See what the experts are saying about Jamaica. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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The best water-sports outfitters
North Coast Marine Sports (Montego Bay; tel. 876/953-2211): Offering the best scuba diving in Montego Bay, this staff of instructors knows some great spots to dive among coral reefs. Negril Scuba Centre (Negril; tel. 800/818-2963 in the U.... Continue reading »
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The best resorts & spas
The Best Family-Friendly Resorts Coyaba (Mahoe Bay, Little River, Montego Bay; tel. 877/232-3224 in the U.S., or 876/953-9150): With a graceful British colonial atmosphere, this small all-inclusive resort offers children 11 and under a 50%... Continue reading »
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Planning a trip
We give you the nuts-and-bolts information about your trip to Jamaica -- specifically, what you need to do before leaving home. We'll answer questions such as when to go, how to get the best airfare or package deal, what to take along, and wh... Continue reading »
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Fast facts
Business Hours -- Banks are open Mon-Thurs 8:30 or 9am to 2 or 3pm and Fri 8:30 or 9am-4 or 4:30pm. Store hours vary, but as a rule most business establishments open at 8:30am and close at 4:30 or 5pm Monday through Friday. Some shops open Sa... Continue reading »
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Visitor information
Tourist Offices Before you go, you can get information from the Jamaica Tourist Board at 5201 Blue Lagoon Dr., Suite 670, Miami, FL 33126 (tel. 800/233-4582 or 305/665-0557). In Canada contact the office in Toronto at 303 Eglinton Ave.... Continue reading »
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When to go
High Season vs. Low Season: Some Pros and Cons With its fabled weather balmy all year, Jamaica is more and more a year-round destination. Nevertheless, it has a distinct high season running roughly from mid-December through mid-April. Hote... Continue reading »
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Calendar of events
January Accompong Maroon Festival, St. Elizabeth. Annual celebration of Maroons of Western Jamaica, with traditional singing and dancing, feasts, ceremonies, blowing of the abeng (cow's horn), and playing of Maroon drums. tel. 876/952-4546... Continue reading »
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Getting there
There are two international airports on Jamaica: Donald Sangster in Montego Bay (tel. 876/952-3124) and Norman Manley in Kingston (tel. 876/924-8452; www.manley-airport.com.jm). The most popular flights are from New York and Miami. Remember t... Continue reading »
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Cruises
Most cruise ships heading for Jamaica travel at night, arriving the next morning at the day's port of call, perhaps Montego Bay or Ocho Rios. In port, passengers can go ashore for sightseeing, shopping, and a local meal. Prices vary widely; c... Continue reading »
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Package deals
Unlike many places, Jamaica is not a big market for escorted tours where you're hauled around on a bus and looked after constantly by a guide. You can, of course, take locally guided tours once you land. Package tours are not the same thin... Continue reading »
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Health & insurance
Travel Insurance It's wise to visit the troubled land of Jamaica with full insurance coverage, protecting you against loss of property, theft, or any medical problem that might arise. With medical insurance it's best to secure, if possible... Continue reading »
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Entry requirements & customs
Entry Requirements Documents -- U.S. and Canada residents do not need passports but must have proof of citizenship (or permanent residency) and a return or ongoing ticket. A passport is the best bet, but an original birth certificate (or a... Continue reading »
