Our Jamaican bus ride has got a lot of inquiries from friends and family so, here goes ...
Why did you book a plane trip to Kingston instead of Montego Bay? Our flight to Mexico was booked on Delta for Kelly & Joe's wedding. Swine flu hit and the wedding plans changed to Jamaica. Delta flights to Montego Bay from Phoenix where sold out except for first class making the flight double our original investment. Not something we could afford. Kingston however was the same price as Mexico. So, Kingston it was.
How wasthe Kingston airport? It was ok, not as tourist orientated as Montego Bay. It was our first point of entry into the country so we had to go through immigration and customs there. No AC and took about 2 hours.
Why a bus? Traveling from Kingston to Montego Bay we had a choice of flying Air Jamaica for $350 each way or taking the Knutsford Express bus for $35 each way. You do the math ;)
Was it safe? The Knutsford Express is a commuter bus that runs 2-3 times a day to and from Kingston and Montego Bay. We learned about it on TripAdvisor, checked out the company website as well as read many positive reviews online. There was a security guard at the bus stop. When we arrived at the Kingston there were cabs waiting there to pick you up and bring you to your next destination. We traveled safely and would recommend it.
Okay, so how was the bus ride? It was great! I mean it was still a bus after all but, that aside the seats were comfortable and we felt safe during the ride. We were on the bus for about 3.5 hours with one rest stop at Ochos Rios. I enjoyed seeing so much of Jamaica. We rode along the coast from Montego Bay to Ochos Rios and then headed south through the mountainous island down to Kingston.
Here are some highlights ...
When passing through Ochos Rios, we saw all the school children in their uniforms walking to school. It was a rare glimpse into everyday life. 
10 minute Rest Stop at Ochos Rios Jerk Center. 
Driving through the rolling hills of St. Ann Jamaica, you will come up on this lush green paradise of fern, known as Fern Gully. As its name suggests it meanders down (or up) a hill side covered in fern. It is a beautiful oasis. 
We drove through gorgeous mountain villages. This picture is of Walkerswood, Jamaica. 
We saw a bustling Kingston during morning rush hour. 
Signs from Jamaica's safe driving campaign ... aren't they funny?! 
2 comments:
What a great trip! Glad you guys had a good time.
Glad that it was safe. Looks like you saw some beautiful scenery.
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