Jamaica whose colony was. Hiking in Jamaica. things to do in Jamaica

AND main port country - located on the southeastern coast of the island, in the depths of Port Royal Bay, at the foot of the Blue Mountains. Large ships can enter the harbor ocean ships, from the south it is closed by a long scythe of Papisados. Now there is a resort area on it, but the ruins of the forts of Port Royal, the capital of Jamaica in 1656-1692, have also been preserved here. Port Royal has been the center of maritime trade in the Caribbean since 1518, when it was founded by the Spaniards. After the capture by the British in 1655, Port Royal became the capital of the colony of Jamaica.
Port Royal was open to the ships of ordinary merchants, but at the same time it became the center of piracy in the Caribbean. Smuggling and the slave trade flourished here. The British turned a blind eye to the activities of English pirates who robbed Spanish ships and cities, because the pirates invested the stolen money in the Jamaican economy. It was Port Royal that the famous corsair Henry Morgan chose for pirate raids on Spanish possessions in Panama and Venezuela. Pirate ships anchored in the harbor of Port Royal, whose names terrified the entire Caribbean population: Roche Brasiliano, John Davis, Edward Mansfield.
Pirate freemen ended overnight, when on June 7, 1692, a terrible earthquake caused a huge wave that flooded two-thirds of the city. 5 thousand people died, about 50 ships sank, almost all buildings were destroyed. The ancient forts at the entrance to the harbor of Port Royal have survived to this day (some of them are flooded), protecting the city from the sea.
The British had to move the capital of the island to the village of Kingston - on the northern, opposite shore of Port Royal Bay. The British tried to restore Port Royal, but fate decreed otherwise: in 1703 the city burned out in a severe fire, then several hurricanes hit it in a row, and the fire of 1728, which raged for three days, completely destroyed it. By this time most of residents have already moved to Kingston.
Before the earthquake that sank Port Royal, Kingston was a small village whose people worked in their own gardens. The name Kingston, literally translated from English, means "royal city", which at first did not correspond to the appearance of this settlement. The inhabitants of the lost capital of Jamaica who moved here settled mainly along the coast, where there were many swamps. Slaves from African countries were brought to the city. A significant number of settlers soon died from mosquito-borne diseases. Until a fire burned down the remains of Port Royal in 1703, Kingston remained, in fact, a village.
Only by 1716 did Kingston become the largest city on the island, the center of Jamaican trade. To prevent the expansion of the city, the authorities limited the Port Royals in the purchase of land, allowing them to buy the same area of ​​land that they owned in the dead city.
In 1729, the first school appeared in the city, and in 1774, the first theater on Northern Parade Street (both buildings have survived to this day).
Over time, the city turned into the economic center and main port of Jamaica, and in 1872 the colonial administration of Jamaica declared it the official capital of the island (instead of the city of Spanish Town).
Kingston almost repeated the tragic fate of Port Royal when in 1907 it experienced a powerful earthquake. Killed 800 people and almost all the buildings of the old English colonial architecture. The city had to be rebuilt, and the bet was made on low-rise buildings. Now the development of Kingston is mostly modern.
Kingston has a rectangular layout. The main streets run from north to south directly to the bay. Most of the city was built up with low-rise buildings after the sad events of 1907, when Kingston survived a powerful earthquake. However, in the business district of the city of Uptown, high-rise business centers already flaunt.
In 1962, Jamaica declared independence and Kingston became the capital of a free country. The development of the city was facilitated by two factors that are unique to Jamaica: the birth of the Rasta religion and the creation of the original musical style of reggae.
Rastafarianism is a religious movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s. Its adherents call themselves Rastamans, or Rastas. The name of the religion comes from the name of the last emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie I (1892-1975), before the coronation was called Ras (supreme leader) Tafari Makonnen. Rastas revere Haile Selassie I as the incarnation of God, whom they call Jah.
In Search of Spirituality in the 1960s rastamans invented the musical style of reggae: a kind of mixture of African, European and Latin American rhythms. In the 1970s Jamaican singer Bob Marley (1945-1981) composed and recorded reggae songs that became popular around the world, and Rastafarianism spread to most countries, especially the United States and Great Britain, from where a flood of tourists poured into Kingston.
Reggae made Kingston, devoid of historical sights due to earthquakes, fires and hurricanes, world center rastafarianism and reggae.
The influx of funds allowed the city administration to rebuild the modern center of Kingston - Uptown, turning it into the financial center of the Caribbean with high-rise buildings, wide boulevards and villas in the suburbs, immersed in tropical greenery.
The most famous attraction and place of worship for rastafans and reggae lovers from all over the world is the Bob Marley Museum, opened in 1987 in the house where he lived in Kingston from 1975 to 1981. On the first floor of the museum there is a door to his recording studio called "Tuff-Gong".
In Kingston, there are a lot of temples of various denominations: Protestant, Baptist, Anglican, Catholic, Churches of God, Methodist, Seventh Day Adventists, Pentecostals and others. There are no only Rastafarians: Rastas do not build temples of their religion.
Today's Kingston, the nearest city of St. Andrew and several other small towns and villages form an agglomeration in which a quarter of the total population of Jamaica lives. Residents speak the local dialect of English, and Kingston itself is considered the most English-speaking city south of the United States. Most of the population are descendants of slaves from Africa.
Kingston is a major cultural center; the city hosts an annual carnival, and at the end of December - the Jonkanu festival, "inherited" by Jamaica from West Africa and dedicated catholic christmas.
Kingston is a world-class seaside resort hosting ocean liners, but it is also the most important Jamaican trade and transport center: almost all imports and exports of the country go through the port. The annual turnover of the port is 15 million tons.
And on the slopes of the Blue Mountains in the vicinity of Kingston there are coffee plantations, where one of the most expensive varieties of Jamaican coffee in the world is grown, mainly supplied to Japan.

