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The
third largest Island in the Caribbean Jamaica boasts both beautiful
coastline with cool mountain ranges to produce an Island diverse in
nature, culture and history. An average year round temperature of 85◦F
makes this the perfect Island to escape to whatever the season. The
current population is 2.7 million with one third residing in the
Island Capital of Kingston.
Click here to
see our tour that takes you through the unspoiled interior of Jamaica.
The
islands motto “Out of many, one people” reflects it’s diverse heritage
with early settlers like the Spanish and English along with the large
African slave population and later joined by Irish, Germans, Hispanic,
Chinese and Indians, now all living as one people all “Jamaican.”
Unfortunately the native Arawak Indians were killed out by disease
brought over by early settlers and can now only be remembered in
museums and in there legacy of roadways. If you would like to learn
more about our history...click
here to see the Seville Heritage Beach Ride.
One
third of all Jamaican families still live below the poverty line with
16% of the population unemployed and one third freelancing in
occupations such as prostitution, haggling (bargaining) and hustling.
There is no unemployment benefit in Jamaica. The good news is that
tourism employs over 300,000 Jamaicans, a quarter of all jobs, as such
our visitors touch the lives of all Jamaicans one way or another.
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Currency in Jamaica |
The unit of currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican
dollar, but all currency’s are readily accepted and all in-bond
and souvenir store have their goods priced in US Dollars.
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Exchange bureaus can be found in airports,
hotels, shopping centers and commercial banks. When you make
an exchange, keep all receipts because you must present them
upon departure when you reconvert unspent currency. |
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Before
You Go |
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A
vacation in Jamaica can be the perfect getaway. White Sandy
beaches, breathtaking mountain views, and a lively and spirited
culture have made the island one of the world's most distinct
destinations. Before you get too caught up day dreaming,take some
time to plan some of the most important aspects of your trip.
Book your excursions before arriving and spend your holiday time
relaxing and enjoying, not standing in line at the tour desk.
Contact A-Z Jamaica Planners, who will
make your vacation IRIE! |
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Hot!
Hot! Hot! |
Jamaica is 18 degrees off of the equator, so remember to bring
your sunscreen and sunglasses. The average UV rating in Jamaica is
10+.
Even though it may not be sunny, those pesky UV rays get through,
so remember to protect your skin by using sunscreen, wearing a hat
and drinking plenty of water! |
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Reggae -
The Heart & Soul of Jamaican Musicc |
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One of Jamaica’s most
famous exports is our reggae music with it’s pulsating rhythm and
catchy lyric’s the world has now embraced this unique style of
music and Reggae Artists can be found in every country. Made
famous by Reggae Superstar “Bob Marley’ in the 70’s who taught us
that there can be peace through music he united a torn country
with his words. |
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If you love Reggae
music, why not book our tour to Nine Mile, Bob Marley's home and
burial place?
Click Here > |
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The
Languagee |
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The official language spoken in Jamaica is English. The
island does have a native dialect know as Patios. A mixture of
Spanish, English and African .The natives enjoys speaking in their
native tongue and for most cases you will not understand a word being
said. Here are a few words and meanings to start you on your journey.
Yea Mon
– yes
No problem Mon
– There is no problem. Most Jamaicans say we do not have problems
only situations.
Irie-
Excellent or having a great time.
Mi wan sinting fi nyam
– I want something to eat
Soon cum-
I will soon be there (to a Jamaican soon come can mean anything from 5
minutes to three weeks so be prepared).
Mi nuh wan it
–I do not want it .This phrase is mostly used when you go shopping. |
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Shopping in
Jamaicae |
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Shopping in Jamaica is an experience of itself. The island's vendors
peddle wares of all kinds, from local hand-made crafts to imported
designer watches and perfumes, all at prices that can seem like a
steal. The key to shopping in
Jamaica is being prepared to bargain. Certain shopping
areas, such as City Centre, Taj Mahal and other duty free shops are
'fixed price' areas, where rates are fixed and only slight haggling is
allowed. Prices may be slightly higher than marketplace rates. Many
visitors will take part of the local tradition of bargaining. If you
choose to do so, be sure not to approach a vendor regarding an item
unless you intend to buy that item. Ask the price, and then act
disappointed and pretend as if you are walking away. A guide in the
craft markets is to barter down about 30-50% of original cost, the
more common the item the more bargaining power you have. Just
remember: Don't give up there is always a deal to be made! Some of the
things worthwhile shopping for are Blue Mountain Coffee, local craft
items, Rum and Spices.
Certain items, such as coral and turtle products, are
illegal under current Jamaican law, given the damage to the
environment caused by their popularity. Although these items may still
be found, purchasing and carrying them through the airport could cause
unnecessary difficulty in going through customs, both in Jamaica and
the United States. Additionally, Cuban cigars, though also readily
available, will be confiscated during any U.S. customs inspections but
are permitted in all other countries.
Click here to see one of our tours that
includes shopping. |
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