Jamaica: main airports
Jamaica, a Caribbean island known for reggae, white sand beaches and the Blue Mountains, is served by two international airports: Norman Manley in Kingston, the capital, and Sangster in Montego Bay, the heart of the island's beach tourism.
Most visitors heading to the north-coast resorts (Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios) land at Sangster; those visiting Kingston or the south of the island use Norman Manley.
Jamaica: recommended activities
Jamaica: visa and entry requirements
Citizens of the EU, UK, US and Canada do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days, with a passport valid for the length of the stay and a return or onward ticket.
All visitors must complete the online C5 Passenger Declaration Form before arrival. Always check the updated requirements before departure.
Jamaica: safety
The main tourist areas (Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, the all-inclusive resorts) are generally safe for visitors who follow the usual precautions.
Kingston, on the other hand, has significantly higher crime rates in some areas: avoid non-tourist peripheral areas, especially at night, and prefer authorised taxis over walking downtown after dark. Always check your country's updated travel advisories before departure.
Jamaica: health situation
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry from Europe, North America or the UK. Yellow fever vaccination is required only for those arriving from at-risk countries.
Good mosquito protection (repellents, covering clothing) is recommended due to the, albeit limited, risk of dengue and other vector-borne diseases. Tap water is generally safe to drink in the main tourist areas, but many visitors nonetheless prefer bottled water.
Jamaica: currency, payments and connectivity
The official currency is the Jamaican dollar (JMD), but the US dollar is widely accepted at hotels, resorts and tourist activities: check which currency you will be asked to pay in to avoid unfavourable exchange rates.
The official language is English, alongside Jamaican patois in everyday conversation. A tip (10-15%) is generally expected at restaurants and for tourist services, often already included in all-inclusive packages as 'gratuity'.
