Why You Need To Know These 5 Secrets Before Your Next Jamaica Vacation

Jamaica is the fifth largest island in the Caribbean and the third-largest island of the Greater Antilles archipelago. Its most famous feature is the pristine white sandy beaches and tropical shores, though it’s also got a well-known music culture, and it was the birthplace of Ian Fleming’s James Bond series too. Americans return to Jamaica for a vacation year after year - and no wonder.

Where to stay in Jamaica

The bustling hub of Montego Bay is the tourism capital, with lively street markets, action-packed water activities on the beach and some of the best resorts. Ochos Rios boasts the island’s prettiest waterfalls and lush tropical foliage. The resort of Negril will give you island life with a more native flair, and the prettiest beach on the island at Seven Mile.

When to visit Jamaica

With temperatures ranging from the low 80’s to mid-90’s, it’s a great all-year round destination.

Getting there and getting around in Jamaica

There are two major airports in Jamaica, Kingston’s Norman Manley Airport in the southeast and Sangster Airport in Montego Bay on the northwest coast, which is the most convenient for the popular tourist resorts of Montego Bay, Negril and Ochos Rios. There are daily flights into both from most major US cities.

Visa and passport requirements for Jamaica

A passport is required to visit Jamaica, but there are no visa requirements. Be warned, getting through immigration in Jamaica can be a long process - you are in the Caribbean now where everything has a laidback pace! Complete your immigration form whilst on the flight for a slightly smoother transition.

• Fast facts about Jamaica
• Capital: Kingston
• Currency: Jamaican dollar (but the US dollar is widely accepted)
• Population: 2.715 million
• Language spoken: English, Patois
• Power: Standard US plug a 110 volts