Dream destinations to have weddings in Jamaica

Jamaica is a majestic Caribbean island, With its white sand beaches, lush vegetation and rich and vibrant culture, it’s the perfect destination for weddings and other special events. Finding a location in Jamaica for your dream wedding can be very confusing and tiresome due to the fact that Jamaica has plenty of dream wedding destinations. You just have to find the dream destination that is right for you. and we are the experts that will help you with that! These destinations are the perfect dream destinations to have weddings in Jamaica.

A wedding is a special occasion and all special occasions require a special venue. When looking to host a wedding there are a few things that you must consider. Affordability, packages and number of guests are very important factors to consider when planning a dream wedding getaway. Location is also a very important factor due to the fact that a wedding’s success mainly depends upon it’s atmosphere. Whenever we picture our big day in our minds we all want it to be a day that is filled with joy and vibrancy.

There are alot of different wedding styles and each location on this list has its own unique features that makes it a great dream wedding destination. We have hooked up with a professional in the form of Stephen Hamilton who is a corporate catering consultant with years of experience in the wedding planning and catering fields. If you wish to reach out to him for more information you may contact him at Eskaycaterers@yahoo.com.

The list of Dream destinations to have weddings in Jamaica

1, VILLA SOMEWHERE

This Villa is a unique, secluded tropical getaway with private gardens that are made for the perfect wedding, pool and sundeck/jetty with a spectacular view of the Caribbean sea. This is the place to come to forget about your troubles and be pampered in lush surroundings while gazing at crystal clear blue water. SOMEWHERE VILLA is in the resort town of Ocho Rios nestled on it’s own 1.5 acres of the historic Prospect Plantation estate. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, many guests spend hours on the private sundeck/jetty overlooking the crystal clear waters with steps to the Caribbean Sea.

The décor of this spacious four-bedroom villa offers comfort and luxury. The central living area opens onto a covered veranda with outdoor seating and dining AND views of the pool and sea. SOMEWHERE’s living room is large and airy, updated with new furnishings and providing all the modern comforts: Satellite TV, video/DVD, Hi-Fi, CD player, library board games, telephone and wireless broadband internet access for your BYO laptop. Two of the four air conditioned bedrooms open into the spacious living room which leads out to an extensive covered verandah. The other two bedrooms have their own small private patios with a beautiful sea view.

Just a few steps will lead you down to the private swimming pool and the clear blue waters of the Caribbean. Swimming is not recommended at Somewhere due to currents and rocks. The famous Bamboo Beach Club is located just one quarter mile away for sandy beach swimming. This location is perfect for weddings!

Address: Prospect, Tower Isle
Phone: (876) 994-1373
Appointments: prospect-villas.com

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2.LAUGHING WATERS

Like most Caribbean island settlements, Jamaica’s Ocho Rios has a history that includes indigenous tribes, European colonists, slavery and modern day tourism. When slavery was officially abolished in Jamaica in the year of 1834, the town entered a period of poverty and rebirth. With colonial interests removed, the history of Ocho Rios was crafted by the newly freed slaves, who embraced their new-found freedom and slowly turned the town into a stable and peaceful fishing village. By the late 20th century, the beautiful beaches of Jamaica had been discovered by holiday makers from North America.

Ocho Rios was no exception, quickly growing into one of the island’s top beach destinations, thanks in no small part to its appealing soft sand and crystal clear water. Laughing Waters was a part of this development, popularised by its appearance in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, when Ursula Andress emerged from the sea singing. The landscape provides the perfect backdrop for that special day and is popular amongst locals and visitors for weddings. This is where Ursula Andress famously appeared as Honey Ryder, in the James Bond movie Dr No. Don’t miss the property’s picturesque waterfall flowing directly into the sea.

Phone: (876) 656-8446

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3. Konoko Falls, Jamaica

Where adventure is concerned, there’s no short supply in Jamaica. A vacation on this Caribbean island will ensure you’re kept as busy, or as free as you’d like. For the more adventurous however, staying put probably isn’t an option in Jamaica, and this is especially so for people on a family vacation. This location is the perfect wedding spot.

