Jamaica – Travel Guide
Jamaica, an island nation with a distinct cultural legacy, offers an irresistible appeal to visitors. Its tropical landscapes, sparkling beaches, lively music and cuisine, and vibrant culture are a feast for the senses. Explore the island’s rich heritage, from its African roots to its British colonial influence. Most visitors often say they sample local cuisine at a street stall in downtown Kingston, join an island-wide music festival, and delve into the nation’s rich history. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life or an exhilarating adventure, Jamaica has something for everyone.
All about Jamaica
Jamaica FAQ
What is Jamaica known for?
Jamaica is an extraordinary country with an energetic personality and a captivating culture that can be seen in the world-famous reggae music, welcoming people, and mouth-watering cuisine. The tiny island is overflowing with warm weather, cheerful locals, and endless entertainment. Lengthy stretches of tropical beaches lined by swaying palms and lapped by idyllic turquoise waters, along with tropical island vibes draw visitors in from around the globe. Diversified topography covers the small island with lush verdant rainforests in the east, the seventh-largest natural harbor in the world located in the capital city, and the astonishing world-famous Blue Mountains soaring to 7,401 feet above sea level nestled in the heart, where Blue Mountain coffee is grown. The country boasts over 120 rivers creating some outstanding waterfalls such as the Blue hole, Dunns river falls, and YS Falls. Jamaica is the birthplace of legend Bob Markley and reggae is the empowering music attached to the Rastafari movement. The world`s fastest sprinters hail from here including the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt. The island was the first tropical country to send a bobsledding team to the Winter Olympics, their story was portrayed in the classic Disney movie `Cool Runnings`. Jamaican Jerk flavored dishes on the island range from chicken, pork, ribs, and fish tacos, it is the delicious, mouth-watering and famous method of cooking found throughout the country.
What are the best places to visit Jamaica?
Montego Bay welcomes visitors to fun-loving Jamaica. A marvelous place to relax in high-end resorts with upscale amenities or hit up some of the fun attractions like diving, water sports, and amusement parks. Your dream vacation awaits in tropical Montego Bay glistening beaches, soothing waters, and clear blue skies that merge with fine dining, a vibrant nightlife on the `Hip Strip`, and laid back Jamaican vibes. Ocho Rios is nestled on the north coast of Jamaica, a popular resort town and happening cruise port destination. Stretches of spectacular tropical beaches dotted with world-class resorts, beachfront bars and restaurants offering delicious Jamaican cuisine and tropical cocktails. Tropical rainforest interiors are decorated by winding rivers, azure lagoons, and cascading waterfalls that offer an assortment of outdoor activities. Negril is known for miles of pristine beaches and calming shallow bays with tranquilizing turquoise waters. It is the perfect destination for a sun-soaked vacation with luxurious boutique hotels and lively restaurants and bars lining the famous Seven Mile Beach. Dive into the vibrant Jamaican culture in Negril dubbed as the `Capital of Casual` for its informal island vibes. There is plenty to see and do with a luxurious lagoon and coral reefs for snorkeling, rugged cliffs with views over the stunning bays and cliff jumping for the brave and some of the best Jamaican food and evening entertainment around. Runaway Bay is situated on the northern coast of Jamaica, is the birthplace of reggae legend Bob Marley and considered one of the most naturally beautiful places in the Caribbean Islands. Filled with captivating natural features such as the Green Grotto Caves, Runaway Cave, Cardiff Hall Beach, and spectacular offshore coral reefs.
How many days should I spend in Jamaica?
We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel, and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.
What is the best way to get around Jamaica?
Renting a car is the best way to travel around the island of Jamaica, the road networks here cover the entire island connecting the major cities. All of the big international named car rental companies are found in all major cities, hotels, and airports. Some of the terrain and road conditions in the country can be challenging and some in poor condition with potholes plenty. The big cities are notorious for major congestion, speeding, and aggressive drivers with a lack of street signage making it hard to navigate.
There are ferry services and cruise ports that operate in a few destinations with Kingston being the island’s largest port. The best way to travel within the individual cities and towns is by taxi, a viable option to get where you wish to go. Be sure to choose a licensed taxi company, which can be identified by red and white license plates with the letters “PP”.
What is the currency of the Jamaica?
The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted. There is a fixed rate of exchange for the Jamaican dollar. There are currency exchange desks at the airport and major banks on the island are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am until 3:00 pm and some may open on Saturdays. On the major islands, ATMs can be found at the casinos and commercial banks and the port areas.
Do people speak English in Jamaica?
The official language spoken in the Dominican Republic is Spanish, many people speak English especially in the service industry at hotels and restaurants. Most of the island’s inhabitants have a good comprehension of the English language. We recommend you get a good English-Spanish guidebook and learn common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.
Best time to visit Jamaica
Jamaica boasts average daily temperatures of 81 degrees, so visiting the popular beach destination can be done year-round. The winter months are some of the most popular times to flock here when things get cold in North America and Europe, the weather here is filled with sunshine, the waters are warm and relaxing beachside is a lifestyle.
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October to early December is a great time of year in Jamaica and also the beginning of peak season which begins mid-December to mid-April when the weather is warm and comfortable ranging from the 75-85 degrees. Hotels are easy to come by at this time of year but prices can be more expensive, flight deals are easy to come by at this time. June to November is the hurricane season which brings storms to the island, fewer crowds and lower prices, October is the wettest month of the year bringing over six inches of rain.
Tipping in Jamaica
The questions “when?” and “how much?” can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these “tips” will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.
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Tipping in Jamaica
What is the currency of Jamaica?
The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted. There is a fixed rate of exchange for the Jamaican dollar. There are currency exchange desks at the airport and major banks on the island are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am until 3:00 pm and some may open on Saturdays. On the major islands, ATMs can be found at the casinos and commercial banks and the port areas.
Top cities in Jamaica
What to expect while traveling
