Getting Around On Your Vacation In Jamaica

Shuttle buses are the best way of getting around. If you’re undecided between two or more hotels with similar features and prices, choose the one with the largest shuttle service! Public transportation in the form of buses is cheap and cheerful – but it may be too crowded and the driving a bit erratic for most tourists.

Your hotel should provide either an airport shuttle, or a shuttle to a scheduled airport shuttle drop off point. Once you get to your hotel, you will then need to find out how other tourists get to see the wonders that Jamaica has to offer. Hotels may, for instance, offer a scheduled bus service for certain tourist attractions. Some attractions/restaurants even offer a shuttle to collect you from your hotel (make sure they bring you back also!).

For some other areas, you may need to hire a cycle for a day. For others, you might prefer to hire car, or take a taxi – communal or private. Whether it’s a cycle or a car, it has to go on the road and so you need to be very aware of the other drivers who are using the road! You also need to be aware that looking at a map that shows an “A” road, doesn’t mean that it will be up to the standard of “A” roads back home – it does however mean that it will have less potholes than a “B” road.

If you hire a car, make sure that you point out any defects, scratches, possible dents before you leave the car hire company – otherwise you will find that you’re the one charged with the repair bill. Also check that all the interior fixings such as the cigarette lighter are there otherwise again, you will be charged for their replacement! Despite this, car hire in high season is popular so if you are going during the busy tourist season, you should consider hiring your car in advance by booking online – some international companies such as Avis, Hertz and Budget operate in various parts of Jamaica so contacting their local office or website should help you making your booking in Jamaica ready for your summer vacation.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are other ways of getting around in Jamaica, such as sailing, or even on a jet ski! There are two things you need to remember about getting around on this beautiful island – one is that there are any number of ways of getting around, not all of them safe, and the second is that travel in Jamaica can be as much of an adventure as you want it to be!

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When you visit Jamaica, you will definitely need a way to get around. Jamaica isn’t necessarily a small place, and there is a great deal to see and do. Public transportation is available, but not very reliable. Many hotels and resorts have shuttles to various attractions, but those shuttles run on schedules, which may make it difficult for you if you are running on your own time schedule.

Having a way to get around on your own may be more ideal for you. In this case, you actually do have a few options. The first obvious choice is renting a car. You should note, however, that in Jamaica, you drive on the left side of the road – not the right.

This is confusing to many people who are accustomed to driving on the right hand side of the road, and can even be scary! If you do rent a car, pick it up at the airport. Be prepared! Car rental prices are very high in Jamaica. Make sure that you get a deal that includes unlimited mileage! Also make sure that you get a good road map. Currently the Discover Jamaica road map, which is published by the Jamaica Tourist Board, is the best one to have.

Another option is to travel around by Taxi. Note that many taxis in Jamaica don’t operate on meters. Therefore, it is important to agree upon a price with the driver before you get into the taxi. There are special taxis and buses that are owned by the Jamaica Union of Travelers Association. These special taxis and buses have red Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) plates on them.

You can call a taxi or flag one down on the street in Jamaica. Rates are set for the car, not for the number of passengers in the car. Note that the rate is usually higher after midnight.

Another option that gives you more freedom at a smaller expense is to rent a moped or motorcycle. These can usually be arranged for through your hotel, and the daily rate is anywhere from $45 to $70. You will, of course, be required to put down a deposit, which usually runs between $100 and $300.

For getting around the local area, with no plans to go very far, consider renting a bicycle. This is the absolute cheapest option, and you won’t have to worry too much about which side of the street to drive on, or other traffic laws. You also won’t have to worry about parking, and bicycles can usually go where cars and motorcycles cannot.

No matter which option you choose, make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company or person. Scams are rampant in the ‘getting around town’ industry in Jamaica. Again, make sure that you agree on prices in advance, and try to use a company that is operated by one of the tourist associations or one that is recommended by your hotel. Have your transportation lined up when you book your trip for the best results.

©2007 Teri Champigny – All Rights Reserved.

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Teri Champigny is a world-traveler, professional
photographer and Niche Marketer. You can see more
of her information on Jamaica on her site at
http://www.Jamaica-Travel-Tips.com.  To Search the
Champigny web sites, visit http://www.ChampignyWeb.com

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