Jamaica is undoubtedly one of the most stunning countries in the world. Situated in the Caribbean region, the island is home to delicate ecosystems, majestic white sand beaches and a warm tropical climate. The key to enjoying more than just the scenery of Jamaica is in embracing and appreciating the unique culture found there.
The long history of slavery, European colonization and plantations is deeply rooted in the traditions, food and music. There are profound African influences, Spanish nuances and British methodologies in government. So, the day to day customs are not easily predicted by those who are new to the country. Here we will take a look at some practical bits of information for traveling to Jamaica, as well as a few key customs to take note of.
Money The Jamaican dollar, or "Jay" uses the same symbol as the US dollar, so be sure to ask which currency a price is quoted in. However, most hotels and high end items are quoted in US dollars, which are widely accepted in Jamaica. For those traveling on a budget the cheapest one can live in Jamaica is about $35 USD per day. There are lots of street vendors selling cheap food, but it is the accommodation that will set you back. A very basic room will cost about $20 USD per night.
The standard tipping rate in eating establishments is 10%; however check your bill carefully before paying as it is common for gratuities to be hidden in the bill. On the other hand, some all inclusive resorts do not allow tipping at all. Tourist taxi drivers expect a tip, and even ask for one; while Juta or route taxi drivers do not expect it.
American dollars are widely expected all over Jamaica; however you will receive change in Jay dollars. It is a good idea to carry Jamaican notes under $100 with you at all times. Bank machines are found in many convenient locations around the country, in remote areas they are generally found at gas stations. Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted in most areas of Jamaica.
Visas Jamaica's laws on Visa's are fairly lax. Citizens from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Japan, Israel or any country a member of the European Union are not required to have a visa when entering Jamaica. Visitors are only required to show a return or ongoing airline ticket upon arriving in Jamaica. All other nationalities are required to apply for a visa before entering Jamaica. Nationals from Canada, the UK, Ireland and the US may still in the country for six months before leaving the country. Those from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Luxembourg, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Turkey and other Commonwealth Nations are only allowed to stay in Jamaica for three months.
In part two of this series will cover such practicalities as travel insurance, health, safety, and what time of year is best to visit Jamaica. The best way to ensure any trip overseas is successful is in educating oneself on the local laws and customs. Culture shock will not have as big an impact, there will be fewer surprises when you arrive and you will feel more at ease in the foreign environment.
The long history of slavery, European colonization and plantations is deeply rooted in the traditions, food and music. There are profound African influences, Spanish nuances and British methodologies in government. So, the day to day customs are not easily predicted by those who are new to the country. Here we will take a look at some practical bits of information for traveling to Jamaica, as well as a few key customs to take note of.
Money The Jamaican dollar, or "Jay" uses the same symbol as the US dollar, so be sure to ask which currency a price is quoted in. However, most hotels and high end items are quoted in US dollars, which are widely accepted in Jamaica. For those traveling on a budget the cheapest one can live in Jamaica is about $35 USD per day. There are lots of street vendors selling cheap food, but it is the accommodation that will set you back. A very basic room will cost about $20 USD per night.
The standard tipping rate in eating establishments is 10%; however check your bill carefully before paying as it is common for gratuities to be hidden in the bill. On the other hand, some all inclusive resorts do not allow tipping at all. Tourist taxi drivers expect a tip, and even ask for one; while Juta or route taxi drivers do not expect it.
American dollars are widely expected all over Jamaica; however you will receive change in Jay dollars. It is a good idea to carry Jamaican notes under $100 with you at all times. Bank machines are found in many convenient locations around the country, in remote areas they are generally found at gas stations. Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted in most areas of Jamaica.
Visas Jamaica's laws on Visa's are fairly lax. Citizens from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Japan, Israel or any country a member of the European Union are not required to have a visa when entering Jamaica. Visitors are only required to show a return or ongoing airline ticket upon arriving in Jamaica. All other nationalities are required to apply for a visa before entering Jamaica. Nationals from Canada, the UK, Ireland and the US may still in the country for six months before leaving the country. Those from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Luxembourg, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Turkey and other Commonwealth Nations are only allowed to stay in Jamaica for three months.
In part two of this series will cover such practicalities as travel insurance, health, safety, and what time of year is best to visit Jamaica. The best way to ensure any trip overseas is successful is in educating oneself on the local laws and customs. Culture shock will not have as big an impact, there will be fewer surprises when you arrive and you will feel more at ease in the foreign environment.
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