Montego Bay Jamaica Travel Guide
Digicel and Flow are the main mobile network operators in Jamaica. Purchase SIM cards at Sangster International Airport (MBJ) or official provider stores in Montego Bay. Your passport is needed for registration.
Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, resorts, many restaurants, cafes, and some public areas. Most places to stay provide free Wi-Fi. Reliable 4G/LTE coverage is present in large towns.
Post offices exist in The Friendly city if you wish to send postcards or parcels home. Ask your hotel for the nearest post office location.
English is Jamaica's official language. Most people, particularly in areas with tourists, speak clear English. Jamaican Patois is widely spoken. Most Jamaicans are fluent in English. You hear Patois in laid-back conversation.
Purchase a a LOCAL sim at the airport. This provides immediate connectivity for maps, local calls, plus keeping in touch with your travel companions. Consider Airalo for an eSIM. Or a portable WiFi from Solis Wi-Fi.
Understand the typical operating times for businesses and services in Montego Bay.
Banks in Operation monday To friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some branches have limited hours on Fridays.
Shops open From monday To saturday, 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Hip Strip shops often stay open longer in the evening.
Hours vary widely. Some breakfast spots get an early start. Bars and clubs stay open late into the night.
Atms are easy to find in Montego Bay. Find them at banks, major supermarkets, and visitor areas like the Hip Strip. Most ATMs dispense Jamaican Dollars.
Jamaica observes several public holidays. Most companies, banks, and government offices close. Tourist attractions and resorts generally remain open but might have altered hours.
Before a public holiday, stock up on items. Many shops close. Consider dining at your accommodation or booking restaurant reservations for holiday meals.
Embrace Jamaican etiquette and cultural norms for a smooth visit.
Good manners are highly valued. A "Good morning/afternoon/evening" is customary before asking questions or making requests. Direct eye contact is generally fine and shows respect.
Casual wear suits most tourist areas. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting local communities or religious sites.
Always get consent before taking pictures of individuals, notably for children. Some people might not wish to be photographed. Respect their requests if they decline.
Avoid strong political or religious debates with strangers. Public cannabis consumption remains illegal. Strict laws apply to trafficking. Avoid purchasing from informal street vendors.
A simple 'Good morning' (or 'Good afternoon/evening') shows respect. It cultivates positive interactions with locals. Consider Rosetta Stone for language skills.
Montego Bay has limited accessibility for people with mobility challenges.
Accessibility infrastructure is limited. Watch out for uneven sidewalks or non-existent. Ramps and wheelchair-accessible toilets are rare outside of modern resorts. Older buildings might not have accessible features.
Numerous newer all-inclusive vacation holiday resorts feature accessible rooms, ramps, and some barrier-free the poolside. Pre-booked accessible vans or private taxis are the only viable options for getting around. Public transport is not accessible.
No widespread services or infrastructure exists for travelers with visual or hearing impairments. Assistance needs pre-arrangement with individual tour operators or hotels.
Contact the Jamaica Tourist Board for specific inquiries regarding accessibility. They provide updated information on accessible attractions and services.
Communicate your accessibility needs clearly when booking lodging and excursions. Confirm that advertised services and facilities match your requirements.
