Tips For Planning Your Next Jamaican Vacation

By: Tony Hagar

Have you recently decided that you would like to take a Caribbean vacation to Jamaica? If so, you will be pleased with your decision. However, as a first-time traveler, you may be wondering what planning and preparation steps you need to take.

The first step in planning your Jamaica vacation involves choosing your vacation resort. For many, this is a much easier approach to take than first deciding on a destination. Why? Because the Caribbean is known for their great all-inclusive resorts, but many are designed for specific travelers. For example, some resorts have minimum age requirements. These resorts are commonly classified as adult resorts. If you are on a family vacation, as opposed to a romantic getaway, this may have an impact on your available destination choices.

As previously stated, many Jamaica resorts are classified as all-inclusive resorts. These are a popular way to stay, as it is easy and convenient. When on an all-inclusive vacation, you will have most of your food and drinks included. You can, however, take an extra step and target resorts that are referred to as super-inclusive resorts. These are resorts where your food, drinks, snacks, activities, and tips are included. In this case, almost all of your vacation expenses are paid for before you even set food on the island. Many prefer these types of trips, as there are no hidden fees and very few rules and restrictions, if any, to be worried about.

Next, you will want to examine the climate. It is important to your travels for a number of different reasons. There are two rainy seasons in Jamaica. They are from May until June and September to November; however, the rain is very limited, especially when compared to the rain you receive at home. Anytime of the year is the perfect time to plan a Caribbean vacation.

The climate should also have an impact on how you pack for your trip. Due to the warm, tropical climate, you are advised to be well-prepared for the warm weather. Shorts, capris, tank tops, and t-shirts are recommended. Swimsuits are a must. Even if you don't step foot on the beach, your resort will have tempting swimming pools and hot tubs onsite. Also, be sure to pack a sunhat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

In keeping with the items that you should pack, it is important to have all necessary and needed travel documents. Passports are required to enter and leave the country. Another piece of picture identification is recommended as well. If you are insured, health insurance cards are recommended. If you are taking life-saving prescription medication, be sure to have plenty on hand. Make an arrangement with your physician before leaving, in the event you lose or leave your medication behind.

One concern that many first-time travelers have involves acquiring Jamaican money. Although you can exchange your country's currency for Jamaican money before leaving for your trip, there is no requirement to do so. In fact, you may be surprised how easy it is to do right on the island. Most Jamaica all-inclusive resorts have onsite exchange centers, which make it easy for you to acquire Jamaican money. Credit cards, as well as international bankcards are accepted at most ATM and stores throughout the island.

Once you have all of your bases covered, in terms of your Caribbean vacation travel arrangements, you may want to examine activities and attractions. As mentioned above, most super-inclusive Jamaica resorts include activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, boating, golfing, tennis, and volleyball. Despite the fact that you do not have to leave your resort to have a good time, you may wish to do so. Quick research online or requesting free vacation guides can give you a good idea of what to expect. For example, Ocho Rios is home to the Coyaba River Garden and Museum, the Dolphin Cove, and the Dunns River Falls.

As an important reminder, the two most important components of planning a trip to Jamaica include having a valid passport and booking a stay at an all-inclusive vacation resort. The process of acquiring a passport can take a few weeks, so get started early. As for choosing the perfect Jamaica resort, visit SuperClubs.com today.

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