Travel guide – Jamaica

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Overview

It is easy to wax lyrical about the island of Jamaica in the north of the Caribbean. The glorious glow of its sunsets, the unique and engaging ways of its people, the alluring white sandy beaches and lush green mountains, the sparkling waterfalls. All can inspire the poet in anyone. The beauty of this island paradise has drawn visitors for centuries: first it was the wealthy few who were privileged to enjoy the unspoilt tropical delights of Jamaica. Today the northern and western coastlines of the island bristle with tourist resorts and 'all-inclusive' hotels, and natural attractions have been commercialised to cope with the crowds and make the most out of the tourists.

Somehow the commercialisation has not spoiled Jamaica, however. It still presents a magnificent kaleidoscope of colour and beauty that makes holidaymakers sad to leave, and vow to return.

The name Jamaica originates from the pre-colonial native inhabitants, the Arawak Indians, to whom 'Xaymaca' meant 'land of wood and water'. There is little left of the Indian culture: after being discovered by Columbus in 1494 Jamaica was ruled by the Spanish for 150 years, and then by the British for the next 300 years. Independence came in 1962 to the Jamaican people who are now a warm blend of different cultures and nationalities, though significantly African based because of the influence of the imported slaves, who endeavoured to keep their tribal traditions alive while being forced to labour on the island plantations.

There is, however, a little trouble in paradise: the Jamaican people on the whole are poor, and very reliant on tourism for their living. Some visitors object to being harassed by vendors, unlicensed taxi drivers, hair braiders and the like. Crime is also a problem. These minor irritations however should not keep anyone away from savouring the spirit of Jamaica, which is as rich as the lilt of the local patois and the rhythms of the reggae music for which the island is famous.

Regions and cities within Jamaica...

Kingston
Montego Bay
Negril
Ocho Rios
Port Antonio

Climate

Jamaica's climate is tropical with constant warm to hot temperatures all year round, though cooler in the higher, central areas. The wettest months are between May and November, when short sharp showers can be expected. The heaviest rains occur in September and October and the hurricane season runs from June to November, though, despite the powerful Hurricane Ivan in September 2004, relatively few hurricanes touch Jamaica.

Health

Dengue fever and Leptospirosis are risks in Jamaica, so visitors should use insect protection measures and avoid rivers and dams. Although generally safe, the tap water can cause stomach upsets and visitors are advised to drink bottled water if on short trips. Private medical facilities are of a reasonable standard but can vary throughout the island. Medical treatment can be expensive so insurance is advised. No vaccination certificates are needed for entry into Jamaica, but yellow fever certificates are required from travellers coming from an infected area.

The basics

Time

Local time is GMT -5.

Electricity

Electrical current is 110 volts, 50Hz. Flat two- and three-pin plugs are in use.

Language

The official language is English but a local patois is also spoken, a mixture of English, Spanish, and various African languages.

Tipping

Outside the all-inclusive resorts, where tips are part of the package, visitors should tip 10-15% for taxis, personal services, room service and restaurants where a service charge is not already included in the bill. Parking attendants, bellboys and porters also expect a tip; US$1 per bag/drink is customary.

Safety

There are high levels of crime and violence, especially around Kingston, and tourists should be alert, not resist in the event of attempted robbery, and avoid walking or using public transport at night. If you are self-driving do not give lifts to strangers. When travelling to or from the airport in Kingston avoid the Mountain View route. Travellers on the Hummingbird route should also be cautious at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or on beaches, even in daylight hours.

Customs

Contrary to popular belief, smoking ganja is illegal.

Communications

The international access code for Jamaica is +1, in common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 876. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom); the outgoing code is not needed when calling the US or Canada. City or area codes are not required. Direct international telephone services are available, and operators can also facilitate calls. The local mobile phone operators use various networks, including GSM, which is compatible with most international networks. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts, and access is also available from most hotels and parish libraries.

Duty Free

Travellers to Jamaica over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 227g other tobacco products; 946ml alcoholic beverages and wine; perfume up to 150g; and goods for personal consumption to the value of J$500. Prohibited items include products from goatskin (e.g. drums, handbags and rugs).

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