Jamaican life is relaxed and compared to English standards very slow-paced. Most customary greetings are done by handshake but Jamaicans are very hospitable and are keen to welcome people into their home. Dress-wise beach wear is not acceptable anywhere other than the poolside or the beach.

It may be common to see signs in Jamaica referring to ‘Jah lives’, Jah being the name given to God by the Rastafarians. Casual wear is suitable during the day. Evening dress varies from very casual in Negril to quite formal during the season in other resorts, where some hotels and restaurants require men to wear jackets and ties at dinner. Possession of marijuana may lead to imprisonment and deportation.

For an ambulance, dial 110. Also, be sure to check if your insurance policy covers medical expenses incurred while traveling. Medical expenses in Jamaica can be costly, so if your insurance company does not provide sufficient coverage, you should obtain traveler's insurance before visiting the island.

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