Before you fly
Book your airport transfer in advance. The gap between airport and resort is where most first-timer problems happen. Pre-booking locks your price, assigns your driver, and means someone is waiting with your name when you land. Also: complete the Jamaica Immigration and Customs form (C5D) online at immigration.gov.jm before you fly to save time.
Money and currency
Jamaica's currency is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD). USD is widely accepted at resorts, restaurants, and tourist shops. ATMs dispense JMD — use them for local markets and tipping. Do not exchange currency at the airport terminal kiosks — rates are poor. Current rate: approximately JMD 155-160 per USD.
Tipping culture
Tipping is standard and genuinely appreciated. Guideline: restaurants 10-15%, hotel porters $1-2 per bag, housekeeping $2-3 per night, tour guides $5-10, drivers $5-10 for a full transfer. Resort all-inclusive staff are often paid very low base wages — tipping makes a real difference.
Transport within Jamaica
Do not attempt to drive at night on mountain or rural roads without local knowledge. Route taxis are the cheapest transport option but can be cramped. For flexibility, book a chauffeur day package. For airport transfers, always pre-book — the arrivals area at MBJ can be overwhelming for first-timers.
Food and water
Drink only bottled water outside all-inclusive resorts. Jamaica tap water is treated but stomach sensitivity is common for visitors. Jerk chicken from a roadside drum is one of the great food experiences on earth — Scotchies in Montego Bay and Boston Jerk Centre in Port Antonio are the benchmarks. Ackee and saltfish is the national dish — try it at a local spot, not the resort buffet.
Ready to book your Jamaica transfer?
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