[av_textblock size=” av-medium-font-size=” av-small-font-size=” av-mini-font-size=” font_color=” color=” id=” custom_class=” av_uid=’av-kc8ft68w’ admin_preview_bg=”]<\/p>\n
What to bring <\/b><\/span><\/p>\n The shopping list for each group will differ wildly.\u00a0 <\/span>At a bare minimum, beach-type clothing and flip-flops serve many for most of their trip, but it can be easy to forget some important items.\u00a0 <\/span>Most places will have areas to buy necessities, but it’s far more helpful to remember your own. Here are the most important items as gathered from experienced travelers to Jamaica.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Clothing<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n The weather in Jamaica is hot all year round, so light clothing is a must. Most travelers recommend multiple swimsuits, as the humidity in the air can mean wet items dry slowly.\u00a0 <\/span>Some restaurants have a dress code, so at least one or two nicer outfits should come in handy.\u00a0 <\/span>A light sweater or jacket should be enough for the cooler months when the night brings a slight chill.\u00a0 <\/span>Along with the essential flip-flops or comfortable sandals, walking shoes can be used for any hiking or long-distance activities.\u00a0 <\/span>Shoes that can be worn in the water come in handy when exploring reefs and rockpools.\u00a0 <\/span>Of course, a hat and sunglasses will be utilized daily. Camouflage clothing is not allowed and in most areas outside accommodation or away from the beach, revealing or skimpy clothing should not be worn.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Medicines<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n Almost all accommodation options will include some form of first aid kit, but sometimes having a small first aid kit on hand with brands you trust makes for quicker, easier treatment of minor wounds. Before flying, check that either your first aid kit does not contain small scissors, or that it is packed with your check-in luggage.\u00a0 <\/span>In addition to the usual supply of bandages and basic items, include some basic medication such as Tylenol or other mild painkillers for treating headaches and mild pain.\u00a0 <\/span>When traveling overseas, take a good supply of any prescription medication you use. \u00a0 <\/span>Prescription medication should be clearly labeled, in the original packaging, and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing its use. It is dangerous to assume that the country or area will have a good supply of the medication you require. If anyone in your party has allergies, include hay fever or antihistamine medications; or an epi-pen, depending on the level of severity. Asthma sufferers should include inhalers. \u00a0 <\/span>Don’t forget to include contraception. Imodium or other anti-diarrhea medication should be unnecessary but is helpful just in case, and anti-nausea medication is likewise useful. Travel sickness tablets can be used during travel by car or plane and during watersport activities.\u00a0 <\/span>Don’t forget regular vitamins, as your good health is important to help your body fight off any sickness to help you get the most out of your vacation.<\/span><\/p>\n Personal items<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n Sunblock is absolutely one of the most essential personal care items for travelers intending on spending time on the beach and in the sun.\u00a0 <\/span>Don’t forget your lips, and include a high SPF chapstick or lip balm.\u00a0 <\/span>In case you happen to overindulge, a high-quality after-sun spray or aloe vera gel can assist in reducing pain and healing the burn.\u00a0 <\/span>A close second in importance is bug spray, which not only limits annoying bites but also protects against insect-borne diseases.\u00a0 <\/span>While most accommodation provides some form of shampoo and soap, your own brands will normally be preferable. Include some detergent for washing clothes in case you get stuck in between laundry collections. Larger bottles of liquids can be decanted into small travel-sized containers for convenience, or miniatures purchased.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember that on planes, liquids are strictly limited in carry-on luggage.\u00a0 <\/span>A razor and shaving cream complete the kit to help keep you tidy and beach-ready.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Electronics<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n A quick search and comparison will tell you if a travel adapter is necessary for your electronic devices, but US devices should be able to use Jamaican power points without difficulty. Consider using a surge protector for valuable electrical items. Remember to include a digital camera with video capacity, an extra storage card, and extra batteries where necessary.\u00a0 <\/span>eBooks and tablet computers offer more space- and weight-efficient options than traditional books and computer games.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Accessories<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n In case of unexpected showers, pack a lightweight and preferably collapsible umbrella. A small sewing kit that includes safety pins will help with wardrobe malfunctions.\u00a0 <\/span>An inexpensive watch will help you keep track as the day passes, and if you can find a waterproof option there’s no need to remove it for swimming.\u00a0 <\/span>Don’t forget swimming goggles or a snorkel and mask for the more adventurous.\u00a0 <\/span>While most places will have options available for hire, bringing your own gear ensures your mask and particularly snorkel are hygienic and fit to your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n Travel necessities<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n After withdrawing cash, many people end up with only large denomination notes.