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Questions About Jamaica

What is the origin of the country's name?
The name Jamaica was derived from the country's Arawak name "Xaymaca", which means "the land of wood and water".

When did Jamaica become independent from Britain?
August of 1962. So Jamaica is only 40 years old. Young compared to America, and a complete baby when compared with European and Asian countries.

How large is Jamaica?
Jamaica is the third largest Caribbean island. It is 146 miles long from east to west and 51 miles at its widest point, from north to south.

Are all Jamaicans Rastas?
No, but this is what Hollywood would like you to think.

I have heard that street vendors are aggressive and will insist that I buy something. Is this true?
If you have ever been to an Italian craft market, then you kind of know what to expect. Vendors wanting to sell all sorts of wares will approach you, and you should always haggle for a good price if you are interested in the service or product. They expect you to. Remember, you are not at Nordstroms! The asking price is only a place to start not end the sales process. If you are not interested, just say "No thank you" and keep walking. More importantly, have fun with it. They expect it.

But please understand that you will be approached. Many Jamaicans make their livelihood from tourists. They walk the beaches and are not bashful about walking up to you even if you are lying there on the beach. Again, just say "no thank you" if you are not interested. Don't let it bother you.

Will I encounter Marijuana?
In our experience, you will definitely run into areas where you smell it, Jamaicans who have taken it, or Jamaicans who offer it to you. It is a way of life for them and is legal there. So think nothing of it and move on. If you are approached, simply say "No, thank you". You will not be bothered.

What language do Jamaicans speak?
Jamaica's official language is English, but Patois is the conversational dialect most Jamaicans use on a day-to-day basis. Patois is basically English with poor grammar combined with unique Jamaican words. Many Jamaicans tend to also speak quickly, which makes the Patois even harder to understand at times. Jamaicans love to show off their Patois.

What time zone is Jamaica in?
Jamaica is located in Eastern Standard Time and does not observe daylight savings time (therefore it is one hour earlier here during the summer)

What is the temperature like in Jamaica?
Temperatures during the day basically stay the same year round. The mornings are usually in the low 80's and it will climb into the high 80's and low 90's during the afternoon. When one is in the shade, the temperature drops considerably. During the winter months (December - March) the temperature at night often drops into the low 70's. The temperature during the summer nights is usually in the high 70's.

When is the rainy season in Jamaica?
The tropical climate of Jamaica can bring rain in any month, but most rain occurs during the summer months of May - October. Rain comes in heavy downpours and usually lasts for short periods of time.

Is crime a problem in Jamaica?
Jamaica's crime image is vastly exaggerated. Much of the trouble one may hear about is restricted to areas within the capital city of Kingston, or in areas that tourists will never see. Blue-uniformed tourist officers walk the beaches and roads in Negril should you ever have a complaint. Use your common sense. The rule of thumb is that if you would not do something in your own town, don't do it on vacation.

Questions About Your Stay

How will I get from the airport to White Sands and back?
Fly into to Montego Bay. It takes approximately 1 1/2 hours to drive from Montego Bay to Negril. Do not fly to Kingston. It takes approximately 4 hours to drive from Kingston to Negril, and the shuttle included in the price will not drive you from there. There will be a White Sands shuttle waiting for you at the airport in Montego Bay that is no charge. This round trip transfer is included in your price.

What kind of clothes will I need in Negril?
Shorts, T-shirts and sandals are all you need. Nothing fancy is needed. Bring one long pair of pants and one light long sleeve shirt in case you want to cover up for mosquitoes. It's the Caribbean, it's the beach, and it's hot! There are NO formal clothes needed of any kind. Just casual wear, summer clothes and swim suits (obviously). Ladies, a one-piece swim suit is respectfully requested.

Can I use $US and should I bring travelers checks?
The Jamaican $ and US $ are accepted everywhere. Most restaurants and stores quote prices in both US $ and JA $.

Can I change money at White Sands?
Yes.

How do I get around Negril?
Taxicabs are the fastest way to travel around Negril. All cabs are un-metered, so negotiate a price before you get in the car. You can also rent bicycles, scooters, motorcycles and cars.

Can I drink the water from the tap in my room?
The water in Jamaica is perfectly safe to drink from the tap at the sink, but bottled water can be purchased at the hotel if desired.

Can I get Internet access in Negril?
There are several Internet cafes in Negril.

What do tourists generally do in Negril?
Most just enjoy the fabulous beach and warm waters. But there is so many things to do in Negril. You can scuba, snorkel, jet ski, parasail, go on a horse back ride, mountain bike ride, visit YS Falls, tour Black River, visit the Appleton Rum Estate, Mayfield Falls or check out the Negril Lighthouse. And AMS has some great group excursions set up for you to purchase for the Black River Safari, YS Falls, and two sailing tours. But if you really want to experience Negril, talk to a Jamaican who you will meet on the beach. Offer to buy him a drink and ask him about life. Jamaicans are never short on giving opinions.

Can I shop in Negril?
White Sands is home to Negril's most popular store, Christine's. You will find works from authentic Jamaican artists and unique products not seen anywhere else in Negril. Other than a shopping experience at Christine's, there are basically two types of shopping in Negril, common tourist craft shops and duty free shopping. The duty free mall is located on the beach road and carriers all the fine jewelry and watches one could want. Craft shopping can be done in the same complex.

Is there a hospital in Negril?
Negril does not have a hospital, but there is a Minor Emergency Medical Clinic located along the beach road. There is also a doctor on call 24 hours a day. The nearest hospital is in the town of Savanna-la-Mar, about a 25-minute drive from Negril. There are several pharmacies in Negril, but bring your own prescriptions

Can I develop film my 35mm film in Negril?
There are two film developing stores in Negril.

What electrical current is at the hotel?
Jamaica uses 110 volts and any electrical device you use in the United States will work here. European products will also work, but adapter plugs will be necessary to convert the device to US standards.

Should I tip the maid?
Tipping is not required but it is customary to express your thanks for a room that was kept tidy during your stay, and always know your chambermaid will greatly appreciate it. There is no rule as to how much to leave, but most guests leave $2-$3 US per day per room. It all depends on how much service you feel you received and what it was worth to you.

Should I rent a car?
It is NOT recommend, even though there are plenty of car rental agencies in Jamaica, including several in Negril. It is not recommend for many reasons; one is that cars are expensive. Also keep this in mind, you drive on the wrong side of the road, on roads less than perfect, with no street signs, and you will be so excited to be in such a beautiful country that you probably won't do a good job at watching where you are going. Oh, and don't forget the goats and cows that like to walk in the roads day and night. Do yourself a favor and hire a driver to take you everywhere. You will get a clean car with a/c, a driver who will double as your tour guide, and you can look out the window and enjoy cold drinks until your heart is content! For the price of renting a car, you can take a taxi anywhere in Negril, multiple times a day, and still save money over the cost of a rental. Leave the driving to Jamaicans. There is also the ability to rent a scooter or bike.

What documents do I need to enter Jamaica?
US Citizens: A valid passport (no visa required) or an original birth certificate with raised seal or naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship AND a state-issued photo I.D.
Canadian Citizens: A valid passport (no visa required) or a "Statement of Live Birth" certificate AND a valid government issued photo I.D.

Are ATM machines readily available and what systems do they support?
Many of the major banks in Jamaica, including Scotia Bank and National Commercial Bank are a part of the Cirrus system, so participating cards will work on their dozens of machines across the country. Bear in mind though that the ATMs dispense Jamaican dollars, so you have to request cash in the Jamaican dollar amount.