AboutSienna Expertise I live on the west coast of the island, in the sugar cane valley of Westmoreland parish, just outside the beach resort town of Negril, and will be happy to assist with questions that would cover the areas of the west and southwest coasts....areas such as Negril, Whitehouse, Treasure Beach.
I can help withquestions pertaining to Jamaican culture, food, places of interest, your general hotel location in regards to activities or excursions in your area, whether you're in a villa, resort, or small independent hotel.
I am however, NOT a travel agent, and cannot be of help making reservations at any all-inclusive properties.
Experience I moved here from California nine years ago, to live here with my husband, a Jamaican....his home is now my 'adopted home.' Before moving here I visited Jamaica as often as possible, staying in tourist towns and remote 'bush country'.
We have a small micro-business, offering tours for people who wish to go "off property" and choose do so in a more personal atmophere, rather than on large tour buses with 30-50 others. We go to all of the customary tourist attraction spots, and also offer some destinations you will not find offered through the hotels or large tour companies.
We believe that the people of Jamaica, both adults and children, have much to offer visitors and we strive to involve members of any community we pass through so that you can interact with them directly. Our goal is to have you enjoy your outing..to have fun while learning something new.
Question QUESTION: Hi,
I am traveling to the whitehouse next week (monday july 14th) for my honeymooon, and I am just curious about daily excursions from the whitehouse..
are they all super far away (I thought I read that somewhere).
also what types of things do they have to do?
we were looking to go horseback riding and/or a zip line, do they offer either of these at the whitehouse?
I could ask so many questions, cause I am so excited, but I appreciate your response..
we have been to jamaica once before (about 6 years ago)and stayed in ocho rios, I am excited to see the other side of the island. thanks
cheers, brian
ANSWER: Greetings from an early morning in the countryside, Brian!
You will find a tour desk at the Whitehouse, where you can sign up for different shuttle tours with others from the resort. I don't have their current list, but I do know that some have a minimum number of people that must sign up before they will schedule that particular tour. Other tours may be offered on some days but not others. The closest attraction to the resort (about a half hour away) is the Black River pontoon boat ride to check out the flora and fauna of the river. This outing is most often combined with YS Falls, which is about 45 minutes from the town of Black River. Most everything else will be an hour to an hour and a half away, and some (like Dolphin Cove) will be three or more hours away.
Horseback riding used to be offered at Paradise Park (about 30 minutes away) though I have not heard of anyone doing that lately. There is a great little family run stable about 45 minutes away called Country Western...small size groups, no such thing as "you have to stay in a single file line", if you're comfortable with the horse then the guides will let you canter on the path and go for a good gallop on the beach. The horses actually go out deep enough to swim when you get to the sea...you can ride, stand up and "surf" or swim alongside. Because it's not a large commercial company, Sandals will doubtfully book this for you, but I ride there often and if you want, I can set this up for you. You're only 20 minutes from Negril when at the stables so exploring the town is quite easy and do-able in a day trip.
You can zip-line ride at YS Falls or Lethe Estate or Chukka Blue's property. Both of the later two are back by Montego Bay.
If you're here for a week and would like to join in on some tours pending, you would certainly be welcome. You can reach us at www.talkofthetownnegril.com and we'll be happy to give you more details.
~Sienna~
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QUESTION: Good morning
great thank you so much for your help, one other quick question.
i have read some articles in the jamiacan news about the "troubled" sandals whitehouse, because of electrical issues they are having... a threat of a "black out" :(
is this something i need to worry about, we will be there this monday (july 14th) and I am trying not to be nervous that the hotel is just going to shut down while we are there?
Thanks again!
Brian
Answer Jamaican greetings again Brian! For news or a truthful answer about the situation or status of the resort while you're going to be here....I'd go directly to the source. Spend a few minutes and a few dollars and call the resort directly...(876) 640-3000. Ask to speak to Jeremy Mutton (the general manager)...I'm not sure what time of day would be best to catch him...maybe morning? If he's not in, ask his receptionist what IS a good time to call back.
Tell him your dates of stay and your concerns about being transferred...or what precautions you should take.
If the electrical power did go out by day...stay cool at the pool or down on the beach. Water may not be a fancy tropical drink but will be better for you than warming sugar drinks or tepid beer. Know that staff will be concerned for your comfort and do the best they can to keep things running smoothly.
If the power goes out at night, what a beautiful starlit sky you're going to see! Sit on the beach and listen to the waves, the tree frogs, the tropical night sounds from the town of Whitehouse that will drift across the water. Hold your honey and know that you are blessed.
Maybe you can tuck a small flashlight into your suitcase...add one or two scented slow-burning candles to keep in your room...one by the bed, one in the bathroom (don't forget lighters or matches for both)...that way, should you be caught off guard in the evening hours, you'll have a little bit of light to navigate by and keep the worries at bay.
