Jamaica

All Inclusive Outlet was originally conceived as a Jamaica Specialist Agency. Our agency has operated www.jamaicaspecialist.com for a number of years and recently consolidated the brand to be carried under the All Inclusive Outlet name. We continue to specialize in Jamaica as a destination and offer first hand knowledge of the island from a tourist and local perspective. Having developed many relationships with local citizens on the island, we are able to give insight and perhaps offer some idea of life outside the tourist industry. Jamaica is developing 5,000 additional hotel rooms in the coming years and we will be an integral part of making these new properties a success. Jamaica is consistently voted a top honeymoon and vacation destination for Caribbean travel. As a top producer for Hedonism, Couples, and Breezes Resorts, our agency is able to pass on discounts not available elsewhere. Jamaica Specialist is now All Inclusive Outlet, specializing in discount all inclusive vacations.

“One Love”

An exotic land of Blue Mountains, bustling towns and soft sands, Jamaica is the pinnacle of island getaways in the Caribbean. More than 600 miles of lapping coastline are adorned in sands ranging from black to white and over 120 rivers wind through Jamaica’s mystical highlands and verdant plains. Savor the aroma of flourishing coffee plantations, bathe in a natural mineral pool or peruse with the friendly faces of Jamaica’s rhythmic nightlife. It won’t take long to see why “one love” is the motto here.

Rich Culture

Jamaica’s natural treasures are complemented by a rich cultural experience of history, music, food and the arts. Learn about times past when pirates, imperialism, slavery and independence culminated to form what Jamaica is today. A history of international influence has formed a heritage distinct from other Caribbean destinations. Friendly faces from around the globe can be found dancing to the reggae rhythms of Bob Marley and others, savoring Jamaican jerk and basking in the island sun.

A Wealth of Resources

Coastal towns and inland villages hold a wealth of Jamaica’s resources for tourists abroad. Fresh produce, hand-made souvenirs, island rums and famous Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee are among the most popular items here. Art aficionados will also delight in exhibits from museums and galleries to inner city walls and roadside displays. Each town boasts its own collection of historic sites, quaint shops and local culture waiting to be discovered.

Untamed Adventure

Thrill seekers will find more than enough adventure within Jamaica’s untamed landscape and festive cities. Explore elaborate mountain caverns, trek through misty forests or float down the crocodile-infested waters of Black River. One of Jamaica’s most popular wonders, Dunn’s River Falls, begins where the river meets the Caribbean Sea and ends at the summit of a 600-foot, fresh water cascade. The northern coast presents the Caribbean's natural resources and entices scuba divers into a world of tropical fish, colorful reefs and underwater caves. Traveler’s that aren’t so adrenaline-driven will enjoy shopping trips and informative tours around each of Jamaica’s cities.

Weddings and Romance

The inspiring landscape and flexible laws of Jamaica have led to its increased popularity for destination weddings. With prior application, a 24-hour wait time(most resorts require 48 hours) is all that’s required, and numerous wedding specialists can be found throughout the island for events large and small. With a near limitless supply of beautiful beaches, sparkling waterfalls, majestic mountains and florid gardens, it’s no wonder that couples have chosen this romantic island to celebrate their romance.

Business Incentives

Business meetings, economic endeavors and special interests groups are met with hospitality from the Jamaica Tourist Board Group. A 1981 treaty between the U.S. and Jamaica makes all meeting and convention expenses tax deductible, adding a fiscal benefit to the island’s natural treasures. A myriad of resorts and attractions can be arranged for groups of all sizes. And Jamaica’s many destination management companies offer exciting programs for your eventful week in the Caribbean.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.  Travelers are advised to use extreme caution and common sense when venturing out in any foreign destination. While luxury beach destinations can be quite alluring, remember to keep your guard up when approached by locals in any foreign area. We advise guests to attend the resort orientation upon arrival (if provided) and conduct plenty of research prior to arriving at your destination. The information provided on this site is not comprehensive, and we advise travelers to utilize the official tourist board site for each resort area, the CDC, travel.state.gov and other official sources for up to date destination information.

Entry Requirements

All travelers between the U.S. and the Caribbean will be required to carry passports beginning January 1, 2007 as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security. In compliance with a new immigration law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all U.S. citizens and foreign nationals, whether traveling by air or sea, must provide a passport to enter or re-enter the U.S. for both vacation and business travel. A visa is not required for US Citizens to travel (up to a 6 month stay).  Foreign residents of the United States and all other foreign visitors not holding a US Passport must contact the appropriate government authorities to determine the entry and visa requirements.

