Kingston, Jamaica

• Kingston is Jamaica's capital on the southeast coast. The city splits into two different worlds - downtown Kingston where you shouldn't go, and the uptown areas (New Kingston, Half Way Tree, Hope Road) where tourists stay. Most hotels, restaurants, and the Bob Marley Museum are uptown.
• People eat out alone regularly in New Kingston - you'll see locals and expats working in cafes. English is the official language but everyone speaks Jamaican Patois in daily conversation. Locals like it when you learn a few basic phrases like 'wah gwaan' for hello.
• Tourist Police operate at 119 and patrol the main uptown areas. Crime has dropped since 2024 but violent crime statistics are still high. Stay in New Kingston and the uptown neighborhoods, don't use public buses, and stick to authorized taxis.
• You need taxis or Uber to get around - the app works well in Kingston and Montego Bay. The uptown areas stay busy until late evening, but don't walk around after dark even in the safer zones. Use well-lit main streets only if you have to walk at night.

English is the official language, but Jamaican Patois (Creole) is widely spoken in everyday life. Tourist areas in New Kingston have English speakers. Emergency services (119) operate in English. Learning basic Patois phrases is appreciated by locals.

• Jamaicans are friendly but direct in how they communicate. English is official but Jamaican Patois dominates everyday conversation. Learning basic phrases helps - 'wah gwaan' (hello/what's going on), 'respect' (thank you/acknowledgment), and 'mi deh yah' (I'm here/I'm good).
• Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas. Catcalling and street harassment happen regularly. Walk with confidence, don't draw unnecessary attention, and ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly in local neighborhoods.
• Jamaica has a strong Rastafarian community and music culture. Be respectful at cultural sites like the Bob Marley Museum or Trench Town Culture Yard. Don't bring up marijuana stereotypes or assume all Jamaicans are Rastafarian - the culture is more complex than that.

• Uber works in Kingston and is the safest option, especially at night. Most drivers operate in Kingston and Montego Bay. Use ride-sharing apps or authorized taxis from your hotel - don't flag down taxis on the street.
• JUTC buses run through Kingston but aren't recommended because they're overcrowded and have safety issues. The Knutsford Express is a safe, comfortable bus service between major towns if you're traveling outside Kingston.
• Don't travel after dark. If you go out at night, stay in New Kingston and use Uber or hotel taxis. Don't walk alone at night anywhere, even in the safer uptown areas. Mountain View Avenue is a main airport road known for highway robbery - use alternate routes and never drive at night.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Kingston with local guides and curated experiences.