The big question many travelers face in Jamaica revolves around deciding where to go, or at least where to go first. If you already have things like beach time, river rafting, and even bob sledding on your agenda, what may be missing is a good ol’ waterfall excursion. Even better is a waterfall tour like the one available at Konoko Falls which is multifaceted – you and the kids will be able to enjoy the falls, and also spend time at the onsite zoo, museum, aviary, and even feed the fishes in the Koi pond.

Address: Pimento Walk Main St
Phone: (876) 622-1712

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4. Hope Gardens

The Royal Botanical Gardens, commonly called “Hope Gardens”, occupies 200 acres of land in the Ligunaea Plains of urban St Andrew. The gardens were established in 1873 on a section of land from the estate of Major Richard Hope, one of the original English colonisers who arrived with the invading force of Penn and Venables. Today the gardens are the largest public green space in the Kingston metropolitan region, and are home to Jamaica’s most popular collection of endemic and exotic botanical collections. Of particular interest is the Cassia siamea grove by the main entrance, which was planted in 1907, and the other mini-gardens within the park – notably the cacti garden, with its rare varietals; the bougainvillea walk with its magnificent explosions of tropical colours; the annual gardens, with numerous species of exotic flowers; the sunken gardens and the lily pond.

Most of the plants and trees, particularly the mango and various spice species found here and in the gardens at Bath, originally came from a captured French ship on its way from Mauritius to Hispaniola in 1782. It is still highly unclear as to where exactly the plants went, but we do know that the Receiver General, one Mr Hinton East, owned and operated a garden near to the gardens at Hope. Since all cargo entering the country had to pass through his hands and be cleared by his office, it is not surprising that years after the fact, the whole collection was deposited in Mr East’s garden which later was transplanted to the Hope Estate. Hope Gardens is the perfect wedding spot because of its unique feel and joyous atmosphere.

There are many rare and beautiful species of tropical plants and trees at the Royal Botanical Gardens, including the Hibiscus elatus (blue mahoe), the national tree of Jamaica. Blue mahoe is a small spreading tree with flowers that open in primrose colour in the morning and change to orange and deep red as the day advances. The Amphitheatre, where the Honourable  “Miss Lou” Louise Bennett-Coverly, a famous Jamaican folklorist, poet and storyteller, used to hold Saturday morning tapings of her famous TV show, Ring Ding. The Hope Gardens occasionally hosts band concerts by the Jamaica Military Band and poetry readings.

Phone:

+1 876-927-1085 | 970-2459 | 977-7769
Fax:
+1 876-927-2888
Email:
zoobookings@hopezookingston.com
Address:
Hope Gardens, Hope Zoo, Kingston 6

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5. Boone Hall Oasis

Boone Hall Oasis is located in Stony Hill, Jamaica. Company is working in Conferences, Weddings, Take Aways, Hotels business activities. Nestled below the majestic slopes of Norbrook Mountain, Boone Hall Oasis provides services with a unique experience of being one with nature. The setting is in the midst of lush tropical flora and fauna, next to the Wag Water River. Picturesque backdrops, a babbling brook and the sound of songbirds accent the proclamation of your love. From service to reception, Boone Hall provides it all.

Address: 4 River Road, Stony Hill

Phone: (876) 756-4767

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6. Struan Castle

Imagine a breathtaking lush garden with picturesque scenery, just above the wag water river overlooking the mountains, in the cool and tranquil ambience of Stony Hill. Struan Castle Garden is a new innovative venue, botanical garden and event centre all in one. The Garden is complimented by Exotic plants and birds, tropical trees, flowing streams and walking trails where you will see Jamaica’s National Bird, Fruit, and Tree and a magnificent sunset. Struan Castle Garden is an enchanting garden with a breathtaking view of the mountains, lush vegetation, flowing streams and a beautiful sunset.

