Silver Sands Blog: Silver Sands Jamaica by Mysilversands.

Day Trip to YS Falls and Black River

2011-07-17T21:58:00.000-05:00

A great day trip from Silver Sands Jamaica that is a bundle of fun! That is the Black River Safari combined with YS Falls on the South side of the island.

Endless Summer - Endless Pleasure, Silver Sands Jamaica, May 2011

2011-06-29T04:08:00.000-05:00

Somehow, more than twenty years had passed since my last trip to Endless Summer in Jamaica. I knew there would be innumerable changes in the time that had passed.

Geoff relaxes in a hammock on the sea front at Endless Summer Villa.

I was happy to find that the good things that generated so many fond memories were as good as or better than remembered. The sunny, happy warmth of the Jamaican people make you love them from the get go. The music of their lilting approach to language is one of the soundtracks to your time here.

I’m sitting in the great room at Endless Summer mesmerized by the panoramic view of the Caribbean. The breeze is sighing through the palms as the gentle surf sweetly kisses the shore. I have to pinch myself. Have I tumbled through the looking glass into some film set from the lives of the rich and famous? Or, am I just incredibly lucky to have ended up spending a few days here?

This is truly 5 star resort living in the warmth and comfort of a consummately well equipped and appointed private home. Prem Chadeesingh's artistic and design flair surprises and pleases your senses at every turn. The home is embellished with many items from Prem's personal island art collection. You almost feel as though you are in a high end, tasteful Caribbean gallery. I realized that he has created a subtle and very interesting tension between the manmade beauty of his art and interior design, this paradisiacal seaside setting. It would not be wrong to say there were two designers for Endless Summer, Prem did the inside, and God did a pretty amazing job on the outside. Its’ a constant dilemma, do I want my coffee outside under the gazebo, or up in the porch great room area?? Oh to be so spoiled!

As the hallmark of any fine establishment, the staff is professional, scrupulously honest, happy, friendly, well trained and efficient – no mean feat in the tropics. You feel as though your well being is attended to unobtrusively by friends who want you to be happy, and enjoy their world.

Geoff eats the conch worm.

I had recently returned from my first trip to Honolulu. In Hawaii, I loved the incredible beauty of the volcanic mountains, and the rain forests in the interior. The water and beaches and beaches in Hawaii are nice, but even famed Waikiki can’t not hold a candle to Jamaica’s’ North Coast. My conclusion, go to Hawaii for the unique Hawaiian topography and experience; if you want a nearly perfect tropical beach paradise, save yourself a lot of money and time. Jamaica can’t be beat!

On another note, it’s quiet here. This is not the place to come if you want to party till dawn in the clubs. I came for the water sports, and to re-experience my long time love for this island. Silver Sands offers virtually all the water sports you could desire, kayaking, snorkeling, wind surfing, and sailing. Just west, at Bounty Bay is what brought me; one of the best kiteboarding spots on the planet, complete with gear rental, lessons, and sales (www.kiteboardingjamaica.com). On one of the days, the wind was light I kayaked out to the reef just off the Silver Sands beach life guard station. I had snorkeled this reef years ago. It was just as beautiful as I had remembered it, like visiting an old friend.

Geoff, kiteboarding at Bounty Bay which is just a ten minute drive from Silver Sands villas.

The changes?? Yeah, there are quite a lot. Where did all these high rise hotels on the rest of the island come from? How can Negril have a shopping mall? Apparently we’re not the only ones who’ve discovered this treasure. The good news is in Silver Sands villas you are hidden away and insulated from all that hustle and bustle. It’s kind of like going back in time to the old Jamaica. That’s plenty of reason (for me, at least) to come back? It had been too long. Yah Mon, soon come back!

(By Geoff Gibson, May 2011)

Watch this very short video of Geoff in the sea at Silver Sands in HD by changing the 360p at the bottom right of the frame to 720:

Click to take a look at Endless Summer Villa.

Blue Vista Villa, Silver Sands Jamaica, Trip Report by Charlotte Watkins

2011-06-27T04:59:00.001-05:00

There were six of us in our group; my husband & I (ages with held to protect the innocent), two grandsons (14 & 17) and our daughter & her boyfriend (mid-late 30’s). We arrived in Jamaica about noon and were met by our driver & mysilversands Rep. We reached Silver Sands about 2:30pm, and were greeted by Miss Lily, our cook and Miss Nadine, our housekeeper, who were busy preparing our Welcome Dinner.

After quickly putting our things away, we headed down to the beach for a few hours. Dinner was ready on our return. That evening, we went back to the beach, watched the sunset, and enjoyed the NBA finals with Sheldon at the bar.

Monday morning, my daughter & I went into Duncan shopping with Miss Lily. It was amazing to watch her in action. She is a smart woman and looks out for your best interests. We were glad we went and appreciated Miss Lily even more!

Our usual routine for the week: Swim in the villa pool, have breakfast, and head to the beach. Back in the afternoon for a snack & another swim in the pool. Some afternoons, we would lie around the pool before dinner – others we walked to Fisherman’s Beach to check out their wares or returned to the beach. Dinner was about 4:30 every afternoon. More pool after dinner and about 7:00pm time we headed to the beach patio to spend a few hours. We played cards on the beach patio or at the villa in the evenings. What better way to spend your day?

Tuesday, Mikey Stewart took the six of us to Dunn’s River Falls. We drove into Ocho Rios for a quick stop at the pharmacy & ATM machine – and of course, a fast stop off at the Harley Shop - then on to the waterfall. We were not all out of the van before we were swamped with venders trying to sell their items. After we made it through the gauntlet, Mikey and the Rep from Dunn’s River Falls walked us into the park. Mikey ensured we were settled and returned to wait by the van (with our valuables safely locked inside) until our tour was over.

Our Dunn’s River tour guide was Miss “T”… the only female guide in the park. She was fantastic! (Tips are accepted at the end.) She held our cameras and took photos of us, strategically along the way. I had been hesitant to go to Dunn’s River Falls because I wanted to avoid the crowds. I will say…. I am glad we went! It was not too crowded, the guide was fantastic, and the experience was amazing! The walk out is a bit tedious. Like most tourist areas anywhere, they wind you through a maze of shops. It seemed to take forever to get out of the park! We finally managed to ‘escape’ and Mikey was patiently waiting by the van.

Wednesday was another day of pool, beach and relaxation. It started to rain just before dinner. It was the only evening it rained and we missed our night on the patio, but we really could not complain.

7:30am on Thursday, four of us headed out with Errol to snorkel. When we were there eleven years ago, he took us snorkeling… and he has not aged a bit! The rest of the day we relaxed by the pool and went to the beach. That night, our daughter & her friend went for the ride into Montego Bay. Although, it did give them an outing and it was interesting to see… the shops were closed and the nightlife was slow. They were told, it gets busy later in the evening. They went to a few places and the driver brought them back early. They joined the rest of us for a swim in the pool!

Friday, Mikey (the fantastic driver!) took four of us on a Cockpit Country outing. It was one of the highlights of our trip! We traveled back into the ‘back country’ of Jamaica, passing small villages, sugar can fields, yam gardens and through beautiful mountain scenery. We stopped off at his home, where he explained the plants & trees to us. He climbed trees and picked fruit for us to eat. He had guava, Jamaican apple, coconut, tangerine, and bananas - fresh off the trees! Mikey whistled and his chickens came running! We met his lovely wife and daughter (boys were in school) and they invited us the inside their home.

From there, we went up the hill to the home where Mikey grew up. There is an old brick works and kiln where his father made bricks for a living. Mikey walked us through the property where there were bananas, ginger, jackfruit, ackee, nutmeg, coffee, pineapple and several other plants.

Next, we stopped to buy some jerk from a roadside stand and headed off to Dorknock River head. After parking the car, it took a good 15 minutes to walk down the hill but it was worth every moment! Simply breath taking. There is a waterfall that spills into a lagoon with a cliff directly across, and a beautiful sandy beach! The water was clear & very cool. To the right, the lagoon area ends & river begins. At this spot, there is a monstrous cotton wood tree! My husband and two grandsons climbed inside and Mikey took their picture. We all decided to take a swim in the lagoon. It was surprisingly chilly… cold as a matter of fact… but refreshing! It took a while longer to walk back up the hill, but we took our time. Back in the van, we made our way ‘home’ to Silver Sands for another swim in the pool and dinner soon after.

That night there were Crab Races on the patio. It was the only night we did not take our camera with us, so we did not get photos. It was a quiet night with only a few of us, but the Manager of the Race still indulged us and had three races. It was one of the most entertaining things to see! He did a great job, calling the race – just as if it was the Kentucky Derby! All had a good time!

Saturday was the last day. We spent part of the day doing our usual; rest, pool beach, etc., but did go to Fisherman’s Beach & Villa Mart for some final purchases to take home. Miss Lily cooked pink snapper for diner and it was delicious! After packing & relaxing, we headed to the Patio on the Beach for the last time. On the other side of the Beach Grill was a Wedding. You could see the paper lanterns hanging from the trees, the tall chef hats of the servers, and hear the music playing. It was a beautiful sight.

Walking back that night left us feeling satisfied, yet sad. We could not help but reflect on our trip and the wonderful time we had. The next morning, Miss Lily & Nadine were there to fix our breakfast and see us off. We were sad to leave. All through the week, Miss Lily cooked delicious meals, gave good advice and was truly an asset. Miss Nadine, our housekeeper, kept the house and our clothes clean. She is a bit shy but very sweet.

Our week had just the right balance between activities and relaxation. Blue Vista is beautifully decorated, is in a good location, has a great view of the sea and the pool is perfect! Miss Lily and Miss Nadine help make your vacation a “real” vacation… no worries! The Silver Sands beach is unbeatable – soft white sand, blue skies, and clear Caribbean blue water. The Beach Patio is laid back, a nice place to sit, and Sheldon the bartender takes good care of you. Villa Mart is handy, and the Mysilversands staff is helpful and friendly. We cannot say enough good things about our snorkeling guide Errol and our drivers Mikey and Barry.

Would we recommend Silver Sands, Blue Vista Villa and mysilversands? Will we return…. and soon? The answers are: yes, yes, yes, yes… and YES!

(Photos courtesy Charlotte Watkins)

Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica (contributed)

2011-05-02T04:11:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest attractions in Jamaica is the Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios and it is not just the water cascading from a height of 600 feet that captures the imagination of the visitors; more than that it is the fact that you can wade right into the water, be part of a human chain and climb the natural staircase leading right to the top of the waterfall. So how to make the most of your visit to the Dunns’s River Falls?

If you are staying in a resort or Jamaica villas, you can talk to the staff and they will provide you all the information you need about the Falls. Some Jamaica villas also arrange for tours and transport to the Falls. Otherwise you can also arrange for guided tours on your own. These tours are not very expensive and cost about $30 per person.

Before starting out remember to wear your swimsuits and tee shirt on top, canvas shoes and sunscreen. On reaching the falls, you will be provided a life jacket near the wading pool. You will also be assigned a group and a guide to take you up the falls.

Being a part of a human chain, slipping and balancing while the cool refreshing water is cascading all over you can be a very exciting experience. You can also stop on the stairs to enjoy the surrounding vistas and take photos of the climb.

If you feel too tired to continue and wish to opt out of the climb, remember there are escape routes available. Simply inform the exit personnel on plateaus and they will help you leave toward the terrace or decks.

Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded by the magnificent views of the tropical foliage, bamboos, lilies, crotons, and wild orchids. You can change into dry clothing and shop for souvenirs. And if the climb has left you hot, hungry and thirsty, you can enjoy a light lunch and drinks and then head back to your Jamaica villa. If you still want to explore further, there is the Dolphins cove that you can visit where you can apart from other activities, swim with the dolphins.

Blue Moon Villa in Silver Sands Jamaica - Bedrooms and Bathrooms

2011-04-26T15:29:00.000-05:00

Grand Master Bedroom:
Very spacious (about 20 ft X 30 ft) and furnished with a king bed. There is also a queen pull-out sofa bed (shown in photo below). It is air-conditioned and also cooled by a gorgeous ceiling fan. The en suite bath is bright and airy and features a shower, blow dryer and bidet. All windows are screened.

Bedroom 2:
Furnished with two double beds. It is air-conditioned and also cooled by a ceiling fan. The bathroom, en suite, has a shower and blow dryer. All windows are screened.

Bedroom 3:
Furnished with four single beds which may be converted in pairs to two kings with the conversion kits provided. The room is air-conditioned and cooled with a ceiling fan too. There are large screened windows on the East side. The enn suite bath is also bright and airy and has both bathtub and shower, as well as a blow dryer.

Bedroom 4:
Furnished with a canopy four-poster bed. Like all the other bedrooms, it is air-conditioned and coled by a ceiling fan. There is a sea view and balcony shared with the King Bedroom nextdoor. The en suite bathroom has a panel multi-head shower and blow dryer.

Bedroom 5:
Air-conditioned and furnished with a king bed and easy armchair. The balcony to the North is furnished with a small table and chairs plus a wicker love seat. It offers views of the Caribbean Sea to the North and Duncans Bay to the North-West and West. The ceiling fan keeps the room cool and the en suite bathroom has a shower and blow dryer.

Go to Blue Moon Villa

Jamaica Vacations - When To Go And Where To Stay

2011-04-26T15:11:00.000-05:00

Jamaica is a leading tourist destination in the World, attracting all kinds of visitors. The natural beauty, rich heritage, attractions and activities, and dynamic popular culture have attracted explorers, adventurers, couples, singles, families and groups of all kinds. In Jamaica, there is something for everyone. This may make you decide to leap into action and plan a trip to this exotic island, but before you do, here is some help with deciding when to go and what kind of accommodation to book.

First of all, you should choose a time of the year that will suit you. Although Jamaica is an all year destination as it is always relatively warm, there is a High and Low Season. The High Season corresponds to the North American winter, beginning in mid-December and ending in mid-April, with the Low Season making up the rest of the year. The High Season is about ten degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the Low Season when day time temperatures will soar to ninety degrees, which is still bearable for most people but something that those with a low tolerance for heat should remember.

While the High Season usually presents a more comfortable climate, and the hurricane and wet seasons are in the Low Season, winter storms in North America do affect the weather in Jamaica and can produce Northerly winds that can blow cold and hard for several days without abatement.
Nevertheless, the High Season is the more popular time for visitors to Jamaica and this is so even though most accommodation and airfares are much higher at that time. Even bars, restaurants, and attractions may offer significantly lower rates in the Low Season. So if you have a tight budget, you have to weigh the pros and cons of the weather and the cost.

Whenever you decide to go, the next important decision will centre around the type of accommodation you should choose. There is a great variety of accommodation in Jamaica and each type has its advantages. The three main types of accommodation are hotels, self-catering villas and self-catering apartments, and in each category there is a great price range. For example, you may be able to rent a villa for less than a thousand United States dollars per week; but there are also villas that go for over twenty thousand per week.

The price is usually a reflection of the quality of the Jamaica accommodation, with the more expensive ones featuring high quality furnishings, fixtures, and amenities. A high price is also an indication of a high level of services offered. And of course, the location will impact very heavily on the rental prices.
In Jamaica, there are two main types of hotels, the usual nightly rate hotel and the all-inclusive resort. John Issa of Superclubs in Jamaica took the Club Med concept several steps further and developed the all-inclusive which sees guests pay one price and enjoy everything on offer, including unlimited food and drink. This concept has become very popular in Jamaica and elsewhere. It appeals to many people who like to know upfront the total cost of their vacation as they feel stressed with the unknown.

While the all-inclusive resort is an attractive option for the above reasons, many find that they are like giant entertainment factories, and that after a few days, even the abundance of food loses its appeal. But more damning is the criticism that all-inclusive resorts unwittingly keep their guests trapped as they do not venture out of the compound since they do not want to pay additional amounts for goods and services that are "free" back at their hotel. Some feel that they could be in any country, so cut off they are from the rest of Jamaica. It is not uncommon to hear visitors who have been to an all-inclusive report that they will not go back there as they want to see the "real" Jamaica.

Self-catering villas in Jamaica almost always come with a compliment of staff, that is cook, housekeeper, and more, depending on how much you are paying.The staff are there to make the vacation go smoothly as the guest does not have to worry about cooking and cleaning, but yet they can enjoy the luxury of a private home with all its space and intimacy, at much less than an equivalent standard hotel. For many visitors, unaccustomed to staff, this poses a great worry, so again one has to weigh the pros and cons and decide what one is most comfortable with.

Self-catering apartments are equipped with kitchens but don't usually come with cooks, although there is housekeeping service either every day or every other day, so the cleaning and tidying is not a chore while guests are on vacation. These are the least cost option and usually attract the more lively types of visitors who go out to eat most meals and who want to meet other visitors and locals in bars and clubs. They also attract the type of visitor who likes to explore and discover the culture and people of the countries they visit, wondering off the beaten track and thinking nothing of taking a chance that may end in disappointment.

Visitors who decide upon self-catering villas and apartments should be pleased to know that many of their concerns may be alleviated if they book their Jamaica accommodation through a reputable agent with a transparent and proven track record of service. A good agent will know the properties they are offering well and be on hand to help with any problems that may arise, just like the front desk of a hotel.

So before you make that booking, consider these tips and choose carefully the time of year, and type of accommodation that will best suit you.

Dine At A Beach Cook Shop Like "Taste A Yaad Restaurant" On White Bay

2011-04-22T06:59:00.000-05:00

Taste A Yaad Restaurant

Dwight had a nightmare which compelled him to flee Babylon, the name given to the capital, Kingston, by many Jamaicans, and move to the country. With no capital to invest, he decided to “try a ting” and established a cook-shop called “Taste A Yaad Restaurant” on the sandy beach at White Bay in Trelawny, Jamaica.

Island off Breezes Hotel

Walking along White Bay from the Breezes Hotel in the West, I passed rows of lounge chairs filled with bodies baking in the morning sun before I came upon a small complex of craft shops jutting out of the mangrove forest onto the South edge of the beach. These shacks are typical of those found near tourist resorts all over Jamaica. A couple of vendors greeted me, trying to initiate a sale with something like “Good morning, Mon! Take a look at my ...”, but I walked on as I had seen and heard it all before, and I had an appointment to meet Brian, an instructor, for my first kitesurfing lesson at Burwood Beach, further along on that fabulous white sand bay.

