Review of Mandeville

Mandeville, Jamaica – a Tourist Haven

Oct 13, 2009 Loraine R. Degraff

Nestled high in the mountains, clean and refreshing, Mandeville contrasts greatly with other Jamaican cities. This quaint community is one of Jamaica's hidden treasures.

The quaint community of Mandeville, devoid of exploitation, is a tourist haven. It is set amid beautiful gardens and exotic fruits trees in heart of Jamaica’s citrus industry. The center of the bauxite industry, Mandeville boasts the highest standard of living on the island. It also has the lowest crime rate. It is often referred to as “English Town” because of its lingering British influence. It is located 600 miles above sea level, making it the highest (and the coolest) town on the island. Visitors to Mandeville can delight themselves in a number of activities which include golf, tennis, and horseback riding. Visiting Jamaica? Visit Mandeville – the perfect spot for a relaxing, stress-free vacation.

Hotels and Lodgings in Mandeville, Jamaica

Mandeville offers a variety of options for lodging. Bed and breakfast accommodations can be found at Hotel Villa Bella. Located 13 miles from Mandeville and 3,000 feet above sea level, this Inn is the perfect semblance of country catering. For a home away from home, reservations can be made at the Parrot Villa in Button Bay Beach Getaway. Parrot Villa offers a fully equipped kitchen and internet access. The Mandeville Hotel blends modern convenience with traditional Jamaican elegance. A stay at the Mandeville Hotel makes guests feel as though they are on top of the mountain, and indeed they will be. Convenience, tradition, or both can be found in a Mandeville accommodation. Rates run about $51-175 (U.S.) per night.

Restaurants and Dining in Mandeville, Jamaica

Delectable International-Caribbean cuisine is served at the elegant Bloomfield Great House. Many consider Bloomfield House to be Mandeville’s finest restaurant. Entrees include filet mignon with roasted guava sauce and grilled pork chops stuffed with tropical fruits. Guests can dine in the elegantly refurbished dining room or the open-air verandah overlooking the beautiful Mandeville landscape. The price range is $30-45 (U.S.). Location: Mandeville, 8 Berth Road, 876 962 7130

Dining at the Nasturtium Room is like being transported back in time. Visitors are waited on and entertained in style. The charming ambiance is one not soon forgotten. The Nasturtium offers old-fashioned hospitality and great food. Featured dishes include chicken Szhechuan, lobster fettucine, and shrimp Creole. Price range is $30-45 (U.S.). The restaurant is open 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. daily, with High tea at 4:30 p.m.

Attractions and Things to do in Mandeville, Jamaica

Tarzan’s Orchid Forest in Mandeville is a must-see. A guided tour through this beautiful garden will reveal three levels of exotic and unusual plants. Mrs. Alberga, gracious owner and hostess, particularly enjoys showing off her orchids, which are creatively hung about the garden in every conceivable manner. Please make appointments 24-hours in advance to view this spectacular sight. Entrance fee is $10 (U.S.).

Milk River Mineral Spa, Clarendon is a popular spot. The radioactivity levels in these natural waters are higher than any other spa in the world. Take a visit and soak away all aches and pains. Call for admission rates at 876 924 9544. The spa is open daily from 7:00 a.m. – to 7:00 p.m.

Acres of land and a lake surrounding a great plantation house – that’s Apple Valley Park. At Apple Valley there is camping, fishing, hiking and horseback riding. Guests can listen to songbirds by day and to musical entertainment in the evenings. A tractor-pulled tour of the Black River Gorge is a popular attraction. The Black River is the longest river in Jamaica. Call for admission rates at 876 963 9508. Apple Valley Park is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; weekends 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Roxborough Great House is a historical attraction. Once a part of the old Roxboro Castle, these remains serve as a reminder of Jamaica’s great architectural past. The property was owned by the nationally known Manly family in the late 1800’s, but was destroyed by fire in 1968. Current plans are being developed by the National Heritage Trust to restore the estate to its pristine glory.

Insider Tips and Activities for Mandeville, Jamaica

Guests that are interested in seeing a manatee can visit Alligator Hole on a late afternoon. This is a small nature park. Don’t worry if the manatees are not out. The crocodiles are plenty and are sure to generate attention. The park is open daily, admission is free.

Nature lovers flock to Mandeville. Twenty-three bird species can be found in Mrs. Stephenson' Garden. Garden lovers can leisurely stroll the fragrant fields. This garden has won many prizes from the Mandeville Horticultural Society. The gardens are filled with beautiful orchids as well as delicious ortaniques. The ortanique, developed in Mandeville, is a unique cross between an orange and a tangerine.

Entertainment and Nightlife in Mandeville, Jamaica

Live shows and an open dance floor are featured in the one-of-a-kind Eclipse Night Club.

Activities at the club take place indoors and out. Major shows are often time performed outdoors. Popular local entertainers sometimes frequent the facility which is open from 6:00 pm. until . . .

Margarittaville is a popular spot that attracts locals and visitors. There is food, music, and a DJ. This two-level bar provides a dance floor on its first level and a unique feature on the top floor that allows guests to slide right into the water to escape the heat of the day. Drinking and dancing are the highlights of Margarittaville.

Warnings and Advisories for Travel to Mandeville, Jamaica

A visit to Mandeville is like a breath of fresh air; it is one of the few areas of Jamaica not overrun with tourists or tarnished with poverty. If a warning must be given about Mandeville, it would be to take heed and protect yourself from the onslaught of mosquitoes, particularly in the evenings.

The copyright of the article Review of Mandeville in Latin Am/Caribbean Travel is owned by Loraine R. Degraff. Permission to republish Review of Mandeville in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Maneville, Jamaica - A Breath of Fresh Air

Experience the Serenity of Mandeville, Jamaica

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