This was my 8th time to Jamaica and 7th to On Top of the World Jamaica Villa so I thought I would finally write a review.

This time began much like the rest with the driver picking us up from the airport. The transition from airport to van is easy. With some large airports the arrival area can be chaotic and overwhelming. Montego Bay airport is not that. The driver has always been waiting right as we enter the arrival area.

Once in the van it is a pretty smooth ride to the Villa now that the main roadway has been fixed up. I hear its about a 2 hour drive from the airport to the Villa, but I have never made it in less than 6 hours as we always stop at the local stops along the way and I would encourage other guests to do so as well. There are many bars and places to eat along the way that give you the true spirit of Jamaica. Drinks are cheap and you can usually barter on price, paying $200JMD or less for a Red Stripe, which is just over a dollar. This is much lower price than you would get in a more touristy place like Ocho Rios. Try a "cue" of white rum if you get a chance, it has a very unique taste and the locals claim it has many medicinal properties. The safe play is Appleton Rum, which tastes like a typical spiced rum.

Once at the Villa, we spend a fair amount of time just hanging out at the Villa relaxing on the veranda. The view is beautiful and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The first day we go to Port Maria and do the shopping for the week. I like the experiences of the town. Its one of the many free entertainment of Jamaica. Its a pretty active and fairly small downtown area so its easy to get around. There are usually a few tricksters on the street offering you some games to play. Shell game, cards, etc. If you choose to play, keep your wager fairly low as you are going to lose.

I've been to most of the attractions like Dunn's River Falls, Black Sand Beach, Boston Bay, etc. and they are all worth the visit, but mostly I just like sticking around the Port Maria area and hanging with the locals.

On the days that we don't have travel plans, we usually just walk down from the villa to one of the local shops, grab a Red Stripe, play dominoes and talk with the locals. Galley's is my favorite place.

If you are into the all inclusive resort thing, then this is not for you. If you like to experience the true Jamaican culture then you will be right at home On Top of the World.