After another few hundred yards, I was stopped in my tracks by the sight of Dwight, with neat cane-rowed hair, raking the beach in front of his establishment, the “Taste A Yaad Restaurant”. My curiosity got the better of my excitement for my kitesurf lesson, and I stopped to talk with Dwight who gave me a tour of his business place, which was built in the shade of tall trees in an area receding from the beach into a clearing among the mangroves.

As I followed him around, moving in and out of the shafts of sunshine filtering through the branches above, I noticed that the main building materials were branches cut from the mangroves and pieces of used timber and ply board that Dwight had collected and recycled. Chairs and benches were constructed from mangrove branches, bent and nailed into place. An old rusted sheet of metal was converted into a table top and a draughts board pattern painted on.

The main building was the shop and kitchen with a verandah containing two dining tables and chairs, all covered with zinc and a sheet of blue plastic to keep out the rain. To the back of this building, out of sight of his customers, Dwight had erected a stand for a large plastic drum to gravity feed his water supply to the kitchen. Further back and to the side was a very small building with walls of sticks planted in the sand. Dwight opened the door to show me an unbelievable functioning porcelain flush toilet, whose water supply was also gravity fed from another elevated plastic drum to the back of this structure. He had also rigged up an ordinary plastic bowl and tap as a wash basin with running water.

Bathroom to the back and right

Bench made from mangrove branches, bent and nailed into place, and decorative bottles stuck in the sand

Dining table or draughts table with benches and fabulous sea view

With a little paint, mostly in the bright colours, red, yellow and green, Dwight decorated his establishment and hand-painted his sign. He also used conch shells, and painted bottles which he partially buried in the sand and hung from strings. And for the child in us all, he tied a piece of wood to the end of a rope and strung it from a tall tree, providing simple fun in a fabulous setting. From everywhere in Dwight’s “Taste A Yaad Restaurant” one had a fabulous view of the turquoise Caribbean Sea at White Bay.

From inside the shop

Dining table and chair inside the shop

Dwight’s hard work, attention to detail, and care for his customers showed vividly in his clean and tidy business place. That he could create such an appealing environment with so little was truly remarkable and a joy to behold. I could have spent all day there talking to Dwight, but my kitesurfing lesson called, so I tore myself away and vowed to return for lunch.

White Bay is East of Falmouth, less than a fifteen minute drive from Silver Sands villas.

Special Welcome Party For Guests of Mysilversands in March 2011 at Silver Sands Jamaica

2011-03-17T04:43:00.000-05:00

Mysilversands hosted a special Welcome Party for the many visitors who make Silver Sands villas Jamaica their vacation destination every March.

Mysilversands' Reps, led by Angella, welcomed the specially invited repeat visitors and presented them with handmade name badges. The entertainment kicked off with a steel band which had the guests singing and dancing in no time. Complimentary rum punch, fruit punch and snacks went down well.

A magician performed for half and hour, proving to be extremely popular with the children. The evening was topped off with a cabaret singer who again had the guests singing along.

The event was held under the stars on the Patio with the Caribbean Sea lapping the shore a few yards away.

Peter & Lara

Dave Rogers & Family

The Magician

John Carlton

The Petrook Party

Children, always a part of the fun at Silver Sands Jamaica.

Mr. Class

Click here to check out Silver Sands Villas Jamaica.

The Top Three Resort Towns in Jamaica

2011-03-17T04:34:00.000-05:00

When you arrive in Jamaica, you will probably head for the beach as soon as possible. There, the beauty of the coastline lapped by the crystal clear azure Caribbean Sea can make you slip into a laid back mood that is hard to shake. But Jamaica is an island of variety and there is much to see and do.
Most visitors to Jamaica, hoping for an enjoyable vacation will be looking for a wonderful resort town. Jamaica's top three resort towns are Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

Negril:
Negril is famous for its party atmosphere and younger hedonistic crowds that flock to its seven mile beach, a sliver of white sand that snakes along the West coast of the island. But the resort town has grown and now stretches further South after the beach ends where the rocky cliffs, rising as high as forty feet, have also become very popular. Along this whole strip one will find a wide variety of accommodation, with countless hotels, villas, cottages and apartments, interspersed among bars, restaurants, shops, attractions, and other businesses catering to the roaring tourist trade.

Along the sandy beach, the sea is usually calm, so a variety of water sports establishments will encourage you to try sailing, snorkeling, parasailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, and more. Where the sea meets the cliffs, it is usually rougher and water sports are best enjoyed earlier in the day.
Many visitors, staying in other areas, make day trips to Negril to experience this wilder side of Jamaica's tourism offerings. Their day out usually culminates in a visit to Rick's Cafe where they wait for the sun to set. Until that red ball sinks into the Caribbean Sea, many will sip their favourite island cocktails while joining in or just watching brave souls leap from the cliffs into the water.

Montego Bay:
In 2010, Montego Bay was crowned the Leading Beach Destination in the World at the World Travel Awards, the "Oscars" of the travel business. It's a cruise ship port, bringing many tourists to sample the island's rich culture and exotic beauty in a day stop.

Like Negril, there is a variety of accommodation and plenty to do, as well as many gorgeous beaches to bask in the sunshine, if that is all you want to do. Very popular activities include rafting down winding rivers on long bamboo rafts, touring the marine park in an undersea boat, partying at Margaritaville and other bars, shopping and sightseeing.

Ocho Rios:
The most famous attraction in Jamaica without any doubt is Dunn's River Falls, a clean river that naturally cascades six hundred feet down to the sea, just a few miles from the lively resort town of Ocho Rios. James Bond made a big splash on the beach at Dunn's River Falls when he surprised the gorgeous Ursulla Andress as she emerged from the water in nothing but her white bikini and diver's knife. Climbing up the cascading waterfall is a must-do activity.

Ocho Rios is also a busy cruise ship port with docking facilities for up to three vessels to anchor right at the beautiful crescent-shaped bay. And there is plenty for visitors to see and do. For example, fans of the reggae superstar, Bob Marley, may take a trip to Nine Mile to see his birth place and pay their respects to a legend, who was undoubtedly one of the World's most famous protest musicians. Others may head off to see Fern Gully, or Shaw Park Gardens, or Goldeneye where Ian Flemming penned his famous James Bond novels. Noel Coward's hilltop home is also open to visitors and many exclaim that the view from there is one of the best on the island.

Ocho Rios offers a huge craft market, shopping centres, like Island Village, and many restaurants, shops, nightclubs and bars. And popular activities like swimming with dolphins, horseback riding in the sea, zip-wire canopy tours, river tubing and kayaking are just some of what's on offer in and around this action-packed resort town.

With so much on offer, it is no wonder that Jamaica also won the World Travel Awards 2010 Leading Caribbean Destination. And The Lonely Planet first travel awards also crowned Jamaica as the Best Cultural Experience in the World. Click here to find Jamaica accommodation.

Things To Do And See In Ocho Rios, Jamaica

2011-02-22T05:38:00.000-05:00

Ocho Rios is one of the most popular resort towns in Jamaica. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, it is a tourist destination that does not fail to please. Whether arriving by road, helicopter, or cruise ship, visitors will notice the natural beauty of the area as soon as it comes into sight.

There are relatively high hills forming a backdrop to the town which sits on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. The main and largest beach is the focal point of Ocho Rios and its beautiful crescent shape is punctuated by high-rise buildings on either end. Not far away heading into the interior, the land is covered in greenery with tall trees, gardens and an abundance of exotic blooms. With this landscape there is clearly much to see, and entrepreneurs, responding to the demands of today's tourists, have developed dozens of attractions, offering a great variety of things to do.

Anyone familiar with the Spanish language cannot help but think that if they visit Ocho Rios, they will find eight rivers there. But there are only a few rivers winding their way down the hills surrounding Ocho Rios. However, the famous Dunn's River Falls and Beach more than makes up for the misnomer that is the lively resort town's name. It is the most popular attraction in Jamaica with its clean, clear water cascading down a six hundred foot natural "staircase" forming many pools and falls on its way. Visitors have a whale of a time climbing the Falls from the beautiful beach, where Sean Connery watched Ursula emerge from the sea singing "Under the Mango Tree" in the classic James Bond thriller, "Dr. No". Some take hours to get to the top as they frolic in the exhilarating ponds and get massaged under the falls on the way up. The whole site begs for photograph after photograph to be taken.

Dolphin Cove, located almost opposite to the entrance to Dunn's River Falls is also very popular as the site offers a variety of programmes, from swimming with the dolphins to touch encounters, and experiences with sharks and sting rays as well as other tropical animals. There is a restaurant and beach with water sports on offer too.

On the White River, visitors enjoy the relaxing lazy ride downstream on a long bamboo raft guided by a captain with bamboo pole. Many people report that they never felt that chilled out by the end of this cruise. Further upstream, where there are rapids, there is kayaking and tubing.

Another natural beauty is the Fern Gully, which is a river bed converted into a main thoroughfare, but with trees and vegetation so dense on both sides that for two miles, the road is covered by a gorgeous canopy. There is a smattering of roadside stalls here with a few displaying very controversial erotic art that is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

There are several shopping centres, boasting duty free and gift shops, as well craft markets to cater to all the shopaholics who travel abroad in search of bargains and unusual items. Wood carvings and rasta jewellery are favourites. There is also a huge Jamaican art scene with galleries such as Harmony Hall displaying the works of famous artists like Judy Ann MacMillan, Graham Davis, Gene Pearson, and many others.

Of course Ocho Rios also offers vibrant nightlife with many bars and nightclubs, like Margaritaville at Island Village. Listening to a reggae band belting out the golden oldies on the beach is not to be missed. There are many and varied dining experiences from eating a Jamaican patty chased with a jelly coconut chopped by a roadside vendor, to the more elaborate jerk establishments like Scotchies, to the more traditional restaurants like Evita's which overlooks the resort town, and the spectacular Ruins Restaurant, where Jamaican and Chinese cuisine are served in spray distance of a gorgeous waterfall.
Ocho Rios also provides the whole array of water sports, right off its beautiful beach where the cruise ships dock. Apart from swimming, visitors experiment with snorkeling, diving, parasailing, waterskiing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and much more.

A visit to Ocho Rios can be an action-packed affair taking in its beauty, local culture, and both natural and man-made attractions. There is bound to be enough to suit every taste.

Guests of Silver Sands villas may book day trips to Ocho Rios with Mysilversands.

Silver Sands Villas In Jamaica - What Is It Really Like?

2011-02-20T12:56:00.000-05:00

If you were to do some research on the web, you will find that there are several web sites which feature Silver Sands Villas in Jamaica. The information presented by these web sites can be so conflicting that it would not be surprising if you were to believe that there must be more than one place so named. Because I lived there for over seven years, I can tell you what Silver Sands is really like.

Some web sites refer to Silver Sands as a resort, a description that conjures up images of a large tourist destination under single management with a hotel boasting a swanky lobby and communal facilities like swimming pools, bars, discos, restaurants, water sports and other leisure activities. In that sense, the truth is that Silver Sands is not a resort.

There is no hotel at Silver Sands. The development is a collection of privately owned and managed single-family dwellings built on the seaside, on low hills which recede from the Caribbean Sea. It is a gated community with no two houses the same, each being designed and decorated by its owner according to his tastes while observing the governing development's covenants. These owners reside all over the World, many in Jamaica, the United States of America, and Canada.

Consequently, there is tremendous variety in these Jamaica accommodations - from basic no-frills small cottages to large luxurious villas with swimming pools, hot tubs, and every modern amenity likely to be found in a five-star hotel.

Contrary to what some web sites and marketers may say, this villa development is not a swinging singles place. Neither is it a couples hideaway, nor a family resort. These "handles", so convenient for marketers, who want to appeal to established niches, just do not apply to this property. And this is why there are no major travel agents representing it. Travel agents are sellers who like to offer a very specific product, and Silver Sands just does not fit into any of their molds.

This diversity however is not a drawback for the customers, people who vacation at Silver Sands. Rather it appeals to visitors who are not looking to mix with others who are just like themselves. They can do that at home. This variety of accommodation, at a wide range of prices, attracts a diverse set of customers that makes for a rich social environment, a community that is enjoyed by many.

The truth is there is no communal swimming pool, no nude beach, and no disco at Silver Sands Villas in Jamaica. Your days are not laid out for you by entertainment coordinators who have planned every minute from sunrise to bedtime.

The hundreds of visitors who loyally return to Silver Sands villas every year do so because they know what it is really like. They know they can spend their vacation in the old-fashioned way in a Jamaica rental that caters to their needs and where they can enjoy precious quality time with friends and family, creating their own fun at their own pace.

Charlotte Watkins Review & Tips for Silver Sands Villas Jamaica

2011-02-16T02:56:00.000-05:00

First, let me say our first stay at Silver Sands was in February 2000. Although it has been some time, we have kept up with the area.

Our stay was at The Orchid House and it was simply put.. ."Wonderful!!' The staff couldn't have been better, seeing to our every need, giving good advice and cooking the most delicious meals! The house was lovely and spacious!

Silver Sands Community is just that... a community, just like being at home. Several homes are spread out over the landscape and are varied in size, cost, and decor. It was fun to walk the little roads surrounding the community and see what all Silver Sands had to offer. Although we had been to the mysilversands.com web site quiet frequently and it was detailed and accurate... seeing was believing.

The beach is one of the most beautiful you have every seen... soft white sand and Caribbean blue water. There are chairs and little umbrella stands dotted along the beach to use. The beach bar and club house area were just the right size.

Fisherman's Beach, next door, was an interesting place to visit. We enjoyed watching the local vendors work their magic and had something to drink at Leroy's bar. It was like something out of a Hemingway novel. We did let all know (respectfully) we were not ready to purchase anything until the day before we left. After that, we were able to return several times and enjoy. Return we did, and made a point of buying a little something from each shop.

I cannot begin to say enough about Silver Sands or The Orchid House. It was the perfect 'laid back' vacation. We felt safe and pampered. We have stayed at an All Inclusive and enjoyed it very much, but it just couldn't compare to the feeling of being "home" at Silver Sands. We could dress how we wanted, eat when & what we wanted and not feel as if we were on anyone's time schedule but our own.

Cost compared about the same. That all depends on the All Inclusive, as well as the Villa you choose. For us, it worked out about the same.

As far as food, it is up to you. What you eat, how much you spend and when you eat is your choice. We had a fairly large breakfast every day, sandwiches for lunch and a big dinner (complete w/dessert) every night. Talk your likes, dislikes and budget, with the Staff at your particular Villa. The will do things 'your' way. They work hard to ensure your stay is just as expected... remember, it is their livlihood at stake.

If you're in the market for excitement and entertainment... don't go to Silver Sands. It has enough to do (swim, relax, lay on the beach & listen to the sound of the sea, eat great food, relax, snorkel, kayak, fish, relax, etc. Did I mention relax??) and a small amount of entertainment from the Beach Bar area. It is not a mega resort - it is a community, where you feel safe and content.

Highly recommended for families with kids who know how to entertain themselves. Also, couples, groups,Weddings, and Honeymooners. It's also great for singles who aren't into the big bar scene and enjoy doing their own thing. That doesn't mean you can't have a good time - a little Rum or a little Red Stripe is a good thing - but crazy crowds just aren't your thing.

Although we wanted to return before now, I am happy to say we'll be returning to Silver Sands this June (2011). This time, we'll be taking two of our grandsons with us (14 & 17) and they can hardly wait! We'll be staying at Blue Vista Villa. It is no way a reflection on The Orchid House... I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND it!! We just wanted to try another Villa and Blue Vista was our choice. As soon as we get back (in June) I will give a trip review for Blue Vista Villa. We can hardly wait to return!

By Charlotte Watkins (February 2011; Ohio, USA)

Jamaica's New International Airport - Why Name It In Honour Of An Englishman?

2011-01-29T06:18:00.000-05:00

To say I was shaken by the news of the opening of another international airport in Jamaica would be an exaggeration. But my interest was certainly stirred when I noticed that it was not named after some local son of the soil, like a deceased politician or sports champion.

In fact, the name's Fleming. Ian Fleming! The small airport, formerly known as the Boscobel Aerodrome, has been upgraded and renamed after the creator of James Bond, the dashing British spy, who continues to thrill audiences worldwide with his daring escapades, high tech gadgets, and seduction of beautiful females. Not to forget, his being a cunning linguist.

Ian Fleming penned the James Bond novels at his Jamaican home, Goldeneye, which is close to the new airport named in his honour. James Bond migrated from the novels to the big screen in the 1960s and the franchise is still going strong with more than twenty feature films released. Several of the films have been shot on location in Jamaica, most notably the very first in the series, "Dr. No", which featured the now iconic bikini-clad Ursula Andress, as Honey Ryder, emerging from the Caribbean Sea at Dunn's River Falls.

The Ian Fleming International Airport opened for private jets and small commercial aircraft with a terminal for customs and immigration to facilitate international travel. Just about ten miles East of Ocho Rios, the airport is suitably located to serve that area and Portland on the Eastern tip of the island.
Shocking. Positively shocking have been the grumblings about the airport not being named after a Jamaican, but in memory of an Englishman, Ian Fleming. The Prime Minister of Jamaica dismissed these negatives and made the case that the island inspired the author and has in turn benefitted from a higher profile internationally. I think he got the point.

The Jamaican government has named its new international airport in honour of an Englishman, obviously betting that the glamour and fame of Ian Fleming and James Bond will help the high-end tourism market, and that both local and foreign businessmen will not be just looking, but will realize the enormous potential that this upgraded airport facility offers to the region, thereby leading to serious large investments.

Seascape Villa, Silver Sands Jamaica by Mysilversands

2011-01-07T05:36:00.002-05:00

Set on the side of a hill, just a few minutes walk from the beautiful white sand beach at Silver Sands, Seascape Villa offers panoramic views of the Silver Sands Estate and the Caribbean Sea. With three air-conditioned bedrooms and lots of lounging areas, including a spacious balcony with the trade winds blowing through, Seascape is a comfortable family vacation home that induces rest and relaxation.

Of course there's a fabulous swimming pool with a spacious deck for sunbathing and dining alfresco. Night time here is magical.