Struan Castle is the perfect ambience for weddings, parties, events, anniversaries, seminars, retreats and other functions. Struan Castle provides all you need for that special occasion it will certainly be a memorable and extraordinary experience. Dove release is a great way to start or end your event. Our birds are pretty white Homing Doves, so they are ecologically safe! The y are gentle and emit a soft cooing noise. The birds come in a decorated box tailored to your theme and the photos make a great addition to your album. This is the perfect wedding venue for a dream wedding!

Tel:(876) 756-4638 or (876) 319-5434

Email:Struancastlegarden@gmail.com

Location: Bowden Hill Road, Stony Hill

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7. Pattoo Castle

An Exquisite Jamaican Experience: Weddings & Private Parties Family-friendly Negril villa in West End, near Negril Lighthouse. Pattoo Castle is a luxury villa rental property located in the laid back town of Negril on the West Coast of Jamaica. Situated on a cliff with magnificent, unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea, offering privacy and seclusion in a quiet and unique setting. Pattoo Villa is the perfect setting for couples, families, extended families and small groups. With this affordable daily rate shown here, your family or small group can enjoy a glorious vacation in paradise.

The newly refurbished villa features eight bedrooms each with its own en-suite bathroom and controllable air-conditioning units (except bedroom 6). The villa also features two kitchens, your personal housekeeper can prepare light breakfast or a Chef can be hired for the full duration of your stay or for a special event. Rooms open to patios. Bathrooms include showers. Recreational amenities at the villa include a water park. The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Location: Pattoo Castle West End Road, Negril, Jamaica 

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8. Belfield great house

Bellefield Great House and its Estate has the distinction of being one of the oldest sugar plantations in Jamaica. This lush tropical estate sits on 10 acres of land, and for more than eleven generations has been part of the Kerr-Jarrett family holdings. The Great House was built in the 1600’s as a militia outpost before becoming the official home to the Kerr-Jarrett family for seven generations.

The Great House, which has a Plantation Architectural design, boasts a sprawling verandah, jalousie windows among other symmetrical shapes indigenous to this style. The property also houses a Sugar Mill built in 1794 from cut stone directly shipped from England on the ships that were coming to Jamaica to collect their cargo of sugar and rum. The Kerr-Jarrett Family, the owners of this historic property more than eleven generations have opened up its doors, so that the public can be provided with a unique window into Jamaican History.

Bellefield Great House & Gardens

P O Box 876
Montego Bay
St James Jamaica

Fairfield,
Montego Bay
St. James,
Jamaica. WI

• (876) 952-2382
• (876) 601-4730
• enquiries@bellefieldgreathouse.com
• click here to view location

9. Craighton Estate

is located in Irish Town St. Andrew and owned by Japan-based Ueshima Coffee Company. The estate offers a one-hour tour featuring a walk around the working coffee farm and historic great house. Guests are schooled about the history of coffee production in Jamaica which includes a coffee-tasting session.

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10. Strawberry Hill

is made for romance. Exceptional weddings for three to 150 guests happen here. With a choice of uniquely beautiful settings, it is no wonder that lovers have always found their way to Strawberry Hill. Discover our exclusive wedding packages and plan your special occasion on our Wedding Calendar. You may also create your very own Honeymoon Registry.

Parties, conferences and company retreats are all drawn to the charm of our mountaintop, Post-Plantation village and the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Mountains. Our simply elegant Villas and Private Dining Rooms, each have their own special atmosphere. The dramatic Infinity Pool, with its mesmerizing view of Kingston and the Caribbean Sea situated more than 3,000 feet below. The quaint, cobbled Jadevine Courtyard, ringed by cascades of iridescent tropical blooms. The majestic lawns, where even the most experienced visitor can sense a “natural mystic” blowing through the air.

Address: New Castle Road, Irish Town
Phone: +1 800-688-7678

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Why should I have my dream wedding in Jamaica?

