JAMAICA
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	Description The cultural life of Jamaica is a wealthy one; its music, art, and cuisine have a spirit that's as hard to describe as the rhythms of reggae or an outburst of streetwise patois. Although 95% of the population traces its bloodlines to Africa, Jamaica is a stockpot of cultures, including those of other Caribbean islands, Great Britain, the Middle East, India, China, Germany, Portugal, and South America. The third-largest island in the Caribbean (after Cuba and Hispaniola), Jamaica enjoys a considerable self-sufficiency based on tourism, agriculture, and mining. The island's physical attractions include jungle mountaintops, clear waterfalls, and unforgettable beaches, and its tourist areas are grouped around the northern and western coastlines. Ocho Rios (often just Ochi) is a major cruise port, resort center, and the home of Dunn's River Falls, probably the most photographed spot in the nation. Montego Bay (or MoBay, as it's known), destination of most tourist flights, is a sprawling beach resort. At the island's western tip lies Negril, once a sleepy hangout for bohemian travelers; though now bigger and glitzier. In addition to these pleasure capitals, Jamaica has a real capital in Kingston, the true heart and head of the island. This is where politics, literature, music, and art wrestle for acceptance in the largest (800,000 people) English-speaking city in the Western hemisphere south of Miami. Background Jamaica gained full independence within the British Commonwealth in 1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to recurrent violence and a drop off in tourism. Elections in 1980 saw the democratic socialists voted out of office. Political violence marred elections during the 1990s. Jamaica at a Glance Language: English, patois English Government: Constitutional parliamentary democracy Capital: Kingston Size: 10,991 sq km Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba Climate: Tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior. 78 - 85F 25 - 29C year round. Cooler in the mountain areas. Electricity: 110 volts/50 cycles is standard. 220 volts used at some hotels. Adaptors are available at some hotels, although hair dryers and irons work without adapters. Currency: Jamaican dollar (JMD) Driving: In Jamaica you drive on the left. The speed limit is 30 MPH in towns and 50 MPH on highways. Auto Rentals: To rent any vehicle, visitors may use a drivers license (valid for 12 months) for up to a 3 month period. Drivers must be at least 25 years of age to rent a car and must post a bond to meet insurance regulations with cash, major credit card, or travelers checks. Service stations are open daily and will only accept cash.           Rates & Services Listed are Subject to Change © 2005 Caribbean Travelweb