Good to know

A few things that make your first day in Jamaica easier. Save it — it works offline once the page has loaded.

Emergencies

  • Police: 119.
  • Fire & Ambulance: 110.
  • The international 112 and 911 also reach Jamaican emergency services.
  • Calls to these numbers are free, even on a prepaid local SIM.

Money

  • The local currency is the Jamaican dollar (JMD). USD is widely accepted in tourist areas, but you often get better value paying in JMD.
  • Carry small bills for markets, tips and small vendors.
  • Use WhatsOutsyde's USD/JMD toggle to see real prices either way.

Getting around

  • Use licensed or verified drivers, and agree the fare before you set off.
  • WhatsOutsyde's Verified drivers and airport transfers are the safe default.
  • Jamaica drives on the left, and rural roads are winding — leave extra time.

Airports & arrival

  • Main airports: Sangster International (MBJ, Montego Bay) and Norman Manley International (KIN, Kingston).
  • Pre-book your transfer so someone is waiting when you land.

Staying connected

  • Grab a local SIM or eSIM (Digicel or Flow) at the airport for data and cheap local calls.

Tipping

  • Around 10–15% is customary.
  • Check whether a service charge is already included before adding more.

Sun, water & safety

  • The tropical sun is strong — hydrate and use reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Bottled water is a safe bet outside resorts.
  • Stick to verified operators, share your live location with someone, and keep valuables secure.
  • Power is 110V with US-style Type A/B plugs — US visitors won’t need an adapter.

A little culture

  • The pace is relaxed ("soon come").
  • A friendly "wah gwaan" goes a long way.

Getting the most from WhatsOutsyde

  • Tap any pin for real prices, drive times and reviews.
  • Ask the AI for ideas in plain language ("a chill beach day near Negril").
  • Look for the Verified badge before you book.
  • Save places you like and build a day-by-day trip.
  • Tap the WhatsOutsyde. logo any time for About & feedback.

Emergency numbers verified. Other tips are guidance — confirm details locally.