Haven’t been to Jamaica yet? Well, let me tell you, you need to get there! The laid back people, the flame grilled jerk chicken, the lush Blue Mountains, the white sand beaches, the Blue Mountain coffee, the mouthwatering mangos (I over indulged during my most recent stay)…are just a few of my favorite things about Jamaica. Having a destination wedding in Jamaica is even better.

Here are 8 reasons why you should have your destination wedding in Jamaica:

1. SCENERY

Sure there are plenty of amazing beaches, but if you’re looking for something more than just a beach, this is your place. The island is lush and tropical with mountain and ocean views. Negril, is known for the famous 7 Mile Beach, which is a powdery white sand beach on clear blue waters. Montego Bay has more smaller beaches on inlets rather than one long beach lined with resort. This can be a positive if you’d prefer a more private ceremony on the beach.

INSIDER TIP: THE RESORT WITH THE MOST MOUNTAINOUS VIEWS IS SECRETS ST JAMES & WILD ORCHID.

2. ACCESSIBILITY

It’s fairly accessible with daily direct flights from most major US cities. Southwest Airlines (my fave airline) has direct flights from Chicago a few times a week. This is a plus, since lots of people want to use their points!

Montego Bay is a short 15-30 min drive to most resorts in the vicinity. If you stay in Ocho Rios or Negril, expect your drive to be an hour to an hour and a half.

3. RESORTS
   There are plenty of resorts to choose from for all different price ranges, amenities and styles. There are boutique properties, like Sunset at the Palms, with only 85 rooms or Secrets Wild Orchid/St James that is on the larger scale with 500+ rooms. Therefore, there’s a resort for everyone!

If you’re looking for an adult only resort, with no kids, you’ve come to the right place. Jamaica invented the adult only/ couples only resorts so they do it right and there are dozens to choose from.

Altitude, rooftop restaurant at Breathless Montego Bay

4. NO RESIDENCY PERIOD FOR A LEGAL DESTINATION WEDDING CEREMONY IN JAMAICA

If you want a legal wedding ceremony (where you officially get married on the island) it’s one of the easiest of the islands to do so. You can be married in less than 24 hours after your arrival, providing prior application was made for a marriage license. Jamaica doesn’t have a residency requirement. This means you can get married the day after you arrive! Just apply online here and submit the required documentation before you travel. And no blood test like Mexico! Easy peasy!

5. FOODIE’S PARADISE

Are you a foodie or just really enjoy good quality food? Well, Jamaica is the place for you! Every meal I’ve eaten has been pretty outstanding and I am pretty picky. Especially if you love jerk chicken! Oh, and the Blue Mountain coffee is to die for!!

INSIDER TIP: IF YOU WANT TO BRING SOME OF THE COFFEE HOME WITH YOU, BUY IT AT A LOCAL SHOP (OR ON THE HIP STRIP IN MONTEGO BAY) BECAUSE IT’S SO MUCH CHEAPER THAN AT THE AIRPORT. ON THE OTHER HAND, THE JERK CHICKEN SEASONING AND HOT SAUCE IS ACTUALLY REALLY CHEAP AT THE AIRPORT STORES.

Mr Sunshine at Zoetry Montego Bay

INSIDER TIP: GO OFF THE BEATEN PATH AND EAT AT SCOTCHIES, THE ORIGINAL JERK CHICKEN RESTAURANT.

6. UNIQUE CULTURE

You’ll never be bored on this island, as there are so many activities to do, and not just water activities! Zip lining, food tours, appleton rum estate, cool runnings, Martha Brea rafting, horseback riding, Rasta stuff… I could go on.

Ocho Rios & Montego Bay are closer to all the adventurous activities. Where as Negril, has more beach focused activities rather than adventure. The most popular thing to do in Jamaica all over the island is to go on a catamaran cruise around the island. They’re so much fun – think booze, snorkeling and jumping off a giant yacht (if you’re not chicken!).

