If you’re planning to visit Jamaica anytime soon, chances are you’ll have one or two questions that you want answers to before even booking your flights.
On our recent trip to Point of View Villa in Montego Bay, Shedale and I sat down to record a “spur of the moment” kinda video where we answered some of the top questions tourists ask about Jamaica.
I’ve included the video below but thought I should still go ahead and answer the questions in a blog post. So here goes…
Your Questions Answered
1) Is Jamaica Safe?
This is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions that we see on travel forums and websites.
It’s a legitimate concern. And I’ll admit that criminality is a problem here on the island. Jamaica, unfortunately, is one of the countries with a high murder rate. It’s an unfortunate consequence of poverty and even politics.
With that said, most of the crime here occurs in the inner cities.
The island sees more than a million visitors yearly, and reports of violence against tourists are seldom. There may be few incidences of theft or pickpocketing, but that’s pretty much about it.
There’s tons of fun to be had if you ease your fears and decide to venture away from your resort. You’ll get to explore the island, the people, the attractions and the culture. So go for it.
2) When is the best time to come to Jamaica?
The warm temperatures of the island are one of the reasons why tourists choose Jamaica over many other countries.
Most visitors prefer to come during December to escape the cold.
This is the high-peak season for tourism in Jamaica. As a result, the price of hotels and resorts increase.
August, September going towards the early parts of November is the low-peak season. Temperatures are a bit hotter than usual, and hurricanes usually become a threat to the island.
Hotels slash prices during this time, and you’re more likely to get a cheaper room. So what do I recommend? Well, that’s up to you. But personally, we love the summertime.
3) Where is the best place to stay in Jamaica?
It depends on different factors like your budget, the attractions you want to see and the experience you’re looking to have.
All-Inclusive resorts are a popular choice because you’re essentially paying one fee which gives you access to unlimited food and drink. It’s an excellent chill way to spend your vacation.
On the other hand, many backpackers looking for an adventure prefer smaller hotels. Not only are they cheaper, but they are much more suitable for someone that intends to spend most of their time exploring.
Then there are villas which provide perfect seclusion. Consider choosing a villa if you’re traveling in groups and want some private time (inclusive resorts and small hotels can be crowded and noisy).
4) Is it safe to travel to Jamaica alone?
I 100% support solo travel and encourage everyone to try it.
The short answer to this question is Yes. Many tourists who come to Jamaica can safely embark on their adventures without having to worry about encountering danger.
But like anywhere else that you visit in the world, you have to keep safety in mind. Try not to go out to unfamiliar areas particularly during the night (this can be dangerous). It may also be helpful for you to ask someone for recommendations before leaving your hotel.
5) What attractions are close to my cruise ship?
Many tourists stop on the island by cruise ship. There’s a cruise ship port in Falmouth, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios.
Falmouth doesn’t have a ton to do when compared to the other tourist hot spots. There’s glistening waters (night tour), Martha Brae rafting and the Greenwood great house which you can visit.
Ocho Rios has the vast majority of attractions, and you’ll probably want to head there if your cruise ship docks in Falmouth. There’s Mystic Mountain, Dolphin Cove, Shaw Park Gardens, Konoko Falls and Dunn’s River Falls (just to name a few).
In Montego Bay, there’s the Doctor’s Cave Beach which comes highly recommended. You may also find the Rose Hall Great House tour of interest too.
6) Is there any advice for first-time travelers?
Try to explore as many attractions as possible. There’s so much to see and do. Experiencing authentic Jamaica will mean you have to leave your resort. Try the food, the beaches and interact with the local people.
7) What top 5 attractions should I see?
Dunn’s River Falls – One of the most popular attractions in Ocho Rios. There’s a beach and of course huge waterfall where you can climb from the bottom to the top.
Konoko Falls – One of the best family attractions on the island. There’s a plant tour, bird aviary (where you get to feed birds), petting zoo and of course another (less challenging) falls that you can climb.
Dolphins Cove – One of the best attractions in the Caribbean. You get to swim and interact with dolphins (kids especially love this!)
Mystic Mountain – Lots of fun here. You can enjoy zip lining and the famous bobsled ride.
Rick’s Cafe – One of the most popular hangout spots in Negril Jamaica where tourists enjoy jumping off cliffs into the water below.
8) What should I pack if I’m coming to Jamaica?
You’ll want to pack your swimwear. There are so much amazing beaches that you’ll want to explore. Mosquito repellant is also essential as we do have those pesky buggers seeking a blood meal.
Other items to consider:
– Water shoes
– Camera (Professional and waterproof)
– Umbrella
– Suntan Lotion (For those days you’re out in the sun for hours)
You can see a full list of items here.
9) Which foods are a “must try” when you visit Jamaica?
Hands down, jerk chicken! This style of cooking is native to Jamaica and delicious. You’ll also want to give ackee and saltfish as well as Jamaican patties a try.
10) Why should you come to Jamaica?
Apart from the warm weather, you’ll love all the attractions and things to do on the island. The country is beautiful, and you’ll enjoy the culture, the food, and the people.
I agree that Jamaica is a sace place for a vacation. As long as visitors are told where not to go, and they comply, then they have nothing to worry about.