Jamaica Travel Guide

Come to the island of Jamaica – one of the most enchanting island nations in the Caribbean. This member of the Commonwealth of Nations has Elizabeth II as their monarch, so the Queen’s English prevails. But, Jamaica isn’t only influenced by Great Britain - Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East have also impacted this beautiful island paradise. The music, food, and unforgettable natural beauty make Jamaica the perfect vacation destination.

Best Time to Visit

Jamaica’s weather is beautiful 12 months of the year, with little variation in temperature. Because of the tropical climate, Jamaica is generally hot and humid. The more rainy months are May through November, with the wettest time being in September and October. Jamaica is in the hurricane belt, so you will want to keep this in mind if you’re planning to go between June and November. The most popular time for a vacation to Jamaica is December through April, with Christmas and Easter being the busiest times.

Flights and Transportation

Jamaica has two international airports – one in Kingston and the other in Montego Bay. Norman Manley International (KIN) serves the capital city of Kingston in the southeast, but Donald Sangster International (MBJ) in northwestern Montego Bay is actually the largest airport. Cheap flights to Jamaica (into Kingston) can be found as low as $455 from LAX, $691 from SFO, $486 from ORD and $330 from JFK. Discount airfare to Jamaica (via Montego Bay) can be even cheaper, and you might even be able to fly direct, depending upon where your trip originates - $437 from LAX, $461 from SFO, $323 from ORD, $463 from JFK.

Once you arrive in Jamaica, public transportation may be your best option. Rental cars are available, but the Jamaican roads are not well kept, and local drivers can seem a bit reckless to those used to driving in North America. You will find the best roads in well-populated areas. Do note that cars are all left-hand drive in Jamaica. Buses are a good and cheap option. Just be ready to tip the baggage handlers who load your luggage onto the bus. Taxis are also available. For the least expensive taxi, choose a local taxi, also called a “route taxi.” These look like someone’s personal car, but can be differentiated by its red, rather than white, license plate.

Hotels and Lodging

The all-inclusive resort originated in Jamaica, and there are more here than on any other island in the Caribbean. The first Sandals resort is in Montego Bay. There you’ll find the longest private beach in Jamaica. For a more informal resort that caters to the whole family, choose the nearby Pebbles Resort in Falmouth. In Jamaica, lodging can be found for every need and taste. In addition to all-inclusive resorts, other options include family-run guesthouses, private villas and small hotels.

Things to Do

Diving, snorkeling, fishing, golf, and an active nightlife make Jamaica an unforgettable vacation destination. If in St. Anns Bay, contact Hooves for a horseback ride along the beach. Be sure to bring your camera for when the tour allows you to ride in the surf. Want to swim with the dolphins? Then contact Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios. They offer three dolphin programs and even one for shark lovers! When in Port Antonio, be sure to see the famous Blue Lagoon. This circle of incredibly dark blue water has been featured in a number of movies. After a full day in the sun, eat at Kristyls at the Palms Resort in Negril. This fine dining restaurant is located right on the beach and features food as equally scrumptious as the views.