7. ENGLISH SPEAKING

Everyone on the island speaks English so there’s no language barrier. Jamaicans do have their own slang that they speak to each other in. It’s fun to listen to Jamaicans speak and try and figure out what they’re saying. Some of the slang words you might hear are…

‘Weh Yuh Ah Seh’ = What are you saying?
‘Wah Gwaan’ = What’s up? Or How are you?
‘Irie’ = Everything is alright and fine
‘Ya Mon’ = no problem or okay

8. LEGAL MARIJUANA
   Hey, to each their own! If this is something you believe in, then have at it! You can smoke it legally on the beach and there are plenty of people that sell it on the island. If you use it medicinally, then even better… you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation pain free!

Thanks for reading this blog and as always if you found this content to be informative and education then please give our blog a follow and while you are at it why not follow our socials for all our latest blog posts. Have a good one!

Top 12 dream destinations in Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the best islands to visit is the Caribbean and maybe even in the World. Their white sand beaches, attractions, resorts and unique lifestyle are just a few reasons why so many tourists want to visit the island nation. The destinations in Jamaica are very affordable to tourists and many hotels and resorts have bundle deals within their packages that makes the stay even cheaper for the average visitor. The top 12 dream destinations in Jamaica are among the best the island has to offer.

So you are planning your dream vacation and you need a special place to relax? Whether it be Spring, Summer or Winter, Jamaica is the perfect Caribbean destination for whatever dream vacation you are planning. Planning a solo trip, a family getaway or just looking for somewhere to relax? Jamaica is nestled in the Caribbean sea and with its popular destinations and attractions it’s one of the best vacation hotspots in the Caribbean.

There are many landmarks and ruins in Jamaica that have been transformed into heritage sites and popular tourist attractions. Jamaica has a variety of souvenirs to choose from, from wooden sculptures crafted by the best craftsmen and women on the island to handmade jewelry, you name it they have it. A very exciting place to consider visiting isn’t it?

List of the top 11 dream destinations in Jamaica

1. Reach falls

Located in the rustic parish of Portland, Reach Falls is definitely one of the best place to visit in Jamaica for nature and water-lovers. The falls and surrounding foliage are absolutely picturesque, the water is sparkling blue and refreshing, the staff are pleasant and there are sitting areas provided for large and small groups to picnic.

Be sure to ask for the guided tours of once-secret caves and paths slaves are believed to have trod through to avoid detection from their slave masters. Picking your way through the rocky foot paths and underground caves is the perfect combination of a little slice of history and adventure.

2. Seven mile beach

Picture white sand, unbelievably clear, turquoise blue water, and stunning sunsets – that’s Seven Mile Beach. Conveniently nestled a little over an hour outside of Montego Bay, it’s no wonder this picturesque beach is one of Jamaica’s most popular attractions!

Sheltered by one of the Caribbean’s great reefs, Negril Bay is always tranquil, but there’s plenty to do. Take your pick of kayaking, boat rides, scuba diving, horseback rides on the shore and snorkeling while you’re there, or forego everything, lounge in the sand and sip on coconuts with no care in the world. And of course, indulge in some delicious traditional Jamaican food and an ice cold Red Stripe beer at any of the seaside restaurants and bars.

3. Blue Mountains

Famous for its coffee and for being one of the highest mountain ranges in the Caribbean, The Blue Mountains are a sight to behold. The mountain range, named for the color it appears to have from a distance, spans over four parishes St Andrew, St Thomas, Portland and St Mary, and is renowned for offering stunning fiery sunsets and breathtaking sunrises from the peak.

The panoramic view isn’t anything to sneeze at either, as on a clear day you can see as far as Cuba and Haiti from the highest points. Hiking up to the peak during the night to catch the sunrise, and a peek of Cuba is a must while in Jamaica, after all it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Coffee plantation tours, interesting and exotic plant life, and a number of springs, as well as breathtaking scenery are just a few of the rewards for the arduous journey to the top. With all its beautiful natural offerings, The Blue Mountains are easily one of the best places to visit in Jamaica.

