Here is some general travel information and tips for visitors to Jamaica.

Pets

Pets are not allowed. There are no rabies in Jamaica.

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time. Jamaica does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Tipping

Most hotels have a service charge of 10-15 percent. The same amount, although not added to most bills, is generally accepted at area restaurants.

Water

All drinking water in Jamaica is purified and filtered by the most modern methods. Water temperature is approximately 78 degrees F (25 degrees C).

Departure Tax

Jamaica has a departure tax, payable at the airport upon departure. The departure tax is J$1000 (or approximately US$27 or its equivalent in foreign currency).

Electricity

Electricity 110 volts/50 cycles is standard. 220 volts is used at some hotels (adaptors are available).

Clothing

Throughout the Caribbean "resort casual" is the standard and Jamaica is no exception.

A general rule of thumb – lightweight, tropical clothing is best suited throughout the year. Shorts and swimwear are appropriate on the beaches. A cover-up is required for restaurants and when going about in the towns. A light sweater is suggested for evening, particularly for those traveling in the winter months.

Currency and Banking

The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar. The official rate of exchange fluctuates daily as it depends on the foreign exchange markets. Foreign currency may be exchanged for Jamaican dollars at banks or licensed exchange bureaus in airports and at hotels, including Half Moon. Purchases may be made in any currency recognized by the Jamaican government.

Jamaican dollars may be reconverted to foreign currency at the Airport Bureau of Exchange upon departure by presenting a foreign exchange receipt.

Foreign currency or Jamaican dollars may be taken into or out of Jamaica. However, amounts exceeding J$150,000 (or its equivalent in any other foreign currency) must be declared to Jamaican Customs.

Commercial banks maintain branches throughout the Island

Hours of operation are:

• 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. / Monday through Thursday
• 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. / Fridays

Exchange Bureaus are open in Montego Bay and Kingston airports for all international flight arrivals and departures.

To determine the current exchange rate, please visit Yahoo's currency calculator.