What is life like in Jamaica?

People are friendly and inclusive, and although crime rates in some areas are high, you aren't likely to feel unsafe. The power and internet grid are not 100 per cent reliable, so expect some power cuts and internet outages every now and then.

Is Jamaica a good place to live?

Unfortunately, Jamaica isn't known as a particularly safe country. In fact, this island nation actually has one of the highest murder rates in the world – and tourists are sometimes the victim. Currently, there is a State of Emergency because of violence in Western Jamaica, including Montego Bay and Negril.

What do most Jamaicans do for a living?

Tourism is very important to Jamaica and many Jamaicans work in hotels, restaurants and shops that serve this industry. It is Jamaica's main industry. Farming is common as many people buy their produce in the local markets in their town or district. Coffee farming and sugar cane are also main industries in Jamaica.

Is it hard to live in Jamaica?

Summary: Jamaica is a well-known island getaway, but living there is not an extended vacation. Expensive schools, safety issues and high cost of living are all challenges for expats. Members share their advice about deciding where to live, finding a home, choosing a school and cost-saving shopping strategies.

Why you should not live in Jamaica?

The crime rate is very high

There's no sense beating around the bush. Jamaica has an usually high crime rate for such a small country, mostly involving warring gangs and petty criminals. However, innocent citizens are sometimes targeted for robberies and other serious crimes.

Jamaica - everyday life

What is the biggest problem in Jamaica?

Crime and corruption remain significant concerns in Jamaica, with the security measures associated with the former adding considerably to the cost of doing business. The Jamaican judicial system has a long tradition of being fair but court cases can take years or even decades to resolve.

Is it safe for an American to live in Jamaica?

People are friendly and inclusive, and although crime rates in some areas are high, you aren't likely to feel unsafe. The power and internet grid are not 100 per cent reliable, so expect some power cuts and internet outages every now and then.

Why I should move to Jamaica?

Jamaica's cultural diversity has always been one of the main highlights of the island. People of all races and walks of life from around the world live in Jamaica and are welcomed by locals. Throughout the 14 parishes, you will find different religions, cultures and practices that co-exist peacefully.

Can an American buy property in Jamaica?

Buying Process, Fees & Taxes

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Jamaica and the Government of Jamaica welcomes investment from overseas buyers. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Jamaica and foreign buyers enjoy the same rights as Jamaican citizens.

Are the people in Jamaica friendly?

Jamaicans are some of the friendliest, most welcoming people anywhere. You only have to get lost, or get stuck in some unfamiliar place to experience smiling locals approaching with numerous offers of help.

Is Jamaica a poor country?

The largest and most populous English-speaking country in the Caribbean, Jamaica is also one of the poorest countries in North America despite being considered an upper-middle-income country by the World Bank.

Is it expensive to live in Jamaica?

On average, renting in Jamaica will cost you between $300 and $1,100 a month. The only things that are more expensive in Jamaica are perishable items that need to be imported, like milk.

Is there a Walmart in Jamaica?

Jamaica does not have Walmart.

We have Megamart and Pricemart, which are like Sam's club or Costco.

How cold does it get in Jamaica?

Temperatures on the coasts can reach the low 90s F (about 32 °C), and minimum temperatures in the low 40s F (about 4 °C) have been recorded on the high peaks. Average diurnal temperatures at Kingston, at sea level, range between the high 80s F (about 31 °C) and the low 70s F (about 22 °C).

Is it safe to retire in Jamaica?

One of the biggest drawbacks to Jamaica as a retirement destination is the troubling crime rate. Dangerous areas of Kingston and Montego Bay have caused the U.S. embassy to issue a travel advisory.

Where is the best place to live in Jamaica?

How long can you stay in Jamaica without a visa?

Americans don't require a visa to enter Jamaica. Jamaica provides visa-free entry for all American citizens. American citizens can stay up to 30 days without a business visa and 180 days without a tourist visa.

What is Jamaican food?

What do Jamaicans say all the time?

The Jamaican saying "irie" is often used to mean "everything is alright and fine." Note that Jamaica has numerous variations when it comes to greeting someone. When someone asks “How are you feeling?” or “How yuh stay?” an appropriate response would be, “Mi irie.”

Can you drink the water in Jamaica?

Is the water safe to drink in Jamaica? Mostly, tap water in Jamaica is safe to drink, but in more remote areas you may want to avoid drinking water straight out of the tap, unless it has been boiled, filtered or otherwise treated.

What should I avoid in Jamaica?

Is Jamaica safe for female tourists?

Millions of people visit Jamaica yearly and have a great time on the island – and you can too. I interviewed more than 30 solo female travelers to Jamaica and they all agreed with me that it is relatively safe; just be smart about how you travel.