Jamaica is an island nation within the British Commonwealth in the West Indies. In the northwest it borders on the territorial waters of Cuba, in the east on the territorial waters of Haiti, in the south on the territorial waters of Colombia. The capital of Jamaica is Kingston.

The name comes from the distorted Native American word "haymaka" (Arawak. Xaymaca), which literally means "island of springs" or "land of springs."

On August 6, 1962, Jamaica declared independence from Great Britain as part of the Commonwealth of Nations. The capital and largest city of the country is Kingston.

The climate in Jamaica is humid tropical. In January, the average monthly temperature is about +25C, and in July, about +27C. The coldest and rainiest months are usually May and October, but there is some light rain in other months of the year.

Jamaica Island: photos

Jamaica Island: where is it located

Jamaica is the third largest island in the Greater Antilles. The main island is located between 17° - 19° north latitude and 76° - 79° west longitude, 145 km south of Cuba, 160-190 km west of Haiti, 290 km southeast of the Cayman Islands. The nearest point of the continent - Cape Gracias a Dios (Nicaragua) - is located 630 km to the south-west. With the length of the island from west to east for 225 km, from north to south - from 35 to 82 km, it has an area of ​​10,991 km². The length of the coastline is 1022 km.

How to Get to Jamaica Island

There are several ways to get to Jamaica:

• Lufthansa and Condor airlines jointly operate a flight on the route Moscow - Montego Bay via Frankfurt. The duration of the flight is about 16 hours, excluding connections.
• British Airways operates transit flights through London to Kingston - but there is a nuance: the change of airport in London, and some flights have an overnight stay in London. The duration of the flight is about 16 hours, excluding connections.
• An alternative is Virgin Atlantic flights, which follow the route Moscow - Kingston or Moscow - Montego Bay with a connection in London. In this case, you also cannot avoid changing the airport in London (from Heathrow to Gatwick).

There are no direct flights from the CIS countries, so the flight is carried out either through Moscow or in transit through Europe. Transit points are London and Frankfurt.

When flying with British Airways, citizens of the CIS require a UK transit visa, but for citizens of the Russian Federation, it is only recommended. Therefore, if you need an overnight stay, then it is better to apply for a visa. In case of moving from one airport to another, you must have an air ticket to destination with a departure from another airport and a voucher for a hotel in Jamaica (it is desirable that the hotel is not the cheapest).

Jamaica Island: video

Traveling in Jamaica

Stunning nature and relaxing atmosphere. Only here you can enjoy the sounds of reggae, the culture of rastamans and unity with nature.

general information

The history of Jamaica began many millennia ago. At that time, the Taino Indians, who were the closest relatives of the Arawak Indians, lived on its territory. Until the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1494, the primitive communal system flourished here.

Geographical position

If you have already studied photos of Jamaica, then you know that it is warm and sunny country, in which excellent conditions are created for. If you still do not know where Jamaica is, then we advise you to carefully study the map.

Jamaica is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea. Jamaica can be easily found on the world map, where it is located between Cuba and Haiti.

Climate

The weather in Jamaica is always warm. Average annual temperature air is 24-27 degrees. However, tourists tend to come here from November to May, since the rainy season lasts from May to October. From time to time, hurricanes come to the island, which cause damage to agriculture and the population.

Political system

Until August 6, 1962, the country was part of the British Commonwealth in the West Indies. Now Jamaica is an independent state, more precisely, a kingdom in which power belongs to a constitutional monarchy. Despite political independence, the head of Jamaica is the British monarch, that is, Queen Elizabeth II.

The flag of Jamaica (photo below) shows a yellow (or gold) oblique cross. It divides the flag into two black sectors, symbolizing the strength and creativity of the local population, and two green sectors, which represent agricultural diversity and hope for the future. Yellow, green and black are the national colors of Jamaica.

