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Table of Contents
Introduction
Jamaica is a land of dreams, a place for once-in-a-lifetime memories and unforgettable experiences. It shines as the star of the Caribbean, offering travellers a rich cultural experience along with luxury and relaxation. Along with its natural beauty, Jamaica has a laid-back feel and a rich cultural history that draws its guests back time and again.
Jamaica lies to the south of Cuba, and is part of the group of islands known as the Greater Antilles. It is divided into fourteen parishes, with Kingston as its capital. The flag of Jamaica features two black triangles, symbolizing past struggles; green triangles symbolizing hope and abundant natural resources; and bands of yellow that symbolize both mineral wealth and the sun for which Jamaica is so famous. Their motto is “Out of many, one people”. With English as the national language travellers will find themselves in a comfortably navigable setting, but the rich accent and unique tempo makes for an exciting international experience. Guests travelling to Jamaica have the opportunity to indulge in a wide range of options and activities, with the ability to relax in the pristine setting of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The best way to enjoy your vacation is to be prepared and plan thoroughly beforehand, which will free up the time in the country to be spent doing whatever you like to do. The following pages will offer information about travelling to Jamaica that should allow you to have the best trip possible to this beautiful island.
Chapter 1: Important Information To Know Before Booking your Vacation to Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Passport and Visa
North American travellers do not need a visa to visit Jamaica for leisure or business, as long as they are able to show a return ticket and plan to leave within a six month time frame. Travellers can apply to extend their initial stay to 12 months while in the country. The length of stay allowed is subject to the approval of the Jamaican Immigration Authorities, and frequent visitors must obtain a visa if the total days spent in a calendar year exceeds 180.
A valid passport is necessary for travel to Jamaica. As with most international travel, the passport will need to have at least 6 months left before expiry – and remember to date this from your return trip, as you may have difficulties with your home country’s immigration authority on the trip home if you do not. Expired passports or naturalization certificates will not be accepted. On arrival, you may be required to show proof that you have sufficient income or a way to look after yourself financially while in Jamaica. You may also be required to prove that any minors travelling with you do so legally – for example, adoption papers or birth certificates. These must be originals as even certified copies are not accepted. These rules are in place to prevent illegal trafficking of children, and while you may not find that you require them at all, it is much better to be prepared. Jamaican immigration authorities will require proof that you have been vaccinated against Yellow Fever if you have recently come out of a Yellow Fever area (normally areas in South America and Africa). Permanent residents of the United States may also enter under these conditions, but they must also have their Green Cards or US Reentry Permits (as applicable) along with their return ticket. Normally cruise ship passengers do not need a visa to enter Jamaica, especially if their immigration status falls under the conditions already mentioned.
Airlines that flies to Jamaica
Jamaica’s main international airports are located in Kingston and Montego Bay. There are a number of airlines that fly from North America to Jamaica, and the fares and travel times vary a great deal depending on the season and the carrier. Some flights are available as a package deal, so it is worth speaking to a travel agent or looking online for package deals before booking your trip. There is also normally a choice between direct flights and multi-stop options, which will impact the cost of the flight. Consider flying late at night or during the middle of the week if you wish to save money. The best flights will probably be purchased by remaining flexible where possible and researching thoroughly before booking.
The main airlines that fly to Jamaica from North America are:
- American Airlines
- Air Canada
- Caribbean Airlines
- Copa Airlines
- Jetblue Airways
Currency/ exchanging money/banks/ATMs
Most tourist areas accept US dollars, while most rural or local vendors accept only Jamaican dollars. Some will accept both, but occasionally at such a poor rate of exchange that it is worth mentally doing the calculations to choose the most favourable currency. Most all-inclusive resorts will either operate in US dollars or operate on a cashless charge system that may mean guests use only a pre-arranged credit card and never need either type of cash. Large resorts and vendors are most likely to accept US dollars. Even taxis accept different currencies depending on whether they are mostly local or tourist operators. If you do choose to use Jamaican dollars, try to change them for US dollars before leaving where possible, as it may be difficult once you return home.
ATMs are widely available, but expect a percentage to be charged by the ATM and the credit card company on top of any normal fees and charges usually incurred. The best place to change money is in casinos, banks and at the airports, although each place will probably have a slightly different rate. The most readily accepted bills to have on hand for small purchases and tipping are US$1 and US$5, and it is worthwhile having a store of these denominations.
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