Jamaica Quick Guide

The Bob Marley Museum is a well-known tourist attraction in Kingston. It houses an original Bob Marley album and a number of memorabilia including posters, shirts, records, videos and other collectibles. It was built over fifteen years by the legendary reggae star. If you're planning to visit Jamaica, this article will help you plan your trip and give you some tips to make your holiday in the reggae capital of the world memorable.

Be well connected. With an international airport in Kingston, you can easily get in and out of the island. There are two international airports in the region, namely the Kingstone International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Travelling from the airport to downtown Kingston takes less than an hour, and you can also take taxis to your hotel. Most of your baggage will be covered by airline luggage allowance, provided it contains a sufficient quantity of luggage.

Go for shopping. Buy designer dresses, jeans, jackets, jewelry, shoes and more from any of the many outlets in the local malls. There are also department stores, which sell unique items. Department stores in Montego Bay are a popular destination for tourists. Moreover, there is good connectivity to major railway stations such as the Montego Bay ferries that bring visitors to Montego Bay.

Go for recreation. Most tourists come to Jamaica to frolic in the sun and enjoy the recreational aspects of the island. Whether it is snorkeling, diving, tennis, golf or horseback riding, Montego Bay Kingstone is well connected to many recreation options as well.

Visit the museums. The Jamaica Travel Guide provides a list of numerous art galleries, libraries and history museums in the island. Among the best-known museums in Jamaica are the Rose Hall Great House, The Jamaica Antiquities Museum and the Jamaica Museum. The Jamaica museum, which is a creation of the Art Deco group of artists is one of the finest established museums in Jamaica. The museum's beauty and range of exhibits not only fascinate sight-seers, but are prized works of art for decorating homes and offices. The museum is also home to some of the most spectacular paintings in the world.

Visit the national gallery. The Jamaica Travel Guide lists the national gallery in a separate listing of the country's famous museums. The Port Royal National Gallery and the Montego Bay National Gallery are two of the best-known tourist attractions in Jamaica. They house an array of paintings, sculptures and other fine works of art by various artists.

The food is delicious. According to a Jamaica Travel Guide, the best time to eat in Jamaica is in the evening. At that time, visitors can enjoy some scrumptious Jamaican cuisine at local eateries, such as the Gold Club in Montego Bay. It is also possible to grab a bite at one of the many dining establishments at the port of call in Jamaica, such as the L'Orient in Roseland or the Sally in downtown Kingston.

Go shopping. In addition to all the beautiful hotels, resorts and other entertainment facilities in the island, there are also a lot of shopping spots. Among the top spots to go to include the Esplanade Mall in Roseland and the Food Court at the Grand Mall in Montego Bay. There are many local markets throughout Jamaica, where tourists can buy locally grown products at reasonable prices. The best season to visit Jamaica, according to a Jamaica Travel Guide, is from May to October, when the island is blooming with lush, colorful plants and trees, its lovely beaches are crowded with holidayers from all over the world, and the humidity is just right for strolling on the beach and basking in the sun.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Jamaica are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Jamaica is November to mid-December. That's when the island's already beautiful weather (ranging from mid-70s to the high 80s all year-round) is the most pleasant and the hotel and flight deals are the easiest to find.

Do I need a Visa?

British nationals don't need a visa to visit Jamaica. Visitors are usually granted entry for a maximum of 90 days.

See which forms you may need for entry into Jamaica.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Jamaica you can grab amazing Jamaican Dollar deals via Wise.com (GBP to JMD).

What about the wildlife?

From the multitude of land crabs, more than a dozen different frogs, fireflies, giant butterflies, crocodiles, snakes– including the Jamaican Boa, to the Manatees, iguanas, turtles and, of course, its dazzling species of endemic birds.

What is the traditional food?

Jamaican Patois food? Ackee and salt fish—sautéed lightly together, with peppers, onions, and spices—is Jamaica's national dish. It's usually referred to as a breakfast food, but it'll honestly work anytime of day. Some folks eat ackee and codfish alongside rice and peas, or with boiled green bananas, or just on plain white rice.

What Languages are spoken?

Jamaican English. Jamaican English is the official language of Jamaica, and it's used in government, media, education and business. Jamaican Patois. Jamaican Patois, also known as Patwa and Jamaican Creole, is the most widely spoken language in the country. You can learn some basic Jamaican Patois before you travel to Jamaica and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (If a gratuities charge is not incorporated, tip as you would at a restaurant at home, 10%-18%, depending upon the level of service. Like always, tipping is based solely upon the diner's discretion. Jamaicans always expect tips in the restaurant even though a service charge was already included in the bills.).

Disclosure: This content is reader-supported. We may receive a small commission from affiliate links you follow from this Jamaica travel guide.

Useful Numbers

  • Police: 119
  • Ambulance: 110
  • Fire: 110
  • UK Embassy: +1 876-936-0700

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is -6 hours

Travel Apps

Grab a travel app or two


Learn Jamaican Patois

Learn some Jamaican Patois before your trip to Jamaica


Jamaica Guidebook

Stay informed before, during and after your trip to Jamaica by buying a guidebook.