Seascape also provides a free golf cart for its guests to use during their stay.

The villa staff at Seascape will delight you with yummy meals and service tailored to your needs.

If you find all this hard to believe, don't take our word for it; here's what some of our guests have told us.

June Brown:
"As usual Karl and I had a wonderful time this past summer in Silver Sands residing at Seascape. The accommodations and the two lady helpers especially Ms. Christine made our stay relaxful. We hope to return in three years for our annual family reunion."

Kenyatta Uzzell:
"This was our 5th time to Silver Sands and our 5th time staying in SeaScape. We'll be back in the next couple of months. Ms. Rose and Ms. Christine are like our surrogate parents when we are there (but they give us a little more freedom :)"

Dana Tedone:
"We had a wonderful time at Silver Sands. The office was very accommodating and everything was well organized from our arrival to our departure. The villa was great.... and Christine was amazing!!!! Christine made our stay exceptional spoiling us with one meal better than the next."

Take a closer look at Seascape Villa at Silver Sands, Jamaica.

Rum Jetty - A Known Turtle Breeding Ground

2010-12-25T07:31:00.000-05:00

The private beach at Rum Jetty, Silver Sands Jamaica, is a known breeding ground for the endangered green sea turtle, which lives to 100 years old, can grow up to 500 lbs and returns to its own birth place for breeding. Egg laying is in mid-October and hatching in late December or early January, tending around the time of a full moon. A truly magical experience to watch.

See a green sea turtle off the coast of Discovery Bay:

Watch baby turtles making their way to the Caribbean Sea at Silver Sands, Jamaica:

Newly hatched turtles, on the beach at Rum Jetty at night, finding their way to the Caribbean Sea:

Go to Rum Jetty.

Rum Jetty - The Natural Choice For The More Environmentally Conscious Traveller

2010-12-22T08:26:00.000-05:00

Once you see Rum Jetty, you know that you have arrived at a special house, one that is in a class by itself. The gorgeous private white sand beach is an important feature of the property, but you will soon discover that this house which dates back to the 1800s oozes charm and character, and its design, construction and operation as vacation accommodation are environmentally conscious.

Note these features:

Historic building restored by local stone masons, shinglers & carpenters almost exclusively using native construction materials (local & salvaged timber, local roofing shingles, local cut stone).
Less than 10% concrete & virtually no steel - very low carbon footprint.
Almost all furniture, fixtures, fittings, handles & kitchen units made by local carpenters using locally sourced hardwood timber or cane.
Effective natural ventilation; no need for air conditioning - all rooms cross ventilated & designed to enjoy plentiful day & night breezes.
Solar water heating, including photo voltaic pumps.
100% line drying of clothes & linens - no tumble dryer.
Low-energy lighting throughout.
Water & energy saving notices in all bathrooms: 'wash-if-you-need-to' scheme for towels & bed linens.
Composting of kitchen & garden waste.
On-site seaweed composting (bury beneath beach, decomposes quickly back to sand).
Natural, chemical-free swimming - in the shallow sea directly in front of your own private beach - no need for a swimming pool; no chemicals, no energy expended.
Sheltered & well populated coral reef in bay, a stone's throw from private beach - ideal for easy snorkeling. Equipment available to borrow.
Rum Jetty beach is a known breeding ground for the endangered green sea turtle, which lives to 100 years old, can grow up to 500 lbs & returns to its own birth place for breeding. Egg laying is in mid-October & hatching in late December/early January, tending around the time of a full moon. A truly magical experience to watch.
Well planted garden with tropical flowers & fruit trees (e.g. Mango, Almond, Coconut), attractive to butterflies,birds, bats & bees.
Fresh, locally sourced food - fruit & vegetables from Falmouth market; fresh fish brought to your door by local fishermen.
Local recycling of all glass bottled soft drinks.
Well-stocked take-&-replace book library, beach toy & game collection & board game collection.
Use of cedar for draws, shelves & cupboards throughout - a natural moth & insect repellent.

Go to Rum Jetty.

Day Trip To Negril

2010-12-16T13:50:00.000-05:00

Want to leave the relatively sleepy Silver Sands to see the famed Negril? It's easy on a day trip which you can book at the Mysilversands Reception Desk or online.

The hippies "discovered" Negril in the 1960s when there was one small hotel and much of the area lacked public electricity and water supplies. As time went by, the hippies' secret got out and Negril became main stream. The once almost-deserted seven mile beach is now developed from one end to the other, attracting a majority of visitors who are mainly interested in partying.

Development has spread to the West End where the beach disappears and rocky cliffs, as high as forty feet, meet the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. Here is where visitors congregate at the end of the day to feast their eyes on the red ball of sun sinking into the sea on the horizon.

One of the more popular spots is Rick's Cafe, a bar and restaurant, which has become famous for its congregations at sunset and cliff-diving by both locals and visitors. With a swimming pool and popular music, it is a must "stop" for any day trip to Negril.

Many Silver Sands visitors book this day trip to Negril to see how others enjoy Jamaica. Most tell us that they are glad to return to their quiet home away from home, Silver Sands Jamaica.

Vincent Foltz Loves Mysilversands Excellent Customer Service

2010-12-16T04:45:00.000-05:00

Desrine and Kimesha presented Vincent Flotz with a gift basket of Jamaican goodies to show Mysilversands' appreciation for his loyalty to Silver Sands.

Above, Kimesha and Vincent are all smiles, posing on the Silver Sands Patio with the blue Caribbean Sea in the back ground.

Vincent said that he keeps coming back to Silver Sands because of the excellent customer service provided by all the Mysilversands staff. He described the service as the best he has experienced in all his travels.

Seagull Cottage has a great location, sitting on a hill so there are unobstructed panoramic views of the coastline and Caribbean Sea.

The cottage has three bedrooms and a spacious living and dining room, but the place where most people spend there time is on the verandah where they can enjoy the tradewinds blowing in from the Northeast and the spectacuar sea views.

Very often, families with small children seek out a house like Seagull Cottage, becuase it does not have a pool.

When asked what suggestions he could make for Mysilversands to improve, Vincent replied that that was a hard question and that he was sorry that he did not know about Mysilversands long ago. He booked Seagull Cottage two years in a row, will continue to do so and to recommend Mysilversands to everyone who will listen.

Sandra Welcomed Back To Valhalla At Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-12-06T22:50:00.000-05:00

"For real?!" exclaimed Sandra when Desrine presented her with a gift basket to welcome her back to Silver Sands Jamaica.

Sandra told Desrine that she keeps coming back to Silver Sands because it is safe and the Jamaican people are friendly and nice. She loves the pool at Valhalla and also the beach because it is always clean; and the lifeguards are friendly.

Valerie, housekeeper and cook at Valhalla came in for a lot of praise as well. Sandra said Valerie is a wonderful lady, always preparing exceptional meals. Below photo shows Valerie posing with her guests poolside at Valhalla.

Valhalla is great for a budget-conscious family as there are four bedrooms and a pool, but it is significantly less expensive to rent than most other four bedroom houses that are located on the sea front or in locations where they benefit from a seaview. But the beach is less than a ten minute walk away, along the quiet private roads of Silver Sands, so renters are not giving up too much for a huge cost saving. And Valhalla is beautifully decorated and properly equipped to meet the needs of vacationers looking for a comfortable and relaxing house.

Sandra advised that she would not hesitate to recommend Silver Sands to anyone and that she will keep on coming back again and again.

Another Tough Day In Paradise At Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-12-03T11:19:00.000-05:00

When I have a week at Silver Sands Jamaica, I want to enjoy myself but mostly I want to relax and forget that crazy and demanding World where I live and work. This is why I choose Silver Sands, because it is as laid back as you can want it to be, and I book with Mysilversands because I know I can trust their offerings and their services. If something should go wrong when I am there, I know a call to the girls in the Office will be all that I will have to do, and I can get back to the serious business of chilling out.

My wife and I like to get up very early just before daybreak as we love to see the sunrise, no two ever being the same, but all of them being breathtakingly beautiful, sometimes a spectacular array of bright colours and at other times more muted and subtle, but still gorgeous. We are usually sipping freshly made Blue Mountain coffee on the easy chairs as the sun begins to light up the Caribbean Sea, transforming that massive dark unknown into a bright silver shimmering delight.

Before it gets too hot, we grab the insect repellant (just in case) and head outdoors to take a walk around the Silver Sands Estate. Sometimes its a leisurely walk, but at other times, especially when feeling guilty after too many delicious dinners, it is a brisk power walk to burn off some unwanted calories. However, we always pause when we see something interesting, which may be a plant or flower or view that we have walked by many times before, but which, for some inexplicable reason, looks special that day. We walk to the South of the Silver Sands property, along all the back roads, and talk and talk, and sometimes come up with some interesting ideas.

Our morning walks always culminate with a visit to the beach. We may stroll the length of the beach before splashing into the sea where we swim and bob around in the waves if there are any. But it is usually flat calm at that time of the day and there is no one else around. We may glimpse the occasional security guard doing his rounds.

When we have had enough, we make our way back to the villa, wash off the sand, and take a dip in the swimming pool. Before long, one or two of our children may surface and join us or not as they choose. By now, we are a bit hungry, and though the staff have not yet come to work, we raid the fridge, enjoying the fresh fruits that the cook had prepared for us from the night before.

When the cook arrives, we tell her what we want for breakfast and disappear to our bedroom to shower and change. By the time we return to the dining room, breakfast is served and some sleepy children are joining us for a hearty family meal.

After a long breakfast the children disappear, some to see their new-found friends, others to read or to go the beach to swim, kayak, snorkel, etc. My wife and I plan what we want for lunch and dinner and advise the cook. During the morning we do our own thing, reading, writing, shopping at Villa Mart, calling up friends, etc.

At lunch time, the family will gather again for the meal where we exchange stories about our day so far. Sometimes, some of the children may be absent as they often are visiting and lunching at friends. And likewise, we may have some strange kids at our table and then later in the pool.

We spend the afternoon doing this and that and do not go back to the beach until the sun starts to go down. The sea at Silver Sands is usually a bit rough in the afternoons and we enjoy playing in the waves and bodyboarding. If the lifeguard, Roy, is around I will borrow his sunfish sailboat and go for a sail. I do several runs out to the reef and back, usually by myself but sometimes with one or more of the children or their friends.

We are all usually back at the Silver Sands villa before dark. If the sunset looks promising, we will take a walk to the jetty and out to the gazebo there to watch it go down. Sometimes, for a change, we will walk up to the gazebo in the park, from where there is a panoramic view of the coastline, and a spectacular sunset is just awesome to behold.

Our villa staff will serve us dinner and this is usually a meal when everyone is present. At times, we do have extras, the children’s friends. After dinner, while the staff are cleaning up, some good old-fashioned games like charades are played until my wife and I retire, which is very early by most grown-ups’ standards. After all tomorrow is another tough day in paradise and we have to make a very early start.

Does the above sound boring? I would not change it for the World and I count the days until my next vacation in Jamaica.

By Contributor

Silver Sands Jamaica Repeat Visitors Receive Warm Welcome

2010-11-28T19:32:00.000-05:00

Clyde and Denise Rogers received a warm welcome back to Queen's Cottage at Silver Sands Jamaica, this being their fourth consecutive annual visit. Angella and Desrine presented the happy couple with a gift basket to show Mysilversands' appreciation for their loyalty. In the photo above, Clyde and Denise pose with Nadine on the verandah at Queen's Cottage.

Queen's Cottage is one of the first houses built at Silver Sands, but of course it has been extended and remodelled several times. It started off a a two bedroom cottage but a third bedroom, the master bedroom now, was added in a major rebuild.

While Queen's Cottage's claim to fame is that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II rested there on a visit to Jamaica in 1953 (click here for a history of Silver Sands), there is no argument that the cottage's most compelling feature is its location - right on the seafront, as close to the beach as you would want to be with magnificent views from the newly built timber deck.

Dine on the deck in the shade of the casuarina and coconut trees. Dine out there at night too. Or lounge in the tradewinds and feast your eyes on the crystal clear blue Caribbean Sea.

Queen's Cottage is still a great place for a honeymoon.

Clyde said: "We love it here! Queen's Cottage is our home away from home and we will keep on coming."

Bruce Fairless Returns to Seashell Cottage A Fifth Time

2010-11-27T05:01:00.000-05:00

Bruce Fairless said he likes Silver Sands a lot and has been there twelve times. Kimesha, Mysilversands Rep, welcomed Bruce back for his fifth visit to Seashell Cottage with a gift basket.

Above, Kimesha and Bruce pose on the sundeck at Seashell Cottage.

Seashell Cottage is a charming house that is located very near to the beach at Silver Sands. It is built into a steep hill so the North side of the cottage is on one road while the South side, where there is a large garden is on the adjacent road. It's less than a minute's walk to the white sand beach.

Seashell is one of the first cottages built at Silver Sands. One of its great features is the front verandah which is as long as the width of the house. Here is where most visitors spend most of their time, evening having all their meals. The tradewinds blow in and the sea view is wonderful.

Both bedrooms are spacious and also designed to welcome the sea breeze. Although Seashell Cottage overflows with old-fashioned charm, it has every modern convenience including free wireless internet access. People fall in love with Seashell Cottage and return again and again.

Sylvan, housekeeper at Seashell Cottage, smiles for the camera with Bruce on the sundeck, from where there is a panoramic view of the Silver Sands seafront.

2010-11-24T14:49:00.001-05:00

There is an abundance of beautiful flowers all around Silver Sands Jamaica. An early morning walk around the estate can be quite a delightful experience. Take in the cool air and enjoy the quiet while feasting your eyes on tropical blooms. Here are some flowers seen on the property in September 2010.
Can you name them?

Can you name these flowers? When next you visit Silver Sands, look for them as you take a walk around the estate.

Mysilversands Accommodation Comparison Tool

2010-11-24T14:30:00.000-05:00

Mysilversands has launched its very own Accommodation Comparison Tool to simply the process of finding the ideal accommodation unit based on prices and facilities offered.

Recently the use of comparison web sites has skyrocketed as savvy consumers look for the best deals online. People have become very aware that the same or similar products are available at vastly different prices from different suppliers. Research has confirmed that today's customers hate to pay more than they should for any product or service, so it is no surprise that comparison web sites have mushroomed.

Vacation rentals pose an even greater problem for customers as private accommodation units are all different. Each villa or cottage has its own features, décor, location, etc. Browsing listings to compare prices and features on even a shortlist can be a daunting task, and more demanding on time than many customers are willing to spend. Mysilversands has come to the rescue with its Accommodation Comparison Tool.

To ensure that customers can book the best accommodation unit based on their personal preferences, they can compare three units at a time, using the Mysilversands Accommodation Comparison Tool (ACT).

The ACT is easy to use. Simply select three properties and click the Compare button. Customers will then be shown a tabular representation that compares the facilities offered for the three units. Based on their preferences, customers can then click the 'Go to full details' button to visit the page that shows the property in detail.

If the customer does not want any of those three compared, it is easy to click the link to select another three units to compare. This can be three different units from the ones originally selected or the customer can de-select one or two of the ones originally selected and add other units in place. The process can be repeated until the customer has made a final decision. And, for each property, the full details with lots of photographs are always just one click away.

The ACT helps people save time and narrow their search by selecting the accommodation features that are important to them. Says Prem Chadeesingh, Director, Mysilversands, "We offer a lot of Jamaica accommodation with different amenities and prices to suit every budget. We understand that customers have certain preferences and requirements. To help them with their search, we have introduced the Accommodation Comparison Tool that helps them do a comparative study of three units at a time so that they can make an informed decision before booking a particular Jamaican rental."

Saving Trees in Jamaica

2010-11-24T14:18:00.000-05:00

While some people still needlessly cut down trees, many more people today are increasingly becoming aware of their value. Increasing numbers are going to great lengths and expense to save trees as they become more appreciative of their beauty and the positive effects they bring to the Earth’s environment.

In Montego Bay, Jamaica, on the main road traveling West along the Hip Strip, there is a large mature cotton tree which has grown to create an obstruction on the pavement, completely blocking access to pedestrians, who would have to step into the busy road to continue their journeys, as the other side of the tree is a steep drop down to the seafront.

Since neither stepping into the busy main road nor sliding down the bank were acceptable options, the city built a bridge swinging to the North which goes around the massive tree trunk so pedestrians can get to the other side.

At Silver Sands villas Jamaica, a homeowner decided to build a beautiful large swimming pool, which was designed by a famous architect from California. This crescent-shaped swimming pool would be built in a location and in such a way that a mature coconut tree would have to be removed to accommodate the foundations for the Southern wall of the pool.

But the owner of the house would have none of that and he instructed the engineers to redesign the foundation so the coconut tree would not be sacrificed. This new design and alternative construction cost a great deal, but the job was completed successfully. Now more than ten years later, that coconut tree is still alive and stands proudly and majestically over the swimming pool.

After the devastating Hurricane Gilbert struck Jamaica in 1988, many trees were lost. One naseberry tree that lay on its side in the aftermath was about to be chopped to bits by the over-zealous gardener when he was stopped by a home owner. Together they straightened up the tree and pegged it in place, thereby saving it. Today it bears a healthy crop of fruit every season.

Many other Silver Sands villas owners do their bit to help protect the environment. A casual walk around the estate cannot help but reveal an abundance of flowering plants and fruit and ornamental trees. Over the years, one home owner has planted more than thirty coconut trees around his villa and near the Caribbean Sea. These beautiful trees make picture postcard scenes, enrich all of Silver Sands Jamaica, and produce a lot of “jelly coconuts” enjoyed by many guests and residents.

Losing Lottie The Night Before Hurricane Gilbert Struck Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-11-02T10:34:00.000-05:00

It’s easy to forget the rest of the World when one is relaxing on the beach at Silver Sands Jamaica. Back in the 1980s, my wife and I lived and worked in Kingston. Our weekends were made special as we would go to our second home, Endless Summer Villa at Silver Sands, on Friday evenings and return to Kingston on Sunday nights. We would leave the real World behind, tune out and not even listen to the news while we were there, dedicating our time to windsurfing and relaxing on the beach.

So while we thought that 11 September 1988 was just another normal Sunday in paradise, Hurricane Gilbert, unknowing to us, was bearing down on the island. Jamaica’s previous direct hit by a hurricane was Charlie in the 1950s, so this Gilbert was very big news. So big in fact, that no one could imagine that my wife and I did not know about it, so no one bothered to tell us.

