With a population of about 2 1/2 million inhabitants, Jamaica was the first island in the Caribbean to realise that its base infrastructure could be used for enticing visitors to their shores; it is the oldest and most venerable tourist destination and just about everyone makes a living from the influx during the tourist season. There are elegant hotels, hillside villas, exclusive all-inclusives, luxurious resorts and beach hotels and bungalows to fit any budget.
Jamaica gained its independence from Britain in 1962 and has certainly seen its share of political strife with its roller-coaster affect on its tourism industry.
The finest beaches are located along the north and west coasts with Negril's seven-mile long stretch of west coast beachfront easily laying claim to one of the top beach areas in the Caribbean.
