BACKGROUND
INFORMATION
LANGUAGE:
English
is spoken, but your trip will not be complete without exposing
yourself to the pleasant local patois, a smooth variation on
English best learned not from a book or tape, but by interacting
with the people of this beautiful country.
CURRRENCY:
Currency
is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD or J$), but US Dollars are widely
accepted (though usually at lower exchange rate. Recent exchange
rates have hovered around US$1 = J$71 £1 = J$148 but the exchange
rate may vary, so check a newspaper or website for current rates
before you go. http://www.xe.com/ucc/ ATMs cards work at most of the major
banks.
Banks usually pay slightly better rates for traveler's
cheques than for cash.
LOCAL
TRANSPORTATION:
Driving is on the left-hand side of
the road.
Licensed taxis are indicated by red license plates. Some
taxis have meters, some don't. It's always a good idea to agree on
a fare before you get in. Taxi rates vary, but the charge is by
car, not by the number of passengers. If you accept a driver’s
offer of his services as a tour guide, be sure to agree on a price
before the vehicle is put into gear.
DEPARTURE
TAX:
The airport
departure tax is J$1000--about US$16. It's payable in U.S. or
Jamaican dollars. (Departure fees and policies can change at any
time, so confirm when checking in for your
flight).
ELECTRICITY:
110v
AC (same as US). We do have 220 British sockets as an extra here at
Sevilla Villa
HEALTH &
SAFETY:
Bring
sunblock and drink lots of water in the strong Caribbean
sun.
Sevilla Villa is built around a pool, for this reason parents
need to take special care with regards to safety for their
children, we at Sevilla Villa can not be responsible for any
accidents. A life guard can be hired upon request.
Please contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country to
which you are traveling to determine your entry/visa
requirements.