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Jamaica is one of the Caribbean’s most famous islands and with a cultural influence that has transported around the world. This grandly beautiful country is packed with a variety unmatched in the region. Brilliant beaches and beautiful green mountains create picture perfect backdrops for a perfect Caribbean experience, while it’s rousing culture, relaxed resorts and exceptional cuisine, make the island a truly unique experience – one of vibrancy and relaxation. Jamaica offers the unique choice of a holiday packed with luxury and relaxation or one packed with adventure.
Flights: You can fly to Jamaica from various UK airports, including direct options from Birmingham, London, Glasgow and Manchester.
Passport/visa requirements: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Packing essentials:June to November is hurricane season, so prepare for thunderstorms and remember to take a waterproof jacket. Jamaica usually has sun all year round however, so sun cream is vital, as is cool, light clothing.
Jamaica offers some breath-taking beaches to choose from. Offering some brilliant places to relax and unwind, with exceptional lagoons and diving experiences throughout the island, you’ll never be struggling for a perfect place to relax and unwind next to the warm pristine waters while on the island. The most famous of these beaches is the famous Seven-Mile beach on Negril. This world-renowned location is a fantastic and busy beach, bustling with holiday makers making the most of the Jamaican sun, or experiencing one of the many water activities the beach has to offer – from snorkelling and a host of diving trips. The resort town boasts a laid-back vibe and striking cliffs, making sunsets here a sensational dusk-time experience, set to the local rhythms of reggae and rum.
Away from the beaches, Jamaica offers the opportunity to experience its famously laid-back culture and intriguing history. The island’s tourist hotspot is Montego Bay. Bustling with tourists and fantastic resorts, it offers visitors a fantastic range of activities and, again, some brilliant diving opportunities. The surrounding waters are crowded with marine life are a highlight in the area.
It offers a great nightlife – as most of Jamaica does – with a lively main strip filled with great local bars and restaurants and has some great attractions on offer to keep the busy tourist trade filled with things to do.
For cuisine, Boston Bay is where Jamaica’s heart is. An extraordinary sensory affair, Boston Bay is the supposed birthplace of jerk spice rub and the turnoff of the town is a vibrant place lined with stalls for your taste buds to explore.
Exploring inland there are some wonderful natural features to look into. A rafting excursion down the island’s Rio Grande. This great experience can be charted from most resorts and has become a tourist must-do. As is a trip to the beautiful Reach Falls, just south. Hiring a guide can take you to the island’s most beautiful waterfalls – in a land that has many – and is well worth the trip to experience this beautiful natural feature from right up close in the mountain freshwater pools. North, a hike up Blue Peak Mountain is also a firm favourite. A trek through Jamaica’s inner forest up to some spectacular views makes this another great way to spend a day or evening, emerging with brilliant views of the Caribbean, Cuba and beyond.
Jamaica is a varied island that accommodates those looking for a luxury Caribbean experience, fantastic adventure or a vibrant and enriching culture. Brilliant beaches and resorts are bolstered by Jamaica’s unique character as a laid-back rum drinking, reggae dancing gem, while inland you can explore the island’s diverse and wonderful landscape. Jamaica is rightly one of the region’s most famous destinations and has so much on offer you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to fulfil all you could want from a Caribbean holiday.
For more information on Jamaica holidays, call Destination 2 on and speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable travel experts.
Jamaica has had a long history of top-quality sprinters in athletics, but none more so than the multiple World Record Holder – Usain Bolt.
One of the most famous sportsmen on the planet, Lightning Bolt well and truly put the island nation on the world map after his heroics at Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio 2016.
If you find yourself in Kingston, head to Independence Park (National Stadium) and watch the stars of both today and tomorrow training on the track and field.
It is of course the national sport of the Caribbean, and cricket is of great importance to the Jamaicans.
Their very own pilgrimage is to the state-of-the-art Sabina Park where various international and domestic matches are played.
Around the island you’ll never be far away from impromptu games of cricket between children and adults alike, all trying to recreate what their heroes do day in, day out.
Some of the best West Indian stars have come from Jamaica, including Courtney Walsh, Michael Holding, Jimmy Adams and Chris Gayle.
They may not have the greatest of pedigree on the international stage, but Jamaica can certainly hold their own on the football field.
The national team even managed to make the 1998 FIFA World Cup, where despite exiting at the group stages, secured a memorable 2-1 victory over Japan.
When you hit the beach in Jamaica you can expect laidback hours of sun-drenched relaxation.
The most well-known stretch of sand on the island is that of Doctor’s Cave beach. Located In the heart of Montego Bay, the beach was named after a physician who helped form a swim club donating his hut/cave. The club still exists today.
To keep the stretch so well maintained, users of the beach have to pay a small daily fee to benefit from the facilities. It’s well worth it, however, as changing rooms are provided and there are a number of food and drink outlets on offer nearby.
