Jamaica travel information

Overview

Jamaica is one of the most famous travel destinations in the Caribbean, a fact that becomes obvious when you consider that it has won the World Travel Awards' "Caribbean's Leading Destination" title in 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
Practical information

Citizens of the European Union, Canada and the USA do not require any visa to enter the country. Jamaica experiences warm, tropical and humid climate throughout the year so you must carry along light cotton clothes. Also make sure to take immunization vaccines for hepatitis A and sometimes hepatitis B and/or typhoid. The high season is from December to April and reaches its peak during Christmas and Easter so if you are planning a visit during this time, make sure to book your hotel or any of the Jamaica accommodation rentals well in advance.

Important landmarks

The highest point on the island is the Blue Mountains peak at 7,400 feet above sea level. To make the most of your hike, start early at pre-dawn so that you reach the peak at sunrise. The hike is a bit steep but the surrounding flora and the scenic views at every turn make the climb worth each step you take. Needless to say the views from the peak are simply breathtaking. Jamaica enjoy a 635-miles stretch of shoreline with many world-class beaches including the Seven Miles Beach in Negril that has been consistently voted as amongst the best in the world. The fans of Bob Marley can visit his birthplace (and final resting place) known as the Nine Mile. There is also a museum dedicated to the legendary musician in Kingston. Another important landmark is the Dunn's River Falls where you can see strings of tourists hold hands to cross the beautiful but slippery waterfall.

Water-based activities

Most rivers on the island are navigable and you can enjoy bamboo rafting, white water rafting and kayaking among other activities. You can also opt for various cruises, sailing trips, submarine rides and snorkel trips in the Caribbean Sea. For surfing, you can check out Boston Bay, which according to Lonely Planet, is the best surfing site on the island.

Land-based activities

Apart from hiking the Blue Mountains you can take various heritage tours in Kingston. You can also enjoy a tour of the Mavis Bank Coffee Factory, located in a rural village about an hour from Kingston, and see how coffee beans are harvested, dried and processed and sample the freshest brew you are ever likely to taste. The golf enthusiasts, can play in world-class championship courses including the prestigious Johnnie Walker World Championship host, the Tryall Club.

Accommodation

You can choose to stay in hotels, all-inclusive resorts and Jamaica accommodation rentals. If you are travelling with your family or with a group, the best option would be to stay in your own private villa, apartment or cottage because these units are professionally managed and provide you all the services you would normally associate with a hotel as also privacy and space that only a home can provide and that too at costs that are less than hotels and all-inclusive resorts.