Jamaica is one of America's most favorite travel destinations. The crystal blue water, white sand and famous hospitality make Jamaica an enjoyable place to travel. However, there are some Jamaican vacation tips that can enhance your stay in this picturesque island nation.
December through April is Jamaica's peak tourist season. During this time of the year, the hotels are packed and the prices are high. The off-season (May to November) is usually much less expensive and still as enjoyable. The reason May through November is less expensive is because it is characterized as the rainy season. However, the rainy season consists of brief afternoon showers followed by immense sunshine.
Pack lightweight clothes with light colors. Even in the coolest month, January, Jamaica has temperatures in the upper 80s. In your suitcase, pack shorts and t-shirts as they will be your staple items of clothing. Men should pack nice button up shirts and lightweight cotton pants for enjoying some of Jamaica's evening activities. Women should bring a couple of sun or wrap dresses for evening wear as they will be more appropriate for restaurant settings and they will still help keep you cool.
In your carry-on luggage pack plenty of your own sunscreen, sunglasses and hats. The prices at local tourist and resort shops are much more expensive then what you can buy in the United States. By bringing your own sun protection, you can save money and put your savings to fine dining or some tourist attractions that peak your interest.
The Jamaican government has been working very hard to prevent and lower crime rates in the nation and especially in the capital of Kingston. For the most part, the Jamaican people are warm and friendly hosts to visitors of their home nation; however, tourists need to keep their guard up for pickpockets and petty criminals. Make sure valuables are securely on your person. Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach. If you must walk back to your hotel for some reason, make sure either you take valuables with you or leave them under the watch of a trusted person. Being the victim of petty crime can put a dampen on your trip to this Caribbean paradise.
Tipping properly is an important tip for vacationers in Jamaica. You never know when you may want to use the same hotel again, visit a restaurant multiple times, or use the same taxi driver; tipping the people catering to you properly can ensure you tip top service which may enhance your experience in Jamaica. Different nations have different expectations in regards to tipping. In most Jamaican hotels, bellhops expect a 1-2$ tip for each item of luggage they carry. Maids expect the same amount for each day they service your quarters. Many restaurants in Jamaica include a 10 to 15 percent gratuity in the bill, watch out for that, otherwise you may double tip. If a restaurant does not include a gratuity in the bill, the average tip percentage ranges from 15 to 20 percent. The exact tip depends upon the diner's discretion. Taxis in Jamaica are either metered or non- metered. For metered taxis, a 25 percent tip is added on top of the fare. For non-metered taxis, the total price is usually negotiated. Overall, bring plenty of cash with you, American currency is preferred in Jamaica.
