Tips for traveling to Jamaica (Kingston, Montego Bay & Negril)

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So…. What can I say about Jamaica? It’s honestly one of my favorite places to visit because of the people and the food. What about each? The people are welcoming, humble and real; and as a New Yorker that’s something that I definitely appreciate! The food is sooo yummy; well seasoned, plentiful and mouth-watering.

Now, I’ve been to Jamaica 4 times (Montego Bay, Negril, Kingston and Buff Bay). I’ve stayed in resorts in Montego Bay (the Grand Palladium), Negril (Rui Negril), and in Kingston and Buff Bay I stayed in an AirBnB. Here are all the outfits that I wore (click on photos to be connected to the site to purchase) AND my tips for traveling to both!

  1. Bring CASH. Specifically 10s, 5s and 1s because exchanging money outside of the airport isn’t easy. For tipping and purchases in Jamaica cash is always KING and sometimes the only method of payment. In touristy areas most people will accept USD, however the exchange rate changes daily, it can be challenging to ensure you’re being charged properly AND your change will most likely be in local dollars.

  2. When flying and staying in the Kingston area; and AirBnB is probably your best bet. I would strongly recommend having connections with a local (versus traveling alone) and hiring a driver. In what’s considered “country” areas the roads are really tough and windy. Not to mention, having a driver gives you a sense of security with seeing a lot of what the island has to offer and not worrying about having to get back to your AirBnB. In Montego Bay I stayed in resorts and loved it! Please venture out and do excursions. It’s a great safe way to explore the island, get some authentic food and meet new people (on the bus). PS. The best food I’ve had has been in Negril.

  3. Speaking of food… please bring an open pallet. Nobody goes to Jamaica to eat chicken fingers and pizza, you can have that anywhere. Please experiment and explore the authentic food while there. Jerk chicken, oxtails, ackee and salt fish, festival, breadfruit, and so forth and so on….. it’s all so delicious!!

  4. Be weary of smoke… especially in country areas… it’s all over and you’ll be subject to secondhand smoke. Some places will have a sign and others will not. It’s not overbearing, but expect it.

  5. Dogs are everywhere, but harmless. I seen more dogs in 4 days than I have the entire year in NYC. They’re all over, but they always know their boundaries. People don’t pet them either… they’re not house dogs. They’re just wandering dogs looking for scraps of food. Dogs are not pets in Jamaica, they’re not even allowed into houses.

  6. Speaking of food - don’t waste it. It’s frowned upon to throw out a plate of half eaten food. Don’t hesitate to say no thank you when you’re full or don’t want something and take your leftovers for one of the nearby dogs (if anything).

    Thank YOU for reading! Overall Jamaica is a wonderful place to visit and I highly recommend it. If you have any questions please let me know in the comment section below!

Raushannah K