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Mon 5 Mar, 2007 11:06 pm
So I've been dying to vacations in Jamaica because I had always heard such great things about my friends and famlies vacations there. I finally booked a vacation for my husband and I and for some reason, all of a sudden I've heard a few warnings from people.
I haven't heard anything specific, just to be really careful. That a lot of the business which cater to tourist try to rip tourist off... also to not carry too much cash and that traveling into the cities can be dangerous. Is this true?
I mean, I'm going either way and we are staying in a all inclusive resort, so I dont think we'll be in any type of danger, but just wandering if anyone had any suggestions or warnings that I should be aware of...??
Thanks!
I just went there for the first time. We did not have any problems. The locals did try to get me to buy drugs in broad daylight when I was by myself on a beach. I just said "no" and they left me alone. Don't forget to call your credit card company (if you use one) and let the fraud division know you will be going out of the country and what dates. I always do that and they like it. Those are red flags to them so I guess it cuts down on their work and any headaches you might have. I bought things there and had no problem. It doesn't mean there never will be one though. I found the locals to be friendly. I would go again. I hope you have a lot of fun and enjoy.
Thanks tryingtohelp, that makes me feel a lot better!
You'll be fine and, if you're just as aware on vacation as you are everyday, there will be no problem.
I've been to Jamacia too! Where are you staying? I stayed in Nigrel - not at an all-inclusive. We traveled into town (Nigrel is a small town), ate at the local restaurants and had a great time. Like some one else said - take normal precautions as you should any where. Do not travel at night in poorly lighted places. Travel in groups, etc.
The only warning I can give you is that the people are very poor and as a result the really push when they try to sell to you. When walking on the beach, expect to be approach by the locals trying to sell and usually a simple no thank you doesn't keep them away - you almost have to be rude.
Besides that it is a beautiful island - try the coffee it is out of this world. That is what I ended up bringing home - lots of coffee.
Oh yeah. Their sales pitch is usually flattery. Beware of the "pretty lady" routine.