February 26, 2021 • travel
Experience Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Like Ben Higgins on 'The Bachelor'
Some vacations are meant for exploration, others for relaxation. In Ocho Rios, Jamaica, you’ll get just the right amount of both.
From sitting in the sun just inches away from clear blue water to wandering through the beautiful green jungles, Jamaica is a romantic paradise for couples seeking the ultimate getaway. Visitors will have their fill of flavorful and fresh cuisine all while watching the sky transform into an amalgamation of colors at sunset.
Ben Higgins traveled to Ocho Rios for his Fantasy Suite dates and proposal on Season 20 of “The Bachelor,” and here’s how you can have just as romantic an experience!
Arrival
The beauty of resorts like Sandals Royal Plantation is that they’re the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. When you feel like sitting on the beach, grab a beach chair and lounge all day. If you’re getting an urge to snorkel, Sandals will provide you all the equipment and scenery you need.
From villas to oceanfront suites, Sandals Royal Plantation will be ideal for your romantic vacation to Jamaica. Now, get out your cutest bathing suit and hit the beach! Don’t forget your sunscreen!
One-on-One Date: Spice Up Your Life
Jamaica may be flanked by the Caribbean Sea, but there are also other bodies of water to explore in the area. After breakfast by the beach at Sandals, drive to the Martha Brae River, about 40 miles from Ocho Rios, for a rafting excursion. You and your date can enjoy a relaxing day on a bamboo raft or take a dip in the water. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll understand why visitors flock here to see the water as well as Miss Martha’s Herb Garden, whose plants supposedly have healing properties.
When you’re back on land, stop by a local restaurant for some traditional Jamaican grub, such as jerk chicken. Your relationship won’t be the only thing with some spice in it!
Head back to Sandals after your day on the water and make a reservation for a special and romantic dinner. To top it off, hand your date their very own Fantasy Suite card!
One-on-One Date: Save the Turtles
Jamaica is rife with wildlife, especially of the marine variety. Embrace your inner animal lover by spending a day with your date at Gibraltar Beach assisting baby sea turtles survive and make it back to the water safely. This can be a bonding exercise for you and your date, as well as a heartwarming way to see a softer side of each other!
After learning about saving baby turtles and why they’re often endangered, make your way to a local bar for some tropical drinks and reggae music. Dance your hearts out, hold each other close, and raise your glasses to a day of new adventures in your relationship. This is a one-on-one date all your friends will be jealous of!
One-on-One Date: Water-Falling in Love with You
You’ll find your fair share of stunning beaches in Ocho Rios, but if you want a change of scenery for even more turquoise water and white sand, take a ride to Negril on the other side of Jamaica. One great aspect about Negril is that you can go to the beach and the forest all within the same day.
Once you arrive in Negril, make your way over to some of the area’s famous waterfalls. You’ll be sure to have your fair share of romantic moments as you kiss and discuss your relationship with nature’s bountiful beauty surrounding you.
This date will feel just like a fantasy.
One-on-One Date: 'P' Is for Picnics and Proposals
Your time in Ocho Rios might be coming to an end, so make the best of it by chartering a catamaran and spending the day on the water. Pack a lunch and some bubbly and enjoy a meal on the warm sand nearby, raising a glass to your time together and this vacation that brought you even closer.
If you feel up for it, make a stop at some more waterfalls and take a dip in the water. Perhaps your special someone wants to ask a specific question about spending your lives together. If so, there’s no better time than sunset to do it!
Jamaica blends culture, romance, cuisine, and natural beauty for the vacation of a lifetime. If you and your loved one are looking for a getaway that oozes passion and playfulness, look no further than Ocho Rios.