Jamaica is the largest English-speaking Island in the Caribbean and the third largest in the region. With a total land area of 4442 square miles (10991 sq. km.), the island is 146 miles long with widths varying between 22 and 51 miles (35 and 82 km).
The capital is Kingston and other major towns include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. When visiting, take time to experience the culture… it’s what sets this island apart from other Caribbean destinations. Reason with a Rastafarian about life, love or politics. Lose yourself in the rhythms and movements of a people who still refuse to be constrained.
In Jamaica, you’ll discover new worlds, and familiar ones too, lots to learn about, and even more to love. Renowned as the home of reggae music this island is covered with world class beaches and outstanding accommodations. To top it off there Caribbean Fashion Week where the best regional designers gather each year to show their collections.
The weather in Jamaica is the main reason why so many tourists flock to this beautiful island.
Jamaica has what is called a tropical marine climate. The marine part comes from the sea, especially the wind. You see, the wind from the sea cools the land at day and night time. At nights, the land is much cooler than the days. The mountains also contribute to the warm tropical Jamaican weather. You will find the mountainous area cooler than the lower lying land right throughout the year. For the most part, the average temperature in Jamaica is between 80 °F and 90 °F (27 °FCelsius-29 °Celsius). Luckily, the weather in Jamaica is always vacation friendly. You will hardly experience long periods of rain fall, and you will become accustomed to weeks upon weeks of sunny weather.
For more information visit: www.visitjamaica.com
Events & Festivals
January- February: Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival
February: Bob Marley Week
June: Ocho Rios Jazz Festival
July: Portland Jerk Festival
July: Reggae Sumfest
October: International Marlin Tournaments
November: Kingston Restaurant Week, Jamaica
Marriage Requirements:
- The cost of a license is four thousand Jamaican dollars (approximately US$75-US$80).
- Unlike many countries, Jamaica does not expect you take a blood test before getting married. However, the following documentation is required:
- Proof of citizenship – certified copy of birth certificate, which includes father’s name.
- Parent’s written consent if under 18 years of age.
- Proof of divorce if applicable (original certificate of divorce).
- Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower.
- Italian nationals celebrating their wedding in Jamaica must notify their embassy and a certified copy of their marriage certificate forwarded to their embassy to be legalized and translated.
- French Canadians need a notarised translated copy of all documents and a photocopy of the original French documents.
- There are non-denominational Marriage Officers who can officiate either at their offices, in their homes or at a place chosen by the couple, and are able to provide witnesses. Marriage Officers charge anywhere from US$50 – US$250.
* We try to keep this info as current as possible so please contact the local tourism office for any changes.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Jamaica
1. Visit Firewater Mineral Healing Spring in St. Ann’s Bay
2. Visit the Glistening Waters (Luminous Lagoon) in Falmouth.
3. Dunn’s River Falls
4. Explore the mystic Mountain Rainforest in Ocho Rios
5. Bamboo rafting on Martha Brae River
