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Jamaica Facts
- By Cab: top
Taxis have predetermined rates between one location and another. All cabs have red PPV plates (Public Passenger Vehicle) along with regular license plates. Limousines, air-conditioned coaches and local bus service also connect all villages, cities and towns.
- Money: top
The Jamaican dollar is the only legal tender, though prices are often quoted in US dollars, which are widely accepted. European currencies are generally frowned upon so it's best to have US dollar traveler's checks. All major brands of traveler's checks and credit cards are accepted in Jamaica.
- History: top
Although Jamaica was settled by the Spanish after Columbus discovered it in 1494, the island is more closely linked to England, having been under English rule for more than 300 years. Similar to many other Caribbean islands, its history is punctuated with pirates and plantations.
When first visited by Christopher Columbus in 1494, Jamaica was populated by its original inhabitants, the Arawak Indians. From 1494 until 1655, when it was captured by the British, Jamaica was a Spanish colony. Under the British in the 18th century, who used extensive supplies of slave labour from Africa, it became known for the wealth of its sugar plantations. Emancipation of the slaves took place in 1838 and at time, indentured labour from India and China was imported to work on the sugar estates.
In subsequent years, setbacks in the sugar industry brought the island economic hardship. After the long period of direct British colonial rule, Jamaica began to gradually achieve local political control int he late 1930's. This was a time of social unrest with instances of violence as political leaders pushed for universal adult suffrage, which as ultimately achieved in 1944. Jamaica's leading political parties were formed during this period - The Jamaica Labour Party headed by Sir Alexander Bustamante and the People's National Party headed by Norman Manley.
In 1958, Jamaica joined the West Indies Federation, but withdrew in 1961 following a referendum. Complete independence from the United Kingdom was attained in August 1962, although Jamaica remains a member of the British Commonwealth.
- Location: top
Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, 90 miles south of Cuba.
Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean Sea. It is located 898 kilometres southeast of Miami, 144.8 kilometres south of Cuba and 160.9 kilometres south west of Haiti. The island has an area of 11 420 square kilometres; its highest point is the Blue Mountain Peak, which rises 2 256 metres above sea level.
- Water: top
Purified and filtered by modern methods.
- Arawak Indians: top
Arawak Indians were the original inhabitants exterminated by the Spanish after Columbus discovered Jamaica in 1492. The Spanish were defeated by the British in 1655.
- Post Office: top
Airmail available. Post office hours: 0830-1630 Monday to Friday.
- Electricity: top
110 volts AC, 50Hz, single phase. American 2-pin plugs are standard, but many hotels offer, in addition, 220 volts AC, 50Hz, single phase, from 3-pin sockets.
- Tipping: top
Most hotels will include a 10 to 15% charge on your bill. These charges are not automatically included in restaurant bills, so tipping is suggested.
- Language: top
The official language is English. Local patois is also spoken.
- Religion: top
Protestant majority (Church of God, Anglican, Baptist and Methodist) with Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Bahai communities. Rastafarianism, a religion based on belief in the divinity of the late Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie (Ras Tafari), is also widely practiced.
- Economy: top
Jamaica operates an open economy which is market driven. Several international firms from Europe, USA, Canada, Asia and Latin America operate here taking advantage of the attractive incentives offered to investors. They are engaged in Tourism, Agribusiness and services for both domestic and export markets.
At present, tourism is the main foreign exchange earner overtaking bauxite and alumina.
The apparel sector of the manufacturing industry is also a significant earner of foreign exchange for the country.
- Government: top
Constitutional monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1962. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor General Sir Howard Cooke since 1991. Head of Government: Prime Minister P J Patterson since 1992.
- Hotel Tax: top
There is a room occupancy tax which varies somewhat according to the type of hotel. On average there is a 10% service charge plus a 15% G.C.T. charge. Some hotels include this in their rack rate.
- By Air: top
Air Jamaica Express operates from Montego Bay and Kingston to all areas in Jamaica with landing fields on a daily basis. For more information call (876) 922-4661 or (800) 523-5585.
http://www.airjamaica.com
- Ethnic Groups: top
Black (90.9%), mixed (7.3%), East Indian (1.3%), white (0.2%), Chinese (0.2%)
- Customs: top
Incoming duty-free items: An adult 18 years or older is allowed the following duty-free items:
- No more than 50 cigars, or 200 cigarettes, or pound of tobacco
- One quart or one liter of spirits, cordials and wine
- Six fluid ounces of perfumed spirits and 12 fluid ounces of toilet water For more information contact the Customs House at 876-922-5140.