\u00a0 <\/span>With the flurry of helpful porters and waiters that will rush to assist you once you step out of the airport, a few notes for smaller amounts allow you to tip the helpful staff. Along with any original documents you bring along, remember to take photocopies and keep them in a separate location in case the originals are stolen or misplaced.\u00a0 <\/span>Scanning documents and emailing them to a universally accessible email account such as Gmail or Hotmail means your copies are available for printing everywhere with internet facilities.\u00a0 <\/span>Along with passports and birth certificates for minors traveling in your company, include diving certifications, copies of your insurance, your itinerary, and any other helpful documents you may need. Maps of the area that have been pre-scouted will come in handy for finding your way around.\u00a0 <\/span>If your math skills are lacking, a currency conversion table written up for common denominations makes shopping easier.\u00a0 <\/span>For traveling includes snacks and a good drink bottle.\u00a0 <\/span>Padlocks for luggage prevent tampering, and including some plastic bags of different sizes allows you to store wet and dirty items without contaminating the rest of the luggage. Finally, earplugs and an eye mask are helpful for restful naps in any condition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Consulate and Embassy for US citizens<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Most countries will be represented by a consulate or embassy in Jamaica, or have agreements with the consulates of other countries to provide assistance where necessary.\u00a0 <\/span>A quick search will locate the relevant representation for non-US residents.<\/span><\/p>\n U.S. Embassy Kingston<\/span><\/p>\n 142 Old Hope Road Telephone:\u00a0+(876) 702-6000<\/span><\/p>\n Emergency After-Hours Telephone:\u00a0+(876) 702-6000<\/span><\/p>\n Fax:\u00a0+(876) 702-6018<\/span><\/p>\n KingstonACS@state.gov <\/span><\/p>\n CONSULATES<\/span><\/p>\n U.S. Consular Agent – Montego Bay Telephone:\u00a0+(876) 953-0620<\/span><\/p>\n Emergency After-Hours Telephone:\u00a0Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica: +(876) 702-6000<\/span><\/p>\n Fax:\u00a0+(876) 953-3898<\/span><\/p>\n Public Hours are M-F, from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n MobayACS@state.gov<\/span><\/p>\n Safety<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Information on safety can easily descend into reading about worst-case scenarios, making a destination far scarier than it is in reality.\u00a0 <\/span>Most people could talk about areas even in their own home towns that are not safe to walk in after dark.\u00a0 <\/span>No vacation destination is completely safe, yet even the most dangerous location can be made safer by taking extra precautions.\u00a0 <\/span>Jamaica does struggle with some crime, especially in certain areas of Kingston and Montego Bay.\u00a0 <\/span>Ocho Rios is relatively safe, but like anywhere, safety can not be entirely guaranteed.\u00a0 <\/span>Visitors can help safeguard themselves by taking basic precautions \u2013 not traveling alone late at night, not carrying large amounts of valuables openly in public, using only trusted or hotel-recommended taxi services and other service providers. It is extremely important that you exercise common sense and not get into cars with strangers, and steer clear of suspicious behavior.\u00a0 <\/span>Valuables are best carried on a pouch close to the skin where possible when out in public. Alternatively, men can carry their valuables in their front pants pocket, and women carry a zipped bag clutched under the arm.\u00a0 <\/span>Lower socioeconomic areas often see the highest concentration of violent crime,\u00a0 <\/span>although it can occur anywhere.\u00a0 <\/span>In the worst-case scenario, it is far better to surrender possessions to a thief than to risk force.\u00a0 <\/span>However, the resorts, villas, and hotels that you will most likely stay at are as safe as they can be made, especially when doors are kept locked and valuables not left in the room.\u00a0 <\/span>The Jamaica tourist board have safety certifications that you can enquire about before booking a place to stay.\u00a0 <\/span>Once again, it is best to remember that there are areas just as dangerous in most visitor’s home countries, and by exercising common sense and extra vigilance most people are not greatly affected by crime.<\/span><\/p>\n Avoiding injury on holiday is one of the best steps you can take to ensure that your holiday is spent relaxing on the beach and not on the sidelines after needing medical attention.\u00a0 <\/span>Injuries while using vehicles such as jet skis and motorcycles are common and are easily avoided.\u00a0 <\/span>Drug possession and use are illegal in Jamaica, including the use of marijuana<\/strong>.\u00a0 <\/span>Travelers are subject to Jamaican laws and therefore Jamaican jails, which do not have the same standards as most Western areas.\u00a0 <\/span>Immediately contacting the relevant embassy is the best way to receive assistance but if a crime has been committed it may not always be possible to extract the citizen.\u00a0 <\/span>Some US citizens in Jamaican jails are there for posting or carrying items for other people, which were later found to have contained drugs.\u00a0 <\/span>It is extremely important that any unusual behavior is reported to the police, and that your desire to help or not to offend does not override your common sense.\u00a0 <\/span>Buying counterfeit and pirated goods are also illegal overseas, and transporting them home will break further laws.\u00a0 <\/span>Financial scams exist, for example where family members of travelers are e-mailed as if from the vacationers, saying that they are in trouble and require financial assistance.