Jamaica
Its name means land of water and forest and it is an island full of contrasts – compare the volcanic origins of the Blue Mountains in the east to the limestone formations in the centre and west or the sandy beaches protected by large reefs and rocks around Negril to the mangrove jungle and rocky outcrops where the sea pounds the shore. Jamaica has only been independent for just over 40 years, but the people are proud of their African roots and as well as reggae and rastafarianism, they have a thriving art and literary culture.
The sights
Away from the beach, Jamaica’s heritage is rich and can be discovered in countless great houses, churches, forts and old homes, while plantation tours take you to picturesque estates brimming with crops such as sugar cane, banana and coffee. The Bob Marley Museum is located in Kingston at Marley’s original studio where he recorded many of his songs while in the hills of St Ann the birthplace and final resting place of this reggae legend can also be seen. Dunn’s River Falls is perhaps Jamaica’s most famous attraction and is perfect for the entire family or you may opt to board a bamboo raft for a leisurely journey along the scenic Martha Brae River.
In a nutshell
The land is beautiful, dominated by the Blue Mountain peak, the people are full of character and typical of the Caribbean, the pace of life is slow. If someone says they will "soon come", don’t expect too much! Just relax and enjoy!
The facts
Geography: 140 miles long and 50 miles wide and covers an area of 4441 square miles.
Language: English
Passports: You will need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months beyond your date of return.
Visas: Not required for British passport holders for stays of less than three months as long as you have a return ticket.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: Air Jamaica fly to Jamaica. The travelling time from London to Jamaica is around 8 hours.
Local time: GMT -5 hours.
Currency: Jamaican dollar, although the US dollar is widely accepted.
Best times to travel: The dry months are from mid-December to mid April. Most of the rain falls from May to June and October to November, although this is usually in the form of showers or thunderstorms. Average temperatures are around 27°C, but the almost constant north-easterly wind makes this more bearable. In late autumn, the weather can be cloudy and drizzly. Temperatures in the mountains are always cooler, so a pullover or jacket may be required.
