Montego bay

Language

The official language in Jamaica is English and in Montego Bay locals speak “patois” which is a mix of English and western African languages. Higher up in the mountains people speak with various different dialects.

Currency

The official currency in the whole of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar.

Best travel time

Montego Bay has a marine/ tropical climate and is sunny and warm throughout the whole year. The temperature throughout the year constantly exceeds 30°C and has very little rainfall. From August to November there is also some wind.

Visa requirements

Travelling to Montego May one needs to bring a valid passport and a visa is not required.

Vaccinations

Other than the standard vaccinations there is no need for any other vaccinations.

Traditions and Culture

Montego Bay is the second largest city within the island of Jamaica. Christopher Columbus named it “El Golfo de Buen Tiempo”. Jamaica itself was a Spanish colony from 1494 to 1655 therefore “Monteirias” is the first Spanish settlement in Montego Bay. Later on from 1655 to 1962 it became a British influenced Colony, and since August 6th 1962 Jamaica gained their independence. Montego Bay is known due to its volcanic hills, coastal lowlands, limestone and Blue Mountains and its historical flair comes from the use of mud walls and palm frond thatch. The traditional lifestyle in Jamaica is very relaxed, stressful and to enjoy life. A main traditional in Montego Bay is the “Reggae Summer Sumfest” which is one of the biggest reggae festivals in the world.

Religion

Religion is an important aspect in Jamaica, therefore locals refer to the bible when speaking. Most inhabitants are Protestant, Roman Catholic or part of certain spiritual cults.

By bus

To travel around in Montego Bay there is a variety of different transportation services available which include buses, minibuses and metro. “Montego bay Metro” is the city’s municipal bus services which has three main operating routes.

By plane

Montego Bay’s airport is “Sangster International airport” which is one of the biggest airports in Jamaica. This airport receives international and domestic flights flying in and out on a daily basis. At the airport it is possible to rent a car which should be ordered and reserved in advance.

By taxi

Taxis are available within the city at taxi stands or can be ordered via the taxi central service or at your hotel.

Experience and enjoy

Events / Lifestyle Due to the relaxed and fun lifestyle the local’s lead there is a great variety in different events and festivals occurring throughout the year in Montego Bay. Amongst these some of the main events are “Jamaica’s Music festival - Reggae Sumfest” during July, “Jazz and Blues Festival” during January, and many other events.

Sights

Within Montego Bay there is a lot to see and discover due to its beautiful and unique culture and history. Amongst these some of the places worth visiting are: - The Center stage theatre - Doctor’s Cave Beach - Cornwall Beach - Walter Fletcher Beach - John Halls Montego Bay Adventure Tour - Montego Bay Sea Trek Adventure - Dunn’s River Falls & Park

Food

Montego Bay serves traditional Jamaican food and drinks which have a very unique taste. A specialty drink is a tropical drink called “Red Stripe”. A local specialty in Montego Bay is the Jerk and Curry chicken. Some other specialties include “ackee and salt fish”, rice and peas, Jamaican patties, pumpkin soup and roast breadfruit.