Travel to Kingston

Travel to Kingston

Kingston, with its tropical climate and ridges of mountains and hills, lies on the southeastern coast of Jamaica. It was founded in 1692 after Port Royal was destroyed by an earthquake and it became the capital of Jamaica in 1872. Today, Kingston is a bustling, large city of deep and striking contrasts that offers a rich holiday experience for visitors.

Transportation to Kingston

Kingston has a busy international and domestic airport located about 30 minutes from the business district of the city. If passengers do not have the option to fly directly to Kingston, they will need to land at Montego Bay's airport and then commute to Kingston by either bus or by hiring a car. There are privately-run express bus services, taking about 4 hours, from Montego Bay to Kingston.

The roads in Jamaica range from excellent to very poor depending on where you are heading. The islanders drive on the left hand side of the road and very few drivers use indicators or follow general road courtesy. Nevertheless, driving around Kingston is fairly easy and a good way to see the city. There is only one main coastal highway, the Pacific Coast Highway, which goes right around the island.

What to see

Kingston has wonderful weather, allowing visitors to enjoy a host of outdoor activities. Whether you go sightseeing at beautiful parks, visit the building that is tilted due to the destructive earthquake that hit the area in the early 1900s or explore the citys art galleries, theatres and shopping areas, you are sure to find plenty to keep you busy.

Kingston was the home of Bob Marley and the Bob Marley Museum, with its interesting displays, is a popular attraction. First-time visitors should not miss the opportunity to visit Port Royal, with its fort, Giddy House, famous gateway and other interesting sites including an old tavern that miraculously escaped destruction from a tidal wave and earthquake.

Kingston is rich in music and there are several theatres and dance houses to visit in the evenings as well as lovely restaurants at which to dine.

Daytrips

Kingston is a mountainous area and driving to the Blue Mountains for some peace and tranquillity is highly recommended. Blue Mountain, on the northern edge of the city, is usually covered with blue mist and offers stunning views. There are coffee plantations, trails, waterfalls and plenty of birdlife to enjoy.

Activities and leisure

Nature-lovers will enjoy the spectacular greenery around Kingston and especially at Blue Mountain. Bird-watching is top of the list of activities for nature-lovers with several parks and great places to spot birds, including the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary and Feeding Station.

Diving and snorkelling are popular water activities, and there are some fantastic spots suitable for diving, especially at Port Royal. Here, divers can come across sunken ships and snorkellers will be amazed at the variety of fish in the water. Scuba diving is also available, as are dolphin swim excursions. Deep-sea fishing, golf, horseback riding, mountain biking and many more activities are available.

Safety issues

Like any destination in the world, visitors to Kingston should be careful at all times. Bag-snatching and pick-pocketing are two of the more common petty crimes that tourists fall victim to. Remaining alert to your surroundings, leaving valuables at your hotel and holding on to luggage are some of the recommended safety precautions.

There are certain areas of the town that should be avoided, especially Spanish Town. In general, though, the New Kingston area is safe for visitors. Getting a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide you with peace of mind while you enjoy your holiday.