When we inquired of some of our friends why they were leaving the beach unexpectedly early that Sunday afternoon, they told us that they were heading back home to Kingston to make preparations before Gilbert hit later that night. We had been lulled into a false sense of security at Silver Sands as we did not particularly hurry to pack up and head back to Kingston with my mother and our great dane, Lottie, not leaving until sundown. This proved to be a big mistake.

About half-an-hour into the journey, we encountered the hardest rain I have ever experienced. Visibility was reduced to a few yards and water was pooling in the roads. I decided that shortly the roads ahead would be flooded and impassable, so I decided to abort the journey and return to Silver Sands.

As we entered Silver Sands from the East and passed near the cemetery, the car hydroplaned and I lost control completely. There was no danger of collision with any other vehicles as the roads were deserted, but the car picked up speed and skidded sideways for many yards before it hit the North bank and rolled over into the field and back onto its wheels again.

When I collected my thoughts, I checked and my wife, mother and I were fine, but the back window of the Volvo had shattered and Lottie was nowhere to be seen. As we made our way in the dark through the field to the road, we shouted for Lottie but she did not appear. There was nowhere to shelter in the pouring rain but luckily a vehicle came by after a few minutes and the driver picked us up and took us down to Endless Summer.

After we had dried off and changed out of our wet clothes and recovered somewhat from the shock, it was time to batten down and prepare for Hurricane Gilbert. But we could only think of Lottie and wonder what had happened to her. My wife decided that she would start the hurricane preparations and that I had to go back to find Lottie.

So I left her and my mother and set off alone walking in the pouring rain up the hill back to Duncans to search for Lottie as the massive hurricane was fast approaching the island. Everywhere was quiet, no one out and about, and not a car on the road. I made my way in the dark to the scene of the accident and looked at the wreck in horror, wondering how we emerged from that without injury. Thank goodness we always wore our seat-belts even back then before it became compulsory.

I searched the area, shouting “Lottie” with as much energy as I could muster. The task seemed impossible as Lottie was as black as the night itself, and the sound of the rain and thunder drowned out my voice.

But after about half an hour of searching, luck became my friend and a dark figure appeared in the distance, making its way towards me at great speed. Lottie nearly knocked me over when she jumped up and rested her front paws on my shoulders, her head inches from my face. I had never seen her so glad to see me and the feeling was mutual.

I walked back down to Endless Summer, Lottie at my side, and we made a dramatic entrance, much to the delight of my wife and mother. But celebrations had to be short-lived as the thought of approaching Gilbert meant that we had a lot to do to prepare before the hurricane hit Silver Sands Jamaica.

Kayaking In Jamaica, Fun For The Whole Family

2010-10-20T09:43:00.000-05:00

In Jamaica there is a lot of relaxing and sunbathing to be done, but if you feel like a fun change and a chance to be active, kayaking is definitely the sport to try. No other location compares to kayaking in the beautiful crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

You may think that kayaking is an activity reserved for experimentation by sporty adults, but you could not be more wrong. Kayaking is ideal for the whole family to do. This open-top kayaking, with no rolls or skirting is easy, even for the youngest of children to do. Kids as young as three have no problem mastering it- it is that simple! Though ensure that they are snug and safe in a life jacket of course.

Kayaking is an excellent sport due to its fantastic aerobic and cardiovascular effects, as well as building your upper body strength. It tones your abdominal muscles, your back and your arms. Therefore it is great working off all those naughty extra holiday ice creams to maintain your beach body. The best thing is the fact that it isn’t like slogging away for hours at the gym, you are still enjoying spending time with your family.

When there are waves in the sea kayaking is more exciting and great fun. However it does require some strength and physical fitness. This is because to get out past the shore break you must point the kayak directly into the oncoming waves. The waves have the ability to rock you off or break and tumble you if you do not adopt this strategy. These are perhaps more suitable conditions for older children and adults.

On the other hand, a flat and calm sea makes it incredibly easy for everyone to kayak, even young children. In the early morning the sea is like a mill pond, which is when it is best, before the trade winds start up. A good idea is to begin your kayaking adventure heading upwind: a time when you are fully energized. Then when you have exhausted yourself kayaking, the warm Jamaican breeze can blow you gently back to the shore. Therefore your return will be pleasantly effortless.

The experience is a wonderful one as you can gaze to the shore at the green exotic plants met by the expanse of white sand on the beach edged by the blue water of the Caribbean Sea. You can feel the sun rays shining out from the cloudless sapphire sky tanning your back. Jamaica truly feels like paradise.

At Silver Sands Jamaica, kayaks are available for rent at very reasonable rates on an hourly, daily or weekly basis; and the rates include life jackets.

Kayaking is an amazing adventure activity for you and your family whilst you stay in your Jamaica accommodation. What better way is there to keep fit and have fun on your Jamaica vacation?

(Contributed)

Valhalla Villa, Silver Sands Jamaica - Perfect Family Vacation Rental

2010-10-18T07:38:00.000-05:00

It is of utmost importance when going on vacation to find a vacation rental which is tailored to all your family’s needs. Otherwise not everyone will enjoy themselves. Valhalla villa is a family orientated home so it is perfect for every individual family member. With four bedrooms, lots of special extras, a private pool and the Silver Sands beach on the door step, no one need go without!

All day long the pool is bathed in golden sunshine. It is ideal for the kids to splash around in, especially as moms and dads don’t have to worry if their little ones are being a bit boisterous because they have the pool all to themselves. The veranda is situated conveniently adjacent to the pool so that parents can recline in peace with their book or a glass of rum punch but still be able to see what the kids are up to out of the corner of their eye. A jungle of greenery shades the veranda from the strong Jamaican sun which adds vibrant colour to the villa as well as ensuring its guests don’t get struck with sun stroke or sun burn.

The interior of the house is just as wonderful as the exterior. With high ceilings and four bedrooms there is ample space for everyone to be extremely comfortable. The bedroom walls are a glowing white with plenty of windows, so that the bedrooms appear light and airy which is vital in the hot climate. There is also air-conditioning and ceiling fans to ensure the bedrooms are kept perfectly cool. The beds are large and wonderfully comfortable so you’ll rest assured that you will never have any trouble drifting off into a peaceful sleep on your vacation. The décor is minimal but tasteful, with bright matching prints on the curtains and bedspread giving the rooms a cheerful splash of colour. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, preventing any arguments over whose turn it is to use the bathroom next.

The living room is fully equipped with all the modern luxuries. There is cable television and VCR as well as a cassette stereo and a CD player. And when you want to talk to your loved ones, the villa is now connected with high speed broadband internet connection and a telephone. There are also games and books, for those who desire to escape from the noise and distractions of modern life, and just submerse themselves in traditional family time. It is a lovely room to simply relax as a family on the rattan furniture in the evenings and rekindle your bond together.

One of the best things about Valhalla Villa is its fully equipped kitchen and barbecue as it comes with your own personal house keeper and cook. They can reveal the world of incredible traditional Jamaican food to you, such as delicious salt fish and ackee, as well as bake you all your home favourites like melt-in-the-mouth brownies and rich banana bread. You will certainly never go hungry on your vacation.

Sandra Hume, who stayed at Valhalla recently had this to say about her vacation at Silver Sands Jamaica: “The ladies at Guest Services were wonderful. We were met at the airport, had a car waiting for us just as promised. Our villa was lovely and clean, everything we expected - no surprises. Valerie and Denisia were great. Valerie is a great cook and Denisia made sure the house was always neat, tidy and clean.”

Valhalla is located a short walk from the Caribbean Sea on Jamaica’s stunning North Coast. Therefore if you tire of swimming in the pool you can stroll through the luscious Jamaican scenery to discover the stretches of beautiful white sand, edged by the glistening turquoise water of the warm Jamaican sea, ready for you just to wade in and enjoy.

Treat yourself to the perfect Jamaica accommodation, like Valhalla Villa, at Silver Sands villas.

Windsurfing Nude at Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-10-13T10:28:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful sunny day at Silver Sands Jamaica with a steady North-Easterly onshore breeze of about twelve to fifteen knots, just perfect conditions for intermediate windsurfing enthusiasts. Two such young women abandoned their friends on the beach and windsurfed out to the coral reef, from where they would make their turns and sail back towards the beach, near which they would turn around to complete the usual windsurfing circuit at Silver Sands.

Enjoying the perfect sailing conditions, these two good friends completed circuit after circuit, skipping across the white caps and experimenting with jibes. When they were getting tired, they both fell off at the same time out at the reef in close proximity to each other. It was actually comforting to get submerged in the cool water and, while hanging onto their boards, have a rest, a stretch and a chat.

This was when these two gorgeous women decided to pull a prank on their friends who were sitting on the beach watching them have fun as they sailed past the shore to make their leeward turns. So out by the reef, as they bobbed up and down in the swells, they stripped off their bikinis and tied them to the masts of their windsurfers. They climbed back on their boards, uphauled their sails, and headed back to the beach completely nude, streaking past their beach and getting as close to their friends as they could without falling in the water.

When they returned to the reef, they ditched their sails and collapsed in the sea in fits of laughter. Hurriedly, they untied their bikinis and slipped them on, and set sail for the beach to hear what their friends would have to say about their stunt.

They beached their boards and strode over to their friends who just ignored them - unfortunately for these two windsurfing nudists, no one on the Silver Sands Jamaica beach had noticed their prank.

Blue Moon - The Perfect Vacation Villa

2010-10-10T10:58:00.000-05:00

(By Contributor)

Whenever you go on vacation the excitement of freeing yourself from ordinary, mundane life is always laced with a sense of dreadful apprehension that your vacation accommodation may not quite be what you are expecting. Let’s face it; even if your Jamaica villa is a tiny bit pokey, grubby or simply not decorated to your taste, you’ll be awash with disappointment that your dreams of a beautiful vacation palace are shattered. However, it can happily be said that when people stay at the Blue Moon villa they do not feel the smallest pang of discontent. They are too busy gazing at the idyllic vacation villa that they have always desired in which they are now staying.

Blue Moon is a sprawling modern villa sprinkled with period features, such as gorgeous high beamed ceilings and a pillared porch. Its five large bedrooms means the whole family has plenty of space to kick back and relax, though the female family members are usually most thrilled at the luxury of having five gleaming bathrooms; because it means that everyone gets one to themselves! The house even has its own private pool, over which kids usually jump for joy, and entertainment room with a bar and a TV. However the TV does not need to be switched on much; as the whole family is too occupied with the magic of Jamaica and exciting excursions that are on offer! Sitting on the roof top deck and watching the Jamaican sunset blaze the sky peach, violet and salmon is much more fascinating than any TV set.

The bedrooms are fantastic, with stunning views of the white beach and cornflower blue sea. The neutral colour scheme ensures that the decoration looks tasteful and light. The beds are so comfy and the atmosphere so calm that as soon as your head hits the pillow you cascade into a blissful sleep, something people miss out on a lot when they are busy being a parent, working full time and living in the city. A Silver Sands Jamaica villa is just the right place to relieve oneself from all stress of home and just submerse into relaxation.

It is especially lovely to have staff with a cook to look after everyone, which is often a great relief for parents. Instead of slogging away at washing dishes, ironing and tidying up after the kids they get to unwind on the veranda with a book and enjoy some much needed family time at the beach. All the staff are incredibly attentive and friendly, everything they do is to the highest standard. The food they prepare is utterly delicious, the brownies are chocolaty, oozing lumps of heaven and the banana bread is to die for. No one can say they regret putting the weight back on that they lost for their bikini diet.

The beach is only a ten minute walk away, through lovely Jamaican scenery. It is safe to say, there is nothing quite like a Jamaican beach. They’re even more breathtaking in real life than the ones you see in the movies, with ice white sands, crystal clear seas and towering palm trees.

The Silver Sands Jamaica accommodation is absolutely perfect. No one could wish for a better vacation location in Jamaica or anywhere else, nor could their family - everyone loves Blue Moon villa!

Silver Sands Jamaica Offers Hurricane Guarantee

2010-10-09T04:37:00.000-05:00

Silver Sands Jamaica, offering beautiful and affordable Jamaica villas, cottages and apartments, understands that its guests can feel a bit vulnerable during the hurricane season and takes pride in ensuring their safety by offering the hurricane guarantee for its villas and cottages.

Elaborating on the hurricane guarantee, Prem Chadeesingh, Director, Mysilversands stated "Should a hurricane (as defined by the U.S. National Weather Service) threaten Jamaica, our guests staying at Silver Sands will receive a reimbursement for the cost of the accommodation for the number of disrupted nights. In addition, our guests will receive free accommodation at that house for the same number of disrupted nights for use during the same month the following year, subject to availability. "

This guarantee comes into effect when the Government of Jamaica issues a Hurricane warning for Jamaica. Other expenses, including, but not limited to, airfares, food and beverage, or transportation services are not included or covered by this guarantee. The free Jamaica accommodation offered for the subsequent year applies only to those affected by the hurricane and may not be passed on to other persons.

Then there are villas like Rum Jetty, which offers its own special hurricane guarantee as the house is so very close to the sea. It is the policy of Silver Sands Jamaica to evacuate Rum Jetty if a hurricane should become an issue. Accordingly, guests staying at Rum Jetty will be moved to another house on higher ground and this accommodation will be free. Guests will also receive a reimbursement for the cost of the accommodation for the number of disrupted nights.

For more information about Silver Sands Jamaica Hurricane Guarantee, visit http://www.mysilversands.com/guarantee_hurricane.aspx.

Silver Sands Jamaica is committed to the safety, security and comfort of its guests no matter what the weather conditions. The accommodations are well-equipped with all possible amenities including TV, DVD/CD player, books etc to keep the guests occupied and happy in case they are not able to go out for sometime. Check the details in the listing for each accommodation as they are unique.

Scuba Diving In Jamaica - Reveal An Amazing Underwater World

2010-10-02T12:48:00.000-05:00

(By Contributor)

When you ask someone, "What do you think of when someone mentions Jamaica?" their immediate response is always about the beautiful beaches and cornflower blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, but what should spring to mind is the incredible world which lives under it. This world of coral reefs and tropical fish is just waiting to be discovered by vacationers when they scuba dive.

There are many different dive sites in Jamaica, which means you have a fantastic selection of what you wish to see. Not only are there fascinating things to see under the water, there is also plenty to see above the water. Therefore non-divers can still come along on the trip and never get bored, so no one has to feel guilty about dragging their partner or children along if they cannot scuba dive. They can bask in the golden rays of the Jamaican sun on the boat or admire the wonderful scenery.

The coral reefs are located just off the Jamaican shore and are an incredible kaleidoscope of colours, teeming with hundreds of exotic fishes and underwater plant life. Divers find themselves winding through canyons and grottos in awe of the magnificent, mysterious sights they are encountering. It truly is the experience of a life time. If one thinks that Jamaica is paradise above water, it is heaven beneath.

A popular example of a dive sight in Jamaica is the Marine Park in Montego Bay, which offers dive sights for novices as well as experts, so everyone can experience the magic of the Caribbean Sea. The water is lovely and warm at eighty-two degrees Fahrenheit all year round and has great visibility of about one-hundred feet. It has recently established a fish sanctuary to try and prevent the further depletion of fish stocks, meaning that vacationers can dive, safe in the knowledge that the wonderful wildlife they see will still be there in years to come.

Another example of a place to dive in Jamaica is the Negril Marine Park, with its calm protected waters and seven miles of beaches - it is the perfect location to enjoy diving. The reefs there are utterly exceptional and consist of scarlet sponge fingers and stands of gorgonians. The majority of the fish population inhabit the deeper waters. Amongst the fish lurks the occasional nurse shark, which has even been sighted.

It is easy to arrange Scuba diving vacations where prospective divers are able to discover scuba diving by learning to dive and earn a PADI open water certificate, or simply master and apply their skills by doing one or two dives a day. The vacation can be tailored for an advanced diver desiring to become a dive master or a beginner wishing to learn to dive. There is something for everyone on a diving vacation.

There is a great variety of fantastic, private Jamaica accommodation in vacation homes, and ground transportation is readily available. Professional diving companies such as Resort Divers limited, which is Jamaica's leading dive operator, and PADI- Five Star Dive centre is one company that can provide the scuba diving. The options are incredibly flexible, from one day beginner's Discover Diving course to a ten day dive master programme. Instruction can even be provided in a villa's pool, so everyone can get a taste of diving beforehand and completely enjoy the sea life when they enter the Caribbean.

Scuba diving makes a Jamaica Vacation unforgettable, and it can be completely stress free when you can plan it in advance.

Why Would a Teenager Want to Vacation in Jamaica Villas?

2010-09-27T11:45:00.000-05:00

(By Contributor)
When taking teenagers on vacation, one always has to worry about how these younger and often volatile and demanding family members will respond to what their parents think is a great vacation. Parents considering a relaxing Jamaica vacation far away from the all-inclusive hotels and resorts may think that their teenagers will be bored and grumpy, and therefore give them no end of trouble. But there are countless reasons why a teenager would have an incredible vacation in Jamaica villas, from the breathtaking beaches, to delicious cuisine, to the lively Jamaican beach parties and the many activities available to do. You are guaranteed there will not be a dull moment for your usually bored teen!

Everyone who has visited Jamaica will tell you about the gorgeous beaches, with the long stretches of white sand, edged by the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea with which your teenager can instantly fall in love. They can stroll through the surf, swim in the sea or simply lie there relaxing in the golden sunshine.

If the beautiful landscape is not entertainment enough, then the water activities will definitely keep your teenager occupied. They can go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the underwater world of tropical fish and brightly coloured coral reefs. Perhaps they want a slightly more active excursion and would prefer to windsurf in the warm Jamaican breeze and choppy waters of the Caribbean Sea. Then for the animal loving teens there is the experience of a life time: swimming with dolphins. They can watch dolphins at play, sharks on show and even swim, be kissed and caressed by a dolphin. The Jamaican sea can give a teenager thrills, education and, most importantly, utterly unforgettable memories.

