JAMAICA
Jamaica, (AKA), “The Rock”, is the third largest island in the
Caribbean, and is 235 km (146 mi) long, 84 km,( 52 mi) at its widest,
point.
Originally inhabited by the Tainos people, who named it "Xaymaca,
meaning “Land of Wood and Water”.
Jamaica was discovered in 1494 by Christopher Columbus, and in
1692 became a British colony, and gained independence in 1962.
The population of Jamaica is approximately 2.85 million, and like Canada and Australia, is governed under a democratic parliamentary system,
with a constitutional monarchy, in which the head of government is an
elected prime minister.
Jamaica is not just a beach, but a diverse cosmopolitan nation,
made up of people of many different lineage, who when asked where they are from will tell you “JAMAICA.”
Hence our motto, “Out of Many, One People”
HOW TO GET TO JAMAICA
CITIES OFFERING DIRECT FLIGHTS TO JAMAICA
Arriving in Montego BaySangster International Airport (MBJ) is regarded by many travellers as the gateway to Jamaica.
Several car rental companies are based in the arrivals hall, and there are also licensed taxi firms. The taxi desk can be found just outside the customs exit.
There are many options if you are travelling from the US, and you can also find direct connections from other parts of the world.
DIRECT FLIGHTS TO MONTEGO BAY (MBJ):
From Canada: Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax
and Moncton (Sunwing and Air Transit during winter
season).
From the USA: Miami, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago,
Detroit, Dallas, Houston, Newark,
Washington, Philadelphia, Charlotte,
and Baltimore.
DIRECT FLIGHTS TO KINGSTON (KIN):
From Canada: Toronto.
From the USA: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and New York.
From Caribbean: Nassau, Bridgetown, Providenciales, and Santo Domingo.
There are several European cities from which you can take nonstop flights to Jamaica, such as:
London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
The duration of flights from Europe to Jamaica typically ranges between 9 and 12 hours, depending on the departure location.
It is possible to travel to Jamaica by boat, primarily through cruises or by smaller vessels. Jamaica's main cruise ports in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth are equipped to handle large cruise ships. For smaller boats, entry is permitted at Kingston, Montego Bay, and Port Antonio, which offer necessary services like customs and immigration.
.VISA REQUIREMENTS COMMONWEALTH AND NON-COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES
https://thecommonwealth.org/our-member-countries
JAMAICAN VISA REQUIREMENTS - Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency
https://www.pica.gov.jm/immigration/entry-visa-requirements
JAMAICAN VISA - EXTENSION OF STAY
https://www.pica.gov.jm/immigration/extension-of-stays
GETTING AROUND JAMAICA
BUS: TOUR - Jamaica offers a variety of bus tours to explore the island's attractions. Popular options include city tours, historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences, with options for both group and private tours.
PUBLIC - Companies like Knutsford Express offer intercity
travel, while others specialize in local ours and
excursions.
RENTED - To rent a bus in Jamaica, you have several options including charter bus companies, tour operators, and transportation specialists and there are a few providers that offer various bus sizes and services.
You can find options for small, medium, and large
groups, with or without drivers, and for specific
needs like airport transfers or tours.
CAR Many companies, including Enterprise, SIXT, Budget Car RENTALS: Rental, Avis Rent a Car, and HummingBird Car Rental, offer long-term rental options, often with competitive rates and special discounts for extended rentals.
https://hbcarrental.com/long-term-special/
TAXI: Visitors are recommended to utilize chartered taxis that
provide private, door to door service. Registered taxi
services, can be recommended by hotels or the Jamaica
and are available at both Montego Bay's International Airport and Kingston's Norman Manley International Airport.
UBER: Kingston 24/7
AIR: TimAir
Island Hoppers - (Helicopter charters)
https://www.jamaicahelicopterservices.com/
WHERE TO STAY IN JAMAICA
Jamaica has so much to offer, and the best place to stay depends on what you are looking for on vacation.
For first-time visitors, Negril is often recommended due to its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
- Montego Bay is ideal for those seeking nightlife, activities, and easy access to the
airport.
- Ocho Rios is a great choice for families and those interested in natural attractions.
- Runaway Bay is known for snorkeling and diving.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Negril: - Best for: Relaxing on the beach, water sports, laid-back atmosphere. - Highlights: Seven Mile Beach, cliffside resorts, beautiful sunsets. - Consider: Beaches Negril and Sandals Negril for all-inclusive options. -
Montego Bay: - Best for: Nightlife, shopping, proximity to the airport. - - Highlights: Hip Strip, numerous all-inclusive resorts. -
- Consider: Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa, Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa for all-inclusive options.
Ocho Rios: - Best for: Families, nature lovers, Dunn's River Falls. - Highlights: Waterfalls, beaches, activities like snorkeling and diving. - Consider: Moon Palace Jamaica for an all-inclusive experience.
Runaway Bay: - Best for: Snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Highlights: Caves and grottoes.
- Consider: Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay for adults-only all- inclusive.
Kingston: The capital, known for its music scene and cultural attractions, but may not be the best choice for first-time visitors focused on beaches.
Port Antonio: Offers a more secluded and tranquil experience with beautiful beaches and lush scenery. Treasure Beach: A quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination with a laid-back vibe.