Know Before You Go

 

Sunset at CoCo LaPalm in Negril

 

Animals: Animals are not allowed to enter.

Cellular Telephones: Cellular phone rentals and several calling plans are readily available through Cable and Wireless offices at 1-800-804-2994. The digital prepaid “B Free” is ideally suited for visitors. Digicel also offers prepaid services on their “Digiflex Plan” available through all Digicel offices islandwide at 1-888-DIGICEL. Mi Phone also offers cellular phone plans. Service is good in all resort areas.

Churches: Most religious denominations are represented in Jamaica. Check with your travel agent or at the front desk of your hotel/resort for information on churches nearest you.

 

Clothing: Lightweight tropical clothing is best throughout the year. Swimwear is acceptable on the beaches or around the pool, but not on the streets. A light sweater is suggested for evening, especially in winter.

 

 

Credit Cards: Major credit cards are accepted islandwide. Gasoline can be paid for with cash or credit card.

Currency Exchange: The rate of exchange is subject to fluctuation. Jamaican dollars or foreign currency may be taken into or out of the country; however, currency in excess of US$10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared to Jamaican Customs authorities.

Customs/Returning Allowances:
US visitors are allowed US$800 worth of goods after a 48-hour visit. One liter of liquor per person is allowed duty-free. A second liter can be brought in duty-free if it’s locally produced by a Caribbean Basin nation. Other visitors should check with Customs.
Canadian residents, temporary residents and former residents of Canada returning to live in Canada may claim goods free of duties under one of the following exemptions: 7-day absence from Canada, CD$750 yearly; 48-hour absence, CD$200 anytime; 24-hour absence, CD$50. Alcohol and tobacco products are not eligible under these exemptions. Only one of the above exemptions may be claimed on one trip.
UK residents are allowed 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, one liter of spirits or strong liqueurs, and all other goods including gifts and souvenirs, £145 Sterling value.
Japan residents are allowed up to 200,000 yen (about US$1,800). Three bottles each 760 ml of liquor per person is allowed duty-free. Those under 20 years old must pay duty on liquor brought into Japan.

Departure Tax: There is a departure tax of US$27, but the rate is subject to change. Most airline tickets currently include the departure tax. A contact-information form is required by some airlines prior to departure.

Electrical System: 110 volts/50 cycles is standard; 220 volts is available at some hotels.

Entry Requirements: Visitors from the U.S. and Canada must carry proof of citizenship in the form of a valid passport. Also valid: Canada – a “Statement of Live Birth” certificate. This certificate must be presented along with a valid, government-issued photo I.D. If there has been a change in name, original supporting documents must be presented. Permanent residents of Canada must travel on a valid passport from their respective countries, plus their landing record; inquire at the Jamaican consulate or embassy for visa requirements.

For Japanese visitors, a passport is required, with visas required for stays of over 90 days. For British citizens, a passport is required. Visitors from other countries please contact the nearest Jamaica Tourist Board office or Jamaican consulate for entry requirements. All visitors are required to travel with a round-trip or onward ticket for entry into Jamaica.

Firearms: It is illegal to take arms or ammunition into or out of Jamaica.

General Consumption Tax: A 16.5% government tax has been introduced which replaces the accommodations tax and other indirect taxes.

Medical Facilities: There are facilities in all major resort areas. Contact the front desk at your hotel or resort  for information.

Tax-Free Status: Due to a tax treaty between the United States and the Jamaican government made in December 1981, all expenses incurred for holding a meeting or convention in Jamaica are tax deductible.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time. Jamaica does not observe daylight saving time.

Tipping: Most hotels have a service charge of 10-15%. The same amount, although not added to most bills, is generally accepted at restaurants.

Water: All drinking water in Jamaica is purified and filtered by the most modern methods.