There are also drier but equally as spellbinding activities on land for teens to enjoy. For example, they may wish to go horseback riding around the Braco estate; an eighteenth century country home with stunning views of the coast. Riders have the opportunity to swim in the sea with their horses, as well as going on a trail of the rolling Jamaican hillsides. There are also several golf courses, where teenagers can swing their clubs beneath a cornflower blue sky and exotic scenery. What could your teen want more than doing their favourite hobbies and sports in heavenly surroundings?

Almost every teenager loves a good party and to have a fantastic time, something which teens and Jamaicans have in common. Silver Sands throws a free beach party every year to celebrate Independence Day where Mysilversands provide the guests with a multitude of delicious Jamaican delicacies, drinks and local music. Teenagers can dance to the sound of the DJs, reggae bands and just generally let their hair down. The atmosphere is fantastic with not one unhappy face; everyone cannot stop smiling, even when the party is over.

Every Jamaica villa has an in house cook to prepare meals, which many guests describe as some of the most marvelous Jamaican dishes they have ever eaten. The teenagers have the privilege of trying ackee and saltfish, and lobster, fresh from the sea. For the less adventurous and the sweeter toothed youth, they can enjoy their favourite home comfort foods such as muffins and brownies, all cooked to absolute perfection, whenever they feel like it. Which teenager wouldn’t love their favourite foods cooked to order?

It is true that Jamaica villas are the place for every teenager to have their ideal vacation, whatever they enjoy doing; whether they are happy relaxing or being entertained, they can have the trip of a life time!

Jamaica Roadside Dinner From The Big Flag Jerk Centre

2010-09-07T20:51:00.000-05:00

Leaving behind a cold and wet London Gatwick airport, my flight landed on time in Montego Bay and I was outside the terminal by 5:00PM. Mysilversands sent one of the more popular drivers, Mark Lindsay, to pick me up. We journeyed East to Silver Sands as the sun began setting in the cloudy sky behind us.

The contrast between a first world country like England and Jamaica is hard to get used to even after a flight as long as nine hours. But the contrast between my last meal in Gatwick, all shiny glass, tile and chrome, and where I decided to buy my dinner would take anyone’s breath away.

Now a lot of visitors to Jamaica have heard of Scotchie’s, a popular jerk centre. Not many have heard of this place just outside of Falmouth, which is quite close to Silver Sands. The Big Flag Jerk Centre is a very rustic roadside cook shop, with zinc roof and zinc and bamboo walls. This is what the exterior of the Big Flag looks like - yes, you guessed it, there is a big Jamaican flag painted on the wall facing the road.

You are not likely to find any tourists there. You go up to the counter and peer into the dark interior and take in the smoky atmosphere. There is no menu, so just ask them what they have ready. I bought a quarter pound of jerk pork, two chicken leg-quarters, and a 12 ounce cup of red peas soup. All for J$1030 which is about US$12.
What a great price for a whole lot of freshly cooked delicious food!

You can add any amount of hot jerk sauce to suit your taste, and everything is wrapped up in foil for you to take away. You can also eat at the counter if you wish, but there isn’t much seating. My red peas soup was cooked in this blackened pot on an open fire, and it had just the right amount of scotch bonnet pepper and smoky flavour (in Jamaican patois, “it ketch”).

A very friendly large lady, who appeared to be in charge, did not miss the opportunity to tell me that I should come back on Sunday morning when they do a big breakfast with lots of Jamaican favourites. I promised her that I would do my best to see her then.

In many countries, roadside food is just fantastic, and Jamaica is no exception. And unlike many places, unless you have a super-sensitive stomach, you can eat the food cooked on the roadsides in Jamaica without any fear of indigestion or illness.

Fancy restaurants and meals prepared in the Silver Sands villas are great. But so too are these very simple, very inexpensive roadside cook shops which you will find all over the island. Don’t miss out - ask your driver to pull over and taste the very local cuisine.

Silver Sands Jamaica Reviewed on TripAdvisor

2010-08-19T06:19:00.000-05:00

Mysilversands has hundreds of authentic guest reviews on its web site in the section called Guest Feedback. Some people are still skeptical and do not know whether these reviews can be trusted.

We are recommended on TripAdvisor which is an independent source of guest reviews. Just lately, several very satisfied customers have posted reviews on TripAdvisor. We stumbled upon these today.

For example, Chicolver wrote this:
"We rented Roots Cottage for the week. The staff was amazing, the food was wonderful. The view was too good to be true. It was such a laid back relaxing vacation, nice and peaceful. The beach was never croweded and everything happened on your own schedule. I don't think I could ever go back to a all inclusive resort. I loved Silver Sands so much I'm planning my wedding there next year."

There are many more reviews on TripAdvisor. Why not take a look and see for yourself that you can trust our reviews on our Guest Feedback page.

Jamaica Reggae - Will it Win Over One Billion People? The Reggae Rajahs Think So

2010-08-13T08:14:00.000-05:00

Jamaica is a small small island with a big big music! So big in fact that there is hardly a place on Earth where Reggae rhythms have not been heard and very often copied and adapted to suit the tastes of the local populations.

Bob Marley - Most Famous Jamican?
Until recently, Bob Marley, the king of Reggae, was the undisputed most famous Jamaican ever. Now there is a possibility that his fame has been surpassed by the lightning fast Usain Bolt, the young tall Jamaican sprinter who won hearts all over the World at Olympics 2008.

Jamaican Music on the International Scene
But Reggae has become part of the international sound and a part of life for many people.

Jamaican music first broke out of Jamaica onto the international scene in 1964 with “My Boy Lollipop” by Millie Small, becoming a huge hit in England, Australia, the United States, and many other countries around the World. Millie Small paved the way for other Jamaican artistes, like Desmond Dekker, who also topped the British charts.

Soon every major pop group got into the act, with even the Beatles doing the hit “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”. Some bands outside of Jamaica adopted reggae as their own sound, with perhaps the most famous being the hugely successful UB40 who have sold more than seventy million records worldwide, all reggae covers, like “Red Red Wine”.

Introducing the Reggae Rajahs
Even in a place as unlikely as Mumbai, India, where one thinks of music as the sounds of sitars and tablas, Reggae is taking hold and the Reggae Rajahs, India’s first Reggae Sound System, is making waves. The Reggae Rajahs came together through their love of “raggamuffin sounds” in early 2009 in New Delhi, playing roots reggae, ska, dub, lovers rock and dancehall.

The Reggae Rajahs have even adopted Jamaican-type nicknames: Zorawar Shukla, aka Mr. Herbalist; Raghav Dang, aka “Diggy”; and Mohammed Abood, aka “MoCity”. These guys dress in red, green and gold and bring India’s first Reggae Sound System to life in Mumbai to celebrate their first anniversary.

Reggae and Indians Before the Reggae Rajahs
The Reggae Rajahs are not the first Indians to embrace Jamaican music. Long before them, Apache Indian, famous for “Boomshackalack”, worked with Jamaica’s own Sly & Robbie. And A. R. Rahman who recently became very popular in the West for his “Slumdog Millionaire” soundtrack, incorporated the reggae sound to his first big hit, the soundtrack of Mani Ratnam’s “Roja” in 1992.

The Reggae Rajahs claim that their gigs are special as they are attended by people from all over the world, with similar music interests, from lovers rock to new age dancehall, in the heart of Bollywood in India.

Reggae Music - Jamaica's Gift to the World
Reggae has truly been Jamaica’s gift to the World. And when visitors take a Jamaica vacation, they have the opportunity to enjoy the Reggae sounds where it originated. Reggae music is never far from any Jamaica accommodation, be it Jamaica villas, cottages, or Jamaica apartments.

The Reggae Rajahs pay tribute to Bob Marley at the Cafe Morrison:

Independence Day Party at Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-08-10T13:41:00.000-05:00

Mysilversands threw a fabulous party on the patio at Silver Sands Jamaica on Friday, August 6, 2010, to celebrate the country's Independence which was achieved in 1962.

It was a beautiful day with the usual brisk tradewinds blowing in from the East. Mysilversands staff gathered early and decorated the area in the Jamaican colours - black, green and gold. Proprietors from the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands were invited to display their art and crafts and to demonstrate their skills.

DJ Tyrone played a bopping assortment of music from the various eras while guests and homeowners sampled the wide selection of Jamaican pastries and snacks courtesy of Mysilversands. The Grill served many traditional dishes like ackee and salt fish, roast breadfruit, jerk pork and jerk chicken.

The atmosphere was warm, festive and friendly, and the guests and homeowners of Silver Sands Jamaica had a great day.

Why Believe All the Positive Reviews of Endless Summer, Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-08-04T03:39:00.000-05:00

Nicky and Andrew Pitt – June 30 – July 5, 2010

Believe all the extremely positive reviews that rate Endless Summer, in Silver Sands Jamaica, as excellent!

We spent 5 glorious days there, and were truly sad to leave. We chose Endless Summer because we were getting married at Silver Sands, and wanted a place large enough to hold the two families - 9 adults and five children - and it was the best choice for us.

The moment the children saw the pool, we didn't have to worry about them for the rest of the trip. The pool became their home.

Our chef Scottie, made the most AMAZING Jamaican food, and the rest of the staff members at the villa, Miss Una, Miss Caurine, Miss Annette, and Richard, really left a lasting impression on us with their incredible hospitality.

We just left there, but we are already planning our return trip to Endless Summer for another great family reunion. Thanks for making us truly feel like we were in a home away from home for the duration of our wedding celebrations, and for making us so excited about returning!

Take a close look at Silver Sands Jamaica now!

Independence Day - Free Beach Party at Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-08-03T05:15:00.000-05:00

At Independence time, Jamaicans love the beach and they love to party!

So what could be more appropriate?

We're Having A Party! I Hope You Are Hearty!

Independence Day, 6 August 2010, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Free Beach Party on the Patio at Silver Sands Jamaica
DJ Tyrone, Jamaican Food & Drink, Craft Demonstrations
Reggae Dance Instructions

Check it out now, go to Silver Sands Jamaica to find out more.

Gail Watkins Explains Why She Returns Over and Over to Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-07-28T05:33:00.000-05:00

You know...people ask me why do you go back to Jamaica to Silver Sands villas every year? If they only knew what I know about Silver Sands. (Some also say that ignorance is bliss...lol)

But Seriously.

If anyone is looking for a get away, far from the resort kind of living, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, far away from the crowds, so close to beautiful sands and an awesome tropical breeze-from a big mango tree in the back yard to morning conversations around the breakfast table ( like at home), Silver Sands is the perfect place. Beautiful mountainside homes, beautiful people from the island-my friends, are what I like the most. I get healing, relaxation, clarity, and just plain rest when I'm there. (I so miss it right now!)

It is a privilege and honor (to me) to have someone, anyone cater to me. I have so much respect and definitely don't take that kind of service for granted.

Dasley and Kerry-what a wonderful pair of women! I've had ackee and saltfish before. I've had oxtails and lobster before. AND Never did I think that I would go to Jamaica to get the best mac and cheese in the universe!! lol Dessert became a 2 in the morning snack- from muffins to banana breads and brownies. I gained the weight I lost to get in that bikini! (Well worth it though)

The Fisherman brought us fresh lobster and fish and we also went to the open market in Falmouth for fresh vegetables and other things. (go to Falmouth for the best conversion)

Side Note: I've been to Silver Sands 3 times prior but this was my first go round as party leader. In the past, all I had to do was pay and not worry about any of the responsibilities of a party leader. But this was my vacation too!!

We tried to hook-up with Errol to go snorkeling and boating but the weather didn't always permit. Don't get me wrong. I loved the rain in Jamaica especially when sitting under the Mango tree! In the hammock!! OMG next to the pool!!! IN JAMAICA.

I know...I know. I do get excited thinking about it.

One of the things I don't mind is taking my time walking down to the beach. Even though it was only a week that we stayed, the steps were great exercise. The scenery is perfect, the flowers- amazing, the architecture , the humming birds... i had a chance to hear the wings...i've never felt a vibration in my ear like that before, it was incredible.

One thing I hadn't seen before were the abundance of butterflies that Jamaica has on their roads when it rains. I'm assuming it was the rain that brought them out because it hadn't rained in the past visits. Another beautiful site to see.

I've visited different homes in Silver Sands but Beach Haven wins hands down! The experience was great and the people are wonderful. There is a true spirit of humility and respect, and honor that I have not felt on this level in all of my travels.

Thanks Angella and my friends from Mysilversands!!

Gail Watkins
NJ, USA

Jamaica Festival Week, August 2010

2010-07-26T08:42:00.000-05:00

The first week of August is a big week in the Jamaican calendar.

Emancipation Day, August 1
Independence Day, August 6

This year, 2010, Emancipation Day will be celebrated on Monday August 2nd, which, like Independence Day, will be a public holiday with most business places closed. There are many official events to celebrate Emancipation Day and Independence Day. Get more details here at Jamaica Villas Happenings.

For ordinary Jamaicans, going to the beach is a popular way to celebrate and The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands will be at its busiest with many families and other groups enjoying day excursions.

You can show your support and love for Jamaica by wearing the colours on Independence Day: GREEN, GOLD, and BLACK.

Half Price Fall Special at Select Silver Sands Villas in 2010

2010-07-24T14:18:00.000-05:00

Never before has a bargain like this been available. Mysilversands has partnered with these fabulous vacation villas and cottages to give you an incredible value at Silver Sands Jamaica.

A Massive 50% Off
Any Week or Longer from October 1 to 24, 2010
Choose from any of these beautiful Silver Sands Villas and Cottages

Blue Vista Villa
Located just a short stroll from the magnificent white sand Silver Sands beach, the designer-decorated 3 bedroom Blue Vista Villa enamors guests with its inviting ambiance, comfy facilities and enchanting environs. Spend your time sunning on the deck, swimming in the pool, dining outdoors and enjoying the poolside barbecue. The master bedroom has huge glass doors which provide great views out to the pool and the sea.Take a look at Blue Vista Villa.

Eirie Blue Villa
Eirie Blue is a spacious luxury 4 bedroom villa with a private pool and hot tub on the sea front at Silver Sands, less than twenty yards from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy the magnificent views from the verandah, pool deck and rooftop deck. The villa also provides a perfect setting for both inside and outdoor dining. Eirie Blue is the villa that has location, location, location!Take a look at Eirie Blue Villa.

Endless Summer Villa
Endless Summer Villa is a luxurious 7 bedroom villa on the beach with solar heated swimming pool and hot tub. From the villa’s two balconies you can enjoy panoramic views, framed by coconut trees, of the Caribbean Sea just 15 yards away. Endless Summer’s size makes it perfect for families or groups of friends who wish to vacation together whilst still enjoying their own privacy. Two shifts of staff allow you to enjoy the relaxing vacation you always dreamed of.Take a look at Endless Summer Villa.

Primrose Path Villa
Primrose Path is a very luxurious and spacious 4 bedroom villa located just a few hundred feet from the sea at Silver Sands, on Jamaica’s fabulous North Coast. Sporting a private swimming pool, spa and lovely sea views Primrose Path is a customer favourite. This split-level villa with a back terrace and a front verandah, allows you to dine outside on a starlit evening with your family and friends. Stay connected with high speed broadband, telephone and fax.Take a look at Primrose Path.

Seashell Cottage
Seashell Cottage is a 2 bedroom vacation cottage situated less than a minute’s walk from the beautiful white sand beach at Silver Sands. It’s designed to take advantage of the cooling trade winds and features a verandah as long as the width of the house. Here’s where you will enjoy spending most of your time when you are not on the beach. If you are traveling with your kids, you will find the portable playpen, children’s toys, books and the high chair really useful.Take a look at Seashell Cottage.

Tu Mac' Villa
Tu Mac’ Villa is a comfortable family home with 4 bedrooms, a private swimming pool with a spacious sundeck and wonderful views of the Caribbean Sea. The villa is fronted with a breezy verandah with lounging areas, bar and dining facilities. The magnificent Silver Sands beach is just a short walk away, so Tu Mac’ is ideal for that carefree tropical vacation you’ve been dreaming about.Take a look at Tu Mac' Villa.

This is a great opportunity to enjoy the Silver Sands community and save. You pay half price but receive full value and the first class service of the Mysilversands team. Book Now

Silver Sands Villas Jamaica Offers Free Night -Out to Montego Bay

2010-07-19T09:24:00.000-05:00

Guests in Silver Sands Villas Jamaica need no longer feel that they are missing out on the exciting nightlife that is part of the offering of most resorts and hotels , as Mysilversands now gives them an even better option - a free night out on Montego Bay's Hip Strip where there are many restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs resonating to the beat of the island’s famous reggae music.

Our guests have told us that while they love their relaxed stay in our villas and cottages, they do feel that they are missing out on Jamaica’s night life. Therefore, Mysilversands is offering its guests at Silver Sands Villas free transportation to and from the Hip Strip for an unforgettable night out every Thursday night.

Hailed as the place to party, the “Hip Strip” Gloucester Avenue, Montego Bay is perfect for those looking for exciting entertainment, a lively atmosphere and delicious food. The area is home to some of the island’s trendiest bars, restaurants, shops and clubs resonating to the beats of reggae.

Visit Coral Cliff to enjoy a free reggae band or dine at Margaritaville on the Sea - a nightclub and restaurant with a tunnel-like slide that flings brave souls into the Caribbean Sea. And on Thursday nights, ladies benefit from free admission. Check out other restaurants and eateries serving the country’s best jerked food and authentic Jamaican cuisine. From elegant French, Italian, and Continental dishes to spicy Indian and Mexican food, you’ll find something to tempt your palate.

If its shopping that catches your fancy, you’ll find everything from the ubiquitous "Red Stripe beer," "We Be Jammin'" and "Life's A Beach" T-shirts to more eclectic crafts of wood or seashell. The Hip Strip is also home to some great duty-free shops where you can purchase jewelry, electronics, cameras, and other items.

Mark Lindsay, one of the more popular drivers, reported, “This Thursday Night-Out is a massive hit. Most of the time, the guests sing from the time they get on the bus all the way back from the Hip Strip to Silver Sands.”

Itinerary
Mysilversands will provide air-conditioned buses, departing Silver Sands Villas from the Patio at 8:00 PM, and park at Coral Cliff on the Hip Strip. Guests will have about six hours to experience the pulsating nightlife of Montego Bay, reassemble at 2:00 AM to return to Jamaica villas and cottages in Silver Sands.

