Caribbean
Jamaica
Easy English-speaking Caribbean base with reggae, beaches, mountains and great food. Gang violence in some cities, hostile attitudes to LGBTQ+ visitors and hassle from touts are the trade-offs.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa101 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyJMDUS$1 ≈ J$158.50Details
- Price level60%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English5/5Spoken almost everywhereDetails
- PlugsType A, B110 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency119Police 119 · Ambulance 110 · Fire 110
- Tap waterFilter or boilTap water is treated in most towns and tourist areas, but many residents and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedAttitudes are widely hostile and public affection is risky.Details
- DrivingOn the leftForeign licences are valid for up to 6 months; rental firms usually accept them. Driving is on the left.
Where to go in Jamaica
4 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montego BayCity | 3/5 | $1,770–2,650 | Dec–Apr | 35/100 |
| NegrilTown | 3/5 | $1,510–2,400 | Dec–Apr | 42/100 |
| Ocho RiosTown | 3/5 | $1,580–2,400 | Dec–Apr | 42/100 |
| KingstonCapital city | 2/5 | $1,640–2,520 | Dec–Apr | 35/100 |
When to visit Jamaica
Mid-December to April is dry and sunny. May–November is hotter and wetter, with hurricane risk peaking August–October.
Good to know
Entry
- Complete the Immigration and Customs Form (C5) online before you fly; keep the confirmation.
- Visitors are usually admitted for up to 90 days; you may be asked for an onward ticket.
- Cash worth US$10,000 or more must be declared. Meat and dairy products cannot be brought in.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Sex between men is illegal under old law; it is rarely enforced against visitors.
- Up to 2 oz of cannabis is a fine; larger amounts or export are criminal.
- Camouflage clothing is banned for civilians.
Etiquette
- Greet people ('Good morning') before asking anything.
- Ask before photographing people.
- Dress modestly away from the beach.
Tipping
Many restaurants and hotels add 10–15% service; if not, leave 10–15%. Tip drivers and guides.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Jamaica
- Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency
- Jamaica Tourist Board
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.