Jamaica Mini Guide
Jamaica is one of the most atmospheric places you will ever visit and this large Caribbean island has everything a visitor could possibly want.
Whether you head there to soak up the sun at an all inclusive beach resort, go to a cricket match or watch a reggae concert you will find the Jamaican people incredibly friendly and helpful.
That said, there are some no-go areas on the island and the crime rate is quite high, but as long as you take the proper precautions you will have an unforgettable experience.
Whichever part of the island you are heading to you are spoilt for choice as Jamaica has many airports. They are Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, which is named after a Jamaican prime minister, and the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay which both receive hundreds of international flights every day. There are also smaller airports in Negril and Ocho Rios and Kingston which are mostly accessed by light aircraft.
Driving in Jamaican is part of the adrenaline rush. Jamaica’s roads can be bumpy and badly maintained and its drivers erratic and foolhardy. But this is the best way to experience Jamaica’s stunning interior and the Blue Mountains. Just be warned that you will encounter some very windy roads which may even give you motion sickness, so it might be worth carrying appropriate medication for this. Driving is on the left, and don’t be surprised if other drivers use their horns frequently.
An attraction in Jamaican not to be missed is the Bob Marley museum which has memorabilia from the island’s most famous son and world renowned reggae artist who wrote and sang such timeless songs.
One place which is recommended to stay in is the Stony Hill Hotel. Though the staff have a laid back pace which could seem infuriating to those expecting a European standard of service, Stony Hill is incredibly charming and certainly a place to experience authentic Jamaica. Try their fine breakfast of eggs and bacon with toast of coffee followed by Caribbean fruit while you enjoy the gentle breeze and sweeping views of Kingston Bay.
Definitely don’t leave without eating the world famous Jamaican food while you are there, such as jerk chicken, rice and peas and ackee and saltfish. The local red stripe beer is an excellent accompaniment to this, as is the rum which is made from Jamaican sugar cane.