Jamaica
Jamaica, the third largest island in the Caribbean, lies 90 miles south of Cuba and 100 miles west of Haiti in the West Indies. Geographically diverse, the island features the Blue Mountains, numerous rivers and waterfalls, a lagoon, and dozens of white- and black-sand beaches. On top of its natural beauty, the island is famous for its reggae music and cuisine. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder so many travelers make Jamaica their destination.
Capital
Kingston
Population
2,758,124 (2006 Estimate)
Language
English is the main language of Jamaica but many Jamaicans speak their own dialect or Patois which includes words of Spanish, Portuguese and West African origin.
Currency
The official currency is the Jamaican dollar, but you can pay for any goods in U.S. dollars as well. Just be careful - insist on knowing whether a price is quoted in Jamaican or U.S. dollars. The Jamaican dollar is far less valuable than the U.S. dollar. If you choose to use Jamaican currency, keep exchange receipts from a bank or other official change bureau - you'll need to show them in order to change any leftover Jamaican dollars back to U.S. currency. ATMs dispense Jamaican dollars. Avoid using ATMs at night.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary for each destination; it is your responsibility to verify you have the correct documents prior to travel. After 31 December 2006 a valid passport is required for travel to all the Caribbean and Mexico.
Shopping Hours
As in any country, store hours vary. As a rule, most establishments are open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 or 5 PM Monday through Friday. Some shops are open Saturday mornings.
Tipping
Most places add a service charge to your bill, but a little extra (3-5%) is customary for good service. When a service charge is not included, tip 10% or 15%.
Dress
In general, men may want to bring button-up shirts and nice shorts or pants, and women should consider long shorts or skirts. The culture is slightly more conservative than in the U.S. or Europe. Shorts and bathing suits should be kept on the beach. Cover up if you're in town.
Electricity
Most places use standard U.S. voltage (110V); however some establishments still operate on 220V.
Driving
Drive on the left-hand side of the road, with steering wheels on the right.
Time Zone
Jamaica follows Eastern Standard Time, but does not observe daylight savings time (so they are one hour behind in summer).