Embrace the ultimate laid-back island life in Jamaica, the birth place of world famous musician Bob Marley. Be intoxicated by infectious reggae rhythms, music festivals and local spicy cuisine. Dive the sheltered north coast, raft along the Martha Brae river, climb up Dunn's River Falls or play a round of golf at a championship course. Stay in Montego Bay known for its stunning white sandy beaches, elegant colonial houses and colourful markets or make shopping your priority in Ochos Rios.
Climate and Best Time to VisitThe period from December to March is ideal to visit the country as Jamaica experiences its best weather. The days are warm and sunny around the coast and outdoor activities are much appealing during this time. Expect, however, relatively expensive flights and accommodation as crowds of tourists make way to the country during this time. The months between April and May constitute the shoulder months when the weather is dry, and is not at its worse and the prices of accommodations reduce by leaps. Visiting Jamaica during this time can be ideal for budget travellers.
Eating OutAn amalgamation of the Spanish, British, African, Indian and Chinese influences, the Jamaican cuisine is a food fusion unlike any other found on the planet. Some of the popular Jamaican dishes are from the seafood family, with a heavy addition of the tropical fruits. Jerk, the national dish of Jamaica is much loved by locals and tourists alike. Other dishes that find appreciators include curry goat, fried dumplings, ackee and saltfish, steamed cabbage as well as rice and peas. Jamaica has plenty of good restaurants and hotels that indulge tourists with the local flavours; on top among these are The Houseboat Grill, Montego Bay; Ciao Jamaica, Negril as well as The Almond Tree Hibiscus Lodge Hotel, Ocho Rios.
ShoppingSome of the popular areas among the tourists in Jamaica for duty free shopping are Ocho Rios, Negril and Montego Bay, Casa de Oro. Casa de Oro is a place where you can indulge in the shopping of some of the best Caribbean fragrances, and jewellery. For taking souvenirs back home, you can head to the north side of the island that has plenty of traditional markets. For arts and crafts, make way to Harbor Street Craft Market in Montego Bay. Kingston's 'Cooyah' market offers the best of Rasta clothing. For the lovers of books, Bookland in Kingston is a paradise whereas connoisseurs of art will appreciate a visit to Drapers where they will find R Stewart's gallery and studio.
Popular HotelsThanks to a constant influx of tourists, Jamaica has some of the finest hotels and resorts in the Caribbean. Popular as the birthplace of all-inclusive hotels, Jamaica offers plenty of choices in the category and beyond. Some of the best hotels in Jamaica are located in the Negril and Montego Bay areas including The Caves, Negril; The Cliff Hotel, Negril; The Tryall Club, Montego Bay as well as Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay. For travellers on budget, The Rockhouse, West End, Negril; Palms Resort, Negril as well as San San Tropez, Port Antonio, Portland can be excellent choices.
Tips and AdviceThere are two international airports in Jamaica - Norman Manley International Airport and the Donald Sangster International Airport. All international flights arrive on either of these two airports. The travelers from the UK can fly from London-Gatwick to Kingston, three days a week in 10 hours with the British Airways as also from London Heathrow to Montego Bay via Miami. The public transport in Jamaica has a fleet of buses, minibuses and route taxis running between the capital city of Kingston and other parts of the island. English is the most widely spoken language. Some parts of the city require you to be modestly dressed; check guidelines before you visit.
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