Kingston City Guide

Try Jerk Chicken, Ackee and Saltfish, and Oxtail. International options include Chinese, Indian, Italian, and American food. Vegan and vegetarian options are improving. Late-night food is available in popular areas.

Kingston offers dancehall clubs, reggae lounges, bars, and live music venues mainly in New Kingston and Half Way Tree.

Kingston features Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee in many cafes. Specialty coffee is growing. Coffee tours available nearby.

Tipping is appreciated but not always required. Typically 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or authorized stores. Digicel and Flow are top providers. Activation requires ID or passport. eSIM availability varies.

Cleanliness varies by area. Commercial zones are cleaner; some residential and market areas less so. Waste pickup is regular, but recycling is limited.

Some pharmacies and small shops have late hours but few 24/7 options. Emergency rooms operate all night. Late-night street food is common on weekends.

Supermarkets like Progressive Foods, Hi-Lo, and MegaMart carry international items. Local markets such as Coronation Market offer fresh produce and spices. Expect supermarkets to open 9 AM to 8 PM, with some closed on Sundays.

Cards work in hotels, big supermarkets, and larger businesses. Cash is needed for small vendors, markets, and public transport.

ATMs from major banks like NCB, Scotiabank, and Sagicor are common. Expect withdrawal fees from your bank and possibly local fees.

International schools like American International School of Kingston and Stella Maris Prep School teach mainly in English. Early application is recommended.

Community is small but growing. Co-working spaces and online groups help with networking. Events are sporadic.

Parks like Emancipation Park and Hope Gardens offer green areas with shaded paths and good running routes.

Safe running routes include Emancipation Park, Hope Gardens, and Port Royal waterfront. Running clubs and events exist.

Gyms exist including chains and local options. Many hotels have fitness facilities.

Tennis courts available at clubs like Liguanea Club and some hotels. Coaching and equipment rental may be possible.

Padel is not common but might be emerging in the area.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with English instructors. Spa and wellness centers are present.

Various martial arts schools offer Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, and boxing. Local competitions occur. English instructors common.

No skiing in Jamaica; tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are possible near Kingston, with rentals and tours often offered by local operators.

Limited surf spots near Kingston. Bull Bay is 30-45 minutes away and suitable for all levels. Boston Bay, 2-3 hours away, is a popular surf spot.

Diving near Kingston is limited and visibility can vary. Better dive sites are elsewhere in Jamaica. Equipment rental and certification are available in tourist areas.

Hospitals like Andrews Memorial and UHWI have English-speaking staff. Private clinics offer better service and shorter waits. Pharmacies are common with OTC meds widely available.

Tap water is treated and generally safe to drink, though some prefer bottled water due to taste or sensitivity.

Parks like Hope Gardens and Emancipation Park have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafés are growing. Attractions include Hope Zoo, Bob Marley Museum, and Devon House.

Conservative attitudes remain. Limited safe spaces and legal protections. Some private venues more welcoming. Pride events occur but challenges exist.

Pet policies vary; some vet clinics and pet supplies available. Limited pet-friendly accommodations and parks. Strict import rules.