‘Boonoonoosnoos’ Is Normal in Jamaica

The summer off-season generates many bargains in the Carribbean area, some extending through the fall. Many hotels are offering extra nights free once you buy a minimum number of nights, which can be as few as two. In some cases you have to buy a package to qualify for the complimentary nights.

While you may not be able to pronounce it, the “Boonoonoosnoos” (“to feel good all over” in local patois) summer program in Jamaica has worthwhile elements. If you buy one of several packages until Dec. 14 at 36 participating hotels, you get such extra perks as full breakfast daily, welcome gift, two-for-one happy hour drink offer and a T-shirt.

Of even more value, the hotel tax and service charge are covered in the price. You also get a coupon booklet with discounts on sightseeing tours, shopping, restaurants and water sports.

You can even get married at some places around the island, and the Jamaica Tourist Board will pick up the cost of the minister as well as the marriage site.

Contact the Jamaica Tourist Board, 3440 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1207, Los Angeles 90010, (213) 384-1123 for details.

Other Caribbean deals:

--St. Croix has a promotion in effect at 22 of the island’s hotels until Dec. 1, with two extra nights offered free once you pay for five. More details are available from the U.S. Virgin Islands Division of Tourism, 3460 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 412, Los Angeles 90010, (213) 739-0138.

--Guests booking a minimum of three nights through the end of November at any property on Anguilla receive bonuses in the island’s summer program, including a 10% discount at participating restaurants, car rental agencies and stores.

You get a “Summer Breeze” identification card at your hotel to take advantage of the discounts. Contact the U.S representative for the Anguilla Tourist Information Office at toll-free (800) 553-4939.

--Three Jack Tar Villages in the Caribbean are offering a 50% discount off regular rates until Dec 22. The hotels are at Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Montego Bay on Jamaica and on St. Kitts. Contact Jack Tar Villages at (800) 999-9182.

--Until Dec. 19 Hyatt properties at Dorado in Puerto Rico, Palm Beach on Aruba and Brittania on Grand Cayman are offering four-night packages with a fifth night free.

Some extra perks go with the packages, such as a $10-per-person credit at the Aruba property (which will open in August) for use at the hotel’s water sports/dive operations; unlimited tennis and a free round of golf at the Hyatt Dorado Beachfront Golf & Tennis Resort and a $15-per-person credit for aquatic activities plus a free round of golf at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cayman at Brittania.

Contact Hyatt at (800) 233-1234.