We encourage you to begin the passport application processes early to avoid unexpected delays. Travelers should allow a minimum of six weeks between their application submission and receipt of passport. Passports can be expedited for an additional fee. Additionally, all visitors are required to travel with a roundtrip airline ticket for entry into Jamaica.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Embassy of Jamaica at 1520 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 452-0660; the Jamaican Consulate in Miami or New York; honorary consuls in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Seattle or Los Angeles; or via the Internet at http://www.congenjamaica-ny.org or visit travel.state.gov

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are not required unless you have visited one of the following countries in the past six weeks: Asia, Africa, Central & South America, Dominican Republic, Haiti and Trinidad & Tobago. Please direct any health related questions to the Jamaica Tourist Board office nearest you. Health requirements are subject to change and we recommend visiting www.cdc.gov prior to travel.

Departure Tax

Departure tax is now included with the cost of most airline tickets purchased in the United States for travel to Jamaica. Otherwise it is payable at the Jamaican airport upon departure and is around  $25 U.S. (JA $ 1000)- cash only. The departure tax is subject to change.

What to Wear

Lightweight, tropical clothing is best suited for Jamaica’s warm year-round climate. Pack your favorite shorts and swimwear for the beach and a light sweater, especially for winter vacations. Check with your resort for dress code requirements such as evening wear and jackets. Most, if not all, resort areas will have laundry and dry cleaning facilities, barbers and hairdressers. Most resort restaurants require long pants and a collared shirt for men and island casual for ladies when dining in the evening.

Banks & Currency

Nearly every type of International currency is accepted for exchange at the many banks, licensed cambios and bureaux de changes within the resort areas. Official exchange rates vary, so it might be a good idea to shop around before converting large amounts of cash. Many of Jamaica’s ATMs can be accessed with Visa, Mastercard, Cirus and Plus logo cards, and most vendors accept the major credit cards. Local banks are open island-wide throughout the day and are ready to provide credit card advances, traveler’s checks and other financial services.

Customs

An adult 18 years or older can bring the following duty-free items into Jamaica:

 

1.) Up to 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, or 1/2 pound of tobacco;

2.) One quart or one liter of spirits, cordials and wine;

3.) Six fluid ounces of perfumed spirits and 12 fluid ounces of toilet water.

 

Restricted incoming items include:

Fresh flowers, plants, honey, fruits, meats and vegetables (except canned), coffee in any form, firearms, explosives and dangerous drugs (including marijuana). Kosher foods require special documentation- Call the Jamaica Tourist Board office for details.

 

Outgoing: U.S visitors may carry $600 in purchases after each 48-hour visit. Items made in Jamaica are duty-free. For more information contact the information section and customs house at (876) 922-5140.

Driving

Above all else, remember that Jamaicans drive on the LEFT side of the road. Also, keep a close eye out for pedestrians and the occasional crossing of cows, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. More than 10,000 miles (17,000 km) of networking roads connect the islands major towns. Current speed limits are set at 30 mph (50 kmph) for developed areas and 50 mph (80 kmph) for highways. While Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licenses, visitors from North America may use their license for up to three months per visit. Drivers from the United Kingdom can use theirs for up to twelve months. And those from Japan can use theirs for up to a month. Safety belts are required for drivers and front passengers, and children under 3 must be restrained in infant carriers. Most major towns in Jamaica have car rentals, normally requiring a minimal age of 25.  All Inclusive Outlet recommends that guests utilize resort transporation and resort certified drivers for any excursions outside the resort. Driving in Jamaica is better left to professionals that reside in the country.

Communications

Jamaica is up-to-date and on-line with every level of worldwide communication. The direct International telephone service operates 24 hours a day in all areas, and operators will gladly facilitate third party, collect and credit card calls. Faxes, cables and telegrams can be sent Internationally from most hotels and post offices. Email and Internet access is available in most hotels and parish libraries, as well as local Internet Cafes.

There are three daily national newspapers and five weekend newspapers, all available at hotel front desks, newsstands and vendors island-wide. Many hotels and gift shops receive the International editions of newspapers and magazines such as the New York Times, TIME, The Economist and the London Times.