4. Dunn’s River Falls and Park

Dunn’s River Falls is hands down one of the best places to visit in Jamaica. The iconic beach and falls immortalised on the Jamaican $100 bill is famous and well-loved among locals and foreigners alike and for good reason. In recent years the number of attractions on site has been increased to include a water park that is perfect for kids and for older visitors that may not like to climb the falls or head down to the beach, well-kept gardens with plenty of flowers, a lush lawn and towering coconut trees to provide shade, and a vibrant craft market.

The white sand beach is beautiful and scenic with enough benches scattered nearby so visitors may enjoy a snack while watching the waves come in, and staff are on hand to offer group tours of the grounds as well as provide assistance in climbing the falls. Dunn’s River Falls is an immensely popular spot which means it isn’t one of those deserted, lesser-known spots, so arriving early is key if you want to maximize on your time and beat the crowd.

5 Pelican Bar

Way off coast and out into the sea you’ll find a quaint little bar – that’s Pelican Bar. Nicknamed for the pelicans that like to flock to it and perch on its railings, this bar is easily one of the coolest bars in the world!

You’ll find boat owners ready and willing to transport you safely to the bar where you can kick back like a real Jamaican – play dominoes, drink, eat and have a good time. Dip your feet in the warm Caribbean waters or jump in! Don’t worry, it’s safe for swimming and chilling on the bar’s banks.

6. Bob Marley Museum

Though Trench Town (the inner-city community Bob Marley was originally from) is often called the birthplace of Reggae, 56 Hope Road is clearly where Reggae went to live. Bob purchased the property, now The Bob Marley Museum, in 1975 and made it his home until his death in 1981. If you are a Bob Marley fan it’s obvious that the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is one of the best places to visit in Jamaica while on vacation.

Explore the former home and studio of the legendary Bob Marley, where you’ll get to see beautifully hand painted murals and a statue of Bob, a myriad of his personal treasures such as his platinum and gold records and awards as well as a stunning photo gallery. But what visitors consider the best part of the one hour museum tour is the visit to Bob Marley’s old room, which was left untouched since the day he left it.

7. Devon House

Visiting Kingston without going to Devon House is simply a no, no! Stroll on the lush lawn, enjoy the shade beneath the copse of trees and tour the House that was built in 1881 and housed Jamaica’s very first colored millionaire. The shops on site are cozy and quaint with beautiful brick walls, shingle roofs and latticed fences and they offer different things from souvenirs, craft and body oils to freshly-baked pastries and delicious chocolate.

However, the real gem of this heritage site is the famous Devon House I-Scream shop. One taste of their Ice scream, and you’ll understand why Devon House made it on our list of best places to visit in Jamaica. Devon House is a super popular spot for locals on Saturdays and Sundays, especially in the afternoons, so if you’re not fond of long lines or navigating crowds you may enjoy your time at Devon House a lot more if you visit on a weekday.

8. Dub Club

The Dub Club s a must-visit spot for music fans. Up above Kingston, Dub Club is on Skyline Drive which, as the name suggests, offers a beautiful panoramic view of the dazzling city of Kingston in the night as well as good vibes and great Roots Reggae music. Meet and interact with other music fans as well as local musicians and learn first hand about Reggae music and Rastafarian culture. Have a cup of soup, jam out to some underground Reggae and ‘reason’ with new friends. Kingston Dub Club is sure to be a treat.

9. Boston Bay

Just outside of Portland’s capital is Boston Bay, Jamaica’s very own bit of surfer’s paradise. With what is believed to be the strongest waves and best tide to be experienced in the Caribbean, as well as experienced locals on hand to give tips and instructions on surfing, Boston Bay is perfect for novices and pros alike.

