Area
10,900 sq. km. (4,200 sq. miles)
Location
Caribbean
Population
2.79m estimated in 2008
Capital City
Kingston with a population of 650,000
Language
The official language is English although the local dialect is Patois and is widely spoken.
Electricity
Unfortunately Jamaica does not have a standard and therefore you will find all different kinds of sockets and fittings. However, you will find 110 and 220 with 2 and 3 pin fittings.
Currency
Jamaica Dollar (JMD $)
Notes prevalent = JMD$50, 100, 500, 1000
Coins prevalent = Cents 1, 10, 25, and JMD$1, $5, $10 and $20
Currency Exchange
Located in the main airports and most of the hotels as well as banks. Keep any receipts for money exchanged in case you are asked to produce them.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
All the major companies like Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, etc. are widely accepted. ATMs are also conveniently situated in most major areas.
Traveller's Cheques
Travellers Cheques are widely accepted and can be changed at banks and larger hotels. In order to avoid exchange rate charges, the travellers would do well to carry traveller’s cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. Some bank branches may refuse certain travellers’ cheques; however, other authorised exchanges can easily change them.
Banking Hours
Banks in Jamaica normally function from Monday to Friday from 09.00-14.00 and 14.30-17.00.