If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, you probably have a lot of questions. Between what you may have read or heard and the reality on the ground, there is always a gap. And honestly, it is completely normal to have questions about destinations that are a bit less mainstream, or places where most travelers stay in all-inclusive resorts and don’t have many off-resort experiences to share.
I visited Kingston, Jamaica for the first time a few months ago, and I loved my experience. In this article, I’m sharing everything you need to know before visiting Kingston so you can make the most of your stay.
Before I go any further, don’t forget to find me on Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube.
A Few Facts About Kingston, Jamaica
- Kingston is the capital of Jamaica and has a population of between 580,000 and 610,000, depending on the source.
- The city was founded after the 1692 earthquake that destroyed Port Royal (which I mentioned in my article on things to do in Kingston).
- Kingston is the birthplace of reggae and has been designated a UNESCO Creative City of Music since 2015.
- You won’t find the postcard-perfect white-sand beaches you’ve likely seen on social media. Kingston is much more of a cultural and creative hub compared to other Jamaican cities, it’s the ideal place to learn more about Jamaica’s history.
- Night falls early in Kingston. The sun sets between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Kingston?
It is always very hot in Kingston, no matter when you go, you’ll be able to wear your summer clothes and enjoy the warmth. However, it’s important to know that the ideal time to visit is during the dry season, between December and April. Between May and November, it is hotter and, above all, much more humid. The weather is a bit more unpredictable, and you may have to plan around a few rain showers. Also, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November.
Money
What Currency Does Jamaica Use?
Jamaica uses its own dollar: the Jamaican dollar (JMD). I won’t share the exact exchange rate here, as it is likely to fluctuate between the time this article goes live and when you read it.
How to Pay in Jamaica?
You can pay with your credit card at most restaurants and stores. However, for smaller shops, especially independent boutiques, or small street food spots, you will need to have cash on hand. The easiest way is to use a service like Wise, which lets you pay in multiple currencies without hidden fees. I explain everything in my guide on how to avoid bank fees while traveling.
The Cost of Living in Jamaica
Even if you are coming with a stronger currency, I still found things on the ground to be expensive. I visited with Canadian dollars, so if you are coming with US dollars or euros, your impression might be slightly different. It is also true that island life is generally pricey because so many goods that aren’t produced locally have to be imported.
Visas for Jamaica
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa. Canadian and French citizens do not need one (to give you the example of my two nationalities). However, all travellers entering the country must complete an online C5 immigration form before arrival. Don’t get scammed, make sure you fill it out on the official website, where it is completely free. Of course, you will come across third-party websites online asking you to pay around $30 USD: stay away from them!
Wherever you travel, you can always check visa requirements on Sherpa.
How to Get Around Kingston?
Taxis
You will find plenty of taxis everywhere in Kingston. Drivers will call out to you as soon as they see you walking, or simply because they spot tourists easily.
Important note: a taxi in Kingston is not like a traditional taxi, one driver, one ride, one passenger. Here, you may end up sharing your cab with another passenger heading in the same direction (known locally as route taxis).
Car Rental
You can also rent a car if you prefer. A few practical tips: in Jamaica, you drive on the left side of the road, the opposite of Canada and France. More importantly, road conditions can sometimes catch you off guard, with plenty of potholes. And I have to admit, it takes a certain skill to weave around potholes with the ease I witnessed during my stay, a habit you don’t pick up in just a few days of vacation. If you can avoid driving yourself, I would recommend hiring a private driver instead.
Bus
In and around Kingston, you can use the public bus network called the Jamaica Urban Transit Corporation (JUTC). Different routes run throughout the city, and you can also catch buses that will take you outside of Kingston.
Uber/inDrive
Personally, we used Uber out of habit and convenience, it was definitely the easiest way for us to get around Kingston. Wait times could go up to 10 minutes, which is pretty standard in many cities, though it did make us realize how spoiled we are in Toronto, where we rarely wait more than 4–5 minutes for an Uber!
inDrive is another rideshare app like Uber that you can use in Kingston.