The following incoming items are restricted: Fresh flowers, plants, honey, fruits, meats and vegetables (except canned), coffee (in any form), firearms, explosives and dangerous drugs (including marijuana). Persons who use Kosher foods must have documentation for all carcasses being imported: (a) meat inspection certificates from the USDA/Official Government Vet. Ministry of Agriculture & Veterinarian Division in Canada certifying ante and post mortem inspection; (b) stamp of approval on all carcasses; (c) an import license from the Ministry of Agriculture in Jamaica. Contact the Jamaica Tourist Board to make arrangements for obtaining the license (two weeks notice required).
- Internet/E-mail: top
There are a few Internet kiosks at shopping centers in Kingston; more should soon be available. Cybercafés also exist in Kingston and other towns. ISPs include Cable & Wireless and other third party company. Available in most hotels and offices.
- Drugs: top
Possession of ganja (marijuana) and any "hard" drugs carries stiff penalties in Jamaica. A doctor's prescription is required to purchase drugs at pharmacies, but popular proprietary drugs are available "over the counter."
Illicit drugs warning!: The Jamaican government has an active anti-drug and cannabis eradication program. Stiff penalties exist for possession of and or trafficking in drugs.
- Cuisine: top
In Jamaica, every tropical food you've ever dreamed of is available.
The national dish is Ackee and Saltfish. It is generally had for breakfast. Jamaicans will curry just about anything, from goat to fruit.
- Climate: top
Jamaica's average annual temperature is 80°F / 27°C. The average yearly temperature range is between 78°F and 85deg;F. Extreme temperatures range from a low of 65°F to a high of 95°F.
There is a fresh sea breeze by day and a gentle breeze from the mountains by night.
The high season in Jamaica is the winter season from December 15 to April 14. The winter season is when Jamaica is windiest. The winter season is the most popular time to visit Jamaica and the most expensive also requiring the greatest amount of pre-planning. You should make your reservations 2 or 3 months prior to your desired winter season visit to assure that you can get your desired accommodations.
During the summer season temperatures are only a couple of degrees warmer than in the winter. The summer season resort rates drop 20-50%.
The rainy season is usually during the fall. Usually brief showers followed by sunshine. Overcast days are rare.
Jamaica is a year-round destination thanks to its idyllic tropical maritime climate. Seasons are virtually non-existent and daytime maximum temperatures along the coast hover constantly around 80-86°F (27-30°C). Even up in the Blue Mountains temperatures are only just under 68°F (20°C) for most of the year.
If you plan on spending time on the east coast or in the Blue Mountains, you may wish to take account of the so-called rainy season, which extends from May to November with two peaks: May/June and October/November. Although this time of year is a little more humid than others, rain usually falls for short periods (normally in the late afternoon) and it's quite possible to enjoy sunshine for most of your visit.
The peak tourist season runs from mid-December to mid-April, with Christmas and Easter the busiest weeks. During this period the resort areas of the island are flooded with foreign tourists and hotel prices are highest. You can save wads of money (40% or more at some hotels) by visiting during the less-crowded low season which lasts from May to November.
- Driving Rules: top
U.S. driver's license is valid for up to 3 months per visit. U.K. driver's license is valid up to 12 months per visit. The speed limit is 50 Km. (30 MPH) in urban areas and built up villages and 80 Km. (50 MPH) on highways unless otherwise sign posted. Driving is on the left! When driving in Jamaica, "the right side is the wrong side therefore, the Left side is the right side".
- Population: top
Kingston, 800,000; Montego Bay, 82,000; Mandeville, 13,681; Port Antonio, 10,426; Ocho Rios, 5,851; Negril, 1,166
- Visas: top
United States Citizens:
All visitors, 16 years and older, must present a valid passport (or a passport that has expired for a period not exceeding one year provided that US immigration will re-admit such person on the expired passport) or an original birth certificate (with raised seal), naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship along with a valid, state-issued photo ID. No visa is required for tourists and tourists are allowed to visit the island for a period not exceeding six months. Underage (16 and younger) must present an original birth certificate (with raised seal) and a valid photo ID such as a school ID. All documents must bear the same name. Residents may use an alien registration card, however some residents may require a visa. Contact a JTB office for more information.
