Local Knowledge
"Tropical paradise" as defined by Jamaica: colossal waterfalls, spicy Caribbean flavours, reggae music, crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, excellent service and a spirited nightlife… Jamaica is always on top of everyone's getaway list and for very good reason.
The most sought after vacation spots in Jamaica are definitely Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios with Port Antonio quickly becoming a holiday hit. Located on Jamaica's western tip is Negril, which boasts Seven Mile Beach, a perfect stretch of white sand that spans from Bloody Beach in Hanover to the Negril lighthouse in Westmoreland. Montego Bay is Jamaica's second largest city and sits on the northwestern shoreline. Dubbed 'MoBay' by the locals and those in the know, the beaches here are just as stunning as those in Negril, while also offering fun nightlife and shopping in town. Further west along the north shore, you will come across Ocho Rios, an area known for its natural wonders, including the very popular Dunn's River Falls.
Jamaica stands on its own – visually, historically and culturally – from other Caribbean islands. As they like to say “once you go, you know" and if you've been, you do indeed know how truly swept away you can feel here.
Things to Know
- Accepted Currency: Jamaican dollar (J$) is the official currency. U.S. dollar is also accepted
- Capital: Kingston
- Airports: Sir Donald Sangster International Airport (MBJ)
- Language(s) in Use: English is officially spoken in Jamaica, though a patois which consists of a mix of English, French, African and Spanish languages is also spoken.
- Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
- Driving: A vehicle is necessary if you plan on doing some independent sightseeing of this expansive island. A valid driver's licence from your home area is acceptable for short term visits to Jamaica - vehicles are driven on the left
- Dialing (Country Code): + 876
- Climate in General: In Montego Bay hot weather is almost a guarantee no matter when you visit. Expect temperatures between 27-32°C year round. Negril has the good fortune to receive less annual rainfall than any other high profile vacation spot in the country. An average winter in Negril will see temperatures in the 26°C range, whereas summers in this area float around 29°C. Ocho Rios is also a hot zone weather-wise, with temperatures that hover between 28-30°C throughout the year
