Newbie First Trip to Negril In May - Where to Stay?

Hi all,

I've been lurking on the forum for a few days after deciding to spend a week in Negril this May. Great site!

I've always dreamed about Jamaica ever since listening to Bob Marley/Peter Tosh as a youth. :cool: Being a musician, I've really been inspired by reggae music and its culture.

Anyway, my wife and I thinking about a few places in Negril ... she wants to be on the beach, I was thinking I might prefer the cliffs. Of course, I have already lost this battle , LOL.

However, I would like to find a nice hotel on the beach that would be fairly peaceful, safe, and chill. This will be my first non-AI trip down south having been to Varadero, Cuba and the Mayan Rivera in Mexico in the past.
I plan to sample much of the local food, music, drink, flora, and fauna ... :D

Does anyone have any suggestions for a mid-price ($90-$160) lodging that is close to good music, but fairy laid back later in the evening? We are in our late 30s and like to party a bit, but would like a chill place during the day and a peaceful night sleep.

Also, any tips for a newbie couple from Nova Scotia, Canada would be greatly appreciated!
Peace and thanks!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SriJah

Hi all,

I've been lurking on the forum for a few days after deciding to spend a week in Negril this May. Great site!

I've always dreamed about Jamaica ever since listening to Bob Marley/Peter Tosh as a youth. :cool: Being a musician, I've really been inspired by reggae music and its culture.

Anyway, my wife and I thinking about a few places in Negril ... she wants to be on the beach, I was thinking I might prefer the cliffs. Of course, I have already lost this battle , LOL.

However, I would like to find a nice hotel on the beach that would be fairly peaceful, safe, and chill. This will be my first non-AI trip down south having been to Varadero, Cuba and the Mayan Rivera in Mexico in the past.
I plan to sample much of the local food, music, drink, flora, and fauna ... :D

Does anyone have any suggestions for a mid-price ($90-$160) lodging that is close to good music, but fairy laid back later in the evening? We are in our late 30s and like to party a bit, but would like a chill place during the day and a peaceful night sleep.

Also, any tips for a newbie couple from Nova Scotia, Canada would be greatly appreciated!
Peace and thanks!

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How about a split stay? You are at the beginning of low season and can stay at some nice places with that budget. I would look at either Country Country or Nirvana for the beach and Catcha Falling Star on the West End. The beach is more lively, so it's up to you which one you choose first. Country Country has a restaurant on site, Nirvana does not. However, Nirvana has the best beach in my opinion and has many food and drink options close by. Check out their websites to get a feel for each place.

For a nice place to chill on the beach we really like Idle Awhile, it's centrally located and has a nice beach with some shady spots, and a good restaurant too. (chill awhile) Check out these guys for some info on places to stay, they are great to deal with, and they are fellow Canadians :) we book through them every year.
http://www.negrilonestop.com/

Thanks for the tips. Its a difficult decision (but a fun one). I am considering the split stay, then we could get a feel for both spots.
Does anyone know what the average price for a meal is? I realize the are lots of options, but if I was to eat at a jerk chicken joint one meal and a resort restaurant the next ... what's the price spread? Also, what's best price/place to buy beer? :p
Pretty excited and the trip is still 9 months away.

Cliffs :::::>>>> catch a Falling Star. Breathtaking views, good food, excellent service! :::::: We just returned from our stay in sky cottage. It was awesome!
Beach :::::>>>>> Idle Awhile, Nirvavna, Charela Inn, White Sands, Rooms :::::: all good.

You can buy your beer at Wise Choice, right across the street from catcha. Stock that fridge up!

the beach II suggest Rondael Village for the cliffs I recommend Catcha gardens across the street from Catcha falling Star. Its cheaper if you are on a tight budget , nothing fancy but very nice ppl and safe and a big veranda and pool. You would love the 2 dogs there plus its across from LTU which is a must visit,esp. to mingle with the locals and learn a bit of culture

Beach: Negril Treehouse or Charela Inn
Cliffs: Blue Cave Castle

"Peaceful, safe & chill" = Catcha Falling Star (I hope my video upload works)

Srijah, If you can include the last Friday in April you'll hit the annual boardie bash. So much fun! As a musician you'll also appreciate "Drifters" for the sessions on Friday and Sunday afternooons. Lots of deals on the beach for May. Wait for a good one. Meals are@5-8$ local places up to 18-30$ seafood. Being from Halifax the seafood may disappoint. But I haven't had a bad meal ever in Negril. We love the beach (Treehouse) but almost always end up on the cliffs for dinner and bars. Most restaurants offer free pickup from the beach. For a special dinner or "last supper" you can't beat Ivan's at Catcha. Enjoy!