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UNITED STATES Government Re-entry Requirement
All travelers between the U.S. and the Caribbean will be required to carry passports starting January 8, 2007, as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security. Under a new immigration law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all U.S. citizens and foreign nationals, whether traveling by air or sea, must provide a passport to enter or re-enter the U.S. from both vacation and business travel. |
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Banks/Currency
Licenced cambio centres and commercial banks are accessible in all resort areas. Official currency exchange rates vary daily, so it’s advisable to shop around for the best rate before converting your cash. Most Jamaican ATMs accept international bank cards with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus logos. Banks also give credit card advances, change traveller’s cheques among other financial services. |
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Geography
Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea
Geographic coordinates: 18 15 N, 77 30 W; location between Cayman Trench and Jamaica Channel, the main sea lanes for the Panama Canal
Area: total: 10,991 sq km land: 10,831 sq km water: 160 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Connecticut
Coastline: 1,022 km
Lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 meter
Highest point: Blue Mountain Peak 2,256 meter |
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Climate
Temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year, averaging 25°C to 30°C in the lowlands and 15°C to 22°C at higher elevations. Temperatures may dip to below 10°C at the peaks of the Blue Mountains. The island receives, in addition to the northeast trade winds, refreshing onshore breezes during the day and cooling offshore breezes at night. These are known on Jamaica as the "Doctor Breeze" and the "Undertaker's Breeze," respectively.
No, there is monsoon season. However, the rainfall is heaviest from May to October, with peaks in those two months. Rainfall is much greater in the mountain areas facing the north and east, however. |
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Climate
Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humid conditions year-round. Average temperature ranges from 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit) to 32 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit).
Though we’re known for our warmth and sunshine, the island sees two rainy seasons from May to June and September to November. Also, hurricanes may pass over the island primarily during the months June to September.
Will it rain during your holiday? If it does, don't worry. Most times, the short tropical showers provide a welcome break from the afternoon heat – just look at it as liquid sunshine, not rain! |
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Driving
The most important thing to remember when driving in Jamaica is that here, we drive on the LEFT, although some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cows, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. We have over 17,000 kilometres of road networks connecting all major towns and cities; the speed limit is 50 kmph (30 mph) in built-up areas, and 80 kmph (50 mph) on highways. All drivers are required to carry a valid licence. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licences, but visitors from North America may use their country's licence for up to three months per visit. Car rental is available in most major towns and cities, and usually, clients must be no less than 25 years old to rent. |
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Types of Communication
You will find all types of communication systems in Jamaica. Direct and operators assisted call are facilitated third party or credit card calls international telephone service operates in all areas 24 hours a day, and telephone operators will gladly facilitate collect, third party or credit card calls. Faxes, cables and telegrams servives are available. Internet access is available as well, anywhere you would like it, at your hotel or in computer cafe. There are two main television station (TVJ and CVM). There are quite a number of Radio stations. |
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Drugs
In Jamaica, the use, sale and possession of drugs such as ganja (marijuana), cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin and any other controlled substance is illegal. Violators are subject to severe punishments – specifically arrest, fine and imprisonment. |
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Emergency Numbers
Emergency Numbers (I hope you will not need them, but in case you do)
- Ambulance 110
- Fire 110
- Police 119 |
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Electricity
Electricity is little different from the US (same voltage 110v, but the frequency is 50 Hz instead of 60 Hz in US, However, most your electrical appliances will work here. If your appliances do not use 110 volts or flat two-pronged plugs, bring the required adaptors and converters with you. Keep in mind that most hotels have hair dryers, alarm clocks, radios and clothes irons available. |
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For Pet Lovers
We know that many visitors love their pets and would love to take them on vacation. Pets are allowed in Jamaica, but it has to be rabbies free (there are no rabies in Jamaica). In keeping with international standards, the importation of all live animals into Jamaica requires an import permit from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture PRIOR to arrival in Jamaica. All animals must be rabies-free, and must never have been rabies vaccinated. For more information, contact the Veterinary Services Division at (876) 977 2489 or (876) 977 2492 to secure a permit, fax a letter of request to (876) 977 0885. |
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The Most Important Things to bring
- Yourself and family (if any)
- Love
- The vacation spirit, and
- Suntan lotion of course
What not to bring
- Work
- Leave your troubles at the airport |
| -Jamaica Tourist Board |
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