A practical guide to Jamaica
Money
The currency in Jamaica is called 'dollar' (JMD).
• US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas, particularly in all inclusive resorts.
• Local vendors tend to offer better value for your money if you pay in Jamaican dollars.
• We advise converting the majority of your money into US dollars and a smaller amount into Jamaican dollars. If exchanging British pounds into US dollars, do so from home for the best conversion rate.
• We recommend converting your money into Jamaican Dollars on arrival to the island at a Cambio exchange for the best rates.
Weather
Jamaica has a humid, tropical climate with warm to hot temperatures all year round but the weather is usually cooler in central areas.
• Jamaica's coast enjoys the cooling effect of trade winds, known locally as "doctor's breeze" in the day, and "undertaker's breeze" in the evening.
• Temperatures in Jamaica stay constant throughout the year, oscillating between 25°C and 30°C in the lowlands and 15°C to 22°C at higher elevations.
• Rainy season runs between May and November or December, with heaviest rains in September and October.
• Lying in the Atlantic Hurricane belt, Jamaica's hurricane season runs between 1st June to 30th November with August and September being the peak months.
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