Introduction:
Jamaica is the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean and the third largest overall. The island spans 4,400 square miles.
Jamaica is populated by over 2 million people, largely descendents of the freed African slaves brought over to the island by the Spanish and British. Jamaica is classified as a developing country. Tourism and mining are the two most profitable economic sectors along with agriculture and manufacturing.
Jamaica has been an independent country since 1962 when it ceased to be a British colony but remains part of the British Commonwealth.
Jamaica's diversity offers something for every Villa client. The Personal Choice client will experience the most beautiful islands in the world.
Jamaica offers the most beautiful and diverse selection of Villas available anywhere in the Caribbean.
Jamaican Weather:
The average temperature in Jamaica is 82 ° F and remains consistent throughout the year. Daytime highs are a bit hotter. The northeast trade winds keep you from feeling overwhelmed despite the high humidly levels. Rainfall varies with the seasons; however, on average the island receives 78 inches per year, the bulk of which is in the Blue Mountains. Short heavy downpours are common on the coasts.
Capital:
Kingston
Official Language:
English, Patois
Politics:
Jamaica has two main political parties: Jamaica Labour Party (nationalist) People's National Party (socialist).
Population:
Jamaica is home to approximately 2.5 million people of diverse ethnic origin. This blending of cultures is a source of great pride to the Jamaican people and is reflected in their country's motto: "Out of Many, One People".
Ethnic Groups: black 90.9%, East Indian 1.3%, white 0.2%, Chinese 0.2%, mixed 7.3%, other 0.1%
Industry:
The main industries in Jamaica are mining of bauxite, which is used to make aluminum, and tourism and agriculture.
Entry Requirements:
U.S. or Canadian citizens require proof of citizenship: valid passport, a birth certificate with raised seal, or voter's registration card with photo identification. A driver's license is not proof of citizenship. Citizens of other countries must check with the Jamaican Consulate, Jamaica Tourist Board or Air Jamaica regarding entry requirements. In flight, you will need to fill out Declaration Forms to present to the Customs Offices at the airport.
Some restricted items are: flowers, fruits, vegetables and meats (unless canned), plants and firearms. Under normal circumstances, a visitor is allowed no longer than a six-month stay in Jamaica on any one trip. You may apply to increase your length of stay at the Ministry of National Security and Justice, Kingston Mall, 12 Ocean Boulevard, Kingston. Telephone #922-0080.
Firearms:
Firearms are forbidden by Jamaican law. This includes ammunition also. Firearms must be declared on arrival and surrendered to Customs. They will be given back immediately prior to departure from the island.
Business Hours:
Banking hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Friday hours: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Currency:
The Jamaican Dollar (J$) is the official legal tender. (about J$61.00 = U.S.$1.00) Official rate of exchange fluctuates daily, depending on the foreign exchange market. Visitors are asked to convert their currency into Jamaican dollars. Foreign currency may be exchanged for Jamaican dollars at any bank during regular business hours or at licensed exchange bureaus in the airports and at hotels island-wide. Make sure that you get a receipt if you want to change J$ back to U.S.$ when you depart.
Purchases of goods and services on island may be made with any currency which is negotiable in Jamaica. Before making any purchases, be sure that you understand what currency is being quoted.
Tipping is usually between 10 and 15 percent. Restaurants do not usually add a service charge to your bill in advance.
Religion:
Roman Catholic, Anglican, United (Methodist and Presbyterian), Baptist and Seventh-Day Adventist in Kingston and on the north coast. There is one Jewish temple which is located in Kingston. Rastafarianism is also practiced in Jamaica.
Jamaican Religion: Protestant 61.3% Church of God 21.2%, Baptist 8.8%, Anglican 5.5%, Seventh-Day Adventist 9%, Pentecostal 7.6%, Methodist 2.7%, United Church 2.7%, Brethren 1.1%, Jehovah's Witness 1.6%, Moravian 1.1%, Roman Catholic 4%, other, including some spiritual cults
Safety:
Most Jamaican people are friendly and peaceful, however, petty crime is a problem in urban areas. Use common sense: don't walk the streets at night and draw attention with flashy jewelry or large sums of money.
Electricity:
110 volts; 50 cycles
Time:
Eastern Standard Time (daylight savings time is not observed)
More Information:
You can contact the Jamaica Tourist Board at Tourism Centre, 2 St. Lucia Avenue, New Kingston 5, Jamaica; (809) 929-9200 or 800-JAMAICA. There are Jamaica Tourist Board offices in New York, Los Angeles, Coral Cables, Chicago and Dallas. The phone number in New York is (212) 856-9727 |