The emblem of Jamaica depicts the cross of St. George, decorated with pineapples, as well as figures of the indigenous population of the Arawak Indians.

Jamaican motto: "Out of many people, one people."

Cities of Jamaica

The capital of Jamaica is a city with a population of 580 thousand people. Official language Jamaican - Standard English. Resting here, you will hear that the population of Jamaica speaks mainly in Creole, which is a mixture of English and Indian.

If you want to enjoy the exotic landscapes of Jamaica, then feel free to go to its capital - the city of Kingston. If you are more interested in Jamaican nightlife, then visit. Here you can recharge your batteries with solar energy and positive reggae style. If the purpose of visiting Jamaica is to relax on the Caribbean coast in the shade of branchy palm trees, then be sure to visit the resort area.

Resorts in Jamaica

Ideal for family travel. The main ones are:

Each of these cities has ideal conditions for good rest. Jamaica attracts tourists with its endless sandy beaches. Some of them were chosen by wealthy tourists from Europe and America, others by hippies and rastamans, and others by ordinary locals. There is no sharp gradation here, but you still need to be more careful when choosing a place to stay.

Landmarks of Jamaica

The main attractions of Jamaica are:

• the Rio Grande;
• bay and beach.

All attractions are located in different cities Jamaica, so to explore them, you have to travel all over the island.

Accommodation

Jamaica is a country with a highly developed infrastructure. Here you can find something for every taste and budget. The resort clubs that operate on an all-inclusive basis are the most popular among tourists. There are hotels that are focused only on traditional couples (Couples), non-traditional couples (Hedonism), companies with children (Sunset), fans active rest(Superclubs) and other categories of vacationers.

Some tourists come to Jamaica for luxury villas (such as the Tryall Club or Round Hill). In this case, it is not necessary to rent the entire villa. Some complexes rent individual rooms for much less.

You should be aware that Jamaica uses American standard plugs, so be sure to bring an adapter with you. The mains voltage is 110 V (in some hotels 220 V) and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Cuisine of Jamaica

The formation was greatly influenced by English, Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisine. On the menu local restaurants a large assortment of dishes from pork and poultry, seafood, fruits and vegetables. Only here you can taste the breadfruit and the exotic oraniq fruit, which is a hybrid of mandarin and orange.

Jamaican restaurants specialize in the aforementioned cuisines. In almost all of them you can taste the following dishes:

• saltfish, which may remind you of a traditional omelet;
• grilled chicken marinated in pepper sauce and cooked on special coals;
• juicy patties are juicy pies stuffed with vegetables, meat or fish.

The most popular drinks in Jamaica are rum, ginger beer, Red Stripe lager and Real Rock Lager.

Safety

In large tourist areas Jamaicans need not worry about their safety. Everyone has it resort center has its own security service. In addition, special police units work here. Outside the tourist areas, you should be more careful, especially when dealing with Jamaicans.

Before heading to the island of Jamaica, stock up on sunscreen and repellents, as there is a high risk of sunburn and mosquito attacks. It is not recommended to eat unwashed fruits and vegetables. Also be careful about tasting local dishes. An abundance of spices and exotic foods can lead to stomach problems.

No vaccinations are required before flying to Jamaica. But remember that in this country the situation with venereal diseases and AIDS is unfavorable.

customs control

For those wondering, you can breathe a sigh of relief. If you plan to spend less than 30 days here, you won't have to deal with paperwork. To enter the country you only need a passport.

Keep in mind that on this moment The following items are prohibited from entering Jamaica:

• narcotic, poisonous and explosive substances;
• firearms;
• fresh flowers and plants;
• honey, rum, non-canned vegetables and meat, fruits and coffee;
• animals.

Local currency, exotic animals and birds, antiques, furs and leather cannot be exported from the island of Jamaica. You can import duty-free currency, cigarettes (up to 200 pcs.), Cigars (up to 50 pcs.), Tobacco (up to 250 g), strong alcoholic drinks (up to 1.3 l), wine (up to 1.3 l), perfumes ( up to 150 ml) and toilet water (up to 340 ml).

Within the island, you can travel by bus, fixed-route taxi and regular taxi. It is recommended to use the services of large carrier companies, as their vehicles are in the best technical condition. With local taxi drivers, you can arrange trips both within cities and between them. There are no meters in taxis, so all transportation is carried out at a fixed cost. Big ones like Sandals & Beaches, SuperClubs or Couples provide a free shuttle service to or from the airport.

Interesting facts about Jamaica

If you are planning to travel to Jamaica, then you will be interested in the following about this state:

• during the New Year in Jamaica are colorful and festivals;
• Jamaica is home to famous music artist Bob Marley and Olympic champion Usain Bolt;
• Blue Mountain Coffee, which is grown in Jamaica, is a classic coffee masterpiece;
• approximately 80% of the coffee grown in Jamaica is exported to Japan;
• on the coins of Jamaica you can see images of such famous personalities as Paul Bogle, Marcus Garvey, Samuel Sharp and many others;
• Jamaica's most famous national park is Blue Mountain, which was founded in 1992;
• the direction of reggae music was formed in Jamaica in the 1960s;
• in terms of the number of victories at the World beauty pageants, Jamaica ranks fourth.

