Jamaica Getting Around

Getting Around

Intra-island flights can be a quick way to travel between Montego Bay Kingston Negril Ocho Rios and Port Antonio. Helicopters can also be chartered for scenic rides or for personalized tours but this will dig a deep hole in your rum money. Jamaica's bus 'system ' while comprehensive is the epitome of chaos: timetables don't really exist and buses are often literally overflowing. Buses and minibuses do service virtually every village in the country though so if you're getting out and about you're sure to use them. The upside is that they're inexpensive and a great way to meet the locals. Whether you find traveling by bus fun frustrating freaky or infuriating depends on your frame of mind. Numerous local and international operators rent cars and motorcycles. Road conditions vary from excellent to awful driver temperament varies from merely impatient to flagrantly suicidal. Expect to be honked at sworn at and swerved around...stay calm and stay cautious and if you do 'mash up ' don't be drawn into an argument with an emotional Jamaican driver. Very few Jamaicans have bicycles but you can rent bikes in towns of any size. If bringing your own bicycle from home carry as many spares as you can. By bus Don't be afraid to take Jamaican local buses. They are 10 times cheaper than tourist taxis. Don't let those taxi drivers rip you off. Be prepared to offer a tip to the luggage handlers that load your luggage into the bus. The ride is very different from what you are probably used to. Many resorts offer excursions by bus. Check with the resort's office that is in charge of planning day trips for more information. By taxi Local taxis are an interesting way to get around and far cheaper than tourist taxis. They are often packed with people, but they are friendly folk and glad to have you with them. To get a local taxi, stand by the side of the road and draw a circle at the ground. You'll be surprised how quickly you get one. It will just look like a local's car, which is precisely what it is. Seldom you will find one with a taxi sign on the top. The licensed ones usually have the taxi signs on their sides. By car A great way to enjoy a vacation in Jamaica is by renting a car (Island Car Rental is best) and allowing yourself to relax while your friend takes you through breathtaking countryside to various destinations.