Entry Requirements
U.S. Citizens travelling to and from Jamaica must present a valid passport when leaving and or re-entering the United States. All visitors are required to travel with a return ticket or onward ticket for entry into Jamaica.
Banks/Currency
Commercial banks are accessible in all resort areas. Official currency exchange rates vary daily, so it's advisable to shop around for the best rate before converting your cash. Most Jamaican ATMs accept international bank cards with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus logos. Banks also give credit card advances, change traveler's checks among other financial services.
Climate
Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humid conditions year-round. Average temperature ranges from 66 degrees Fahrenheit 99 degrees Fahrenheit.
Though Jamaica is known for warmth and sunshine, the island sees two rainy seasons from May to June and September to November. Also, hurricanes may pass over the island primarily during the months June to September.
Will it rain during your holiday? If it does, don't worry. Most times, the short tropical showers provide a welcome break from the afternoon heat - just look at it as liquid sunshine, not rain!
Communications
Jamaica is well connected to the rest of the world. Direct international telephone service operates in all areas 24 hours a day, and telephone operators will gladly facilitate collect, third-party or credit card calls. International faxes, cables and telegrams can be sent from most hotels and post offices. E-mail and Internet access is available too, usually at hotels and parish libraries, but also at local Internet cafes. There are three daily national newspapers and five weekend newspapers, all available island-wide. Some hotels and gift shops receive the international editions of The New York Times, TIME, The Economist and the London Times.
Driving
The most important thing to remember when driving in Jamaica is that there, they drive on the LEFT, although some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cows, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. They have over 17,000 kilometers of road networks connecting all major towns and cities; the speed limit is 50 kmph (30 mph) in built-up areas, and 80 kmph (50 mph) on highways. All drivers are required to carry a valid license. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver's Licenses, but visitors from North America may use their country's license for up to three months per visit. Car rental is available in most major towns and cities, and usually, clients must be no less than 25 years old to rent.
Electricity
The electrical supply in Jamaica is 110 volts/50 cycles standard. Most hotels have hair dryers, alarm clocks, radios and clothes irons available, and in any case you probably won't need many appliances. You are, after all, on holiday!
Language
The official language of Jamaica is English, although most of us converse using - Patois', a dialect as colorful and intriguing as our Jamaican personalities. It may take some time for you to become accustomed to it. When that happens, though, you'll have fun trying the local expressions.
Time Zone
Jamaica falls within the Eastern Time Zone and does NOT observe Daylight Savings Time. At times in Jamaica, however, it seems as if we don't observe any time at all, so for the least amount of stress on your vacation, you may want to think about leaving your watch behind! At approximately 18 degrees north of the equator, the island falls within the tropics, and as such does not experience drastic seasonal changes in sunrise and sunset times. Year-round, the island averages between 11.5 and 12.5 hours of sunlight per day - always enough time to do everything, or never enough for anything!
Water
"Xamayca" is the name that the first Jamaicans, the Tainos, gave to this country. It means "Land of Wood and Water", and for good reason; Jamaica has hundreds of spring and rivers, both above and underground. Over the years, we have developed extensive water treatment and supply systems island wide, so all drinking water in Jamaica is purified and filtered by modern methods. Our water is safe for you to drink, clean your teeth, bathe and wash clothing in. If you choose not to drink the water, rest assured; there are many brands of Jamaican spring water that meet or exceed the highest international standards, available at most shops and restaurants.
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