How to Avail This Offer
To avail of this offer, book at the office or contact Desrine or Angella for a Transportation Voucher. The voucher must be submitted to the driver on boarding the bus.

The offer is first-come, first-served! Bookings will be closed at noon on Thursday so make your reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.

Another Great Benefit of Booking with Mysilversands
This is just another one of the many reasons to book your stay at Silver Sands Jamaica with Mysilversands. No one else takes care of you like this.

Silver Sands Villas Jamaica Played Host for Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off

2010-07-18T08:34:00.001-05:00

Silver Sands villa cooks are still talking about the Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off held on 24 May 2010.

Twelve villa cooks participated and the winner was Lorna Vincent who works at Honeycomb Villa, Silver Sands Jamaica.

Here is a video of the event showing the judges during their tasting, and a number of the cooks also sampling the breads after the winners were announced. How many do you recognize?

Fisherman Sets His Fish Pot at Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-07-17T08:37:00.020-05:00

Setting out fish pots in the Caribbean Sea is hard work.

Early in the morning, weather permitting, the fishermen set out from the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands Jamaica. Some go out to bring in their catch, while others set their fish pots.

In this video, a fisherman is seen rowing out in a very weathered boat, his fish pot perched across the top. When he gets to his anchored marker, he cracks open a coconut and flings this bait into the the fish pot, before hurling it over the side.

The fisherman rows back to shore. When he gets close to land, he has to get in the water and swim the boat in the rest of the way as the sea is too rough for him to control it and prevent it from crashing into the rocks.

Very hard work indeed!

How to Avoid the Foreign Transaction Fee Added to Your Charge Card

2010-07-08T09:13:00.000-05:00

A “How dare you!” email from an angry customer! It’s happened a few times now. A few days after making a booking online and paying the deposit online by credit card, the email arrives with customer outraged, accusing Mysilversands of making a charge to their card without their permission.

We respond to the customer immediately pointing out the following:

1. Mysilversands did not make the additional charge.
2. Mysilversands could not make the charge as we do not see or capture the card details at any time.
3. If the customer were to check the details on their card statement they would see that Mysilversands is not the beneficiary.

What a lot of credit card customers do not realize is that some of the providers of these cards are charging a Foreign Transaction Fee for their own account. The customer sees the charge and thinks it is Mysilversands that is the beneficiary but it is the card provider that is the beneficiary.

In recent times, the card providers have modified their terms of use and advised their customers in the usual manner, but it seems that hardly anyone reads these pages and pages of fine print. So card users are not aware that their cards will attract this additional charge.

It seems that the amount of this Foreign Transaction Fee is at the card provider’s discretion and is usually around three percent of the amount being paid. Visa and MasterCard charge one percent and the card issuer adds what they feel like to get to the total charged to you.

Many customers think this charge is unfair especially when they are not paying in a foreign currency. Mysilversands bills in United States dollars, yet some card providers charge their American customers paying in United States dollars a Foreign Transaction Fee.

Not all cards attract this Foreign Transaction Fee. It’s a good idea to call your card provider and ask to speak to a senior employee as some junior employees are also unaware of this charge. One bank employee told one of our customers that Mysilversands had made the charge and it took quite a lot of effort to show the customer that this was not so and that she had been given incorrect information. Ask your card provider which of your cards will attract this Foreign Transaction Fee.

A couple of Mysilversands customers who were charged this fee argued with their card providers and had the charges waived. So it is worth the effort. It’s worth emphasizing that there are cards available that do not attract this fee. For example, HSBC's Premier World MasterCard has no foreign transaction fee.

Another way to avoid this fee is to create a PayPal ACCOUNT and use this PayPal account to make the payment. There will be no Foreign Transaction Fee, and you can pay funds into your PayPal account using credit and debit cards, cheques, etc. It is very easy to set up a PayPal account.

See the Tamara Holmes article: Credit card foreign transaction fees going up.
Also, the Travel Guide for Your Finances article: Lions, Tigers and Foreign Transaction Fees. Oh MY!

I Love Marcia's Blue Drawers

2010-07-02T06:25:00.000-05:00

I love Marcia's blue drawers. Mmmm, tastes so good! Marcia, who works at Silver Pointe Cottage, Silver Sands, gave them to me as a special treat. She had never given them to anyone before, so I was specially honoured. Now, before anyone gets the wrong idea, they should know that Marcia and I have a very special relationship. Many people who work at Silver Sands call Marcia my second mother.

What is "Blue Drawers"?

Blue drawers is also called duckanoo or tie-a-leaf. It is a Jamaican dish, mostly eaten as a snack or dessert. Many think it was introduced to Jamaica by Africans. It is a boiled pudding.

How is Duckanoo made?

My research has shown that there are many recipes for this dish, so I will tell you how Marcia made it for me. It is actually the recipe of Marcia's mother. The main ingredients of Marcia's blue drawers are cornmeal, dry coconut, and brown sugar. The dry coconut is grated and added to the cornmeal, brown sugar and a mix of vanilla, cinnamon, mixed spice, nutmeg, salt, butter, and raisins. Some more dry coconut is grated and blended with water to make a coconut juice or cream, which is added to the above mixture.

Banana leaves are cut into rectangles and passed over a flame to quail. Some of the mixture is spooned out onto the quailed leaf and wrapped into a small parcel about two to three inches square. A piece of the trunk of the banana tree is stripped to make a "string" which is used to tie the banana leaf parcel.

When a large pot of water is brought to the boil, the banana leaf parcels are added and cooked for about an hour, before being removed and unwrapped. Blue drawers may be eaten hot or cold and will keep in the refrigerator for a week to ten days.

Wrapped in banana leaves and tied with string made from the tree trunk

Where do these names come from?

No one seems to have any definite answer for these names. "Tie-a-leaf" seems obvious as the banana leaf is tied with a "string" made from the tree trunk. This same "string" may also be the reason this dish is called blue drawers, as drawers is Jamaican slang for underwear and in the old days, before elastic, string was used around the waist to keep the garment in place. But where does the "blue" part of it come from? Duckanoo is no doubt derived from the Ashanti word, dokono, which means boiled maize-bread.

Unwrapped

Cut

While I can testify that Marcia's blue drawers were scrumptious, I am sure many of the cooks in other Jamaica villas can also make a very good version of this Jamaican favourite. Isn't part of the travel experience trying new things in the places you visit? Ask your Silver Sands villa cook to make this for you!

The Oleander - Pretty but Poisonous

2010-06-30T05:45:00.000-05:00

The Oleander is a common garden plant in Jamaica. It can be seen all over the Silver Sands property, many home owners using it as a colourful hedge.

The oleander is a poisonous plant but this has not dented its popularity as it grows easily and can tolerate poor soil and long dry spells. These are very good reasons for planting it at Silver Sands.

There are many different colours, including red, purple and orange, but pink appears to be a favourite in Jamaica.

When next you visit Jamaica, look around for these beautiful flowers. I enjoy photographing them on my early morning walks around Silver Sands villas.

How an Act of Kindness can Benefit You

2010-06-26T09:53:00.000-05:00

Most of the guests at Silver Sands Jamaica utilize the professional transportation services provided by Mysilversands. One of Mysilversands contractor drivers, doing his usual duties, picked up a party of guests who had completed their stay in a Silver Sands villa, and took them back to the airport at Montego Bay.

The guests had a great vacation! They went out more and did more shopping than they had planned, maxing out their credit and debit cards. But they had retained a generous amount of cash and gave it to their driver as a tip for the excellent service he had provided them during their stay.

These guests did not realize that their airline had not included the usual Airport Departure Tax in the cost of their plane tickets. Their airline also had not advised them of the departure tax, which is required in order to leave the island.

Furthermore, this tax, if not included in the airline ticket, can only be paid at the airport in cash. When the guests checked in and were asked for the cash for their departure tax, they were stuck! They did not know what to do.

One of the party wandered outside the airport terminal and saw that their driver had not yet departed. He explained their predicament to the driver, who promptly said, “No problem! How much do you need?”

The driver shoved his hand in his pocket and handed back the tip, and then topped it up with more from his wallet to make the total necessary to cover the departure tax for all the passengers. The guests could not believe their luck, thanked the driver, promised to repay the loan, and left.

A few days later, the driver received a package by courier. The guests had returned the money for the departure tax and an even bigger tip this time! Fair enough, the guests showed their appreciation for the driver’s act of kindness and trust.

But that was not the end of the matter. A few weeks later, the driver received a phone call from some guests staying at a nearby hotel. They needed a driver and they wanted him to take them everywhere they wanted to go. They had heard the story from their good friends, the guests stuck at the airport without their departure tax. They had decided immediately that he would have to be their driver during their upcoming visit to Jamaica.

And so the story of the trusting, helpful driver was passed on and on. The driver continued to please, providing his usual excellent service. All his customers took his phone number and they passed it, with the story, along to their friends who passed it along to their friends, and so on. People the driver had never met would call up and say things like “I hear you are the most honest driver in Jamaica, can you do my tours please?” The referrals kept piling up.

This single act of kindness from this driver started a chain reaction which resulted in this driver getting more jobs than he could handle. And being the kind person that he is, he started referring the business he could not handle to his trusted friends. And these drivers introduced many of these visitors who were staying in hotels to Silver Sands Jamaica, thereby generating new business for Mysilversands.

Will the Caribbean Sea Spoil You?

2010-06-23T03:35:00.002-05:00

Lots of people having fun on the beach. Brilliant sunshine! Children and their parents digging in the sand, building sandcastles, tunnels and bridges. Some playing ball games, others flying kites. Many heading to the water with bodyboards under their arms or surfboards balanced on their heads, wet suits clinging to the brave bodies braced for the icy ocean.

Yes, wet suits! Because this is not Silver Sands Jamaica in the Caribbean, this is Polzeath, a very popular beach in Cornwall England.

Left: Polzeath Beach, Cornwall: Right: Silver Sands Beach, Jamaica

I suggested to my sixteen year old daughter who was being grumpy because she did not want to go into the cold ocean that she should make the most of the beautiful day and take the opportunity to get a surf lesson. After a few minutes of my dismissing her excuses, she told me with great finality in her voice, “Dad, understand this! I am a city girl - I don’t do surfing or any of that stuff. Besides, after being accustomed to the Caribbean Sea, I can’t go into that freezing water!”

But, I still had some fight left in me and I pointed out that her mother grew up in Cornwall and always went into the sea on visits to the beach, regardless of the weather. Unfortunately, then her mother chimed in that since she swam in the Caribbean Sea, she has never ventured into the sea in England again!

So, as usual, it was my fault - I had spoiled her. If my daughter had not spent her very early years in Jamaica living at Silver Sands villas and returning for vacations, she would not know any better and would quite enjoy the Polzeath Beach. I know when I have lost an argument, so I pondered - do people who have experienced the Caribbean Sea give up swimming in their cold waters back home?

I tried to think of other people I know and what their behviour can reveal. My unscientific sample leads me to conclude that people who have enjoyed the turquoise Caribbean Sea shun their alternatives in colder climes unless they must accompany small children or they know that they will not be going to the Caribbean again for a long time. It seems that if another Caribbean vacation is pending, they will wait for that next opportunity to go into the sea.

My daughter said, “I’ll swim in the sea when I go to Silver Sands Jamaica next year!”

Another Early Morning on the Fisherman's Beach

2010-06-17T09:48:00.000-05:00

On public holidays, the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands gets busy, especially early in the morning. Many Jamaicans equate public holidays with a trip to the beach, where they play games, splash about in the sea, and picnic. There is a barbecue where one can roast fish.

The fishermen and craft vendors are friendly. We never hear visitors complain of harassment, even if they are not buying anything. In fact, many visitors will vouch for the friendliness of these people who make their living on the Fisherman's Beach.

View of the Fisherman's Beach, with Duncans Bay in the background

Fish pot and boats on the Fisherman's Beach

Boat overturned on the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

Spear Fisherman Getting Ready to Swim Out

From the Jacob Taylor Beach one can walk to the West along the coast over into Duncan's Bay. On the East, one will find the Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Plantain Tarts - Another Yummy Jamaican Pastry!

2010-06-15T10:32:00.000-05:00

I had been dreaming about plantain tarts for awhile. I had loads when I was a child, but in recent years, they seem to be harder to find. I longed to break one open to get a whiff of the red plantain filling inside before devouring it like I did so many times before.

Luckily, Claudette of Casuarina Cottage told me that she would make some plantain tarts for me. Those of you who do not know what these look like, here is a photo of Claudette's freshly baked plantain tarts.

Of course, some of the readers of this page may not be familiar with plantains. Well, a plantain is very much like a big banana. It cannot be eaten raw. It's a Jamaican favourite at meal times when boiled, fried, or used to make pastry. Green plantains are used to make chips (crisps).

Image (above from Wikipedia) shows green plantains on the left of various types of bananas.

Claudette made her plantain tarts by boiling the plantains in their skins in salted water for about ten minutes. When cooked, she took them out of the water and cooled them, skinned them, cut them in half and sliced down the middle to remove the very small seeds. She mashed the boiled plantains with nutmeg, mixed spice, a little brown sugar (optional), almond flavouring and a little red food colouring. When this paste is fully mixed, then the raisins are added.

The pastry is made with flour and margarine, rolled out and cut to size. The pastry is folded over the plantain paste and sealed by pressing the edges with a fork. The tarts are baked for twenty to twenty-five minutes, removed from the oven and sprinkled with white sugar, and left to cool.

Of course, when next you stay at Casuarina Cottage, you must ask Claudette to make plantain tarts for you. If you are staying at another Silver Sands villa, ask your cook if she can make them. It's a great Jamaican pastry that you and your children will love!

Early Morning on the Fisherman's Beach at Silver Sands

2010-06-14T11:39:00.000-05:00

Visitors who venture to the Fisherman's Beach at the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands usually do so to buy craft items from the vendors and talented craftsmen and women there or to buy food and drink from Juliet or Leroy. It is also very rewarding to hang out on the beach and take in the local colour. Watch the fishermen repair their boats, nets, and fish pots. Many make their fish pots there too and you can witness the whole process. Once, I saw a canoe being dug out from a large tree trunk.

Early in the morning, down on the Fisherman's Beach at the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, Leroy's, Juliet's, and the craft shops will all be closed up.

The sun rising over the sea will make the water shimmer, and everywhere you look, nature's beauty will be evident.

A homemade oar.

Table at Leroy's.

A badly damaged boat.

When the fishermen land with their catch, a small crowd will usually be waiting to greet them, anxious to buy the best straight out of their boats. If you are staying at Silver Sands villas, you can easily join in the fun and purchase your seafood right there on the Fisherman's Beach. When the weather is bad and the sea is rough, you can get a great selection of frozen seafood from Villa Mart inside the Silver Sands estate.

Have You Had an Otaheiti Apple?

2010-06-11T08:47:00.002-05:00

I was discussing Jamaican fruit trees with Belvitt who works at Villa Mart at Silver Sands when I mentioned that I didn't see many otaheiti apple trees around Trelawny. He told me that there is one at Ebb Tide and that it was currently bearing.

I must have walked past it hundreds of times and did not notice it. Sure enough, on the South side of Ebb Tide, clearly visible from the road, right next to the naseberry tree which was also bearing, stood an otaheiti apple tree.

It's easy to understand why Jamaicans simply call this fruit a Jamaican apple, as "otaheiti" is quite a challenging word to pronounce. In Trinidad, this fruit is known as a pomerac.

When next you visit Silver Sands villas, ask your villa staff to get some Jamaican apples for you. They are usually eaten raw and they also make a great tasting juice.

Above photographs show a ripe otaheiti apple and what the insides look like when it is cut open to remove the seed. When ripe the otaheiti apple turns from green to shades of bright red to deep purple. Under the thin skin is a white interior around a brown seed, usually about the size of a golf ball.

Jeff's Pastry is Yummy!

2010-06-08T12:40:00.002-05:00

Jeff was a fisherman for many years, but decreasing catch sizes and expensive materials required for nets, etc., forced him to consider another way of making a living. Very wisely, Jeff experimented with pastry while he continued fishing. He wanted to ensure that this new venture would succeed.

Eventually, Jeff abandoned fishing and, with his wife, started making and selling his pastry, pictured on this page.

Gizzada

Jeff uses coconut in all the items. He buys dry coconuts from the market in Falmouth.
Jeff is also his best salesman, going around with the pastry in a recycled ice cream bucket, strapped to a carrier, that he made, on the front of his bicycle.

Peanut Drops

He rides around Duncans, Spicy Hill, Carey Park, Logwood Walk and Prospect, selling directly to the consumer. He has been doing this for over ten years now, and he has built up a clientele. Sometimes he goes to the schools as children love his pastry.

Grater Cake

Jeff makes sure to keep informed about sporting events in these neighbourhoods as that is where he does really well. He tries not to miss any of these events.

Coconut Drops

All Jeff's Pastry items are available at Villa Mart at Silver Sands Jamaica. Jeff's only retail outlet is Villa Mart. If you want large quantities of any item to take home with you at the end of your stay at Silver Sands villas, Villa Mart will take your special order. If you have not tried these pastries, you owe it to yourself to do so as soon as possible.

Mysilversands and CCV are still working hard to keep the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands free to the public.

2010-06-07T14:08:00.000-05:00

Some visitors to Jamaica, staying in Silver Sands villas or Silver Sands cottages, get curious about the Fisherman's Beach, located on the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands. They may have heard about it from other visitors, their villa staff, or read about it on the Mysilversands web site.

Mysilversands actively encourages its guests to take a stroll down to the Fisherman's Beach, by going down the road next to the entrance to Silver Sands. Mysilversands supports the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands with the help of its sister company, Custom Caribbean Vacations Limited (CCV), having leased that property from the Government of Jamaica. Together Mysilversands and CCV work with the local community to keep the facility free for use by the public.

Early mornings on the Fisherman's Beach at the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands are peaceful quiet times when you can slow down and mingle with the few fishermen who may be present.

Some will be getting their gear together, while others set out with their fish pots loaded on their boats.

Very often, when a beach is leased to a private entity, the lessor erects a fence to control access and charges an admission for use of the facility. Many lessors even operate a monopoly and take over all business activity there. Before CCV leased the Jacob Taylor beach from the Jamaican Government it was leased by another party who operated a shop there.