A well-kept secret among locals are the tranquil shores of Cornwall Beach. Located within walking distance of Doctor’s Cave, this is another spot where you have to pay to gain access. However, you can’t put a price on the calming waters and peace and tranquillity offered by Cornwall Beach.
It has shallow waters so is perfect for swimming.
Still not sold? Well, on certain Sundays, you can enjoy bottomless (yes, bottomless!) Appleton Estate rum thanks to the sunset beach party.
Another option is the longest and possibly one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the whole island – Seven Mile Beach, in Negril.
You’ve probably guessed how far it stretches along the coastline, but the beach is also full of relaxing spots, designated nudist areas and a typically free-spirit attitude.
The highlight of Jamaica’s musical calendar, Reggae Sumfest is an outdoor festival that takes place in Montego Bay every summer. The week-long event features some of the country’s biggest and best reggae and dancehall artists, with concerts running from dusk till dawn.
Combining music and sport, Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon & Half Marathon sees runners of all abilities get in step to the Reggae beat. The December event sees huge crowds of supporters turn out to cheer on the participants.
Celebrating all things Jamaican, Jamaica Festival commemorates the nation’s emancipation on August 1 and independence on August 6. As well as the vibrant Emancipendence Grand Gala, which takes place at the National Stadium, on August 6, the event also features concerts, cuisine, crafts, music, dancing and performing arts.
An explosion of colour, costumes, music, cuisine and dance, Carnival is an experience that is not to be missed. Usually taking place around Easter, the event sees the streets of Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and especially Kingston filled with revellers enjoying the party vibes and extravagant parades.
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Where is Jamaica located?
Jamaica is a Western Caribbean island, located south of Cuba and east of Haiti.
When is the best time to travel to Jamaica?
The best time to travel to Jamaica is between April and June, and also between November and mid-December.
What is the time difference between the UK and Jamaica?
Jamaica is 5 hours behind GMT.
What currency is used in Jamaica?
The main currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar. However, US Dollars are also widely accepted.
How much money should I bring to Jamaica?
It’s difficult to say how much money you should bring to Jamaica as this will depend on your plans for food, daily activities and transportation.
How long should you stay in Jamaica?
We recommend staying for at least one week to get the best of Jamaica. This will give you time to explore, relax and try out some watersports or other activities.
Do you need a passport to travel to Jamaica?
Yes, you need a passport to travel to Jamaica. Travellers from some countries may also need to acquire a visa.
Do I need a visa for Jamaica?
You don’t need a visa for any stays in Jamaica up to 90 days.
Can you fly direct to Jamaica?
Yes. Several airports in the UK fly to Jamaica, including London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester Airport and Birmingham Airport.
How long does it take to fly to Jamaica?
A direct flight from London Gatwick to Jamaica takes approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What is the weather like in Jamaica?
Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate with hot temperatures throughout the year. The dry season of December to April experiences the most sunshine and least rainfall. The hurricane season is from June to November.
Does Jamaica have Uber?
No, Jamaica does not have Uber. However, there are a number of other taxi services available such as JUTA, Knutsford Express or independent taxi companies.
How much should you tip in Jamaica?
You should aim to tip around 10% - 15% in Jamaica, particularly in restaurants and for taxi drivers. You may also want to consider tipping housekeeping services at your hotel.
Can you drink alcohol in Jamaica?
Yes, anyone over the age of 18 can drink alcohol in Jamaica. There is an abundance of pubs, bars and clubs across the island to enjoy alcoholic beverages.
Does Jamaica get hurricanes?
Yes, Jamaica is affected by hurricanes as it is located in the hurricane belt. To avoid hurricane season, we’d recommend not visiting during June-November.
What is the capital of Jamaica?
Kingston is the capital city of Jamaica.
Is Jamaica safe?
Jamaica does contain some areas known for high crime rates, but it’s worth noting that many travellers visit the country without any issues. As always, we recommend exercising caution and taking any necessary safety precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash and avoiding secluded areas at night.
Does Jamaica have mosquitoes?
Yes. As Jamaica is a tropical island, it is advised to bring insect repellent with you.
Is Jamaica safe to visit?
Jamaica is relatively safe, especially when in your resort or built-up areas. However, as with any other country, it’s important to take care and make sure you don’t leave your belongings unattended.
Is Jamaica safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Jamaica can be safe for solo female travellers. As with any destination, we’d recommend that people take the appropriate safety measures such as avoiding secluded areas at night. Tourist areas and resorts are considered safe.
How much would a trip to Jamaica cost?
Our trips to Jamaica start at £1,600pp. However the cost of your holiday to Jamaica will depend on a number of factors.
Is Jamaica a good family holiday destination?
Yes. Jamaica is a top destination for families, with a variety of child-friendly resorts and activities.
Which hotels in Jamaica offer all-inclusive?
Many of the best hotels in Jamaica offer all-inclusive packages with access to superb restaurants and bars, including Sunset At The Palms Resort and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay. Browse our all-inclusive luxury hotels.