How to get there?

Distance from mainland North America in particular, the city of Miami to Jamaica is 905 km. From here it's the easiest to get to. You should note that there are no direct flights from Moscow and other CIS countries. The Republic of Jamaica can be reached by Lufthansa, Condor, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic airlines with transfers in Frankfurt or London.

The distance from Moscow to this island state is 9800 km. Therefore, if you are concerned about the question of how long to fly to Jamaica, then get ready for the fact that you will spend at least 14 hours on the flight. But staying here is definitely worth it.

Almost three millionth Jamaica is perhaps one of the most beautiful islands Caribbean Sea. And, without a doubt, the most colorful and unique. The atmosphere of the Caribbean is the most palpable here - Jamaica not only absorbed the spirit of the Caribbean Sea, but also strengthened it many times over.

Despite the fact that the island is located almost in the very center of the Caribbean Sea, Jamaica cannot be confused with the rest of the islands of the Caribbean archipelago. It attracts tourists with the same tropical sun, white sand beaches and carefree resort life as most other islands. And yet, Jamaica is a special world, both culturally and historically.

A tourist who visits the island for the first time will immediately be struck by the distinct “Africanism” of the inhabitants of the island. Yes, Jamaica has a lot to offer a curious traveler who is tired of the gray working days or who has managed to see many cities and countries. The Blue Mountains are rightly proud of their best coffee in the world - you can verify this by visiting the century-old factory on Mavis Bank and tasting a cup of coffee straight from the plantation. Those who are fond of diving are waiting for first-class reefs, including famous beaches Runaway Beach or Ocho Rios. And Jamaica is pristine waterfalls, swampy backwaters with crocodiles and manatees. Fishing villages here coexist with cosmopolitan cities. And, of course, unforgettable tropical sunsets on the spacious, palm-fringed snow-white beaches of Treasure Beach or Frenchman Cove near Port Antonio. In short, much of what attracts a traveler in other parts of the world can be found here in Jamaica.

And yet, nowhere in the Caribbean is the connection to Africa more tangible than in Jamaica. In Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, slaves were brought from Africa, and sugar and rum were exported to Europe. The runaway Maroon slaves who settled on the slopes of the Cockpit Country and the Blue Mountains preserved many African traditions, including Jerk, one of the hallmarks of Jamaican cuisine. And, of course, Jamaica is the “reggae” rhythm that broke into popular music in the 1970s and 80s. This region is literally saturated with a unique history, stunning landscapes and original culture. So, welcome to Jamaica.

A visa to Jamaica for up to 30 days is issued upon arrival, at the international airport - at the immigration office, an arrival stamp is simply noted in the passport. The visa fee is $25.

Search tours to Jamaica

How to get to Jamaica

Air traffic

Tourists, and especially those who decide to visit Jamaica for beach holiday usually arrive at the airport. Donald Sangster in Montego Bay on the north coast of the country. In most cases, all international flights arrive there. However, those who are heading to the Blue Mountains region, or starting their journey in Jamaica from its capital, Kingston, are accepted by the international airport. Norman Manley.

A network of local airlines connects these two airports with other islands in the Caribbean archipelago, as well as with a network of smaller airports throughout Jamaica itself, since there are airports on the island local importance accepting charter flights.

Cities and regions

Jamaica is the third largest English-speaking country in the Western Hemisphere, after the United States and Canada. Having declared its independence in 1962, it still remains in the British Commonwealth of Nations. Jamaica is divided into three counties, which in turn include parishes (the numbering on the map is in order).

Administrative divisions of Jamaica (counties and parishes)

• County of Cornwall: Hanover, St. Elizabeth, St. James, Trelawney, Westmoreland.
• County of Middlesex: Clarendon, Manchester, St. Ann, St. Catherine, St. Mary.
• Surrey: Kingston, Portland, St. Andrew, St. Thomas.

However, thousands of visitors to the island are much more familiar with the division into tourist regions: the northern and northeastern coasts, southwest coast, Kingston and the Blue Mountains.

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Transport

Private guides in Jamaica

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Jamaica in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Entertainment in Jamaica

Diving in Jamaica

Almost the entire length north coast The island is traversed by a coral reef, averaging a mile to five miles from the coastline. Along it are the main diving sites - some on the main reef, others on miniature reefs and on "coral heads" standing on the sandy bottom. The water here is for the most part no deeper than 30 meters. Among diving fans, Jamaica hardly holds the world leadership - but the fact that it is not so famous does not mean at all that these places are not of interest to those divers who decide to relax in Jamaica. The island has dive sites located near the main resorts, with experienced operators. Most dive centers are attached to hotels, but there are also independent companies that offer services to divers who come to Jamaica from all over the world.

