Jamaica History

Sandals Shuttle - Mo Bay to Ocho Rios   

Included in the price of your Sandals vacation is the shuttle from the airport to the resort. The drive is about 2 hours with a stop at a roadside cafý and craft stand about halfway through the ride. The shops take USD and your should also tip your driver when you reach the resort. Many people complain about the drive and end up opting to take a short internal flight on their return trip. The major complaints: They drive like maniacs there compared to what we are used to in the US. They drive fast and the road is often narrow and very windy. But that is the way of life there and they know what they are doing. I really didn't mind the drive at all. I recommend sitting up front near the driver so you can learn all about the history and culture of the country. If you start talking to him he'll point out interesting thing along the way. They are constructing a new highway that will be straighter and wider, supposedly speeding up the drive, but probably won't be completed until 2004.

Swimming with Horses

A great way to learn a little about the history of the area and to get out and experience the wildlife is by taking a ride with Hooves Ltd. . They offer two different daily horseback tours in the Ocho Rios area. Private rides are also available. The Bush Doctor Mountain Trail takes visitors 1800 feet above sea level through the Jamaican forests. The guide shows you a different side of Jamaica, pointing out plants and trees along the way. The Heritage Beach Trail (the tour we took) starts at the historical Seville Estates in St. Ann. This is the oldest plantation house on the island and has been turned into a museum. After a guided tour of the museum you mount you ride and your guides take you on a trail ride through the forest down to beach where Columbus was shipwrecked (and incidentally spent a year of his life). At the beach you’re treated to Jamaican snacks while the horses get a little break before letting them out for a full-out gallop in the Caribbean Ocean. After the swim with your trusty steed, you ride back up to the Great House – affording a full tour of the plantation grounds and an amazing perspective of the coast. If you book the Heritage Beach Trail remember to bring a towel and to wear your bathing suit under your clothing. You will get wet! You can also wear shorts on this ride without worrying about chaffing, they drape your towel over the saddle (English) so you don’t rub against the stirrups.

The great thing about Hooves Ltd. is they rescue abused horses from all over the world and rehabilitate them on the island. I got to see a before and after picture of my mount and the transformation was extraordinary. They really care about these animals and treat them like family. The company is dedicated to giving these animals the life and retirement they deserve.

Equipment: They provide the horses and equipment. Just bring your bathing suit and a towel if you're taking the Heritage Beach ride. Transportation to and from your hotel and snacks on the beach are included in the price.

Both rides depart twice daily at 9:30 am 2:30 pm.

Phone: (876) 972-0905

Address: Shop #5, 61 Windsor Rd., St. Ann's Bay

Website: http://www.hoovesjamaica.com/ Other Contact: inquiries@hoovesjamaica.com