Jamaica has almost 150 hotels and guest houses, each is subject to government inspection and classification and a 15% general consumption tax. Discounted room rates are offered to holidaying students during the annual 'Spring Break' period in March/April. Contact the Jamaica Tourist Board for details (see Contact Addresses).

Grading: Hotels are government-controlled in four categories: A, B, C and D.

There are over 800 cottages for rent on the island, ranging from small beachfront condos to large villas with a private pool. Many tour operators arrange accommodation packages that include car hire, tours and transfers from the airport. Information is available from the Jamaica Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses).

There's no need to ‘rough it' when camping in Jamaica as the island has sites that range from rustic to deluxe. Some have extensive on-site facilities, including the hiring of tents and additional equipment. Choose from former coffee plantations, botanical gardens, mountains and forested national parks. Information is available from the Jamaica Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses).

Bed and breakfast in a local island home can provide a fascinating insight into Jamaican family life. Learn patois from native speakers and dine on robust home-cooked Jamaican fare. Play dominoes, strum reggae classics and swap tales on the porch. Information is available from the Jamaica Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses).

Jamaican Association of Villas & Apartments Ltd (JAVA)
PO Box 298, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Tel: 974 2508 or 2763.
Website: www.villasinjamaica.com

Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association
2 Ardenne Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica
Tel: 926 3635.
Website: www.jhta.org