Canadian Citizens:
All visitors, 16 years and older, must present a valid passport (or a passport that has expired for a period not exceeding one year provided that Canadian immigration will re-admit such person on the expired passport) or a "Statement of Live Birth" certificate with valid government issued photo ID. No visa is required for tourists and tourists are allowed to visit the island for a period not exceeding six months. Underage (16 and younger) must present an original birth certificate (with raised seal) and a valid photo ID such as a school ID. All documents must bear the same name. Residents may use an alien registration card, however some residents may require a visa. Contact a JTB office for more information.
UK Citizens:
Commonwealth citizens need passports (no visa is required).
Japan Citizens:
Passport required. Visa is required for stays of over 30 days.
All other countries:
Please contact the JTB office nearest you for requirements.
http://www.jamaicatravel.com/jtboffice.html
- Time: top
Eastern Standard Time. Jamaica does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
- Marriage: top
- Original or certified copies of birth certificates
- If either party is divorced, original or certified copies of divorce papers.
- If either party is widowed, original or certified copies of spouse's death certificate.
- Couple must be in Jamaica at least 48 hours (2 business days, weekends do not count) to qualify for the granting of a marriage licence and also to conclude the necessary wedding arrangements.
- Clothing: top
Lightweight tropical clothing is best suited throughout the year. On the beaches shorts and swimwear are acceptable. A light sweater is suggested for evening, especially in the winter months. Some hotels require casual evening wear for women and a jacket for men when dining. Laundering and dry cleaning facilities are available.
- Departure Tax: top
Jamaica has a departure tax that is payable in cash only at the airport upon your departure. Currently, the tax is JA$1000 or US$27 (or equivalent in foreign currency). Cruise ship passengers also are subject to a departure tax of US$15.
- Driving Times: top
- Montego Bay to Negril 80 Km (50 miles) 1 1/2 hours
- Montego Bay to Ocho Rios 100 Km (62 miles) 1 1/2 hours
- Ocho Rios to Port Antonio 97 Km (60 miles) 2 1/2 hours
- Ocho Rios to Kingston 96 Km (60 miles) 2 hours
- Kingston to Mandeville 105 Km (65 miles) 1 1/2 hours
- Kingston to Port Antonio 109 Km (68 miles) 2 hours
- Pets: top
No pets are allowed entry. There is no rabies in Jamaica.
- Currency: top
$J (Jamaican Dollar)
Jamaica's currency is the Jamaican dollar, not to be confused with the U.S. dollar. The value of the Jamaican dollar fluctuates but in Feb. 2003 it was approximately JA$52 to US$1
- By Rented Car: top
In Jamaica you drive on the left. The speed limit is 30 MPH in towns and 50 MPH on highways. To rent any vehicle, visitors may use a drivers license (valid for 12 months) for up to a 3 month period. Drivers must be at least 25 years of age to rent a car and must post a bond to meet insurance regulations with cash, major credit card, or travelers checks. Service stations are open daily and will only accept cash.
- Size: top
4,411 square miles.Slightly smaller than the state of Connecticut in the U.S.
- Music: top
Reggae
Jamaica's popular music has achieved world fame through the emergence of reggae, a music form that emerged from traditional indigenous Jamaican music with African and Black American roots. Many reggae artistes have won international fame for original compositions, recordings and performances - notably the late Robert (Bob) Marley. For his cultural contributions, Marley received Jamaica's third highest national honour - the Order of Merit (OM).
Folk
Jamaica's folk music is said to have its origin in the folk music of West Africa. Thus it is both African and Jamaican. Mento and other traditional folk music are encouraged by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC). The Jamaica Folk Singers led by Dr. Olive Lewin, who has researched, recorded and documented Jamaican folk music, is the most accomplished group which specializes in performing folk music. Other prominent groups include: the University Singers; the Carifolk Singers and the National Dance Threatre Company (NDTC).
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