The word Jamaica conjures up strong images in everyone's mind. Whether it's visions of impeccable Caribbean beaches or the thought of smoke wafting away from Bob Marley's lips, this small island has made a large impression on the world's stage.

Jamaica's history is similar to that of other Caribbean islands. In 1494, Columbus sailed into Montego Bay and named it Fair Weather Bay. Soon after, the Spaniards came here to hunt wild hogs and export lard. The bay became known as Manteca Bay (Manteca is Spanish for lard), and eventually, Montego Bay.

Jamaica lies ninety miles south of Cuba, and trails only its neighbors Cuba and the Dominican Republic/Haiti in size, weighing in at forty-four hundred square miles. Inland, Jamaica is lush and green, with a mountain range that contrasts sharply with the coastline.

Montego Bay is the second largest city in Jamaica, trailing only Kingston, but it may be the king of tourist destinations. Situated on the northwest side of the island, Montego Bay is the usual entryway for airline and cruise passengers from the United States to enter Jamaica. Those who come here find immaculate beaches, world class resorts, top-notch golf courses and tennis courts, and five-star restaurants.

Mo Bay, as it is affectionately known, got its start as a tourist destination in the early 20th century. As early as 1908, the city advertised itself as a haven for weather-weary Americans, but it didn't catch on until the 1940s, when the mineral springs of Doctor's Cove Beach started to attract the affluent traveling class.

In recent years, Jamaica's image has taken a bit of a beating, as some tourists have bristled at overly aggressive vendors and a rising crime rate. Some of the more affluent private resorts have taken to forbidding their guests from leaving the resort without a guide. Of course, this means that some people aren't getting the true feel of this island nation.

Travelers to Jamaica need not feel unsafe. As long as you take the same precautions that you would take in any major American city, you will have little to worry about. On the whole, Jamaica's people remain friendly and hospitable, and they are proud to welcome you to their island paradise.