CCV leased the beach more than six years ago, and did something unique. The beach has been cleaned up and trees planted. The sanitary facilities are maintained to a high standard. CCV did not erect a fence and does not charge anything for use of the beach. It's free. None of the craft vendors or cookshops/bars have been displaced, and CCV did not go into competition with them.

Mysilversands and CCV are still working hard to keep the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands free to the public.

Una Makes Soursop Juice at Endless Summer, Silver Sands Jamaica

2010-06-05T15:15:00.001-05:00

All the villa staff at Endless Summer know how much I love local fruits. So Richard brought me a ripe soursop which he picked from a tree where he lives.

Without hesitation, Una offered to make soursop juice for me. She peeled the soursop, removing all the bumpy skin with her fingers. She mashed the white insides in a bowl and added water as I did not want her to use milk. Many people prefer their soursop juice made with milk, but I like a more natural juice.

Una squeezed the pulp in the water and then strained it into a jug. She added a little fresh lime juice, grated ginger root, and sugar. And my juice was ready! It was simply delicious.

I thought that guests in Jamaica villas have so many wonderful opportunities to try things Jamaican. Ask your villa cook to make this for you. Sometimes, Tru Juice has soursop juice available and you can buy it at Villa Mart.

When is an Accommodation a Villa? In Jamaica, Size is not Everything!

2010-06-02T13:27:00.002-05:00

The word “villa” means different things in different parts of the World. It has evolved from its original Roman meaning of an upper-class country house to, in modern times, a specific type of detached suburban dwelling, and more specifically to vacation accommodation for the more affluent in society.

In order to clear up ambiguity, I want to pin down a definition of villa as it is used in Jamaica so when you book a vacation in Jamaica villas you can properly evaluate what you will be renting.

We can all agree that a villa is firstly a type of accommodation.
But is a tent in a campground a villa? Certainly not!

Is a tree house a villa? No.

So far it is easy to state what is NOT a villa. How about an apartment? Is an apartment a villa? I say no. We can therefore make some progress and agree that a villa is a house, standing on its own land space. It is not attached to any other building. But I am sure you will agree that every detached house is not a villa. So what makes a house a villa and not just a dwelling? In Jamaica, villas have a greater degree of luxury than most private dwellings.

So is it a matter of size since size often denotes luxury? While I would not call a twenty foot by twenty foot one bedroom dwelling a villa, this does not mean that there cannot be a one bedroom villa. But I would expect a one bedroom villa to be a very large house even though it only has one bedroom.

At the same time, I will hasten to add that not all large houses are villas. So size is not everything. A large house may not be luxurious and may not have the character of a villa.

So that is another element to consider when trying to determine if an accommodation is a villa - character.

I think a private swimming pool or plunge pool will make any large house a villa, as this amenity adds a great deal of luxury to the accommodation. Your own private pool is a great luxury.

Another element to consider is location. Is an accommodation in the heart of a busy city a villa? Or does it only become a villa when it is situated in a relaxing location, like the seaside, a lake, the bank of a river, in the mountains, etc.? I think so.

Therefore there are six factors to consider when trying to determine whether an accommodation is a villa or not:

1. Size
2. Detached with land space around it.
3. Private Pool
4. Amenities for vacationers
5. Designed for the affluent in society
6. Location

So here is my definition: A Jamaica villa is a large detached house designed for vacations with a swimming pool and other amenities, catering to the more affluent in society and located away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So when you book a vacation in Jamaica villas, now you know what you should get. And of course there are many Silver Sands villas to choose from.

If You Want the Silver Sands Beach to Yourself...

2010-05-31T04:10:00.001-05:00

Go down to the Silver Sands Beach early in the morning. You may have it all to yourself. Certainly, there will be no crowds.

The Silver Sands beach is the focal point of the development, consisting mainly of villas and cottages built on the low hills receding Southwards. None of these private homes are far from the beach. A short walk along quiet private roads will take you there.

Silver Sands has one of the most beautiful beaches in all Jamaica. Stroll down there from your Silver Sands villa or Silver Sands cottage and enjoy the peace and quiet in the early morning. When the sea is calm, enjoy watching the fishermen from the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands (nextdoor) tend their fish pots. Just after sunrise is best. Most people do not get to the beach until after 9:00 AM, by which time it is usually much warmer and the sea will most likely be getting choppy as the trade winds start to blow in.

See more of the Silver Sands beach.

Where is a Scotch Bonnet Not a Hat? In Jamaica Mon!

2010-05-30T13:38:00.000-05:00

When you are vacationing in a Silver Sands villa, your cook will be happy to purchase your groceries for you. Don’t be surprised if you see on the shopping list a very strange item - Scotch Bonnet.

Now you may wonder why the cook needs some kind of chef’s hat to prepare your vacation food. Is that going to affect the taste of your jerk chicken? Yes, it will, because this Scotch Bonnet has nothing to do with hats or Scotland. It is a very hot chili pepper that has a distinctive flavour and heat which make it essential for Jamaican cooking.

This pepper is called the Scotch Bonnet because it is not thin and long like most chilies, but does look like a squashed Scottish hat. It. These peppers may be red or yellow when ripe, and about one inch in diameter at the widest.

The Scoville scale is a measurement of the spicy heat of a chili pepper according to its capsaicin content. Capsaicin is a chemical compound that stimulates chemoreceptor nerve endings in the skin, especially the mucous membranes. The number of Scoville heat units (SHU) indicates the amount of capsaicin present.

The Scotch Bonnet pepper has a Scoville rating from 100,000 to 350,000 units, making it at least forty times hotter than most jalapeno peppers. Now that is hot!

The Scotch Bonnet pepper is often cut up or ground up with other items to season ingredients before cooking. Jamaica’s famous jerk recipes all contain Scotch Bonnet peppers. You just cannot make good jerk without it. Jamaicans will also put a whole Scotch Bonnet in a pot of stew or fish “tea” (fish tea is soup) and, providing it does not burst, it will impart its unique flavour without making the dish hot.

True pepper lovers will eat Scotch Bonnet raw with their food. Here is how you may try to do this. Simply slice the Scotch Bonnet thinly and chop these slices into very small pieces. Sprinkle these pieces over your favourite dish and mix it in. Your food will instantly have that unique hot Scotch Bonnet flavour.

Another way to enjoy the unique flavour of Scotch Bonnet peppers is to make a pepper sauce from them. Get a bunch of the peppers, wash them thoroughly, and then grind them in a blender or food processor with a little vinegar or water to make a thick paste. Store in a small covered bottle in the refrigerator and apply as needed to your cooking or cooked food.

Be sure to wear gloves when handling the peppers! And keep away from your eyes.

By the end of your stay in Silver Sands villas and cottages, you will want to take home a bottle of that pepper sauce made from fresh Scotch Bonnet peppers. There are also many good brands of factory-made scotch bonnet pepper sauce available in Jamaican supermarkets.

Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off Winners

2010-05-29T06:07:00.000-05:00

The Mysilversands Team on the Patio at Silver Sands

Labour Day, Monday May 24, 2010 was a beautiful calm day at Silver Sands Jamaica. This sunny beach day had replaced the unseasonal rough and windy weather experienced over the previous two weeks. It was a perfect setting for the first ever Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off, which was held on the patio at Silver Sands.

The judges relax on the Patio after handing down their decision.

Left to right: Leonie Rose, Matthew Tansky, Emil George, and Sharon Chong

Twelve competitors delivered their breads and the judges were briefed, and given a bottle of water to clear their palettes in-between tastings.

Judging the spread

All entries were numbered and none of the judges or spectators knew which villa cook had prepared which bread.

The twelve contestants were:
Constance Hanshaw - Tu Mac
Vanessa Vassell - Blue Moon
Jennifer Gomez - Roots
Lorna Vincent - Honeycomb
Jennifer Dixon - Seagull
Elaine Wilson - Saltash
Una Barrett - Endless Summer
Darnet Wray - Hang Time
Elaine Decambre - Tia Maria
Yasmin Irwin - Oh Boy
Karla Hudson - Ebb Tide
Evadney Hudson - Quarter Deck

Tyrone (right) introduces Emil George, home owner (centre), while Prem looks on.

Tyrone played old Jamaican reggae ballads in the background as the judges contemplated the banana breads. A heavenly aroma wafted around the Reception Desk where the banana breads were displayed. Eventually the prize for best presentation was awarded to Elaine Wilson of Saltash Villa.

Best Presentation - Elaine Wilson of Saltash Villa

Elaine Wilson (left) of Salt Ash receives her cash prize for best presentation from Angella.

The judges tasted and tasted and clearly had a hard time choosing the top three banana breads. They took their time and deliberated before handing in their decision. Mr. Emil George acted as chairman of the judges and announced the winners. Angella presented the prizes to:

Third Place - Elaine DeCambre of Tia Maria Villa
Second Place - Una Barrett of Endless Summer Villa
First Place - Lorna Vincent of Honeycomb Villa

Elaine DeCambre of Tia Maria, third place winner

Una Barrett of Endless Summer Villa, second place winner

Lorna Vincent of Honeycomb Villa, first place winner

Enthusiastic applause greeted each winner. The ladies became very emotional and a tear or two became evident. Lorna thrilled the audience with a short acceptance speech.

Lorna makes a speech!

The winner of the Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off

All the staff of Mysilversands were happy to show their appreciation to the wonderful cooks of the Silver Sands villas and Silver Sands cottages. The cooks gathered together after the presentation to chit chat, congratulate each other, taste the entries, and exchange tips. It was wonderful to see them enjoy the contest and the well-deserved recognition from Mysilversands.

Desmond Cooper Repairs His Boat on the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-28T07:56:00.000-05:00

On one of my early morning walks, I strolled out of the Silver Sands gate and headed right, down the road leading to the Fisherman's Beach at the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands. I saw Desmond Cooper, aka Blue, carefully repair his boat, making a fiberglass patch on the bottom where he suspected there was a crack.

Desmond made this boat from two old sunfish sailboats. He cut off the bow from one and cut off the stern from the other, and joined the longer parts of each together in order to maximize the length of his boat. Then he built up the sides with wood, which he covered with fiberglass.

Desmond, ever resourceful, also prepared his fish net with floats made from old bits of flip-flops (plastic slippers).

University of San Diego Jamaica Study Abroad Program

2010-05-22T12:59:00.001-05:00

This is just a quick note to let you know how excited I am to bring my group back to Silver Sands in June of 2008 and to thank you for all that you have done to help make my program function smoothly. Booking our Silver Sands accommodations through you and your company has been a breeze and I genuinely appreciate your attentiveness, flexibility, and willingness to answer my many questions over the past couple of years. Working with you has truly made my job that much easier.

As you know, this will be the third consecutive summer that the University of San Diego Jamaica study abroad program will be on the island and, more importantly, based at Silver Sands. Last year, my group of 20 students and 3 faculty members occupied 5 of your villas for 2 ½ weeks, and we have planned for a similarly sized contingent this upcoming year. We are returning to Silver Sands because, quite simply, I cannot imagine a location that better suits our group needs. Each of the eight different villas we have occupied over the past two years has been spacious and comfortable, and each with its own unique style. The on-property staff at Silver-Sands is super-friendly, gracious, and accommodating. And I cannot say enough about how lovely the women who staff the individual villas are and how well they have treated every member of my group.

Silver Sands’ location in the Duncans/Falmouth area is ideal. It is an easy and relatively short trip to the Montego Bay airport or to Ocho Rios, but far enough off the beaten tourist path so that it does not feel like a typical tourist destination with all of the hustle and prefabricated tourist trappings. Further, the five minute trip up into Duncans and the ten minute trip over to Falmouth provide a real sense of authentic North-coast Jamaican life, something you do not get at the mega-resorts.

As far as the actual property is concerned, Silver Sands is simply serene, lush, and beautiful. It is tranquil, safe, and everything a small group may need can be found on property. There are ample open areas for group meetings, but there are also plenty of spaces for individuals to get away from the group and simply relax, quietly read, or take a swim in the crystal clear Caribbean. Over the past several years, I have traveled all around the Northern and Western parts of Jamaica and have not found any place that comes close to Silver Sands in meeting the comfort, convenience, and hospitality needs of my group. Ironically, a couple of months ago, I was speaking with a friend about his family reunion last year. He mentioned the he and 20 or so relatives had the most fantastic time in Jamaica. Since I have some familiarity with the island, I asked where they were in Jamaica. His response, Silver Sands. I should have known!

For professional and personal reasons, I attend group meetings, conferences, and other gatherings several times over the course of the year. In my opinion, Silver Sands in the ideal location for group events like my study abroad program, but it is also ideal for retreats, family reunions, and any other small to medium sized group affairs. Even for people who were not considering Jamaica as the location for their events, they perhaps should. Airfare from the States to Montego Bay is comparable if not cheaper than travel within the United States (this past August I flew from Los Angeles to Jamaica for $375), and accommodations at Silver Sands actually work out to be far more cost effective than traditional hotel lodging in the States or in the Islands.

I actually hasten to send you this note because I selfishly don’t want to spoil the good thing we have going in Jamaica. But since you and the staff at Silver Sands have been so wonderful to us, I figure giving you your due praise is worth the risk.

Sincerely,
Rafik Mohamed
San Diego/Los Angeles, California, USA
November 2007

When the Customer is Not Always Right

2010-05-21T17:39:00.000-05:00

When I was a teenager, I spent a few of my long summer school holidays working at my father’s business in Kingston, Jamaica. I know this sounds lame, but other jobs were scarce, and since I lived at home with my parents, my traveling to work costs were zero, making it the most favourable economic opportunity.

I have loads of memories from those summer jobs, but every time I hear “The customer is always right”, I remember one particular experience that really surprised me.

A repeat customer was at the factory outlet making his usual purchases when he became very angry with the employee serving him, and he embarked on a loud tirade of abuse and indecent language. My father happened to be passing by, and when he heard and saw what was going on, he went straight over to the customer. What did he do? Did he try to find out what was wrong and why the customer was so angry? Did he try to calm him down and perhaps get another employee to serve him?

No! None of the above. My father raised his voice above the customer’s and told him that he did not care what his problem was or what mistake his employee had made, that he would not stand by and allow anyone to treat his employees in that manner in his place of business. My father then invited the customer to leave immediately.

Shocked, the customer stormed out. My father did not say another word, but turned around and walked back to his office. As he disappeared in the distance, the other employees who had witnessed the scenario, burst into applause.

So much for “the customer is always right”! Did my father do the right thing? Well, his employees certainly thought so. And I certainly had a gut feeling that he did.

We are all customers sometimes. Customers are just people, and people are sometimes wrong. So customers cannot always be right, unless you sell out your dignity and integrity.

In the travel industry, more and more customers have taken on board this mantra that the customer is always right, and their complaints and demands have reached new heights of the ridiculous. Thus the Telegraph was prompted to feature this article: “20 Ridiculous Complaints Made by Holidaymakers”.

Here are some gems which I have experienced:
1. A customer reported, “The hike in the mountains was lovely with beautiful views, but the trail was too uneven and rocky. You really need to pave it.”
2. A couple complained that we should do something about the smell of smoke when a family staying in another villa two hundred yards away were enjoying a barbecue.
3. A customer given an on-the-spot gift of a free kayak rental decided he didn’t want it, and demanded to be compensated in cash.

Of course, many times the customer is right and shoddy customer service should be criticized with the offending company bearing the costs of their failures. But isn’t it time that customers realize they are not always right and that there are companies and employers who will stand up to them?

When a customer complains about an employee, employers should carefully evaluate the charges made by someone he does not know (the customer) with the character of the employee whom he does know. Clearly, the employer should place greater trust in the experience he has of his employee than a complete stranger who may just be having a bad day.

Proof that my father’s action was correct is the fact that the customer returned a few weeks later. He didn’t apologize outright but muttered something about being in a bad mood the last time he visited. All the employees behaved as though the incident never happened and graciously served him then and for a long time afterward. The customer did not ever behave badly again.

At Mysilversands, we welcome your feedback as we are always working very hard to improve the services we offer.

Why Jamaicans Suck Oranges

2010-05-19T20:47:00.000-05:00

In Jamaica, oranges are not orange. Well, not that bright uniform orange colour that you see in developed countires, like the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

I once overheard a group of tourists in Jamaica joking that they were going to the market to buy greens, meaning oranges, because that is usually the colour of oranges in Jamaica. Yes, oranges in Jamaica are mostly green in colour with variations from yellow to brown. And the colour is uneven too.

To an unaccustomed eye, this variation in colour may not look attractive, and perhaps that’s why producers selling oranges to the developed World have transformed them into a consistent uniform orange “product”.

Furthermore the skin of that exported orange that you buy in supermarkets in the developed countries just peels off with your fingers as the white pith under the peel is very thick. You can’t do that with a Jamaican orange as the pith is thin. If you try to tear off the skin with your fingers, you may break your fingernails, and you will certainly make a mess. If you want to peel a Jamaican orange you need a sharp knife and a great degree of skill.

More affluent Jamaicans will juice oranges into a jug, store in their fridge, and consume it just as people in developed countries do with store-bought cartons of orange juice. But ordinary Jamaicans don’t do that - they suck oranges! And to suck an orange, you have to peel it with a sharp knife to remove the bitter tasting rind.

If you are right-handed, you hold the knife in your right hand and in your left hand, you hold the orange with the spot, where the stem once attached it to the tree, at the top. Starting from there, you cut away the skin, going round and round until you get to the bottom, making sure to keep the knife within the pith.

A skillful Jamaican will peel the orange so all the skin comes off in one long piece and without cutting too deep through the pith to expose any of the flesh of the fruit. When I was a child, my friends and I would compete to see who could remove the peel in one continuous piece. The peel would then be hung up to dry out and later used in baking. And even today, when I peel an orange, I always try to get the rind off in one long piece.

When peeled like this, the green orange will look like a white orange. The orange is then cut into halves through the thickest point, not through the top where the stem was attached.

Each half is then sucked. Not elegant, but what a taste! And of course, you get all the natural goodness of the fruit fresh from the tree. Some people will even peel back the pith and eat the insides completely, being left only with what looks like a yarmulke or skullcap.

