Jamaica
800-233-4582
www.visitjamaica.com

As the third-largest of the Caribbean islands, Jamaica offers a tremendous variety of visitor experiences, ranging from all-inclusive international beach resorts and exclusive private villas to total immersion in the island’s vibrant Creole culture and lush, mountainous landscapes. Spend your days lounging by the pool, if you wish, but plenty of active options are available, including golf, hiking, horseback riding, river rafting or savoring the island’s famously fertile live music scene.

When Hurricane Ivan roared through the West Indies in September, the eye of the storm skirted Jamaica’s southern coastline, causing 16 deaths and extensive damage in some low-lying areas. However most of the island’s major resort areas were spared and tourism officials say that with some exceptions, Jamaica’s hospitality sector is largely back to normal.

Look for promotional deals this winter as resorts and tour packagers aim to lure back visitors in the wake of September’s bad news. Updates on resort closures are published on the Jamaica Tourist Board Web site at www.visitjamaica.com