How do you get around in Jamaica? Most of the people who go to Jamaica never set foot outside of a resort. They get off their airplane, find the transfer bus to the resort, and stay there. While the transfer bus is great for newbies, you'll miss alot if you stay inside the resort. Air Taxis / Puddle Jumpers This is one of my favorite ways to get back & forth between Montego Bay and the other cities. It's fast, and you get an up-close view of the island. There are two good transfer flight companies: Air Jamaica Express, and TimAir. They both cost about the same amount. For example, to fly from Montego Bay to Negril is approximately $65 per person, each way, and takes 15 minutes. Air Jamaica Express is owned by Air Jamaica. If you're flying by Air Jamaica anyway, see if you can add on a ticket to city near your hotel. These airplanes hold about 37 people, and fly between Negril, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Kingston. I have to admit the plane I took wasn't in great condition. The frame around my window fell off in my lap while we were in the sky, and the air-conditioning wasn't working. Still, it took only 15 minutes, and the view was great! TimAir offers flights to more cities, and has a number of planes of different sizes. I usually take TimAir when I'm in Jamaica. This charter "air taxi" will fly you to Kingston, Negril, Ocho Rios, Mandeville and Port Antonio from Montego Bay. They also offer day trips, and will point out landmarks as you fly. When flying these planes, I always feel like I'm riding in a volkswagon in the sky! Driving Driving in Jamaica is quite an adventure, and definitely not for the faint of heart! First of all, driving is on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right. This can take a bit of practice. Secondly, Jamaicans drive fast and use both their horns and hand-signals. The horn beeps mean anything from "hello" to "get out of the way". The speed limit is 30 mph in the city and 50 mph on the highways. Thirdly, the roads are winding and full of goats, pedestrians, people on bicycles, and vendors selling their wares. So not only do you have to watch for the crazy drivers, there are many road hazards. So, should you rent a car? Yes! It's the best way to see the island, and you'll get to see sights you wouldn't see otherwise! To rent a car, you need to know the following: There are car rental agencies in most major towns and cities. You must be at least 25 years old to rent a motor vehicle. All drivers are required to carry a valid licence. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licenses. North Americans may use their country’s license for up to three months per visit. United Kingdom residents may use theirs for up to twelve months, and Japanese visitors may only use their licenses for up to one month. The driver and front passenger are required to wear safety belts, and children under 3 years old must travel in infant carriers. Service stations are found islandwide. Many are open every day. Depending on the vehicle, you can fill up your tank for approximately US $16-20. Car Rental Agencies The best known agency is Island Car Rentals. They have several offices in Jamaica, including Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Kingston. If you are using a travel agent, ask them about this agency. Otherwise, you can check rates and make your reservation online. The people are really friendly and helpful, and will give directions to your destination. Taxis If you'd rather not rent a car, you can always take a taxi. If you are staying at a resort, the tour desk will arrange for a cab. However, it's usually less expensive if you walk outside of the resort and hail a cab, as prices vary. Before entering the taxi, negotiate the price. If it is a one-way trip, pay the driver when you disembark. If it is a roundtrip - for example, visiting Dunns River Falls, and the driver waits for you - pay when you return to the resort. This guarantees you a ride home! Tipping is expected, and taxi drivers prefer US dollars.