Five local television stations broadcast island-wide with a combination of local and international entertainment. Radio is incredibly popular in Jamaica, and with nearly 20 FM stations, you can get local and international news, sports, weather and music of all genres.

Tax-Free Meetings & Conventions

All meetings and conventions held in Jamaica are tax-deductible according to a 1981 treaty between Jamaica and the United States.

Car Rental

Car rental agencies can be found in the telephone directory and include Internationally recognized companies and local operators. Some agencies operate at the airports, while others operate in resort areas. Renters must be at least 25 years of age, have a valid driver's license and post a bond with cash, major credit card or travelers checks. Service stations are open daily and only accept cash. All Inclusive Outlet does not advise passengers to rent automobiles in Jamaica. Driving is best left to the resort provided transportation or resort certified drivers.  Roads are poorly marked, narrow, and present many obstacles to the foreign visitor.

Electricity

Just like the United States, Jamaica’s electrical supply is 110 volts/50 cycles standard, and uses plugs that are two-pronged and flat. For appliances without 110 volts or flat two-pronged plugs, bring the necessary adaptor and converter with you, as they are not easy to come by in Jamaica. Most laptops have built-in converters and can be used with an adaptor. And if the idea of lugging equipment around seems daunting, leave it behind- most hotels have hair dryers, alarm clocks, radios and irons available.

Water

Originally named ‘Xamayca’ for ‘Land of Wood and Water’, Jamaica has hundreds of spring and rivers above and under ground. Extensive treatment and supply systems have developed island-wide, allowing all of Jamaica’s water to be purified and filtered by modern methods. The water is safe to drink, clean your teeth with, bathe in and wash clothes with. Those still uncomfortable drinking the water can purchase one of the many Jamaican spring water brands that meet or exceed International standards.

Airports

There are two international airports in Jamaica: the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Air Jamaica serves Sangster International and other domestic airports including Tinson Pen in Kingston, Negril Aerodrome in Negril, Boscobel in Ocho Rios and Ken Jones in Port Antonio.  Guests booking with All Inclusive Outlet should select Montego Bay as their arrival airport since transfers are not available from Kingston to any resorts.

Pets

In keeping with international standards, the entry of all live animals into Jamaica requires an import permit from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture PRIOR to arrival. All animals must be rabies-free, and must never have been rabies vaccinated. Cats and dogs (with permits) are allowed into Jamaica ONLY from Great Britain, Northern Ireland and Eire. For more information, contact the Veterinary Services Division: tel. (876) 977 2489 or (876) 977 2492. To secure a permit, fax a letter of request to (876) 977 0885.

Drugs

The use, sale, or possession of drugs such as ganja (marijuana), cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin and any other controlled substance is illegal in Jamaica. Violators are subject to severe punishment – specifically arrest, fine and imprisonment.

Geography

Jamaica is 4,244 square miles of Mother Nature’s most exotic geographical features. This is the third largest island in the Caribbean and is populated by fewer than 3 million people. Dominated by a series of mountain ranges across the center of the island, Jamaica is a land of flourishing peaks, winding rivers and lush tropical valleys. The southern coast is made up of predominantly black sand beaches while the northern coast is famous for brilliant white sands and reef-protected waters.

Climate

Jamaica’ climate is tropical at sea level and temperate towards the highlands of the interior. Each year the island sees two rainy seasons, from May to June and September to November and the average temperature ranges from 66 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. Hurricane season officially starts June 1 and ends on November 30. While Jamaica has seen little in the way of direct hurricane hits, there is a possibility of a storm during this period. All Inclusive Outlet recommends the purchase of "Cancel for Any Reason" travel protection that will provide peace of mind during this period.

Language

The official language of Jamaica is English, although most Jamaicans speak a local dialect influenced by several different languages. It may take a while to become accustomed to, but once you do the local expressions will never leave your tongue.

Government

After winning its Independence from British rule in 1962, Jamaica chose to be a part of the British Commonwealth and keep the Queen of England as the titular head of the country. The Government of Jamaica was based on the Westminster model, and is composed of the Queen and a bicameral Parliament. Upon recommendation of the Prime Minister, the Governor General is appointed by the queen to represent Her Majesty.

Economy

Jamaica is classified a developing country and enjoys a mixed, free-market economy consisting of state-owned entities and private-sector organizations. Tourism and mining are responsible for most of the foreign exchange, while agriculture and manufacturing also contribute to the economy.