On Foot
You can get around on foot in your immediate neighbourhood or around your hotel, though honestly, it isn’t the easiest option. We love walking and usually walk everywhere, and the reality in Kingston is that not all sidewalks are in great condition. Plus, depending on the time of year, it gets very hot, a casual stroll can quickly turn into a sauna depending on where you’re headed, so it’s not always the most pleasant choice.
How to Get from the Airport to Downtown Kingston?
Bus
You can take bus 98 from Norman Manley International Airport to downtown Kingston. However, you will have to walk a bit to reach the bus stop, as it is not located directly inside the airport grounds. It is the most budget-friendly option, though if you are traveling with luggage, it isn’t the most practical or comfortable choice.
Taxis
You can find taxis right outside the airport exit. Make sure they are officially licensed—you should see a “Jamaica Tourist Board” decal on their windshield.
Uber/inDrive
This is the easiest option if you already have mobile data as soon as you land. And if you’re wondering how to make that happen, I explain all the benefits of getting an eSIM before your trip right here. Simply request your ride once you’ve picked up your bags and wait outside. The advantage: you get door-to-door service, cut down on stress, and head straight to your destination.
Hotel Shuttle
We stayed at the AC Hotel Kingston (which was great!), though they didn’t offer an airport shuttle service. Feel free to check with your hotel in advance, as we did see several minibuses waiting for guests outside the arrivals exit.
Pre-Booked Private Driver
You can also book a private driver in advance to take you from Kingston Airport straight to your accommodation. It is usually the priciest option, but also the most comfortable and hassle-free.
Where to Stay in Kingston?
Everyone recommended that we book a hotel in New Kingston, which is the newer, vibrant district of the city. Downtown, on the other hand, was generally advised against. I mention this because we often assume staying downtown is the best way to be close to all the main attractions, a mistake I made during my very first trip to Los Angeles. For your first time in Kingston, I definitely recommend New Kingston; then, if you return, you’ll know the city a bit better and can choose accordingly.
We stayed at the AC Hotel Kingston, which is part of the Marriott group. It was a great experience, and I’ve actually already posted my full review of the AC Hotel Kingston right here.
Safety in Kingston
I received a lot of questions about safety in Kingston. Jamaica often has a bad reputation when it comes to safety. Over the years, I’ve heard all sorts of stories, so this was my first time being there in person and forming my own opinion.
Just like anywhere else when you travel, there are certain areas to avoid and common-sense rules to follow. In the same way I didn’t walk around Bolivia holding my DSLR camera out in the open, I kept a low profile with my gear. I mostly used my GoPro on the street rather than my big camera, and even kept my phone discreet at times, mainly because locals advised me not to flash valuables around too much. That said, I never felt unsafe for a single second. Everyone was welcoming and kind.
FAQ
What Languages Are Spoken in Kingston?
The official language of Jamaica is English, though most locals speak Jamaican Patois, an English-based creole language.
What Type of Electrical Outlet Is Used in Jamaica?
The electrical outlets in Jamaica are the same as those used in the US and Canada (Types A and B), so no adapter is needed if you’re traveling from North America. If you are coming from Europe, you will need to bring an adapter like this one.
Why Do Vehicles Have Different Colored License Plates in Kingston?
Cette question est peut-être très niche, et je suis peut-être la seule à me poser la question. Mais voilà la réponse:
- White plates: Private vehicles (personal cars and rental cars).
- Red plates: Official public transportation (licensed taxis, buses, and authorized minibuses). Good safety habit: if you hail a cab on the street, always make sure it has a red plate!
- Green plates: Commercial vehicles (trucks, deliveries, and freight transport).
- Blue plates: Diplomatic and consular vehicles.
- Yellow plates: Government and state-owned vehicles
I hope all of this information helps you plan your trip to Kingston and discover a different side of Jamaica. To help you prepare even further, check out my article on the Jamaican dishes you absolutely have to try during your stay. If you have questions about managing your travel budget or how to pay and withdraw cash in Jamaica without excessive fees, feel free to read my full review and guide to Wise. And to stay connected throughout your vacation, read my complete guide to understanding eSIMs.