Last time sea ​​life reefs suffer significant damage due to excessive fishing, but the corals still retain good color, and visibility in the water is quite high - 20-30 meters - except for stormy weather, when scuba diving is not possible anyway.

Less suitable for diving South coast: it is shallow, often with poor visibility. Considering that there are also fewer tourist centers here, diving centers in this area are also not often found. However, the south coast may also be of interest to divers: the ruins of the sunken Port Royal, near Kingston, are still in good condition, and divers can literally “plunge” into the atmosphere of history. The water temperature in Jamaica ranges on average from 26 to 29 degrees Celsius, depending on the season.

Marine life in the coastal waters is abundant: turtles are not uncommon, nurse sharks are not uncommon, and on deeper dives you can see hammerhead fish. Often come across multi-colored stingrays, Caribbean eels, moray eels and, of course, stunning multi-colored sponges and gorgonian corals.

Surfing in Jamaica

Surfing has never really been spread on the island, and even the “Surfing Association” itself appeared in Jamaica only in 1999 through the efforts of a local celebrity - Billy Wilmot from the reggae group Mystic Revealers. The places that are most suitable for surfing are the northeast and southeast coasts. good wave it happens all year round, but the best time is between November and the end of winter.

Windsurfing in Jamaica

But windsurfing has long gained popularity in Jamaica. There are many on the island good places for windsurfing, mainly along the north coast, between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The most favorable winds are in early spring, and then in July and August, when they reach a constant strength of 15-20 knots. Winter is a more adventurous time for windsurfing as the north wind in Jamaica can be so strong that it is quite difficult to stay on the board. Usually the winds get stronger in the evening, so the first half of the day is the time for beginners. As a rule, many hotels provide windsurfing equipment.

The best places for windsurfing in Jamaica:

• Bailey's Beach, east of Kingston.
• public beach Burwood Beach (BurwoodBeach) east of Falmouth - here the wind is considered the most favorable on the island for windsurfing.
• More popular place in the same region is Silver Sands. The wind here can be quite strong, more suitable for advanced level windsurfers.

Kitesurfing in Jamaica

Kitesurfing is just beginning to develop in Jamaica, so there are no permanent places on the island where independent tourists can rely on board and kite rentals.

As a rule, most of the large hotels on the Jamaican coast provide good sets of equipment for free for water sports. All-inclusive hotels also offer their customers other water activities: sea bikes and jet skis, kayaks, etc.

On many public beaches, you can also rent snorkeling equipment - usually where there are suitable conditions for diving.

Rafting in Jamaica

Jamaica can also offer tourists something that other Caribbean islands do not have - river rafting. However, Jamaican rafting looks a little different than usual - there are no inflatable rafts, no rapids on mountain rivers that go around rocky rapids. Jamaican rafting is a leisurely and exceptionally pleasant ride on a bamboo raft along the calm surface of the river, which gives you the opportunity to get acquainted with the fantastically beautiful nature of the island from the inside. The rafts, about ten to fifteen meters long, are equipped with a raised passenger seat near the end of the raft, and are steered by a bamboo pole held by the driver. Rafts were originally used to float bananas from the plantations to the docks of Port Antonio. The popularity of Jamaican rafting as a tourist attraction was greatly facilitated by Hollywood actor Errol Flynn, who had a house in Port Antonio. Most Famous places for rafting - the Great River (west of Montego Bay), the White River right in the vicinity of Ocho Rios, and the Rio Grande near Port Antonio. Rafting in Jamaica is well worth a try.

Golf in Jamaica

Jamaica is rightfully proud of its unique golf courses, many of which directly overlook the Caribbean Sea. Most golf clubs are located on the north coast, mostly near Montego Bay. There are also golf courses and courses for beginner golfers in Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay, and Negril on the south coast.

Hiking in Jamaica

Jamaica has a varied landscape, with surprisingly high mountains for such a small island. These places are chosen by lovers of ecological tourism and hiking. There are dry and wet forests on limestone soils, and climbing higher into the mountains, you will find yourself in a real humid tropical jungle.

Hiking trails have long been popular in these areas, especially around the Blue Mountains. However, recently tourists have discovered new destinations - to the mountains of John Crow (in the northeast of the island, in the vicinity of Port Antonio), and to the vicinity of the Cockpit Country, the refuge of runaway Maroon slaves.

Fishing in Jamaica

Jamaica offers exceptional sport fishing opportunities - given that just 5 miles off the north coast of Jamaica is the most deep place in the Caribbean, the so-called Cayman Trench, or Cayman Trench, is a deep-sea crevice that is located between Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Among the trophies that lucky anglers come across are blue and white marlin, sailfish, king mackerel, dorado, yellowfin and blackfin tuna, mackerel and bonito. The most the best fishing- on the northern coast, with access to the sea from Ocho Rios and Port Antonio. There is no shortage of fishing boats and boats that can be rented for a day of fishing.

