4:35 pm
-5h from you
Weather in Jamaica
Jamaica
27°
Light drizzle
Sun
21
27
Mon
20
29
Tue
21
31
Wed
21
30
Thu
21
32
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.
Transportation in Jamaica
Tipping in Jamaica
Tipping is customary in Jamaica for good service. While not mandatory, it is a widely appreciated way to show gratitude for excellent service in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill, if a service charge is not already included. Check your bill first.
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill, or JMD 50-100 per drink.
Taxi
10-15% of the fare is appreciated, especially for longer journeys or assistance with luggage.
Hotel Porter
JMD 100-200 per bag is customary.
Hotel Housekeeper
JMD 200-400 per day, left in the room.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour cost, or JMD 500-1000 per person for excellent service.
Safety & security in Jamaica
Tips for British travellers
Jamaica is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Be aware of your surroundings and do not walk in isolated areas or deserted beaches, even during the day.
Be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs and do not use them in badly lit areas.
Consider removing expensive jewellery and avoid displaying valuables or leaving them in your car.
Take care when using dating apps, as criminals have used them to lure victims to meet in public places and later assault and rob them.
Use Jamaican Tourist Board approved taxis and minibuses for excursions, airport transfers, and sightseeing.
Bonus tips:
Drink-driving is a serious offence in Jamaica and can result in a fine and possible imprisonment.
It is illegal to smoke marijuana in Jamaica, and possession can result in a fine, while other drug offences carry severe penalties.
Driving in Jamaica
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
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, smaller businesses may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Jamaica
ATMs are readily available in major towns, tourist areas, and airports. However, availability can be limited in more rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Most ATMs accept major international cards. It's advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage. Be aware of transaction fees.
Mobile & roaming
As the UK is no longer part of the EU, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Jamaica. These can be significant.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 3000 JMD (~£15)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Digicel, Flow
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes, particularly in tourist areas. Coverage can be less reliable in remote areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Free WiFi is often offered to customers, but speeds can vary. Mobile data can be a more reliable option if consistent internet access is needed.
Health & vaccinations
It is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before travelling to Jamaica. Ensure your policy covers all planned activities. While Jamaica does not have reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK, comprehensive travel insurance will ensure you receive appropriate medical care if needed.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your GP or a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date advice on recommended vaccinations and health precautions for Jamaica. Mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, and Zika Virus are present. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under mosquito nets. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available and recommended for tourists. Medical facilities are available in major towns, but may be limited in rural areas. 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.
The country code for Jamaica is 1-876. When calling Jamaica from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of your country, followed by the Jamaican country code (1-876), and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Jamaica
British High Commission Kingston
28 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica
Airport in Jamaica
Frequently asked questions about Jamaica
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.