\u00a0 <\/span>Family members should contact the Embassy in these situations and with your details registered on government websites, you should be easily contactable to verify the truth of the situation. <\/span><\/p>\n There are various government websites and social media updates you can sign up for to be notified in the case of any emergencies or if any situations arise while you are in the country.\u00a0 <\/span>Check out the Embassy’s website, as well as \u201cliking\u201d their Facebook page so you get any updates they may share.\u00a0 <\/span>The number to call in case of an emergency in Jamaica is \u201c119\u201d.\u00a0 <\/span>If any issues arise, local police and the Embassy should be notified.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Other information<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Restrictions on import and export<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n When flying into and out of Jamaica, fresh foods such as meat and produce are not allowed to be carried.\u00a0 <\/span>Pets are also not allowed into Jamaica.\u00a0 <\/span>Visitors of legal age (over 18) can purchase duty-free tobacco products and alcoholic beverages, but limits apply as to the quantities. There are prohibited items that will not be allowed out of the country.\u00a0 <\/span>The safest route is to read all customs forms carefully and thoroughly, answer honestly, and question customs officials if uncertain at any point.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember that some unscrupulous vendors may give wrong information in order to make a sale.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Using the phone<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n To call Jamaica, the international code it +1 876, followed by the desired number.\u00a0 <\/span>To call out of the country, the caller should dial 011 followed by the desired country code and then the phone number.\u00a0 <\/span>Calling the US and Canada doesn’t require a country code. Mobile phone access is available in most locations, but remember that activating roaming can incur significant charges.\u00a0 <\/span>Internet cafes are available in most towns, and Skype or another internet-based call system will be cheaper, although probably less convenient.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Some helpful websites<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n http:\/\/www.visitjamaica.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Visit Jamaica has great general information about Jamaica, attractions, and things to do while there.\u00a0 <\/span>Targeted to tourists, it contains a great knowledge base from a tourism perspective. <\/span><\/p>\n http:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com.au\/Tourism-g147309-Jamaica-Vacations.html<\/span><\/p>\n The Trip Advisor website has general information but is set apart by its traveler recommendations.\u00a0 <\/span>Expect to find real-life stories and reviews about hotels, cities, and attractions.\u00a0 <\/span>Remember to get an overall feel by reading multiple reviews, as sometimes a single experience might not be the usual offering.<\/span><\/p>\n http:\/\/www.dontforgetyourtoothbrush.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush is a fantastic site for planning your trip.\u00a0 <\/span>After creating an account with your destination and preferred activities, the website will give you a list of things to plan weeks in advance, and ends with a suggested packing list that takes into consideration the destination, age, gender and preferred activities of your family members.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n http:\/\/www.embassyofjamaica.org\/VISnorthamericanvisitors.htm<\/span><\/p>\n The Embassy has excellent travel information from an official point of view.\u00a0 <\/span>Visit the site for further information about visas,\u00a0 <\/span>legal issues or anything to do with travel to Jamaica.<\/span><\/p>\n http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/passports\/english\/go\/step.html <\/span><\/p>\n STEP is the website for US residents to register their travel plans and contact details. This allows the authorities to contact you in an emergency, and to have an understanding of your plans that enhances their ability to locate you in case something goes wrong.\u00a0 <\/span>Most governments have similar websites, so for non-US residents consider searching for their relevant Smart Traveller website.<\/span><\/p>\n Ch 2: Finding The Right Accommodation <\/span><\/p>\n The type of accommodation a traveler or group will select depends on their needs and preferences.\u00a0 <\/span>An active group who like to seek new experiences as they go will naturally incline towards a hotel, whereas a family might prefer a resort with all the activities included in the same place.\u00a0 <\/span>For the perfect mix of both options, travelers can choose to rent a villa, providing both a place to relax and enjoy the included facilities and a base to set out on adventures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \n [\/av_textblock]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","_joinchat":[]},"categories":[142,141],"tags":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3192"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3192"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3192\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3192"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3192"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elitebgrowthdevelopment.in\/villaserenity\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3192"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\nKingston 6
\nJamaica, West Indies<\/span><\/p>\n
\nWhitter Village, Ironshore
\nUnit EU-1 (across from Burger King)
\nMontego Bay, Jamaica<\/span><\/p>\n