Montego Bay is the second largest city in Jamaica. It is mainly divided into two parts: Gloucester Avenue or Hip Strip, as the marketing people changed the name, the main tourist strip and the city center, or the city proper, where most tourists do not really venture. The Hip Strip has a prized asset that is Montego Bay, lined with miles and miles of coral reefs and beaches.

The name Montego Bay is derived from the Spanish name Manteca Bahía (Lard Bay) due to the city’s lard manufacturing industry that can be achieved thanks to the wild boards that roam the area. The architecture of the buildings is a mixture of gingerbread houses and modernity. One of its most famous resorts is Doctor’s Cave Beach, which is said to be full of mineral springs and very clear, sparkling water. The Bay boasts of a wide selection of hotels for lodging ranging from well-established luxury hotels to newer little intimate venues.

There are also many shopping arcades where tourists can go shopping for souvenirs. Holiday Village, across from Holiday Inn, is known to be the largest mall there, with its wide options of bond shops, craft and souvenir shops and also has an art gallery.

Sam Sharpe Square in the center of the city is bustling with activity. There is the Cage, formerly a prison for runaway slaves and the Palace of Justice that was built in 1804 and was razed in a fire about 20 years ago.