Thanks to our traveling families for inquiring about villa rentals in Jamaica for the 2006 winter break. As FTF has noted in the past, there are terrific values to be had in oceanfront homes that can sleep the whole family and the grands, where a trained and courteous staff ensures that no one has to cook or clean on vacation.

In our research among members, travel bulletin boards, and tourist office resources, we came upon a few favorites for families.

Thanks to all who mentioned Silver Sands, a private home complex not far from Montego Bay. Although there are many villa rental agencies, it's a popular villa complex for families where many visitors have made long time friends. Their website, www.silver-sands.com describes each of the 1BR to 6BR homes (all staffed with housekeeper and cook) that are available.
 
The Wright family adds: "Have stayed at Silversands Villas three or four times, one of our favorite places as we had our two children 8 & 10 with us. They loved Jamaica as much as we did."

"We also stayed on the south coast at Treasure Beach in villas and even at the Treasure Beach Hotel (see www.treasurebeachjamaica.com) there. We loved Treasure Beach as it is not as touristly as all the other places, and with a car you can go anywhere and safely! Just use your head and don't act lost."

Thanks to all our contributors -- send us your favorites too.