Jamaica

Climate

The annual climate for Jamaica is perfect for vacationing year-round. Summer temperatures average between 80 and 84 degrees Farenheit and winter temperatures average between 74 and 77 degrees Farenheit. Hurricanes can occur anytime between June and November with the most likely time being in September and October.

Currency

The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD). Both U.S. and Jamaican dollars are accepted.

Fast Facts

Capital: Kingston, Jamaica
Size: 4,400 Square Miles
Official Language: English and Jamaican Patois
Population: 2.5 million
Time Difference: Eastern Standard Time
Nationality: Independent nation (member of Biritsh Commonwealth)
Entry requirements: Valid Passport
Electrical units: same as in the U.S. (no adapters needed)
Cars: Drive on left

Getting There

Getting to Jamaica is easy! There are two major international airports on the island. Kingston in the southeast and Montego Bay on the northwest coast. Montego Bay is the main tourist airport and is convenient to those staying in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios or Port Antonio. American Airlines, Air Jamaica, Continental Airlines, BWIA, Northwest Airlines, Air Canada, US Airways service Jamaica from North America. British Airways offers service from Britain. Tourists must show proof of citizenship to gain entry to the island.

Telecommunications

Most villas and resort properties on Jamaica offer internet connection for your laptop, or offer a computer with internet service. Please see the amenities chart for each villa. If your particular villa rental does not offer internet access then we recommend visiting a local internet cafe for high-speed internet access. All villas have phones. A barring service is in place on some villa phones for international calls. You may dial direct for local calls, which are complimentary and receive calls as well. Credit cards (Visa/MC/AMX) can be used for long distance dialing. The majority of US cellular phones work on Jamaica. Please contact your specific provider to confirm that you will receive service on the island.