Travel Safety in Jamaica
Overview
Jamaica’s main security concern is both petty and violent crime. The capital, Kingston, and the country’s second largest city, Montego Bay, have higher levels of crime compared to other areas of the country, and the risk is particularly elevated in lower-income areas of these cities. Most of the these crimes are gang-related and are less likely to occur in heavily-policed resorts and tourist hot-spots. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, however, is prevalent in these areas.
Demonstrations in Jamaica take place fairly regularly (most commonly in Kingston) and often without warning; they sometimes turn violent.
Currently, travellers to the country face no major concern of kidnapping or terrorism.
Adequate medical facilities are limited outside Kingston and Montego Bay.
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Basic information
Medical:
110 (fire); 119 (police); 110 (ambulance).
Money:
The currency is the Jamaican dollar (JMD).
ATMs that accept foreign bank cards can be found in most towns and cities.
Credit cards are commonly accepted.
Language:
The country’s main languages are English and Patios.
Water:
Tap water is generally not safe to consume.
Connectivity:
3G, 4G and 5G available.