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Where to Stay in New Kingston

Where to Stay in New Kingston

New Kingston Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging

  • Hostels/Guesthouses

    Budget-friendly, with dormitory beds or individual rooms and shared facilities. Reggae Hostel Kingston fosters a social atmosphere. Guesthouses present intimate, frequently family-run-run, settings. Good for travelers seeking affordability and local interaction.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    International chain hotels (e.g., Courtleigh Hotel & Suites, The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel) and non-chain hotels. Comfortable rooms, en-suite bathrooms, amenities like pools, restaurants, and gyms. These balance comfort and value.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish hotels with one-of-a-kind designs, personalized service, and distinct character. Terra Nova All Suite Hotel combines historic elegance with modern luxury. Suitable for journeyers in search of an unique and elegant experience.

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end properties with premium services, fine dining, extensive amenities (spas, several pools, concierge), and elegant decor. These cater to travelers seeking a pampered plus premium stay.

Unique Local Options

  • Villas

    Private villa rentals, especially in the upland areas around Kingston, present secluded, luxurious experiences. They often include dedicated staff (chef, housekeeper), providing highly personalized stays for family or group travel. They offer privacy and expansive views.

  • Homestays

    While not formally widespread, some local hosts present rooms through online platforms, creating opportunities for cultural immersion. This allows direct interaction with Jamaican families plus the daily routine.

  • Vacation Rentals/Apartments

    Widely available on platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb. These offer self-catering apartments, studios, and entire houses, making them popular for longer stays, groups, or families. They present flexibility and a feeling of experiencing life as a resident.

  • Camping

    Not available within Kingston city limits. Camping is mainly for specific natural areas beyond the city, notably within the Blue Mountains National Park.

Neighborhood Guide

Kingston’s distinct neighborhoods influence your stay.

New Kingston

Pros:
  • Central location
  • Wide amenities (restaurants, bars, shopping)
  • Generally safe
  • Convenient access to transport (taxis, ride-sharing, buses)
Cons:
  • Can be busy and noisy
  • Accommodation prices typically higher
  • Cosmopolitan feel

Liguanea/Barbican/Constant Spring

Pros:
  • Quieter, safer
  • Residential feel
  • Good for longer stays
  • Relaxed environment
Cons:
  • Further from major attractions
  • May are based on taxis for transport to the core areas
  • Suburban atmosphere

Downtown Kingston

Pros:
  • Historical heart
  • Busy bazaars
  • Historical architecture
  • Best explored during daytime accompanied by a guide
Cons:
  • Safety concerns, notably at night
  • Limited tourist infrastructure
  • Can be overwhelming due to density

Safety Notes by Area

Safer Areas:

New Kingston and the northern residential areas (Liguanea, Barbican, Constant Spring) are safer for tourists.

Caution Areas:

Downtown Kingston and some inner-city areas call for heightened vigilance. Avoid them after dark unless with a trusted local guide or an organized group. For areas like Trench Town/Waterhouse/Tivoli Gardens, organized and guided tours are a good idea for safety and cultural context.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking practices secure your preferred accommodation at favorable rates.

Advance Booking

  • High Season (Mid-December to April): Book accommodations 3-6 months beforehand. This concerns popular hotels or during specific dates like public holidays (Christmas, New Year) or Reggae Month in February. Demand is high, and prices may increase nearer to the date.
  • The Calmer season: 1-2 months beforehand is typically sufficient. Last-last-minute offers may be found, but selection can be limited, especially for properties with specific amenities.
  • Trusted booking platforms: Major international platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, Agoda, IHG Hotels, and Hostelworld are widely used and reliable. Many local hotels in addition accept direct booking by means of their official websites, at times with exclusive deals.
  • Negotiation is not customary for established hotels or formal guesthouses with published rates. Very small, informal guesthouses might show slight flexibility for cash payments or longer stays, but this is not a widespread expectation.

Policies and Fluctuations

  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary by property. Always review specific deposit requirements and cancellation policies before confirming any booking. Discern the terms, especially if your travel plans might shift.
  • Seasonal price fluctuations: Accommodation prices are significantly more expensive in the peak season and major events (like Carnival or large festivals of music). They are generally lower in the slower season (which coincides with hurricane season, offering a trade-off between price and weather risk).
  • Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays that combine accommodation with caring for pets or homes.
  • Vacation rentals (apartments, houses) are ideal for long-term stays due to their self-kitchen facilities and often lower weekly/monthly rates. This provides a more integrated living experience.

Long-Stay Considerations

Family-Friendly Options:
  • Numerous mid-range-range and luxury hotels present amenities like swimming pools and family rooms.
  • Vacation rentals through platforms such as Airbnb present ample space and kitchen facilities, which aid families.
  • Consider properties outside the immediate city center for more space.
Solo Traveler Recommendations:
  • Hostels are excellent for their social atmosphere and for meeting other travelers.
  • Guesthouses present a balance of privacy and local interaction.
  • New Kingston hotels present security plus admission to amenities.

Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

Terra Nova All Suite Hotel:

Housed in an old mansion, it has an elegant stay with a sense of the past.

The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel:

A long-standing icon in New Kingston, observing much of the city's recent history.

Local Guesthouses:

Often family-run, these tiny properties provide authentic local experiences and insights.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for different budget levels and travel styles.

Budget Options

Reggae Hostel Kingston

Dorms & private rooms, communal areas, budget-friendly, social atmosphere. Popular for its friendly atmosphere and affordability. The Usual Price range: $20 - $50 USD/night.

  • Dorms & private rooms
  • Communal areas
  • Social atmosphere
  • Affordable
Kingsley Guest House

Simple, spotless rooms, often family-owned-run, local feel, good for authentic experience. Various locally-owned guesthouses in quieter residential areas also show good value. The Common Cost: $40 - $80 USD/night.

  • Simple, clean rooms
  • Family-run
  • Local atmosphere
  • Good for genuine experiences

Mid-Range Options

Courtleigh Hotel & Suites

Central New Kingston, pool, dining, business facilities, good service. A well-regarded option with a comprehensive range of services. Typical Price Range: $120 - $200 USD/night.

  • Central New Kingston
  • Pool, dining, business facilities
  • Good service
  • Comprehensive services
The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel

Iconic Kingston landmark, large pool, multiple restaurants, conference facilities, city views. A well-regarded option with a central New Kingston location. Typical Price Range: $130 - $220 USD/night.

  • Iconic Kingston landmark
  • Large pool, multiple restaurants
  • Conference facilities, city views
  • Central New Kingston location

Luxury / Boutique Options

  • Terra Nova All Suite Hotel

    Upscale, elegant, gourmet dining, casino, excellent service, historic mansion setting. A property that has an upscale experience in a historic setting. Typical Price Range: $200 - $400+ USD/night.

  • AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston

    A modern luxury option with contemporary design and amenities. The Usual Price range: $180 - $350 USD/night.

  • Strawberry Hill (Blue Mountains)

    A luxurious accommodation and spa with breathtaking views of the city and peaks. It provides a tranquil escape in a chillier climate. The Usual Price range: $300 - $600+ USD/night.

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, HomeAway)

    Apartments, villas, houses; self-catering, good for groups/families, varied areas and amenities. Highly variable in price ($50 - $500+ USD/night).

Other Accommodation Types

  • Community-Based Tourism

    Less prevalent within Kingston's urban core compared to rural Jamaica. Small-scale initiatives or private arrangements might exist. People traveling interested in deep community immersion may research specific programs.

  • Urban Retreats

    Some smaller, independently owned hotels or guesthouses provide a quiet escape within the city's residential areas, combining comfort with an authentic atmosphere.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Found in New Kingston, these cater to executives traveling for business or longer stays, combining hotel amenities with apartment conveniences.

  • Caravan/RV Parks

    Not a common accommodation type within Kingston or Jamaica. Dedicated facilities for RVs are very limited.

Comparison Table: Accommodation Options in Kingston

Category & Example Properties

Budget: Reggae Hostel Kingston, Kingsley Guest House
Mid-Range: Courtleigh Hotel & Suites, The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel
Luxury/Boutique: Terra Nova All Suite Hotel
Vacation Rentals: Airbnb, HomeAway listings

  • Features: Dorms & private rooms, communal areas, budget-friendly, social atmosphere (Budget)
  • Features: Simple, clean rooms, often family-run, local feel (Budget)
  • Features: Central New Kingston, pool, dining, business facilities, good service (Mid-Range)
  • Features: Iconic Kingston landmark, large pool, multiple restaurants, city views (Mid-Range)
  • Features: Upscale, elegant, gourmet dining, casino, excellent service, historic mansion setting (Luxury/Boutique)
  • Features: Apartments, villas, houses; self-catering, good for groups/families, varied locations and amenities (Vacation Rentals)
Typical Price Range USD/night

Budget: $20 - $80
Mid-Range: $120 - $220
Luxury/Boutique: $200 - $400+
Vacation Rentals: $50 - $500+ (highly variable)

  • Budget: $20 - $50 (Hostels)
  • Budget: $40 - $80 (Guesthouses)
  • Mid-Range: $120 - $200 (Courtleigh)
  • Mid-Range: $130 - $220 (Pegasus)
  • Luxury: $200 - $400+ (Terra Nova)
  • Vacation Rentals: $50 - $500+ (Highly variable)

Additional Considerations

Amenities to Seek

Search for accommodations with reliable Wi-Fi, air conditioning (essential in Kingston's heat), and secure parking if you plan to rent a car. Swimming pools are a plus for relaxation.

Reviews & Ratings

Always check recent feedback on multiple websites to gain a balanced perspective on cleanliness, service, and location from other travelers.

Payment Methods

Most established hotels accept major credit cards. Small inns or private rentals may prefer cash or bank transfers.

Where to Stay in New Kingston. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation