Description

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and offers excellent tourist facilities with magnificent white sandy beaches, mountains, waterfalls, wildlife and the best coffee in the world. In spite of the commercialization Jamaica has remained un-spoilt and offers a rich and pleasurable tropical experience. Many visitors return to the island as they succumb to the charms of the beautiful scenery, warm people and its lively and captivating music.

Shopping

The key to shopping in Jamaica is bargaining and haggling. Vendors peddle wares of all kinds, from local hand-made crafts, baskets, purses, hats to imported designer watches and perfumes, all at very tempting prices. Shopping areas, such as City Centre, Half Moon Shopping Village and Holiday Village Shopping Centre are known for their 'fixed price'. For travelers who enjoy the thrill of the bargain hunt, the Jamaican markets are a must visit. Shopping the Blue Mountain Coffee is another rich experience for coffee lovers as it is available in Jamaica at half the price of what it is in the US.

Restaurants

The experience of dining in Jamaican restaurants offers something more than just mouth watering Jamaican delicacies. Dining is the best option to explore Jamaica's local culture and life. A stop at one of the many roadside vendors can get you some of the best, old-fashioned cooking from the oil drum grill. At Kingston, vans offer satisfying meals at a low rate. Some of the tastiest, most flavorful cuisines in the world are found at the restaurants at Jamaica which offer Italian dishes as well.

Night Life

Jamaica with its rich and diverse cultural heritage is bound to offer the best in local nightlife and after-dark entertainment. Jamaica has very strong tradition of music and offers visitors enough fun options to satisfy for several nights. An awareness of local trends in tourist-centered areas is necessary for visitors to enjoy the variety in nightlife. Clubs at Kingston like Club Asylum and Latin nightspot Club Habibi provides visitors with a taste of genuine Jamaican nightlife and the diversity and culture of Jamaica.

Activities

Jamaica offers a variety of activities to keep all its visitors occupied and happy. Carnival and Junkanoo are for people who enjoy events and festivals. Those looking for a little more adventure can go on an afternoon hike through Jamaica’s beautiful mountains. There are plenty of activities for less adventure-seeking travelers like world-class golf and tennis facilities. Water sports are available in plenty in many of the beaches.

Communications

The international access code to dial into Jamaica is +1 followed by 876. The outgoing code is 1 followed by relevant country code. City or area codes are not required. Local Mobile operators use a variety of networks including GSM and hence roaming is widely available. Internet cafes are available in plenty in the main towns and cities.

Contacts

Jamaican Tourist Office: +1 876 929 9200 or www.jamaicatravel.com
Jamaican Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 452 0660
Jamaican Embassy, Brussels, Belgium (also responsible for Ireland): +32 (0)2 230 1170
United States Embassy, Kingston: +1 876 929 4850
Irish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 613 233 6281
Irish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 613 233 6281
New Zealand High Commission, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 613 238 5991
Emergencies: 119 (Police); 110 (Ambulance)

Currency

JMD

Attractions

Jamaica is famous for its dazzling white beaches and beautiful waterfalls. The sand on the north shore is amazingly white and is protected by an offshore reef, making it very safe for swimming. The Blue Mountains with its gorgeous backdrop are also a great place to explore. Milk River Spa is a naturally radioactive mineral bath with waters at a temperature of 33°C and is another popular spot among tourists. Jamaica's national gallery with its colorful display of modern art is definitely worth visiting.

Language

English

Language Description

English is the official language of the island. People also speak a local patois which is a combination of Spanish, English and African language.

Tipping

In the all inclusive resorts, tips are generally part of the bill and hence no additional tipping is necessary. US $1 is expected by most porters, waiters, bartenders and bell boys. 10-20% of the billed amount can be paid to taxi drivers, room service and personal assistants.