March08thWed Jamaica on $100 a Day

So you got the great airfare to the Jewel of the Caribbean, but you’re on a tight budget while wanting to make the most of your vacation. So what can you do in Jamaica on just $100 a day? US dollars, that is. If you haven’t already also got a great package deal from your travel agent or charter, here are just a few suggestions on how to get more bang for your buck while still hitting some of the island’s ‘must see’ attractions.

Where to Stay?

First of all, if you can, try to book to visit Jamaica in low season. Like anywhere else in the world, prices often drop substantially and many places offer great deals that you would never even think of looking at in high season. Also, many places offer promos and deals linked to booking for more than one night or a package deal with a couple tours thrown in for good measure. There are a few websites that you can bid for a room and fly blind, but other sites like TripAdvisor will simply show the price. If booking through a travel agent they often have insider knowledge and access to package deals so don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions. The island is also dotted with hostels and guest houses that offer highly interactive experiences with locals.

What to Do?

You may be surprised how much you can do for just a few dollars or completely for free in Jamaica. There are amazing public beaches that tourists can access for as little as US$5. If you’re in Port Antonio, take a walk to Frenchman’s Cove and pay US$10 to access one of the most amazing beaches in the region, or head a little further on and visit local hang out spot, Winnifred Beach where the food is good, the local company fun and a beach that will make you think you’ve gone to heaven.

Tour Kingston on a JUTC city bus tour and get to know the capital city and the surrounding area, including Port Royal, the former ‘wickedest city in the world’, home of pirates and buccaneers for as low as US$20 or $10 for the tour (this one is a group activity though so gather ten of your closest friends, or maybe some brand new ones!).

Famous Jamaican bucket list items like Dunns River Falls  in Ocho Rios can be enjoyed with full access to the falls and the fantastic beach for just US$20. Others, like Rick’s Café in Negril, has absolutely no cover charge. That’s right, leap off that cliff, listen to some amazing music and enjoy the wicked vibe during the fantastic sunset, completely for free. Maybe treat yourself to a cold Red Stripe if the day’s budget allows.

Where to Eat?

While Jamaica has some amazing restaurants, some of them may be a bit on the pricey side. That doesn’t mean that you can’t have some amazing dining experiences on the island without emptying your wallet. Check out Scotchie’s in Montego Bay or Ocho Rios and dig into some island favourites, from flaky fish and bammy to jerk sausage or chicken and roast breadfruit along with a cold Red Stripe, coconut water or Ting, a local grapefruit soda.

In Kingston, hit up places like Chilitos for Jamexican cuisine with specials as low as US$2 -5 each day or Barbican Beach Bar for their all you can eat Pasta night for US$10 or Steak Night for US$15. While in Negril, hit up the food kiosk outside Whistling Bird along the main road on the beach side for delicious cornmeal porridge and daily soups for less than US$5 or head to Murphy’s in the West End on the cliffs and sample his delicious seafood entrees from US$15-20. Even with taxes and tips, it’s still a pretty great deal for one of the best dining experiences in town.