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Sometimes hidden paradisal locations are quite a trek to reach. Even some vacation spots with lavish resorts are tucked away hours from the nearest airport.
That has been the case for one of Jamaica’s top beach destinations: Ocho Rios.
When booking a trip to Ocho Rios, travelers have been forced to fly into Montego Bay and take a long shuttle to get to their resort.
Given the latest travel advisory for Jamaica, some vacationers may feel more comfortable with the new flight launching this month.
American Airlines is the first to offer direct flights from the U.S. to the fabulous beach town of Ocho Rios.
A Top 3 Favorite In Jamaica
American travelers love visiting the stunning island of Jamaica for its welcoming locals, unique culture, and stunning natural wonders, including incredible eye-popping beaches.
You’ll likely find fellow Americans arriving in Montego Bay and Kingston, but it’s anyone’s guess as to where they venture off from here.
Some choose to stay in this pair of major cities, while others seek out more tranquil beaches. Following in the footsteps of both of these cities is Ocho Rios, a small beach town with under 10,000 residents located along the northern coast in St. Anne’s Parish.
Truth be told, Americans love vacationing in Ocho Rios, but the journey has added an hour and a half to 2 hours to your day just to get here.
American Airlines’ new flight is a page out of Tulum’s playbook where travelers can fly straight in without the extra hassle.
This gem is all but guaranteed to become even more popular as it’s made to be a vacation hotspot. This side of the coast is the Jamaica you expect – lavish resorts, spectacular beaches, and jerk chicken and coconut stands for a taste of the island life.
Nonstop From Miami
Beginning February 24, 2024, American Airlines will take flight to the small town of Boscobel for the first time.
Roughly 20 minutes from Ocho Rios, flying into the Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) will be the easiest access point.
The schedule will offer a pair of weekly flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) on a smaller fleet of Embraer 175 aircraft, which will total over 100 weekly flights to Jamaica through various airports.
This will be the only direct flight into Boscobel, while the only other airline serving OCJ is InterCaribbean Airways with a single flight from Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.
No unexpected lags should be expected as test flights and test run through immigration have already been conducted and the local government is urging travelers to fly this historic new route.
St. Mary Western Member of Parliament, Robert Montague, was quoted as saying, “We want to urge all Jamaicans, here and overseas, who are planning to travel into the Miami, Fort Lauderdale area to fly through Ian Fleming in Boscobel, St Mary.”
Adding, crews have “walked through the facilities, they experienced the immigration and customs, they looked at the baggage handling service, the facilities for the passengers … and we passed with flying colors.”
Round-trip fares are as low as $263 right now saving you both money and time with transportation from other airports.
Fun Facts
Travelers may notice an unexpected common theme in this region. We all know James Bond, the iconic film character for decades.
British writer Ian Fleming created the popular character at his vacation home in Jamaica and now the region’s airport proudly uses his namesake, along with nearby James Bond Beach and the Goldeneye Resort.
American Airlines is joining in by dubbing this flight with the number 007.
What To Do in Ocho Rios
Beaches in this area are obviously a must, along with world-class resorts like Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ocho Rios – both 5-star stays.
Beyond the coastline, there are lush jungles with hidden waterfalls, such as the popular Blue Hole, one of the most scenic natural spots in the region.
There are ample tours for fun-filled days, such as ATV rentals, horseback riding and even party cruises.
Not to mention endless water activities from snorkeling the gorgeous blue waters to parasailing high above them. (https://www.traveloffpath.com/americans-can-fly-nonstop-to-this-caribbean-beach-paradise-for-the-first-time-ever/)
