What is the currency in Jamaica, and can I use US dollars?
The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD). While some businesses may accept US dollars, it's recommended to exchange your currency for Jamaican dollars for better value and convenience. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas for withdrawing local currency.
How long is the ride from Negril to Kingston?
The drive to Kingston from Negril is about 3 hours and 40 minutes with a private vehicle. Buses take slightly longer, with trips averaging at 4 hours. If you are traveling directly to the airport, budget extra time to account for traffic and possible delays.
How do I get from Negril to Kingston?
You can travel to Kingston by bus or with a private car. A private car from a reputable travel company is the safest and fastest option. If you are traveling by bus, you may also need a taxi to travel the final distance to the hotel or airport. If traveling by taxi, agree on the cost of the trip before getting in the cab.
Does Jamaica get hurricanes?
While hurricanes only hit Jamaica occasionally, the rainy season has a lot of tropical storms with high winds and heavy rainfall. You will find lower prices for flights and hotels during the rainy season, but there is also a higher probability of flights being canceled during this season.
Is Kingston, Jamaica, safe?
Traveling in Jamaica requires a higher level of situational awareness than some other vacation destinations. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, having your cell phone out, or carrying more cash than you will need for the day. DonтАЩt get into untrustworthy taxis, and when in doubt, stay near the resorts and touristy areas.
Is Kingston, Jamaica, worth visiting?
Kingston is not only worth visiting on its own, you may have no other choice! Flights going in and out of Jamaica often fly out of Kingston. If you spent most of your vacation on JamaicaтАЩs white sand beaches, take a half day when you arrive, or right before your flight home, to see the capital.
Jamaica is renowned for its stunning tropical landscapes, a strong sense of identity, and a vibrant music scene. The rhythmic beats of reggae and the flavorful cuisine make Jamaica a lively place from Montego Bay to Negril to Kingston.
The island's natural beauty is on display in the lush Blue Mountain Peak, white sand beaches, mysterious caves, and cascading waterfalls. It is the perfect backdrop for your trip from Negril to Kingston, which will take you east across the southern half of the island.
The drive covers a distance of 135 miles (216km) and takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way you can tour some of the colonial-era great houses from JamaicaтАЩs time as a sugar colony for the British. Once you get to Kingston, youтАЩll find plenty to do in the capital.
About Kingston
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Jamaica, Kingston serves as both the cultural heart and economic hub of the island. Its name pays homage to King William III of England, stemming from the city's establishment in 1692, following a devastating earthquake that destroyed the previous capital, Port Royal.
### KingstonтАЩs History
Before European colonization, Jamaica was inhabited by the indigenous Taino people, who called it "Xaymaca", meaning "Land of Wood and Water". In the early 17th century, the Spanish began importing African slaves to work on sugar plantations. However, in 1655, England seized Jamaica from the Spanish, marking the beginning of British rule.
Kingston grew exponentially, fueled by the influx of enslaved Africans and immigrants from across the globe. The city became a pivotal center of trade, fostering the growth of industries such as sugar, rum, and bananas, which shaped Jamaica's economy and cultural landscape.
Throughout the 20th century, Kingston saw the rise of nationalist movements and political leaders advocating for greater autonomy and eventual independence from British rule. In 1962, Jamaica achieved independence, becoming a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth.
### Kingston today
Since gaining independence, Jamaica has grappled with various social, economic, and political challenges while also celebrating its vibrant culture, music, and achievements on the world stage. Kingston's Trench Town neighborhood, in particular, birthed the reggae music genre and was home to legendary musicians like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. Kingston is home to 1.2 million people and is the largest city in Jamaica.
From Negril to Kingston: travel tips
Keep these travel tips in your back pocket when planning your trip from Negril to Kingston.
### Reapply sunblock and insect repellant throughout the day
Keep these necessities close by during your trip so you can reapply as needed. Jamaica has strong sun, and the tropical environment is full of insects. These can make or break your comfort on the trip, so come prepared. Or take care of both with a long sleeve "sun shirt". These are doubly great for when you're swimming or snorkeling because they don't wash off like sunblock!
### Set up your airport transfer ahead of time
Use an authorized, reputable transportation company like Daytrip to get to and from the airport. Avoid scams and have peace of mind by arranging everything at least a few days before your flight.
How to get from Negril to Kingston
Driving around in Jamaica is an adventure all on its own. For your trip from Negril to Kingston, make sure you choose an expert driver and reliable transportation company.
### Negril to Kingston by private car service
This is, by far, the safest and most reliable way to travel around Jamaica. Your private driver will pick you up from your resort in Negril and get you safely to Kingston, regardless of whether you're going to a hotel or the airport. Enjoy A/C, luggage services, and the ability to customize your journey. Our fleet of vehicles has childrenтАЩs car seats and handicapped options available as well.
Along the way, you can take excursions to colonial-era great houses or natural wonders like the Green Grotto Caves and Konoko Falls. Driving in Jamaica is not for beginners, so having someone else do the driving means you can focus on the stops you have planned. Book your trip today from 51 USD per person!
### Negril to Kingston by bus
Private minibus companies offer direct services from Negril to Kingston without stops. Tickets start at around 30 USD. You can expect A/C and a relatively comfortable ride, though the quality of service varies. It is a long trip, so have some snacks on you. Many companies donтАЩt stop for lunch.
You can find airport-specific shuttles and your resort may even be able to book the transfer for you and a group of fellow travelers heading to Kingston at the same time.
Things to do when you get to Kingston
After an exciting trip from Negril, take a break at the hotel before taking on the city. Make sure you have these popular sites on your itinerary when you get to Kingston!
### The Bob Marley Museum
Much of JamaicaтАЩs cultural influence abroad can be tied to Bob Marley. The former home and recording studio of the legendary reggae musician is now the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. It's a must-visit for music enthusiasts and those interested in Jamaican culture. There is the One Love Cafe on the premises as well as a record shop for all things reggae.
### The National Gallery of Jamaica
See Jamaican art and culture at this gallery, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by local artists in the National Gallery of Jamaica. It has a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits and has art from local and diaspora artists from far and wide.
### The Devon House
This historic mansion was the home of JamaicaтАЩs first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Today the beautifully preserved Devon House has a spa, restaurants, cafes, and local artisan shops. They also host expos, marketplace events, fashion shows, and weddings.
### The Hope Botanical Gardens
Take a leisurely stroll through these lush, tropical gardens, which feature a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers. The Chinese Garden alone is over 11 acres. The Hope Botanical Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and this excursion is great for families. Take some family photos here!
### The Kingston Craft Market
Browse handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local artwork at the bustling Kingston Craft Market. ItтАЩs the perfect place to find unique gifts and keepsakes to take home.
### Emancipation Park
Relax and unwind in this beautiful urban park, which features jogging trails, a fountain, and statues commemorating Jamaica's struggle for independence.
When is the best time to visit Kingston
Generally, the peak season in Jamaica runs from December to April, coinciding with the island's dry season and cooler temperatures. YouтАЩll have sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures in the 70s and 80s F (20┬░ to 26┬░ C) all around the island- from Negril to Kingston to Blue Mountain Peak!
If you're looking to avoid crowds and possibly save on accommodation costs, consider visiting during the shoulder months. May and June, as well as November, typically offer good weather with fewer tourists. However, keep in mind that there might be occasional showers, as these months mark the transition between the dry and rainy seasons.
July to October is Jamaica's rainy season, with high humidity and tropical showers. While this period may not be ideal for beach activities, it can be a great time to visit if you're interested in lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and much lower prices on accommodations and activities. However, some activities and flights may be canceled due to the weather, so take this into consideration.