Don’t go home with the boring, obligatory t-shirt as your only souvenir, get some handmade jewelry and souvenirs from local craftsmen and women instead. And while you’re there be sure to get a bite or two of the mouthwatering jerk, cooked over an open flame, that the Boston area is famous for!

10. Dream Weekend Jamaica

Do you love reggae? Are you ready to party? Then Dream Weekend in Jamaica is the perfect event for you! One of the Caribbean’s top summer time parties, Dream Weekend takes place between the 5th to 11th August 2021, in Negril, and this year’s 5-day extravaganza promises to be the ultimate party and celebration of everything Jamaican.
 
Not only does the event offer top-rated performances from local and international artists alike, but it also gives attendees the chance to sample the island’s finest food and drink while dancing away the night with friendly locals and overseas visitors. Attracting tourists from around the globe as well as plenty of islanders, this spectacular event is held right along the stunning shores of Seven Mile Beach, the resort’s top attraction.

11. The North coast, Jamaica

The north coast is the most developed area of Jamaica outside the capital, boasting numerous things to do and an energetic atmosphere. Highway upgrades between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios have effectively halved journey times between the two cities, opening up most of the coastline to new resort and villa developments. With many villages and towns running seamlessly into the next, it’s sometimes hard to know where each urban area starts and ends.

The attraction of the north coast is nonetheless clear as soon as you leave the main road: barrelling through the diverse parishes of St Mary, St Ann and Trelawny, there is stunning scenery – sweeping cane and coconut plantations, mangrove swamps, luscious farmland and kilometres of white-sand beaches with reefs less than a hundred feet out to sea. Resorts are mostly fenced-in all-inclusives .

12. Sandals Royal Caribbean Montego Bay, Jamaica

Featuring groundbreaking, innovative designs that marry modern luxury to exotic palapa-style architecture, these spectacular Over-the-Water Bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean’s finest turquoise waters. An expansive patio features Sandals signature Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, an over-the-water hammock, outdoor shower and a suspended patio with swim-up platform, while the interior boasts sea-through glass floors that guarantee undersea views, a king-size bed, and a spacious, spa-style bathroom.

Is it safe to travel to and visit Jamaica?

Jamaica, a beautiful Caribbean island nation, is often viewed warily by travelers who read about the country’s high crime and murder rates and wonder if it’s a safe place to go. Many people even hole up at all-inclusive resorts for the duration of their trip due to safety concerns. However, millions of people enjoy the coastal sunshine, tropical fruits, and world-renowned reggae in Jamaica each year without incident. Most Jamaicans are friendly and helpful to visitors. Tourists can have a great experience getting out and seeing the “real” Jamaica as long as they take precautions and are mindful of the legitimate threat of crime where it exists.

• Travel Advisories
• Anyone traveling to Jamaica must get a Travel Authorization prior to checking in for a flight and adhere to safety protocols while in the country.1
• All residents of the U.S., Mexico, Panama, Brazil, or the Dominican Republic who are ages 12 and up must present a negative COVID-19 test upon checking in for a flight. The test sample must be less than 10 days from the Jamaica travel date.1
• Canada urges travelers to exercise plenty of caution in Jamaica “due to the high level of violent crime” and suggests checking local media and following the local authorities’ instructions.2
• The U.S. Department of State warns tourists to reconsider Jamaica travel due to frequent violent crimes and health concerns including COVID-19.3
• Use caution if you are traveling between June 1 and November 30, the hurricane season. Most major hurricanes occur between August and October.

Is Jamaica a Dangerous Place?
The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) stated in a 2020 report4 that travelers should exercise increased caution and avoid visits to Spanish Town and parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, which are all known for violent crime. Other parts of the country have violent crime as well, but it typically involves attacks by Jamaicans on others from the country and revolves around drugs, gangs, politics, poverty, or revenge. The downtown “Hip Strip” of Montego Bay is known for pickpockets and theft. Harassment of tourists can include harmless pitches to buy souvenirs or marijuana, bogus offers of tourist-guide services, and racial slurs aimed at White visitors.

