By Janet Silvera, Freelance WriterWESTERN BUREAU:
AFTER TAKING the runner-up slot last year, Jamaica is back atop the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine's "Best of the Caribbean 2003", upstaging several other regional islands, including Aruba and the Bahamas, which placed second and third respectively.
In the March issue of the reputable magazine that polls an "avalanche" of readers all over the United States, Jamaica took the coveted top position for its many and varied attractions and the hospitality of its people.
Among the attractions highlighted were the spectacular Blue Mountains, the island's golden beaches, elegant houses and the all-encompassing all-inclusives, world-class golf courses, throbbing reggae music, lively culture, cliff-top bars, classic local cuisine and friendly people.
The Caribbean Travel and Life quote read, "being friendly comes easily to Jamaicans, who always seem ready with a smile and a laugh. They are genuinely proud of their island home and eager to welcome tourists. The mellow 'No Problem' vibe is real and Jamaicans inspire visitors to adopt the same attitude while they are there."
SuperClubs Grand Lido Negril, Sandals Negril, Appleton Estate Rum, Red Stripe and Rick's Cafe, were among the outstanding winners that championed the country's unprecedented victory.
The 210-room Grand Lido was awarded, Top Place for Luxury all-inclusive, Top Wedding Resort Venue and placed second as a Honeymoon Resort.
Sandals Negril kept the Jamaican flag high by copping second place, boasting all the prime all-inclusive amenities and prime spot on a seven-mile beach.
The couples-only resort also ran second in the romantic all-inclusive category. The Gordon 'Butch' Stewart-led Sandals chain scored big points among the active travellers who said its complimentary scuba diving and golf at some resorts made it special.
Rick's Cafe, Negril, was voted best place to watch the sun set, for the third year, while local rum, Appleton, earned top honours as best rum and Red Stripe which was labelled, "Hurray for Beer" was described as "Red Stripe is Jamaica for beer".
Special mention was made of the elegant and laid-back Jamaica Inn Hotel in Ocho Rios, which reportedly continues to command attention and is a consistent favourite of those who can afford to vacation there.
And although the island is in the top position, it was disturbing to note it received no awards in the area of ecotourism. Instead, the environmentally friendly Maho Hotel in Aruba walked away with the first prize for another year.