Traveling in Jamaica

Getting around the third largest island in the Caribbean may seem like a daunting task to an inexperienced traveler. However, by deciding ahead of time which method of transportation is best for you, you can make your travels in Jamaica more fun than a hassle.

Car rental

Driving a rental car in Jamaica can seem like a real challenge for someone who is not used to the rutted or dirt roads that are not uncommon in Jamaica. And yet, for those who travel in a group, or would like to visit different places on the island during their vacation and get to know it as fully as possible, renting a car is perhaps the best choice. Traffic here is left-hand, like in the UK, and traffic lights come across infrequently and at a great distance from each other. The main thing is not to forget to pay attention to the cattle, which slowly moves along country roads, often making it difficult to move.

In Jamaica, several companies offer car rental, and the best choice is, of course, in large cities: Kingston, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The Jamaican Ministry of Tourism has also prepared a detailed road map of Discover Jamaica - you can usually get acquainted with it at all car rental points or at tourist offices around the island.

In order to rent a car in Jamaica, you must be over 25 years old, have a driving license in your country, and a valid credit card.

In high season, car rental prices can reach up to 120 (USD) per day, including mandatory collision damage insurance. Prices drop significantly during the off-season, to 35 (USD) per day.

If you're planning to travel around Jamaica in a rental car, beware of locals offering to "guard" your car, ostensibly against vandals, for a fee. If you find yourself in this situation, it is better to try to park elsewhere, because the alleged "watchman", if you refuse his services, he himself may well become this "vandal". Also, only travel in taxis that are clearly marked and don't get in touch with drivers offering to show you the "real Jamaica".

Taxi

If you still decide to entrust driving to someone who knows these places thoroughly, then a taxi is more suitable option. When choosing a taxi or minibus, look for those that meet the requirements of the Jamaican Union of Travelers Associations (JUTA); this means that the driver adheres to certain safety rules. You can verify that your driver belongs to this union by the abbreviation "PP" or "PPV" (Public Passenger Vehicle - Public Vehicle), which is located on the license plate. Uncertified or "pirate" taxis also offer their services, but tourists should hardly agree to them.

Taxis in Jamaica are not billed by mileage as much as by distance from place to place, so bargaining with the driver for the fare is an unwritten rule, especially if you are interested in using the services of the driver as a tourist guide.

And yet, the taxi remains the most popular means of transportation for tourists who want to get out of their resort and see Jamaica. Moreover, using the services of someone who knows the area and local rules and driving traditions perfectly, you can relax and enjoy the trip.

typical payment

Technically, almost all taxis in Jamaica are equipped with a taximeter, but drivers rarely use them, if not at all. And this means: before getting into a taxi, you need to agree with the driver how much he will charge for the trip and in what currency you should pay him. And, here, just like in the market, start haggling from half the price that the driver will call you. Once you get used to the local traditions a little, communication with Jamaican taxi drivers will be much easier.

Taxi prices average around $20USD for every 10 miles - but will almost inevitably be higher if you use the taxi service attached to the hotel. However, having bargained with a taxi driver, you can already do without a tip or additional payment. As a rule, prices rise by a quarter between midnight and 5 am.

Taxi Information in Jamaica Cities

Taxi prices around the city in Negril are quite low - about 4-5 USD Do not settle for the services of taxi drivers who ask too high a price.

Kingston: Here they quote the price not for a passenger, but for a car, and bargaining with the driver is an absolute must. As for Kingtson, taxis are the most reliable form of transport in the city.

Montego Bay. Most taxis here are concentrated along the main tourist "promenade" of the city, Gloucester Avenue.

Port Antonio. Prices in the city are slightly higher here, about 15-20 USD. Often the cars are also much older than in other Jamaican cities.

It is not uncommon for those arriving in Jamaica to order a taxi well in advance to get from the airport to their hotel. For those who first arrive on the island, this can be quite expensive, so it is better to get acquainted with the order of prices in advance.

Check the information below for a rough idea of ​​how much you should pay for a taxi:

• Montego Bay Airport - Montego Bay Hotels: $35(USD)
• Montego Bay Airport - Tyroll Hotels: $60(USD)
• Montego Bay Airport - Runaway Bay Hotels: $115(USD)
• Kingston Airport - Ocho Rios: $150(USD)
• Kingston Airport - Negril: $275(USD)

Car rental with driver

Travelers can also use taxis for walking and self-guided tours of the island. Taxi day tour prices may fluctuate depending on time and distance. When planning your trip, make sure in advance that you have chosen a driver who inspires confidence in you. This also applies to licensed taxis at hotels and resorts.

On an island as big as Jamaica by Caribbean standards, hiring a car is probably the most efficient way to get around. Yes, the road conditions are by no means ideal, and getting from place to place can already seem like an adventure in itself. And yet, most tourists opt for a taxi, even despite the prices.

