Most casual visitors to Jamaica pick a resort without paying much attention to its location on the island.

That is particularly true for the guests who prefer to spend most of their time at an all-inclusive resort venturing out only occasionally to shop or see some of the local sights. Even so, knowing a bit about the different areas of Jamaica can help you find the perfect resort for you.

Most travelers who visit Kingston do so for business reasons, although for the true Jamaican culture buff it offers the most museums the best galleries, and some great historic sights. It also has more nightlife than most of the top resorts, ranging from jazz and reggae clubs to upscale "supper clubs" and English theater. But you don't come here for beaches.

Port Antonio is for the elite traveler who wants to escape the mass package tours of Ocho Rios or Montego Bay. Come here for some good beaches plus great river rafting, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

To the west, Ocho Rios features some of the grandest and most traditional resorts in Jamaica, as well as some of the leading Sandals properties. But it doesn't have the best beaches shops, or scenic attractions. Nonetheless if you're resort-oriented this might be your choice.

The grand dame of Jamaica is Montego Bay, which boasts four of the poshest resorts in the Caribbean. Although some tourists prefer the beaches of Negril, those of Montego Bay are equally fine even if crowded in winter. Shopping here is superb for Jamaica; nightlife is surprisingly lackluster.

The South Coast is for backroad adventurers. Chances are you'll overlook the inland city of Mandeville, although it's a good day trip from Negril or the South Coast.

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