Jamaica is best described as an island nation and lies within the Caribbean Sea, where it is part of the Greater Antilles archipelago. The closest islands to Jamaica are Cuba (south) and also Hispaniola (west), where both Haiti and the Dominican Republic reside.The actual island of Jamaica is famed for its tropical weather and glorious sun-drenched beaches, and it is believed that indigenous South Americans first settled here some 6,000 years ago. Today, Jamaica is divided into three main areas - the counties of Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey, each of which contain their very own set of attractions.
Kingston is the island's capital city and stands of the south-easterly shoreline, being home to a busy port, the Norman Manley International Airport, the acclaimed National Gallery of Jamaica and the popular beach resort of Lime Kay. Island visitors will also find the allure of Montego Bay (Mo Bay) quite irresistible and this city is generally referred to as the 'tourist capital of Jamaica'. With almost endless stretches of white sandy beaches, the allure of Negril is undeniable, while Ocho Rios is another popular spot and regularly frequented by arriving cruise ships.
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World Guide to Kingston, Jamaica
World Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica
World Guide to Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Jamaica Information / Jamaica Fast Facts
- Country: Jamaica (Greater Antilles / South America)
- Population: 2.8 million
- Capital city: Kingston (population 650,000)
- Language: English, also Jamaican Patois
- Main exports: natural resources, and agricultural produce, such as bananas, coffee, rum, sugar and yams
- Area: 4,243 square miles / 10,990 square kilometres
- Currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD)
- Time zone: UTC - 5
- Country dialling code: +1 876
- Religion: majority Christians / Protestants
Map of Jamaica
