Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae and the late Bob Marley, is an enchanting island with rugged Blue Mountains, a lush semi-tropical interior, rich in exotic flora and fauna with rivers that lead to hundreds of silver sand beaches. In this tropical paradise, the 'Isle of Springs', visitors are easily seduced by its greenery, tranquil mountain ranges, beautiful white-sand beaches and its crystal-clear blue seas.
Climate
Jamaica's average daytime temperature is 75 degrees in winter, 80 degrees in summer. Year-round, temperatures are usually 5 to 10 degrees cooler in the mountains. Typically sunny year-round. Rainy in May, June, September and October. Geography Jamaica is the third largest Caribbean island, measuring 146 miles at its widest point. Primarily of volcanic origin, the lush island features a mountain ridge that peaks at the Blue Mountains (7,402 feet). Many white-sand beaches and crystal-clear seas surround the island. Located 90 miles south of Cuba, this awesome tropical island offers tourists a wide variety of activities.
Getting There
The largest English-speaking Caribbean island, flying time is just 90 minutes from Miami, 3‡ hours from New York, and about 9 hours from London. There are two international airports located in Montego Bay and Kingston. These are served by 12 international airlines from South and Central America, the United States of America, Great Britain, Germany, Canada, Holland, Switzerland, Italy and the Caribbean. Population With more than 2.5 million and an average annual rate of growth of 1.1%, approximately 45% of the people are 19 years or under, and a little less than 8% are above 65. Based on the most recent, at least 48% of the population was urban - in sharp contrast to the 15% figure in 1943.
The People
Jamaica boasts a rich cultural heritage, springing from a multi-racial population of African, European, Arabic, East Indian, Chinese, and East Mediterranean descent. Jamaica's Spanish and English colonial legacy is evident in places like Spanish Town (the island's first capital) and Port Royal (where 17th century pirates cavorted), and old sugar plantation houses sprinkled throughout the countryside. This multi-racial blend of native Jamaicans provides visitors with a memorable insight into the unique culture of Jamaica. Currency The Jamaican dollar ( J$ ). United States currency is widely accepted. Canadian dollars, British pounds, and other popular currencies are accepted at local banks. Let your hair down ... it's "fun caan done!"
Reggae
The Reggae capital of the world, Jamaica has a vibrant entertainment industry and internationally acclaimed artists who have made Jamaica a household name in places like Japan and Brazil.
Sports
For the sporting enthusiast, Jamaica offers ample opportunities for sports ranging from tennis and golf (on any of the island's 12 championship golf courses) to river rafting and an assortment of water sports. In fact, Jamaicans themselves compete on a high level and their prowess in sports, particularly track and field, have also gained the country world fame in World Cup Soccer.
As one of the largest Caribbean islands, Jamaica cannot be explored in just a few days. Most travellers will want to relax on the north coast. Montego Bay Montego Bay, Jamaica's second largest city, is located on the north-western coast. As Jamaica's tourism capital, Montego Bay is an ideal place for market shopping. Visitors may also tour several surrounding plantations, which give an insight into the history of how it's sugar cane produced great fortunes for Jamaica's largest landholders. Trelawny Historic Falmouth, once a hustling seaport is now a sleepy fishing town boasting several hotels and the only phosphorescent lagoon in Jamaica. Light up your evening with excitement as your boat glides through the bay.
Negril
Renown for its laid-back atmosphere, Negril is positioned on the western tip of the island. Draped with its seven miles of powdery sand beaches, towering cliffs and thick tropical foliage, the town still maintains its rustic character. Here you will find a great location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Sightseers also enjoy the 100-year old Negril Point Lighthouse.
Ocho Rios
Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, Ocho Rios lies on Jamaica's north coast between Montego Bay and Port Antonio. Visitors to Ocho Rios can take advantage of top-quality dive spots, exploring coral mountains and underwater caves, or climb the Dunns River Falls - a natural series of waterfalls. In the evening, Ocho Rios comes alive with a variety of entertainment from limbo dancers and musicians to even fire-eaters!