That’s how ordinary Jamaicans enjoy oranges - they do not squeeze them and drink the juice from a glass, nor do they peel them with fingers and eat the pegs or segments.

If you have never sucked an orange, you probably will not believe that Jamaican oranges taste so much better than the product available in supermarkets in developed countries. I urge you to try a Jamaican orange the Jamaican way. There is nothing like sinking your teeth into the fruit and feeling the juicy flesh and bits being chewed up in your mouth.

When Jamaicans residing abroad return home for a visit, they cannot wait to get their hands on some oranges. Now you know why.

If you are visiting and staying in a Jamaica rental like Silver Sands villas or Silver Sands cottages, get some oranges and give it a try!

Puty's Woodcraft, Shop #8, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-19T20:06:00.001-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 8: Puty's Woodcraft Shop

Proprietor: Moputu Purrier, aka Puty
(876) 861 9915

Message from Puty:
"First I want to say "big up" to Mr. Chadeesingh for offering us this opportunity.

I can do ANY type of custom woodwork, beautiful art work....just name it and it is done. See you on the beach!!"

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Markcraft - Handmade in Jamaica

2010-05-17T17:48:00.002-05:00

Mark Lindsay, the driver, has a little-known side to his life. He is a highly skilled craftsman.

When he is not transporting visitors from Silver Sands villas and Silver Sands cottages around in his bus, he walks the beaches of Trelawny, searching for shells from which he fashions beautiful and unique earrings, keyrings and necklaces. He also uses the horns of cows and coconut shells.

All items are handmade by Mark himself. No two items are identical.

Available at Villa Mart, the on-site convenience store at Silver Sands Jamaica.
Earrings, US$5.00 Necklaces, US$6.00 Keyrings, US$4.00

Maintaining the Fabulous Silver Sands Beach

2010-05-14T11:43:00.002-05:00

At times, Silver Sands is a very windy place. Windsurfing enthusiasts love it. When windsurfers are flying over the sea, the sunbathers on the beach wish it would calm down a bit.

This strong breeze blows the sand off the beach unto the surrounding areas, and a few times every year corrective action is taken to put this sand back onto the beach and into the sea.

Over the last few days, a backhoe was used to level the beach and surrounding areas and dump the excess sand back into the sea. This is an important bit of maintenance that is required to keep the Silver Sands beach in top condition.

And of course the daily raking and removal of washed-up seaweed and other debris by the maintenance crew hired by the Silver Sands Cottage Owners Association keeps the Silver Sands beach ready for our visitors.

Visit Silver Sands villas and Silver Sands cottages.

Walton, Shop #6, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-12T08:20:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 6: Walton Shop

Proprietor: Walton Spence, aka Brother Wallie
(876) 397 9273

Message from Walton:
"I am Walton and I just want to tell you that you are all welcome to view my works of art, whether you are buying or not....come and have a look and ask any questions of your choice. I await your visit!!!"

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off

2010-05-10T10:27:00.000-05:00

The Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off will be held on Monday May 24, Labour Day.
Judging will take place between 12 noon and 1:00 PM, when the prize winners will be announced.

Mysilversands will provide cash prizes for the winners.

Villa cooks are already registering.
We have organized Tyrone to be the MC.
Lots of fun in store!

If you can make it to Silver Sands Villas and Silver Sands Cottages on Monday May 24, we look forward to welcoming you there.

Snorkeling is Easy and So Much Fun

2010-05-09T15:40:00.001-05:00

Snorkeling is a great sport for almost anyone who can swim. I am not a strong swimmer, and I started snorkeling fairly late in life. It's an undemanding sport with enormous rewards. Best of all, Silver Sands Jamaica provides a variety of snorkeling experiences for the novice as well as the more advanced snorkeler. Just off shore is a small discontinuous coral reef, and further off shore but easily accessible by boat (or by swimming but why waste your energy getting there?) is a larger more continuous reef.

Snorkeling equipment consists of face mask, snorkel, and flippers. While your pleasure at pursuing any sport is directly related to the quality of your equipment, never was that more true than in the case of snorkeling equipment. A leaky or improperly fitting mask or a leaky snorkel means that you spend all your time treading water vainly adjusting your equipment rather than looking at the fish. If you're near sighted or don't wear your contact lenses in the water (which you are not supposed to do, but my daughters always have and it's never been a problem), you'll be happier if you purchase a face mask with your subscription in it. If you are just a bit nearsighted you probably won't have a problem because water magnifies, but if you have much of a prescription, order a customized mask (which may take up to 6 weeks, so don't try to make this a last minute purchase). They are surprisingly cheap considering what normal glasses cost and make all the difference.

Seven or eight in the morning is a great time to snorkel because it is usually calm then, and you don't have to worry about sunburn on your back and arms. Also you can snorkel, take a shower, have a luscious breakfast in your Jamaica villa, and have the rest of the day for whatever else you choose to do. If the sea is calm enough, you can snorkel anytime, but later in the day you must protect yourself from sunburn with a lot of lotion and/or a tee shirt.

It is very easy to simply walk into the Caribbean Sea from the shore and casually snorkel for as long you wish. The "startup costs" only involve putting on your snorkeling equipment and a pair of beach shoes, modified flippers, or regular flippers (in which case you have to walk in backwards to make any progress).

Never touch the coral. Besides the fact that you'll damage the ecology of the area by doing that, you could get stung or have a piece of coral embedded in you. Don't go close to or among the coral until you've learned how to handle your body in the buoyant salt water, and keep your distance particularly when it is rough.

Never snorkel alone. It is so easy to swim in salt water and the whole experience is so enthralling and benign, after a time or two, it is easy to lose your natural sense of caution. Make it a never-to-be-broken rule to never snorkel alone.

Wear a life jacket if you're going some place you haven't gone before, or if it is rough, or if you just want to be a bit lazy and not have to move to stay in place.

Never touch or provoke the fish or other animals.

Fire coral, spiny fish, anything really ugly. If it's really ugly or has spiky things coming out of it, stay away. Without exception, none of the sea creatures is eager to take a "fish" of your size on. They will only attack if you mess with them or corner them.

There are some little things that look like jelly fish (transparent) but they do not have tentacles and don't sting. There are very occasional jelly fish, mostly when the water gets warmer, but they are very rare. You just have to be careful to stay away from tentacles, and leave the area. With all the snorkeling I've done I've never been stung.

Snorkeling while staying in our Jamaica Villas is definitely a must-do activity, and Silver Sands Villas provides snorkeling right off the Silver Sands Beach.

Special thanks to Marnie Mueller, Jamahome.

Jennifer's Wool-Mart, Shop #5, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-08T20:35:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 5: Jennifer's Wool-Mart

Proprietor: Jennifer Clarke
(876) 397 4759

Message from Jennifer:
"I am Jennifer from the J.T.B. and I want to specially invite you to our craft shops and to Silver Sands and Jamaica on a whole.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be displaying our items in this manner and
we look forward to your support."

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

One Love Store, Shop #4, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-07T12:17:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 4: One Love Store

Proprietor: Marilyn Gayle, aka Dawn
(876) 419 5073

Message from Dawn:
"I want to welcome you to Jamaica's One Love Store, where you get warm, friendly and a welcoming customer service attitude.

The more you smile.....The less you Pay!!!

Below are some of my items on display."

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Fishermen on The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-05-03T18:20:00.001-05:00

Next door to Silver Sands, a small fishing village thrives. Over forty registered fishermen operate from the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands.

The day's catch.

If you are an early riser, you will see many of them launching their small boats off the beach. They ride out to check on their fishpots and return several hours later with the day's catch of fish and lobster.

Mas Erville shows off a lobster.

The fishermen help each other draw up their boats on the beach.

The public crowds the boats when the fishermen land to bargain for the best of the day's catch.

You can witness the activity on the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands yourself. Its just a short stroll from Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off

2010-04-30T03:45:00.000-05:00

Reacting to the incredible buzz from our guests on the skills of various cooks at Silver Sands, Mysilversands has launched the Mysilversands Banana Bread Bake-off.

This is a competition open to all cooks employed in the villas and cottages at Silver Sands.

The competition will be held on Monday May 24 '10, Labour Day.

The cooks have responded with equal buzz and even though the application forms have not yet been made available, over 16 cooks have already registered to take part in this contest.

Judges will be drawn from volunteer tourists and home owners. If you would like to be one of the judges, send me an email. prem@mysilversands.com

While there will be prizes and certificates to recognize the most talented cooks, the emphasis on this event is FUN!

This event will be held at the Club House Complex at Silver Sands villas and cottages by the sea.

More details will follow.

Green Dolphin, Shop #3, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-04-29T11:34:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 3: Green Dolphin

Proprietor: Lincoln Sinclair, aka Buds
(876) 892 8234 or (876) 376 2730

Message from Buds:
"I am affectionately called Buds and I want to welcome you to Silver Sands and Jamaica.

We are indeed very grateful for the opportunity that Mr. Chadeesingh has given us to display our natural skill.

Come on in and take a look....One Love from Jamaica!!"

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

Munches Caribbean, Shop #2, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-04-26T07:58:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 2: Munches Caribbean

Proprietor: Dihann Clarke
(876) 506 3373

Message from Dihann:
"I am Dihann, owner of Munches Caribbean Craft Shop. I specialize in wood craft, clothing & jewelry.

I wanna welcome you to Jamaica & The J.T.B. where you will receive friendly and warm services.

Here are some of my items on display."

You will find the Jacob Taylor Beach, aka the Fisherman's Beach, a couple hundred yards down the road just before the entrance to Silver Sands villas and cottages.

One Son Wood Carving, Shop #1, Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands

2010-04-21T04:03:00.000-05:00

This blog post is a free community service to the small business men and women who operate at The Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands, also known as the Fisherman's Beach.

Shop No. 1: One Son Wood Carving

Proprietors: Marquise McCalla and Mowatt Purrier
(876) 882 7976

Message from the Proprietors:
"Hello, I am Marquise, please see samples of my work below and I am looking forward to meeting you and welcoming you to Jamaica, to look at our beautiful hand crafts."

Visit the Jacob Taylor Beach at Silver Sands Jamaica.

The Royal Visit by Eileen Clarke

2010-04-19T12:38:00.000-05:00

About 1954
When the Huggins were in residence and owned the Silver Sands property, Jamaica was then still a British Colony with an English Governor. The Governor was informed of the proposed visit of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. They would land by plane in Montego Bay and proceed by car to Kings House (the Governor’s Residence) in the Kingston area. This was about a 3 hour car journey and it was suggested that a suitable private luncheon stop be provided; the key word being PRIVATE. The Huggins agreed to the conditions and that if they failed the arrangement would be canceled.

They had several months in which to make all the arrangements, which began with sprucing up the road and the gardens. Next they invited about 20 trustworthy friends to help with all the arrangements, provisions and actual luncheon for about 100 people. My husband, Owen Clarke and I were among the friends invited to help. He was put in charge of the bar, while my job was flowers and decorations. Others were dealing with security, food and various supplies – the latter involving such things as large quantities of china, glassware, cutlery and towels. As a “thank you” gift we were given some of these purchases afterwards: I got some demitasse cups and saucers, dessert plates, menus and pictures, most of which were destroyed in the 1988 hurricane.

I can’t remember how we decorated the cottage, bar, lunch table etc, but do recollect that they all looked lovely. We started the day before, and a lot of the cooking was also finished that day so that we could be ready by 11am the day of. It was a beautiful day but windy so when we heard that the entourage had left Mo Bay I went to the Queens’s Cottage to check on the flowers etc. As I entered a large man emerged from the bedroom and enraged I snarled at him “What the heck are you doing in here?” whereupon, looking amused he presented me with a card from his pocket and replied “I might ask you the same thing Madame – I am from Scotland Yard (top notch British Secret Service)!” Whereupon we both had a good laugh and checked the other cottages – The Duke’s, Governors’, ladies in waiting’s and equerries’.

Soon the party arrived and were greeted by the Huggins and shown to their cottages. Some decided to swim and others met on the patio. Drinks were ordered and a minor panic ensued. Owen had amassed every conceivable wine, liquor and soft drink he could think of and the Queen ordered fresh orange juice!! Dismay! Somehow they found a few oranges somewhere and managed with great composure to serve the Queen with her choice.

At the luncheon only the Royals, the Governor and his wife were seated and served. The rest had to help themselves from the buffet. Kathleen Swaby served the Queen while I ostensibly served the Duke. I was so busy admiring him that when we got to the buffet table I whispered to Kathleen that I didn’t know what he ordered! Fortunately she did!

From what I remember of the menu we had served Jamaican dishes including salt fish, ackees, roasting pig, yams, breadfruit, coconut jelly, guavas and baked bananas. The Queen had ham, chicken and everything conservative while the Duke had pig and guavas. All went well and after a brief rest the party left for Kingston.

We all pitched in, tidying and washing up. We then met in the bar to destroy what we could of the wine and liquor collection! Owen and I set off for Worthy Park early as the next day was a busy one, ending with a ball at the Governor’s House for all the Jamaican big-wigs to meet the Royals.

Clues to the Jetty - How has it changed?

2010-04-15T08:33:00.002-05:00

Persons who visit Silver Sands at various times of the year know that the beach changes throughout the year.

In the Summer months, the beach is usually very deep and extends from the Jetty to the front of Queen's Cottage. In the Winter months, it is usually long and narrow, extending from the Jetty all the way to the front of Santa Margherita at times. That's a very significant change, perhaps doubling in length, and it is caused by strong winds and rough seas shifting the sand from the West of the Jetty to the East.

When the Silver Sands beach was long and narrow with the sand shifted as described above, I discovered the remains of a structure below the surface of the sea . It was a calm day, when the tide was very low and the sea was particularly clear. I saw signs that the Jetty at Silver Sands was not always the way it is now.

There appears to be, under the water, the remains of a wall extending North, then making a right angle West to join the existing Silver Sands Jetty.

The straight edge of the stones indicates that this was man-made. And South of the foundation, there is still a lot of stones that must have been used as fill. This foundation and fill are usually all covered by the white sand, which had shifted to the East.

If anyone knows anything about the Jetty and how it was originally built, or the origins of this foundation wall below sea level, I would love to hear from you. If you have photos, we could share them with the Silver Sands community.

How You Can Stop Sandflies From Ruining Your Beach Vacation

2010-04-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

Sandflies can be a nuisance and in a few cases quite a problem, so it is best to be aware that they exist and learn what you can do to ensure they do not ruin your vacation. Most visitors to tropical climates are aware that there may be bugs with which they do not want to get too friendly. They are usually worried about mosquitoes, but few people are aware that sandflies can actually pose a bigger threat.

What is a sandfly?
People call all sorts of small biting insects sandflies. Wikipedia states: “Sandfly (or sand fly) is a colloquial name for any species or genus of flying, biting, bloodsucking Dipteran encountered in sandy areas.” Having lived at Silver Sands Jamaica for over seven years, I have a fair amount of experience with sand flies. They are difficult to see as they are much smaller than mosquitoes.

Why are sandflies a problem?
The female of the species bites and sucks your blood. The bite itself is not dangerous or very painful, but it can cause itching and in some people severe allergic reactions. If bites are scratched, they can get infected and become very painful. Some people do not seem to be bothered by sandflies at all while others are ravaged by these creatures. Locals do not seem to be affected, so it may be that they build up an immunity to sandfly bites.

Where and when are sandflies found?
Some people say they cannot fly, but jump. If they do fly, they cannot fly very far as sandflies will only be found very close to the wet sandy beaches and in vegetation like seaweed. So unless you have been sitting or lying on the beach, you will only get bitten around the ankles and feet. And only in the early hours of the morning and at dusk.

How can one protect oneself?
If you have an allergic reaction to sandfly bites, it is best for you to stay away from the beach at dawn and dusk. If that is not possible, then you should cover your body, especially your feet and lower legs. Socks and shoes on the beach may not look attractive, but it is better to look a bit strange than to be a meal for these creatures. There are many personal insect repellants that keep away sandflies, so investing in one that suits you is a good idea.

Because some people do not see sandflies and do not feel it when they are bitten, they may think that they have been bitten by bedbugs. I have consulted with the Trelawny Health Department in Jamaica and been advised that there has been no incidents of bedbugs reported for decades. I have visited a house at Silver Sands villas where visitors complained of bedbugs to see for myself. The visitors would not believe that they were bitten by sandflies, but the health inspector examined everywhere and found no trace of bedbugs. The inspector advised me that bedbugs are not too small to be seen and that you can smell their presence.

If you do return from your vacation and you develop itching bites which have become painful, it is best to see a doctor for professional advice and care. When you are enjoying a beach vacation in Jamaica, villas, cottages or apartments, it’s best to be aware and take precautions against sandflies, especially if you are predisposed to allergic reactions.

Silver Sands History by Eileen Clarke

2010-04-08T09:21:00.000-05:00

The Huggins from Trinidad then owned the whole Silver Sands property, which included the land up to the main road near Duncans and far enough West for them to have a herd of about 50 head of Brahmin cattle and some acres of “bush” where they hosted many pigeon shoots during the season.

They had found the ruins of a rum warehouse next to the pier (which was also in bad repair) and employed an architect to design a house in and around the rum warehouse. The latter then consisted of a long rectangle with many small round windows and only one door on the land side. This was converted (using the thick-walled rectangle) into a living room, 3 bedrooms and bathrooms, a small kitchen and a full-length narrow veranda facing the sea.

The Huggins lived in this for about 25 years, but left Jamaica when Robert Huggins developed heart trouble. By the time they left they had added the “club house” and bar, with kitchen, dining room, toilet facilities and a large patio. They had also built about six small cottages around the circular club house driveway, which they rented, mainly to tourists and which had been added to give their son Percy a job to do.

By the time the Huggins left, the Silver Sands Beach Club was a going local concern, the cattle business dispensed with and various buyers had bought various buildings and lots of land. The tourist appeal has continued to grow unto this day, despite Silver Sands having been sold and resold several times.

On one occasion the Huggins’ converted rum-warehouse home came up for sale and Worthy Park (a sugar estate), prompted by Owen Clarke, the then Manager, bought it as a holiday home for Worthy Park staff. Some years later, Worthy Park gave it to Owen Clarke as a retirement present when various improvements were made by him and he renamed it “Rum Jetty”.

Rum Jetty, February 2010