Located in the very heart of the Caribbean, it occupies part of an island that was once known as Hispaniola. This was the point where Christopher Columbus first set foot in the New World after his adventure in 1492. Its capital, Santo Domingo, is the oldest city in the Americas and today still preserves remains of its rich colonial past that contrasts with its intense activity. It is a tourist destination with stunning landscapes, art, culture, the exciting rhythm of Merengue music and, of course, its wonderful beaches lined with coral reefs.
Documents needed: Valid passport. Please check minimum validity with your consulate or embassy.
Airport Taxes: You will have to pay airport taxes upon making your booking.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Documents needed: Valid passport. Please consult minimum validity requirements at your consulate or embassy.
Currency: The monetary unit is the Jamaican dollar. 1= 80 j$ approximately (check the exchange rate before you travel). It is not necessary to obtain Jamaican dollars before you travel. You can change your money in the banks or exchange offices in all the tourist areas.
Airport Taxes: You will have to pay airport taxes upon making your booking
Local Taxes: On leaving the country you must pay a tax of about 48 $ (subject to changes).
Climate and Clothing: The climate is tropical, with a period of rains between May and June and September and October. The average temperature throughout the year is between 23º and 30º C on the coast. Take light clothes in natural fiber, such as cotton or linen, swimsuits, sun protection, mosquito repellant, etc....
Health: If you are taking any medical treatment, do not check it in with your luggage. Take all that you need as hand luggage. As a precautionary measure always drink bottled water and be careful with exposure to the sun.
Food: Amongst the large variety of dishes on offer, the most popular is “ackee” (a fruit that is mixed with salt fish for breakfast), jerk pork or jerk chicken (grilled pork or chicken with a lot of pepper), goat curry (goat with a very tasty curry sauce) and rice with frijoles with coconut.
Shopping: In Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Ríos and in Negril you will find malls, craft shops and souvenir shops.
Tips: In some restaurants and bars service charge is included, but check your bill and if it is not added you should add between 10% and 15%.
Electric Voltage: The electricity is 110 volts. Do not forget to bring an American-style flat-pin plug adaptor.
Time difference: GMT - 5 hours in winter and -6 in summer.
