

 

Just my $.02...

 

I know... this all belongs in the 'Ports of Call' forum but... geez... I HAD to answer!

 

;)

[sd63]

two words, ya mon

[Davey Interweb]

I don't get off the ship at a Jamaican port of call, either. It's not that I'm intimidated by the potential for crime or the hassling or anything, it's just that I think I've seen all I really need to. I see Kingston and Montego Bay as the Detroits of the Caribbean -- they're mostly dangerous places probably best avoided when it comes to tourism, but there are indeed some truly nice spots outside the city areas.

[renata102]

=FromHereToThere;12528385]:confused:

What is the allure of Jamaica that so many people want to go there?to each their own. Maybe everybody wants to see it at least once. Maybe ou you ve been there and done that, but sounds like you went there once.

 

If your sailing Alaska and land is on both sides of your ship, what's it matter what side you are on? some sides have better views than others, ie sunrise, sunsets where certain landmarks are.

 

Which is more important, being on the ship regardless of cabin location, or being specific with your cabin number? I rather be on the ship. I have all different types of rooms, inside outside balcony jr suite etc... However as my last cruise so blantenly exposed ... it does matter where you are for various reasons. #1 it was below the theater. So i was concerned that there maybe alot of noise. #2 it was literally the first forward cabin lower deck ocean view. I felt every wave, the sound and vibration hitting the waves sounded like we were hitting a whale ever 2 minutes.

So it does matter to some people where their cabin is.

 

Why do people complain about how much they have to spend on thier little ones to cruise in the middle of July, isn't space at a premium then? And will your child even remember? some people are used to paying a reduced fair for their little ones. And yes they do remember at a certain age. My 6 year old daughte remembered her last years cruise LOVED IT. she is goin going on her third cruise. My son being only two and going on his 2nd cruise. And no I don't complain about cruise prices with children. We get awesome military/interliner rates!

 

If you're going on vacation, why so much do people want to bring comforts of home? (ie coolers, game consoles). when one person thinks beach, first thing that comes to mind or when I am going to the shore or the beach i always bring my cooler! LOL on a cruise ship there is no room for a cooler. But alot of ports are beaches. I guesse game consoles keeps the kids quiet. some people like the comforts of home. don't judge. I personally don't take a cooler FYI

 

Just curious im sure there are some interesting answers out there:D

 

As i have come to learn in my 30 short years in this world... people are odd, different. Since I started working for the public 5 years ago as well as my husband we have come across so many different people and ways of thinking that is mind boggeling (not wrong, just really different than my train of thought). My job is not to judge them and be open to various ways of thinking. As long as they are not abusing/ neglecting their children adn for my hubby they are not breaking the law. sorry about the sp. kinda late

[Wennfred]

No more Jamaica for me :D

 

Rather take my chances getting robbed and killed in Brooklyn.

 

 

 

Fred

[lives to cruise]

Amen... I've been going to Jamaica since the early 80s and I've NEVER had a problem. All I've found were lots of straight up folks desperate to make a living. Treat them with the same respect that you treat anyone at home and you'll have a great time.

 

I suspect that it's the folks that run away or glance at the Jamaicans in disgust that create their own problems. Would you expect a different reaction in any major city or tourist destination in the US ? Probably not.

 

The milk of human kindness goes a long way toward healing hearts. Give the Jamaicans a break and at least form your own opinion rather than buying into exaggeration and hype.

 

Just my $.02...

 

I know... this all belongs in the 'Ports of Call' forum but... geez... I HAD to answer!

 

;)

 

 

Woo Hoo Mach! Just noticed you were made a Host! That's terrific!!!:D :D :D

[pe4all]

-As far as Jamaica goes - it is a port on an itinerary for us. If the ship brings us to a port, off I go!! Jamaica doesn't bother me -no problem, mon!

 

-Some people like to be on a certain side of the ship (don't know about Alaska - it is on my "to-do" list) but ships can dock on either side - coin toss about if you get a good or bad view in a port.

 

-don't like "noisy" cabins - over/under disco, lounges, casino, et. Like to

pick our own.

 

-Our children are our family members. We will pay the price for them to cruise, no matter what it is.