Credit-card skimming is an ongoing problem in Jamaica. Some scammers will make a copy of your credit card information when you pay a restaurant server or shopkeeper. ATMs also may be rigged to steal your card information, or individuals may observe you at the ATM and try to steal your password. Avoid using credit cards or ATMs whenever possible; carry just enough cash for what you need that day. If you do need to use a credit card, keep an eye on the person handling your card. It is safest to get cash from the ATM at your hotel.
Another thing U.S. citizens should especially watch out for is the lottery scams, including the Lotto Scam calls luring the victim into thinking a Jamaican lottery prize is available to them after the payment of “fees.”

Is Jamaica Safe for Traveling Alone?
Solo travelers can enjoy a trip to Jamaica by staying away from dangerous areas and taking some important precautions Be aware of your surroundings and stay in the more populated areas. Keep your travel itinerary and departure date private, as crimes often take place the night before tourists leave the island. Those who dress like a local usually have fewer issues, so leave any tourist T-shirts, fanny packs, and jewelry at your hotel.

Public transportation is not recommended since buses are often overcrowded and can become venues for crime. Take a registered cab from your hotel, hire drivers from reputable tour companies, or use transportation from vendors that are part of the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA).

Is Jamaica Safe for Female Travelers?
Jamaica is relatively safe for women travelers, but it pays off to be careful and use your instincts. Avoid deserted areas and beaches even in the daytime, and try not to walk at night or hitchhike. Watch out for motorbike riders who may snatch your purse or engage in other petty theft. Street harassment such as whistles, catcalls, and honking is commonplace. Before booking an accommodation, make sure the doors and windows lock properly and keep them secured even while you sleep.

. Women who are alone in resorts are especially prone to receiving plenty of attention. Rape and sexual assaults by hotel employees in resort areas on Jamaica’s north coast have occurred with some frequency. Drink in moderation and keep an eye on your beverage to avoid someone using date rape drugs. Male prostitutes serving White female tourists (“rent-a-dreads”) is a problem relatively unique to Jamaica, and the demand for such services can spill over in negative ways on other visiting women, who may be viewed as “easy” by some local men.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Some additional tips travelers should consider following when visiting Jamaica:

• For emergency police response, dial 119. There is typically an increased police presence in the areas of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios frequented by tourists, but victims of crime may find the response of the local police to be lacking—or nonexistent. Cops in Jamaica are generally short on staff and training. While visitors are unlikely to be mistreated by police, the Jamaican Constabulary Force is widely viewed as corrupt and ineffectual.
• Those with medical emergencies may dial 110. Kingston and Montego Bay have the only comprehensive medical facilities in Jamaica. The recommended hospital for U.S. citizens in Kingston is the University of the West Indies (UWI). In Montego Bay, the Cornwall Regional Hospital is suggested.
• Guests to the country can improve the atmosphere by not seeking out paid sex or drugs during their visit. To the extent possible, be respectful but firm when confronted by someone offering something you don’t want—it can go a long way toward avoiding further problems.
• Many roads are not well maintained and have poor signage, so avoid driving at night. Smaller roads may not be paved, and often are narrow, winding, and crowded with pedestrians, bicycles, and livestock. Driving is on the left, and Jamaica’s roundabouts (traffic circles) can be confusing for drivers used to sitting on the right. Seat-belt use is required and recommended given the hazardous driving conditions.
• If you rent a car, look for a spot inside a residential compound, in a parking lot with an attendant, or within your view. When shopping, park as close as possible to the store entrance and away from dumpsters, bushes, or large vehicles. Lock all doors, close the windows, and hide valuables in the trunk.
• Especially after hours of rain, use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and chikungunya virus.
• If possible, avoid nightclubs, which can be overcrowded and often are not in compliance with fire-safety standards.
• Jet ski accidents in resort areas are uncomfortably common, so use caution whether operating a personal watercraft or enjoying recreational activities in waters where jet skis are present.

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