travel tips

Travel Tips for Jamaica

Ensure your passport is valid – Your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
Confirm visa requirements before travel – Many nationalities enter Jamaica visa-free for short stays; verify requirements based on your country of citizenship.
Arrive through Sangster International Airport (MBJ) – MBJ serves as the primary gateway to Montego Bay and sits approximately 15 minutes from the Convention Centre.
Arrange airport transfers in advance – Licensed taxis (identified by red “PPV” plates), hotel shuttles, and private transfers operate at the airport.
Use registered transportation only – Choose licensed taxis or approved tour operators for safe and reliable travel.
Remember that driving is on the left. – If renting a vehicle, follow left-side driving regulations. Valid international driver’s licences are accepted.

Carry small denominations of cash – Major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, while route taxis and small vendors often prefer cash.
Dress for a tropical climate – Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and comfortable footwear suit the warm Caribbean weather.
Stay hydrated throughout your visit – The climate remains warm year-round; drink water regularly, especially during outdoor activities.
Book accommodation near the venue – Hotels within the Montego Bay tourism corridor provide convenient access to the Convention Centre.
Allow extra time during peak travel periods – Montego Bay serves as a major tourism hub, particularly during high season.
Explore responsibly and respectfully – Enjoy beaches, cultural landmarks, and eco-attractions while following local guidelines and environmental best practices.

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By now, we hope you have secured the necessary visa requirements if needed. As a reminder, citizens from North and South America, the Caribbean, EU, and most African and Asian-Pacific countries are permitted to enter Jamaica without a visa and can stay for up to 3 months. Click here for more information.
Regarding packing essentials, you are reminded to bring a reusable water bottle to reduce waste and stay hydrated, as well as insect repellent to protect against local bugs. It is also important to ensure you have all necessary prescription medications and to keep them in their original packaging.
For your power adapter needs, Jamaica primarily utilizes both Type A and Type B electrical outlets, similar to those found in the United States, and a universal power adapter is recommended. The ungrounded Type A plugs and outlets are commonly used in the United States, Canada, and Japan. The grounded Type B plugs and outlets are commonly used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The grounded Type B outlets feature a three-pronged design with a distinct grounding pin, providing enhanced safety.

Upon landing at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, you will find that taxis and airport shuttles are readily available for transport to the Montego Bay Convention Centre and nearby accommodations, although pre-booking transportation is recommended for convenience. Car rentals are also available and provide flexibility for exploring the island during your free time.
In terms of local time and adaptation, Jamaica operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round and does not observe daylight saving time. It is suggested that you arrive a day early to settle in before the congress begins.

Jamaica in December offers warm, tropical weather, with average temperatures ranging around 80-85°F (27-29°C). You should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. For networking events, business or smart casual attire is recommended, while field trips may involve outdoor activities and walking, so you should dress comfortably and bring a light backpack. In terms of local time and adaptation, Jamaica operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round and does not observe daylight saving time. It is suggested that you arrive a day early to settle in before the congress begins.
The local currency is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD), and US dollars are widely accepted at most tourist establishments, while credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and major venues. Having some local currency on hand for smaller purchases is recommended.
Regarding connectivity, Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and at the conference venue, and mobile data coverage is generally good in Montego Bay and major tourist areas. However, downloading maps and essential information in advance is still recommended.

If you have not already booked, you should visit the congress’s “Travel and Hotel” section for recommended stays.
The congress programme includes numerous networking sessions designed to connect attendees, so be sure to attend the ice-breaker on Wednesday evening (17:00-19:00), where business or smart casual attire is recommended. For the Grand Gala/Banquet on Thursday night (19:00-21:30), a business or smart casual dress code is also recommended. Additionally, you should take advantage of coffee breaks during the day programme to connect with other attendees.

The congress has arranged exciting field trips to explore Jamaica’s water management practices and unique culture, including visits to Black River/Appleton Estates, Roaring River H.E.P./Dunns River Falls, and the Bob Marley Museum. Please ensure you are equipped for these outdoor excursions.
Regarding cultural etiquette, Jamaicans are warm, friendly, and welcoming, and a simple “Hello” or “Good morning/afternoon” goes a long way. You can experience the local culture first-hand through traditional greetings and expressions, such as the commonly used local greeting “Wah gwaan?” (What’s going on?), and it is important to remember that respect and politeness are highly valued in Jamaican culture.