Buses

As for traveling by bus, this is undoubtedly the cheapest and most economical way to travel around the island - although hardly the most reliable and comfortable. Buses almost never stick to schedules, especially in remote parts of the country, but taxis that ply major cities can usually get around with the same ease as regular taxis.

You can opt for the bus if you need the most economical option for getting around the island and in its cities - but only if the schedule and “climate control” are not your priorities. Simply put, if you don't mind spending time waiting for the bus under the scorching sun. But for a traveler who is not averse to dipping into the exotic outside of their resort area, the bus is the ideal means of transportation.

Bus prices are exceptionally low, around $1 for every fifty miles, and about $1.50 - $2.50 on average for the same distance in a minibus. Minibuses in Negril charge 2 USD throughout the day and night.

However, getting out of Kingston or any other major city, it can be difficult to catch a bus, because drivers decide at their own discretion when to leave the route. Buses and minibuses throughout the Caribbean are famous for the fact that there is no timetable for them, and Jamaica is no exception. But still, buses run around the island quite often - in addition, in Jamaica it is customary to pick up passengers from the side of the road, and this is another “plus” for bus travel around the country.

In addition, the Jamaican bus is a cultural phenomenon in itself, sometimes no less interesting than urban or natural attractions. Drivers set off only when their bus is already full - and given the lack of air conditioning, you can be sure that you will get to know the local atmosphere in full.

In some regions the bus service is better than in others. Here are some tips to help you navigate Jamaica:

• in Negril, taxis run around the city from hotels and resorts, so the need for public transport small. Nevertheless, along the Boulevard - the main street of the city - minibuses move all day long.
• Public transport in Montego Bay does not actually exist, but for the convenience of hotel guests, a busy route service is organized.
• traffic on the streets of Kingston is chaotic, including bus traffic. If you decide to use the Kingston buses, beware of pickpockets.
• in Port Antonio, it is customary to “vote” for a minibus to stop and pick up passengers. Transport usually stops not only at designated stops.

Cuisine of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is a truly colorful mixture of recipes and traditions. Here you can find dishes traditional for all the Caribbean, as well as distinctively Jamaican food. Jamaican cuisine has a reputation for being spicy, but most restaurants offer more moderate menus. As in other Caribbean islands, rice and peas (which are often cooked here with coconut milk) and meat pies, like empanadas, are popular in Spanish-speaking countries. However, the national dish is "aki", which is prepared from the fruit " aki, which grows only in Jamaica - in appearance it resembles an omelette, but with its own unique taste. Another distinctively Jamaican dish is kodfish, dried cod mixed with onions and tomatoes. They are prepared only in Jamaica - therefore, if you want, in the truest sense of the word, to know the "taste of Jamaica", you should definitely try them.

Another local dish is "bammy". The Jamaicans believe that it was prepared by the Arawak Indians, the indigenous inhabitants of the island. These are flat, floured cassava cakes commonly eaten for breakfast.

And, of course, the main culinary sign of Jamaica is Jerk. This is a kind of barbecue - meat cooked on coals, which is pre-marinated in local spices"jerk". The most common type of dish is chicken or pork jerky, although the truly famous, unique Jamaican jerky is made from goat meat. However, if you see a fish or shellfish jerky on the restaurant menu, do not deny yourself the pleasure of trying it. It must also be remembered that Jamaicans prefer well-done meat, so for European tastes it may seem a bit dry.

Eateries are simpler - the so-called "jerk centers" - can be found everywhere on the island. From the very morning, smoke begins to rise above the braziers - and often just barrels. Huge pieces of pork ribs, chickens on skewers are fried on clove wood coals (they give the meat a special taste). The buyer chooses... pays... A few blows with a machete - and the meat is already cut into portions, which are then laid out on a piece of paper. No one particularly "bothers" with hygiene issues. After all, the main thing is the unique Jamaican flavor!

There are also many eateries on the island where they sell, especially takeaway, Chinese or Indian food - however, both curry and jiaozi still have a specific Jamaican taste.

Aital cuisine stands apart, which is followed by rastamans, adherents of Rastafarianism, the local Jamaican religion. Rastas follow strict rules in food, and cook food without meat, salt or oil - but at the same time it is always tasty, thanks to the creative approach to the use of spices by chefs. Aital dishes are not often found on the menu of those restaurants frequented by tourists, and can only be found in special rastaman eateries on the island. However, if desired, and with the help of local guides, it is quite possible to visit the institution where these unique dishes are prepared.

Safety in Jamaica

While tourists may hear rumors of crime in Jamaica, vacationers on the island rarely come into contact with crime. As the Jamaica Tourism Board specifically notes, the chances of getting robbed in New York are much higher than in Montego Bay - so don't let Jamaica's reputation stop you from fully enjoying what this wonderful island has to offer.

