| Note: All United States citizens are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States.
Size / Population: Jamaica is 4,442 square miles with a population of 2.5 million.
Political Status: Independent parliamentary democracy.
Language: English is the primary language along with the local patois.
Currency: The Jamaican Dollar is the official currency and banks and ATMs are available and accessible. U.S. dollars are accepted in many places.
Hint: Keep all of your exchange receipts and present them upon departure when you reconvert unspent Jamaican dollars.
Electricity: 110 volts, same as U.S.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time; Daylight Saving Time is not observed.
Communication: To dial Jamaica from the U.S direct dial 1 + 876 + the 7-digit local number. Internet service is widely available in resorts and internet cafes. Check with your cell phone provider for international coverage.
Drinking Water: Jamaica’s tap water is safe to drink. If you are concerned bottled water is widely available.
Transportation: There are numerous transportation options in Jamaica. Taxis are prevalent as well as local mini buses or public buses. There are several private transportation companies that cater to tourists and operate buses, cars and vans on a regular basis. Your resort can help you find transportation throughout the island. Visitors can also rent cars. Drivers must be at least 25 years old (varies by rental company) and must be in possession of a valid driver’s license and major credit card.
Local Customs: The legal drinking age is 18. Driving is on the left. Tipping: generally 15-20% in restaurants; bellmen: $1 per bag; housecleaning staff: $1-$2 per day. Many all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica include all gratuities in the package price; ask if you're unsure.
Getting Married: U.S. citizens can legally get married in Jamaica. Many resorts in Jamaica offer a basic complimentary wedding package for resort guests (government administrative fees are not included). Please contact a Vacation Express representative for details on resorts offering special wedding packages and to discuss your particular wedding requirements. Our experienced group department will be happy to assist with travel arrangements for all attendees.
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