 

-We just bring music along - finally made it into the iPod era!! But people want to be comfortable - whatever it takes - it's their vacation.

 

-Congrats Machman, on becoming a host! Well earned!!

 

-

[happy to be sailing]

My wife & i have been to Jamaica several times, by land & by sea. There is more to Jamaica than Montego Bay. Get off the Ship & explore a little. Like Runaway bay, Dunn's River , Ocho rios. The people are wonderful. If you give them a little respect , they will give it in return. I Think some of you have spent too much time on board.What is the point of sailing if you don't see all there is to see. Go to a all inclusive and stay on the resort.

[Dave85]

I strongly dislike Montego Bay, have had several less than desireable experiences there... not sure I'd get off there again.

 

That said, I've loved Ocho Rios the last two times we've been there on RCI because our ships docked right next to MARGARITAVILLE! If you haven't hit Margaritaville I suggest you check it out next time... very excited to get back there on this upcoming cruise.

[*Mach*]

Woo Hoo Mach! Just noticed you were made a Host! That's terrific!!!:D :D :D

 

Thanks! I appreciate it!!

 

:D

[ruskatab]

Ive been to Jamaica a few times. Its pretty but the water and beaches dont even compare to the white beaches and the turquoise water in the Yucatan. Alot of english is spoken in Mexico especially the resort areas. And whats this about a shark attack? The people in Mexico are not near as aggressive as Jamaica. Dunn River Falls is ruined because of the Venders. Montego Bay is dreadful.

[maxamuus]

form your own opinion rather than buying into exaggeration and hype.

 

No Offense, but the US State Department is probably the biggest person creating the "hype" and their "hype" is something that i do buy into.

 

From their website:

 

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Gang violence and shootings occur regularly in certain areas of Kingston and Montego Bay. These areas include Mountain View, Trench Town, Tivoli Gardens, and Arnett Gardens in Kingston, and Flankers in Montego Bay. Some neighborhoods are occasionally subject to curfews and police searches. Impromptu demonstrations can occur, during which demonstrators often construct roadblocks or otherwise block the streets. These events usually do not affect tourist areas, but travelers to Kingston should check with local authorities or the U.S. Embassy for current information prior to their trip.

 

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found.

 

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

 

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.

 

CRIME: Crime, including violent crime, is a serious problem in Jamaica, particularly in Kingston. While the vast majority of crimes occur in impoverished areas, the violence is not confined. The primary criminal concern of a tourist is being a victim of theft. In several cases, armed robberies of Americans have turned violent when the victims resisted handing over valuables. Crime is exacerbated by the fact that police are understaffed and ineffective. Therefore, tourists should take their own precautions and always pay extra attention to their surroundings when traveling, exercise care when walking outside after dark, and should always avoid areas known for high crime rates. As a general rule, valuables should not be left unattended, including in hotel rooms and on the beach. Care should be taken when carrying high value items such as cameras, or when wearing expensive jewelry on the street. Women's handbags should be zipped and held close to the body. Men should carry wallets in their front pants pocket. Large amounts of cash should always be handled discreetly.

 

The U.S. Embassy advises its staff to avoid inner-city areas of Kingston and other urban centers, such as those listed in the section on Safety and Security, whenever possible. Particular caution is advised after dark in downtown Kingston. The U.S. Embassy also cautions its staff not to use public buses, which are often overcrowded and are a frequent venue for crime.

 

To enhance security in the principal resort areas, the Government of Jamaica has taken a number of steps, including assignment of special police foot and bicycle patrols. Particular care is still called for, however, when staying at isolated villas and smaller establishments that may have fewer security arrangements. Some street vendors and taxi drivers in tourist areas are known to confront and harass tourists to buy their wares or employ their services. If a firm "No, thank you" does not solve the problem, visitors may wish to seek the assistance of a tourist police officer.

 

Drug use is prevalent in some tourist areas. American citizens should avoid buying, selling, holding, or taking illegal drugs under any circumstances. There is anecdotal evidence that the use of so-called date rape drugs, such as Ruhypnol, has become more common at clubs and private parties. Marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other illegal narcotics are especially potent in Jamaica, and their use may lead to severe or even disastrous health consequences.

