I've never taken a trip alone before and I am thinking about treating myself to a 3-5 day trip in Jamaica this coming Jan. Does anyone know if it's safe for a single woman to travel in that country? Any recommendations on places inthe Caribbean that are safe(r)? Or does anyone know of any books/sites that I could look at that would be helpful? Thanks for your advice.

If it's a treat, try for the 5 nights,if not longer since you essentially 'lose' a day on either end for travel. The Treasure Beach area on the South Coast, warmer in January than the North, might prove a good choice for solo travel. See the community Web site at treasurebeach.net
There's always Negrilplurge at THE CAVES or do the spa route at JACKIE'S ON THE REEF, both good for solo travelers as is IDLE-A-WHILE on the beach.

Current editions of guidebooks like Fodor's, Lonely Planet and The Rough Guide (which is arguably the best one)will still be about 2 years out of date.
Insight guides has good photos. Frommer's is another option. Before buying, check your library.

have a few single friends(female)that have traveled solo to the USVI's and the BVI's ,both of which are very safe and have beautiful islands..top choices would be Tortola/bvi and St John/usvi.great islands/friendly/stunning beaches/fun bars/restaurants. all of these women said they enjoyed the solo trips and never felt threatened. just a thought.........

Hi Savah,

If you have not booked yet, I recommend Ocho Rios. Most pof the hotels are within walking distance to shoping arcades, watersports, casinos, great restaurants, Dunns River Falls, Dolphin Cove, and so much more.

You will definately have more to do than time to invest. We will be happy to send you additional information on Ocho Rios, and out excellent, affordable 24/7s Tour/taxi service.