Fishing Frenzy

In part one of this series we looked at Jamaican currency, the practicalities of spending, and a simple daily living budget when traveling in Jamaica. We also covered the visa laws for those entering Jamaica, including the fact that travelers from Canada, the US, Mexico, Japan, Israel, Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter the country. Now we will continue our discussion on other useful subjects for traveling in Jamaica.

Travel Insurance

No matter where you travel, insurance is always a good idea. No one can predict when an injury or illness will pop up, and one of the worst times is when you are in a foreign country. Before you leave check to see if your regular health insurance covers you when traveling and if not make sure to get some that does. Consider cancellation insurance as well. Injury or illness can occur the day before you are scheduled to fly too, and if your trip needs to be postponed or cancelled it would be a shame to lose your money.

Health

If you take medications regularly make sure to bring them in their original containers and with a doctor's letter describing what they are for and their generic names. If you need to bring syringes, a doctor's letter authorizing their use is also important. If you take vitamins be sure to bring them in their original bottles as well, and before you leave home do some checking to make sure the contents are not a banned substance in Jamaica. Vaccinations are not required before traveling to Jamaica unless you have visited the following regions within the last six weeks: Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, or Trinidad and Tobago.

If you do decide to be vaccinated, plan your appointment well before the trip as it takes about two weeks for the trip. It is always a good idea to carry a small first aid kit with you when traveling away from home, especially when you are in a foreign country. Put together a little kit for each member of your party, and make sure it includes things like bandages, antibiotic cream, anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, sunscreen, bug spray and anything else you think may be helpful.

Safety

When you are in your own country you know what areas of town to avoid and the signs of a potentially unsafe situation. In a foreign country the same indicators may not be present and you will certainly not know which parts of the cities to stay away from. Avoid being a victim start by keeping your hotel windows and doors locked at all times.

If a local asks you if this is your first visit to Jamaica, reply with "no I have been here many times" even if the statement isn't true. This will help you be seen as a seasoned traveler and not easily fooled. It you are asked what resort you are staying at or what part of town, reply vaguely. Say things like "down the street" or "over there". Avoid being specific about your accommodation. Take practical precautions that you would in any foreign place, such as don't walk around at night by yourself (especially if you are female), don't carry a lot of cash, keep valuables and cash in the hotel safe, lock the doors and windows when driving and don't pick up hitchhikers.

A trip to Jamaica can be the experience of a lifetime. Creating memories in such a beautiful and culturally unique place is something very special. Keep the experience positive and enjoyable by being adequately prepared and educated for your trip. Then indulge yourself in the rich cuisine and intense music of Jamaica!