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| Tips when travelling to Jamaica |
Entry Requirements
If you would like to be a guest in Jamaica, it is important to be in possession of a national passport or other acceptable travel document establishing nationality and identity, bearing a photograph. For more information, please go to:
http://www.congenjamaica-ny.org/visas/
Are you a United States citizens or permanent residents, you are require to have a valid passport for entry into Jamaica, as this travel document is a requirement of the US for re-entry into that country.
Permanent Residents of the United States visiting Jamaica as tourists for periods not exceeding six (6) months, and who possess return or roundtrip tickets showing that their journey began in the USA, Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands do not require passports for entry to Jamaica but will require a valid passport to re-enter the USA under the Western Hemispheric Travel Initiative.
Canada - Citizens and Permanent Residents
All citizens require a return ticket to Canada and one of the following:
valid passport or a passport with an expiry date not exceeding one year;
certificate (card) of Canadian citizenship bearing a photograph of the person;
birth certificate, and identification, of over 16 years of age establishing nationality and identity to the satisfaction of the Immigration Officer.
birth Certificate, if under 16 years of age. Permanent Residents require a return ticket to Canada, a valid passport and a Permanent Residents Card. Source: Consulate General of Jamaica |
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Banks/Currency
Licenced cambio centres and commercial banks are accessible in all resort areas. Official currency exchange rates vary daily, so it’s advisable to shop around for the best rate before converting your cash. Most Jamaican ATMs accept international bank cards with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus logos. Banks also give credit card advances, change traveller’s cheques among other financial services. |
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Emergency
Police ....................................................119
Ambulance .............................................119, 110
Fire .......................................................110
Front desk managers at your hotels are also able to offer
assistance in an emergency. Jamaica Tourist Board offices have personnel on hand
to offer assistance when needed. |
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Climate
Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humid conditions year-round. Average temperature ranges from 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit) to 32 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit). Though we’re known for our warmth and sunshine, the island sees two rainy seasons from May to June and September to November. Also, hurricanes may pass over the island primarily during the months June to September. Will it rain during your holiday? If it does, don't worry. Most times, the short tropical showers provide a welcome break from the afternoon heat – just look at it as liquid sunshine, not rain! |
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Driving
The most important thing to remember when driving in Jamaica is that here, we drive on the LEFT, although some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cows, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. We have over 10,000 kilometres of road networks connecting all major towns and the two cities Kingston and Montego Bay; the speed limit is 50 kmph in built-up areas, and 80 kmph on highways. All drivers are required to carry a valid licence. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licences, but visitors from North America may use their country's licence for up to three months per visit. Car rental is available in most major towns and cities, and usually, clients must be no less than 25 years old to a rent vehicle. |
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Drugs
In Jamaica, the use, sale and possession of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin and any other controlled substance is illegal. Violators are subject to severe punishments; specifically arrest, fine and imprisonment. |
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Pet lovers
We know that many visitors love their pets and would love to take them on vacation. Pets are allowed in Jamaica, but it has to be rabbies free (there are no rabies in Jamaica). In keeping with international standards, the importation of all live animals into Jamaica requires an import permit from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture PRIOR to arrival in Jamaica. All animals must be rabies-free, and must never have been rabies vaccinated. For more information, contact the Veterinary Services Division at (876) 977 2489 or (876) 977 2492 to secure a permit, fax a letter of request to (876) 977 0885. |
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| Electricity is little different from the US (same voltage 110v, but the frequency is 50 Hz instead of 60 Hz in US, However, most your electrical appliances will work here. If your appliances do not use 110 volts or flat two-pronged plugs, bring the required adaptors and converters with you. Keep in mind that most hotels have hair dryers, alarm clocks, radios and clothes irons available. |
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Types of Communication
You will find all types of communication systems in Jamaica. Direct and operators assisted call are facilitated third party or credit card calls international telephone service operates in all areas 24 hours a day. |
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| The most important things to bring
- Yourself and family (if any)
- Love
- The vacation spirit, and
What not to bring
- Work
- Leave your troubles at the airport |
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Public holidays
Officially, Jamaicans celebrate ten public holidays per year: New Year's Day -January 1
Labour Day - May 23
Emancipation Day - August 1
Independence Day - August 6
Christmas Day - December 25
Boxing Day - December 26
Heroes Day - third Monday in October
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in addition to Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, Easter Monday and
On public holidays all government agencies, schools and most private businesses are closed, and much of the country "locks down" for the day. On holidays, Jamaicans throng to beaches and parks for picnics, fun days and outings, the celebrations continuing way into the night.
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Language
The official language of Jamaica is English, although most converse using ‘Patois', a dialect as colourful and intriguing. It may take some time for you to become accustomed to it. You will have fun trying the local expressions. |
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Water quality
The water is safe for you to drink. If you like bottled drink the water that meets international standards are available. |
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