 

Relatives of U.S. citizens visiting Jamaica and U.S. citizens who are prisoners in Jamaica have received telephone calls from people claiming to be Jamaican police officers, other public officials, or medical professionals. The callers usually state that the visitor or prisoner has had trouble and needs financial help. In almost every case these claims are untrue. The caller insists that money should be sent to either themselves or a third party who will assist the visitor or prisoner, but when money is sent, it fails to reach the U.S. citizens in alleged need. U.S. citizens who receive calls such as these should never send money. They should contact the American Citizen Services Unit of the Embassy's Consular Section at telephone (876) 702-6000 for assistance in confirming the validity of the call.

 

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. More information on this serious problem is available at http://www.cybercrime.gov/18usc2320.htm.

 

This just isnt my idea of a vacation. If and when i want this vacation i will book the Motel 6 in downtown Newark and save the cost of the cruise.

 

Just my 2 cents.

[trarecar]

:confused:

What is the allure of Jamaica that so many people want to go there?

Gah, don't let this turn into another bashing Jamaica thread! I enjoyed my time in Montego Bay, but I was at Sandals. My friends who went to Sunset Beach also had a good time. It was very beautiful and fun. Worth at least one trip.

 

If your sailing Alaska and land is on both sides of your ship, what's it matter what side you are on?

No idea - never done Alaska and never plan on it. I need beaches!

 

Which is more important, being on the ship regardless of cabin location, or being specific with your cabin number?

For me, right now, it's being on the ship. As I have less children in the house and more disposable income, we'll see. LOL

 

Why do people complain about how much they have to spend on thier little ones to cruise in the middle of July, isn't space at a premium then? And will your child even remember?

A parent of four here, and I agree! I don't see the allure of bringing a toddler on a cruise. Also, (and I have been hesitant to mention it) I felt sorry for the kids I saw one night on the Conquest having their dinner without their parents, being led in a line back to their kid place, while adults all around them on the Lido deck were partying, listening to music and laying around drinking. I wondered if any of those kids were missing their moms and dads. :( I still think about it to this day!

 

If you're going on vacation, why so much do people want to bring comforts of home? (ie coolers, game consoles).

I wouldn't call a cooler a "comfort of home". LOL But I wouldn't let my kids bring their Game Boys.

 

Just curious im sure there are some interesting answers out there:D

 

I'm sure you will have some. LOL

[*Mach*]

Maxamuus,

 

Take a bit of time and do the same research regarding other ports of call. Sadly, crime is everywhere.

 

Yeah, there are problems in Jamaica, just as everywhere else in the world. The VAST majority of what you cited is Jamaican on Jamaican not Jamaican on tourist, although that surely occurs.

 

Consider the millions of folks who visit Jamaica annually and never have a problem. The instances of theft are actually very low and instances of violence lower still.

 

Did you know that there has been SIGNIFICANT violence against tourists on another island? That island is... drum roll... HAWAII.

 

Face it, no where is totally safe. On my last cruise I stopped a kid from snatching cash and my ID from my pocket. That was on Cozumel. Will I stop going there because of it? Nope...

 

Knowledge is the key here. If you know that there's a potential for problems you can elect to avoid it and possibly miss a wonderful opportunity or you can choose to press on, having learned what or where to avoid and have a great time!

[DqALEX]

:rolleyes: If I'm ever on another cruise and it stops at Jamaica, it will just be another fun day on the ship. :mad: You couldn't pay me to get off. Done that once, never again.:D

I'm with you been there done that. Its a great day to spend on the ship up by the pool. Thats what I'm going to do when I sail on the Freedom next New Years.

[bluejeans]

Thanks! I appreciate it!!

 

:D

 

Now that isn't our Conquest Mach is it? Congrats!!!! Good to know you will be keeping us in line. :D

[Kurbanfan]

Did you know that there has been SIGNIFICANT violence against tourists on another island? That island is... drum roll... HAWAII.

 

 

Oh Pleeeeze......comparing Hawaii to Jamaica...apples to oranges.:rolleyes:

A whole different ball game.