Hi all,
I would like to see Dunn's River Falls and do some shopping/eating afterwards. I want to be able to go at my own pace at the Falls and not have to wait for everyone. My question:
Would we be better off getting a taxi to and from the Falls to shopping/eating? Or is it better to do it the organized way?

Hi thebaron, welcome to Cruise-Chat. Jamaica is one place you do not want to venture on your own. If you take a cab, make sure they are licensed. Climbing the falls you will be in a group. They form a human chain and you ascend the falls at the rate of the slowest person in the chain. Stay in the tourist areas when shopping. Do try the jerk chicken or pork, it's great. Best wishes and have a wonderful time. Just treat Jamaica as a foreign country, with big city respect and you'll be fine. Once again, welcome aboard!

Hello thebaron, and welcom to cruise-chat from me also.

I was in Ocho Rios for the first time just a few weeks ago. I was apprehensive because of so many things I had read; but I must tell you we really loved it. It is a beautiful, lush area with turquoise water and white sand beaches.

Yes, you have to keep your wits about you and use your common sense, as you would in any foreign country, as Penny says. The street vendors can be aggressive and intimidating; but we found a firm "no" was all it took. The passengers with all the necklaces that night were the ones that made the mistake of showing an interest in the trinkets. Don't look interested unless you intend to buy.

There is no need for a ship excursion to do the Falls and shopping. Again, as Penny says, just make sure the cab is licensed; use the ones with the red license plates and agree on the fare first.

We loved Ocho Rios; I'm sure you will too.

Rick