History

Discovered by the Amerindians, claimed by the Spanish and ruled by the British, Jamaica has both influenced and been influenced by the world’s nations. Visit the legendary pirate capital of the Caribbean, Port Royal. See the forts that protected the Spanish and British soldiers as they battled for the island. Walk through the plantations that once bound Jamaica in slavery.  Meander through beautiful museums, where Jamaica’s inspiring landscape has produced world-renowned artwork. It may take a few trips, but Jamaica’s history is well worth absorbing.

Holidays

Officially, Jamaicans celebrate ten public holidays per year. New Year’s Day (January 1), Labor Day (May 23), Emancipation Day (August 1), Independence Day (August 6), Christmas Day Dec 25) and Boxing Day (Dec 26), in addition to Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Heroes Day (third Monday in October). On public holidays all government agencies, schools and most private businesses are closed, and much of the country ‘closes’ for the day. On holidays, Jamaicans gravitate to beaches and parks for picnics, outings and recreations. Although not official holidays, many Jamaicans recognize events such as Bob Marley Day (February 6) and Carnival Sunday (the first Sunday after Easter).

Time Zone

Jamaica falls within the Eastern Time Zone (UTC/GMT -5 Hours) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time. Year round the island averages between 11.5 and 12.5 hours of sunlight per day, so there is always enough time to do everything or nothing.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.

Beaches

Jamaica’s flourishing landscape is framed by more than 630 miles of exotic coastline. The southern end of the island, filled with sparkling black sands and elaborate seascapes, hosts the many bays and fishermen’s ports within the region. Head to the northern end of the island, where white sugary sands dip gently into the Caribbean’ s clear, reef-protected waters. This is where scuba diving, water sports and soaking up the island sun are at their finest. A short stroll on these beaches will make it clear why many of them are named among the best in the world by travel leaders such as Conde Nast and Travel + Leisure magazine.

Dining

Both astute and unassuming travelers will find the fare in Jamaica to be more than satisfying. Dine Jamaican style with delicious jerk chicken at a beachside barbecue, take in the lasting aroma of world-renowned Blue Mountain Coffee or sip fine wines under a setting Caribbean sun. Everything from grilled burgers and Red Stripe beer to filet mignon and rich lattes are enjoyed in the diverse culinary world of Jamaica.

Excursions

Climb to Jamaica’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak, where you begin a 7-mile ascent to the towering 7,402 ft. summit. Panoramic views of the island are breathaking from this area.  Drift down the dangerous Black River, a large wetland of over 300 crocodiles and a host of tropical creatures. Journey up a 600-foot cascade of ice-cold spring water at the Dunn’s River Falls. This famous trek is scattered with giant boulders, natural whirlpools and massaging jets. And with a myriad of additional excursions such as caving, cliff diving and hiking, the possibilities for adventure are limitless.  All Inclusive Outlet recommends the use of the resort tour desk when planning any off-property activities. Never take a ride with strangers offering to "show you the island".  Be certain that a resort-certified professional is conducting the tour.

Sports & Recreations

Every acre of Jamaica invites travelers to indulge in a multitude of sports and recreations throughout the island. Golfers will find a new home among Jamaica’s twelve challenging courses, boasting scenic fairways, sparkling aquamarines and majestic mountainsides. Many feature the handiwork of world-class designers and host PGA and local tournaments. Divers are fully accommodated with multiple PADI dive centers on Jamaica’s beaches. These dive centers are ready to train, certify and let loose divers into the breathtaking world of the Caribbean. Most resort areas also offer snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking and body boarding, and surrounding land adventures such as horseback riding and mountain biking are never far away. So whether you’re looking for a round at the links or an excursion through underwater caves, Jamaica’s resources can fill every waking hour with island endeavors.  Most resorts provide PADI certified dive operations and the hotel tour desk is an option for those resorts with limited watesports facilities.

Nightlife

Jamaica’s astounding resort nightlife is ushered in with the sounds of rhythmic reggae and the taste of locally grown Appleton Rum. Resort nightclubs and chilled lounges are ideal for absorbing the culture and perusing with other travelers.

Meetings & Incentives

A 1981 treaty between the U.S. and Jamaica makes all meeting expenses tax deductible, allowing you to enjoy the island with the assurance of economic benefits.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice. Travelers are advised to use extreme caution and common sense when venturing out in any foreign destination.