In most cases, large hotels and resorts provide all the necessary security measures, so those who have made their choice in favor of large resort chains have nothing to worry about. If you are staying at a simpler hotel and traveling on your own, you should be more careful about your safety, but not to such an extent that traveling alone in Jamaica seems impossible or not worth the risk. In fact, Jamaica has a lot to offer its guests, so there is simply no point in sitting still - you need to pack up and hit the road to see everything for yourself!

There are certain precautions to take especially into account when traveling to Jamaica, as urban tourists - as in any large tourist city - are a popular target for a certain type of criminal. In crowded areas, pickpocketing and petty theft are quite common. This is especially true of crowded bus routes and street markets, which are almost always crowded. Be especially careful in such places, and do not lose sight of your surroundings to prevent such actions: keep wallets and bags in front of you, wallets in the inside pockets of your jackets or front pockets of your trousers, handing large sums of money, do it discreetly. These few simple precautions can keep any traveler in a good mood. Try not to wear expensive clothes, going to public places, and do without expensive jewelry that attracts attention.

The most important rule, for all occasions, is to remember common sense and be careful, not forgetting to look around. Just as you wouldn't leave your bag on a bench in any major city in the world, don't do it in Jamaica either.

In fact, the main inconvenience that can be encountered in Jamaica and which can create problems is not so much street crime as the importunity and intrusiveness of merchants, and not only merchants. However, if for some tourists the opportunity to bargain in street shops is entertainment in itself, for others it may seem like an annoying hindrance. You need to be firm, and in most cases you will be left alone. Be aware of the local specifics when faced with beggars or annoying barkers: the European way to just walk by and pretend that this does not apply to you is hardly the best solution. Otherwise, the beggar may follow you, showering you with offensive words. It’s better to say firmly, “I am not interested,” or just make it clear with a gesture that you are not interested in the offer - and you will be left alone. Try, if possible, not to go into areas where only local population- and even more so, do not agree to offers to “see the real Jamaica”, to conduct a tour of the place, offers to watch something, spend, show, etc.

Also beware of marijuana sellers, or "ganja" as they call it here. Although smoking marijuana is common in Jamaica, it is still considered illegal.

Tap water in Jamaica is of acceptable quality, but it is chlorinated, so bottled water is recommended for drinking.

Medical service

Medical care in Jamaica is quite expensive, so it doesn't hurt to take out travel insurance before heading to the island. At the hotel or resort, be sure to inquire about medical care services of a dentist or doctor. As a rule, most hotels invite doctors and dentists on call, so for non-urgent situations, you can check with the reception before going to the hospital. If you need urgent medical intervention, then 16 public hospitals or 6 private clinics in Jamaica are at your service.

The following is a list of hospitals, their location and phone numbers, just in case:

• University Hospital of the West Indies— Mona, Kingston, 876-927-1620
• St. Ann's Bay Hospital - St. Ann's Bay, 876-794-8565
• Port Antonio Hospital - Naylor's Hill, Port Antonio, 876-715-5778
• Mo Bay Hope Medical Center - Half Moon Resort, Montego Bay, 876-953-3981
• Cornwall Regional Hospital - Mt. Salem, Montego Bay, 876-952-5100

Dial 110 to call an ambulance

Holidays in Jamaica will cost an average of about $300 (USD) per day if you plan to stay in an all-inclusive mega-resort: as a rule, in this case, not only the room itself, but also meals, excursions and entertainment are included in the price , as well as security. Of course, you can stay in Jamaica for much less, but on average, you should focus on the price of $80 (USD), regardless of the region of the country.

As a rule, these are guest houses located in the tourist areas of Montego Bay or Negril, although not in the very center. The hosts are almost always a family that rents rooms. Remember that in Jamaica you almost always get what you pay for, so you should carefully read the terms and conditions of the hotel or guest house where you want to stop before making your final decision. You can bargain in almost all such places on the island, especially in the off-season.

If your holiday in Jamaica is not going to be in an all inclusive hotel then the daily expenses can be reduced to a minimum of $30(USD) but still an amount of $40 - 60 USD looks more realistic.

Say, in a restaurant you can spend from $8 to $30(USD), or a little more, depending on the class of the place. But despite prices and style differences, expect to spend at least $30(USD) per day on food. Some hotels offer discounts to guests who will eat at the hotel's restaurants, so it doesn't hurt to ask the reception about possible discounts and special offers.

Don't forget to bring personal hygiene items, sun cream and sunglasses - bought locally, they will cost at least 20 percent more, if not more. Do not forget to take the necessary set of medicines with you, as well as a prescription for them, if there are any questions at customs.

The electrical voltage in the network in Jamaica is 110 volts, and the sockets are of the "American" type, for plugs with two flat pins. Hotels usually offer adapters, but if you are planning an independent trip around the island, it does not hurt to stock up on adapters in advance.