Jamaica is a tropical Caribbean destination that has much to offer any traveler. Sea, sun, and sand are obvious attractions for any Caribbean island, and Jamaica is no different. Activities that accompany tropical islands are offered in Jamaica as well, with coral reefs for diving and snorkeling and beautiful beaches and water for lounging and swimming. In addition to the usual tropical island activities, Jamaica offers the Blue Mountains for some of the best coffee in the world, stunning hiking and waterfalls, big, bustling cities, and small fishing villages. But the unique African culture still evident in Jamaica is what makes this island stand out from other Caribbean paradises.
Quick Facts
Capital: Kingston
Population: 2,825,928
Size: 11,100 square km.
Power Outlets:
Official Languages: English, Jamaican Patois
Currency: Jamaican Dollar
Time Zone: UTC -5
Calling Code: +1-876
Weather: Jamaica has a tropical maritime climate that is a major appeal as a vacation destination. Temperatures along the coasts average 26-30C (78-86F) year-round. Temperatures are a bit cooler as you enter the mountains, but even the Blue Mountains average about 18C (64F). Rainy season is from May/June to November/December, with the heaviest rainfall coming in September and October. Rain can fall at any time of year. Hurricane season is from June to November, with August and September being peak months.
Cost/Budgeting: Jamaica, along with most Caribbean islands, isn’t necessarily meant for the budget traveler. A backpacker can get by on $35/day, but accommodations will be a bit rough and food will have to be found at roadside stalls and budget restaurants. Public transport can be cheap, except for taxis. The best deals for your money can be found at all inclusive resorts, or you can visit in the low season of April to December.
History: Jamaica is said to have been inhabited for close to 6000 years. Christopher Columbus hit land in 1494, claiming Jamaica for Spain. He found over 200 villages on the island upon his arrival. After a series of pirate attacks and battles, the English took Jamaica over from Spain in 1655. Jamaica became a leader in exporting sugar while under British control, much because of the help of slaves. Even though the slave trade was abolished in 1807, Indian and Chinese workers were imported to join the already large number of African slaves. By this time, blacks outnumbered whites about 20 to 1 because of the reliance on slaves. Slavery was finally abolished in 1834 and slaves were emancipated in 1838, resulting the freeing of over 300,000 slaves. In 1958 Jamaica became of a province as part of the British West Indies and gained full independence by 1962. After an initial decade of success after gaining their independence, Jamaica fell upon hard times in the 1970’s and 80’s. Despite a strong tourism industry, Jamaica remains a poor country, with a per capita income of only $4390.
Culture: The largest religion in Jamaica is Christianity as a result of abolitionist and missionary visits during the slave movement. Rastafarians also make up a large number of Jamaica’s population, creating a unique culture different from other Caribbean islands. The still thriving African culture of Jamaica is renowned around the world, particularly for its reggae music, which has had an impact on many musical genres popular today.
Things to See/Do:
Like all Caribbean destinations, the beach and the sea are the main attractions, with Negril being at the top of the list. Swimming, jet skiing, and swimming with dolphins are all activities one can enjoy in the crystal waters of Jamaica. If you want to get away from the beach for a while, plenty of opportunities are around.
Swimming/beaches: Treasure Beach on the south coast is a great little fishing village that welcome’s tourists. Treasure Beach along with Frenchman’s Cove near Port Antonia provides great stretches of palm-fringed beaches.
Diving/snorkeling: You can travel to Runaway Bay, Treasure Beach, or Ocho Rios for some world class diving and snorkeling around reefs.
Hiking: The Blue Mountains provide opportunities for hiking, backpacking, camping, and horseback riding.
Cities/Reggae: Despite the warnings of violence, many of which are real, any traveler with a sense of adventure and some street smarts can head to Kingston for a more cosmopolitan feel and to see some true reggae. Fans of Bob Marley can visit his birthplace at Nine Mile, where he is also buried.
Food: Be sure to sample some amazing Caribbean seafood at restaurants like Little Ochie or the Lover’s Leap on the lesser traveled south coast of Jamaica.
Tours: You can take a tour of the Appleton Rum Distillery or for the more adventurous, take a Black River Safari in a pontoon boat up Jamaica’s longest river. You will get to witness crocodiles and various species of birds.
Parks: Apple Valley Park is a place to have a real good time. It has waterfalls, fishing and boating ponds, and swimming pools to keep the kids having a great time.
Geography: Jamaica is the Caribbean’s third largest island and fourth largest country. The Blue Mountains are located inland, while most cities are found on the coasts. Head to the Kingston Harbour to view one of the world’s largest natural harbours. Several waterfalls and lagoons located around the island are great places for tourists to visit.
