£1 JMD 211.31
Today
10:55 pm
-5h from you
Weather in Jamaica
Jamaica
29°
Overcast
Wed
20
29
Thu
21
29
Fri
21
31
Sat
22
30
Sun
23
28
SPF level in Jamaica
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Jamaica
Tipping in Jamaica
Tipping is customary in Jamaica for good service. While not mandatory, it's a common way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill
Taxi
10-15% of the fare, or round up
Hotel Porter
100-200 JMD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 JMD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price
Safety in Jamaica
Tips for British travellers
Jamaica is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Take extra care when withdrawing money from ATMs, using them during daylight hours and avoiding badly lit areas.
Avoid walking in isolated areas, deserted beaches, or at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
Use Jamaican Tourist Board approved taxis, which carry photo ID and display a blue JTB sticker on the windscreen.
Store valuables and your passport in your hotel safe and ensure windows and doors are locked.
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Jamaica for up to 6 months.
Bonus tips:
Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear a seatbelt at all times when travelling by car.
It is illegal to smoke marijuana in Jamaica and there are fines and severe penalties for drug offences.
Driving in Jamaica
A valid UK driving license is accepted for up to three months. After this period, you will need an international driving permit or a Jamaican driving license.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.035%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
119
Ambulance
110
Fire
110
Save 119 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Jamaica
Voltage
110V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Jamaica is 110V at 50Hz. Plugs types A and B are used. Travellers from the UK will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted at many businesses in tourist areas, but cash is more common elsewhere.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Jamaica
ATMs are available in most towns and tourist areas, but may be less common in rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs mostly accept major international cards. Verify the fees before withdrawing cash as these can vary.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in Jamaica. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper rates. EU roaming agreements no longer apply post-Brexit; standard international roaming rates apply.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 1500 JMD (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Digicel, Flow
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas. However, the speed may vary.
Average speed
10 Mbps
Free WiFi is sometimes offered, but you may need to pay for access. Internet speed may be slower compared to the UK.
Health & vaccinations in Jamaica
While Jamaica doesn't have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, it's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency treatment and repatriation. Make sure your policy covers the activities you plan to participate in, such as water sports.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
It is recommended to consult your GP or a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date advice on vaccinations and health precautions for Jamaica. Dengue fever, chikungunya and zika virus are risks, so take mosquito bite prevention measures. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance.
Calling Jamaica
Country code
+1-876
To call Jamaica from the UK, dial 00 1-876 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Kingston from the UK, you would dial 00 1-876 510 0700.
To call Jamaica dial 00 1-876, then the local number. Mobile coverage is generally good in populated areas.
UK Embassy in Jamaica
British High Commission Kingston
28 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica
Airports in Jamaica
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.