Can anyone provide an update to the situation in Jamaica? We are considering a trip there over July 4th for a few days, and would be staying in Negril. Thanks!

I have no current insider information but Negril has always felt safe to me. I just go there straight from the airport so really don't have interaction with Montego Bay at all. I've been three times, spread out over many years. So if you decide to go, I can help with some things "Negril" that might be useful to you.

Suze, I'd like to not be stuck only at a resort if I don't have to be. Is Negril safe enought to venture out and about in? And do we need to rent a car, or are there taxis or shuttles that would take us around? Thank you!

Yes I go out and about. Negil is a little rough around the edges so I do take care. That said... in three trips I have never stayed at a "resort" property. Just normal local-style places. Eating in the casual restaurants around town.

No you do not need (or want!) a car, it's "opposite" side of the road and they drive kinda crazy! There are two kinds of taxis (normal more expensive private ones, and ones called "route taxis" that are shared and serve as kind of a bus system up and down the one main road for ~$1) plus services like Clive's (that's who I use to go to and from the airport) Clive's Transport Service Jamaica providing Jamaican Airport Transfers, Taxi and Tours throughout the islwww.trekand of Jamaica - www.clivestransportservicejamaica.com, www.clivestransportservicejamaica.net, [email protected]

Last trip I stayed here: Mirage Resort - Negril Jamaica it's a hotel on "The Cliffs"
A group of friends were next door at this somewhat more rustic but also fancier place: Tensing Pen Hotel | Boutique Destination Resort in Jamaica
Also really nice in that same area is Catcha Falling Star: https://www.catchajamaica.com/ either to stay or to eat at Ivan's amazing outdoor restaurant with stunning ocean view

Then there's the beautiful 7-mile beach. I have always stayed on the cliffs but this is the sister hotel to Mirage and I've spent the day there on the beach: Charela Inn ? The Official Website for Charela Inn Negril Jamaica

This website is great for checking out places to stay. Go to the map and click on each property name to see it: Negril Resorts, Hotels and Vacations, Negril Onestop Jamaica Resorts and Hotels