resources

Traveling to Jamaica

For online bookings of discounted air tickets, useful websites include:

Click here for a list of Airlines that fly to Jamaica

Packing list

Negril Weather - Warm sunny tropical sunshine
Negril enjoys some of the best weather in Jamaica: a wonderful, warm, tropical climate with year-round sunshine and gorgeous balmy nights. Negril temperatures are pleasantly warm all year round without being excessively hot. There is very little difference in Negril temperatures and sunshine hours throughout the year. Negril winter temperatures average around 26º degrees while Negril summer temperatures hover around 28º. Negril highs are rarely much over 30º. Humidity is around 70%. Negril temperatures are also tempered by sea breezes that make Negril ideal for watersports, particularly during the winter. Pack light clothes but take a jacket for mountain excursions and boat trips.

What to Bring:

  • Participants are encouraged to pack lightly: 
  • Passport
  • Photocopies of passport, credit cards
  • Traveler’s Cheques or ATM card with 4-digit PIN number for international use
  • Euros (please note that you will be responsible for your own alcoholic beverages and any side trips that you take)
  • International phone card
  • Reading materials
  • Journal and pens
  • Camera
  • Travel alarm clock
  • Comfortable, sturdy, walking shoes
  • Sweater, jacket
  • Bathing suit 
  • Any prescription or over-the-counter medication
  • Yoga mat (if you want to take optional class)
  • Travel insurance

Please contact 212 219 2527 ext.2 or email us for more information.

Recommended Reading

General Jamaican History

'The Story of the Jamaican People' by Phillip M. Sherlock
A non-British history of Jamaica review by Steven Panning, Jamaican Historical Society. Sherlock does a lengthy look at Jamaican history from a Jamaican point of view, with a special emphasis and sympathy to the enlsaved majority of Jamaica. Although most of the material in the book is not new, the interpretation is fresh, and from a perspective that has not been heard from often in works dealing with Caribbean history.

'History of Jamaica' by Clinton Vane De Brosse Black
This new edition of the authoritative HISTORY OF JAMAICA covers the whole of the history of the island from the arrival of the Arawaks a thousand years ago until the present day. That thousand year period has also seen the arrival of the spaniards and the extermination of the Amerindians, the coming of the British and the introduction of slavery, the fight for freedom and the achievement of independence. This story, with its many facets: the Buccaneers, the Maroons, the National Heroes and others, is told by the Government Archivist in a flowing narrative which is backed by a knowledge based on the closest contact with original documents.

'A History of Jamaica from Its Discovery by Christopher Columbus to the Year 1872' by W. J. Gardner
Including an Account of Its Trade and Agriculture; Sketches of the Manners, Habits, and Customs of All Classes of Its Inhabitants; and a Narrative of the Progress of Religion and Education in the Island.

'Maroon Heritage: Archaelogical, Ethnographic and, Historical Perspective' edited by E Kofi Agorsah

Rastafari culture

In addition to the books written by the Quest faculty we recommend:

'Chanting Down Babylon' edited by N. Samuel Murrell, William D. Spencer, and Adrian Anthony McFarlane. Additional authors Murrell, N. Samuel, Spencer, William David, Mcfarlane, Adrian Anthony
Chanting Down Babylon is a welcomed addition to the growing literature on Rastafari. This reader sucessfully brings together most of the scholars studying Rastafari, as well as Rastafarians themselves, providing an important insight into Rastafari. The inclusion of articles addressing biblical hermeneutics as well as Rastafari theology begins to fill an important gap in Rastafari scholarship. A real treasure for those interested in learning about Rastafari for the first time, and for those who wish to expand their knowledge of this important religious movement.

'The Rastafarians' by Leonard E. Barrett
The book starts out by tracing the history of slavery in Jamaica and outlining the conditions that precipitated a movement such as Rastafarianism which seeks a more equitable and just society. A decent amount is dedicated to Ethiopia and the idea of Ethiopianism where Rastafarians basically view this country in the same way as Zion is viewed by the Jews. Later elaboration explains mythical elements of the religion as well as the symbols, beliefs and rituals of the group such as smoking herb for a deeper understanding of a cosmic consciousness. The author expounds upon the artistic improvements Rastas have made not only in Jamaica but the world over with things such as reggae music. This is a pretty good read and does a good job explaining the basics of the Rastafarian beliefs and also gives detail about the socio-economic factors that contributed to this voice against colonialism and oppression.

Further internet resources

Music

Bob Marley: The Bob Marley Official Website | 'No Woman No Cry'
Peter Tosh: 'Get Up Stand Up' | The Talking Drum
Jimmy Cliff: Official website | 'The Harder They Come'
The Aggravators (Soul Syndicate): 'Zimbabwe'
Augustus Pablo: Reggae Vibes | 'Java' (with The Aggravators)
Barry Brown: 'Stand Firm'
Cornell Campbell: 'Natty Don't Go'
Dennis Brown: 'Rub a Dub Style'
Sister Nancy: 'Bam Bam'
Sister Carol:'Wild Thing'

Travel books and Sites

Websites for further study

Jamaica Customs & Immigration

Customs

Every passenger or head of family traveling together must complete the Customs Declaration form.  If you are not sure what to declare it is always wise to declare everything you have purchased abroad.  Duty Free allowances are listed on the back of the form. The failure to make a full declaration is an offense and can result in the seizure of the goods, fines, and/or imprisonment.

Immigration

Every passenger is required to complete the immigration form.  Please remember to complete and sign both the top and bottom portions of the form on arrival to ensure smooth passage through the Jamaican airports.  The bottom portion of the form will be collected from you on departure. The form must be completed in English and presented along with a valid travel documents for entry into the Jamaica.  An accompanying adult must sign the card on behalf of a child. Despite the fact that in 2001 and 2003 government commissions have recommended the legalization of marijuana, it is illegal to sell, purchase or transport marijuana in Jamaica. Although some Rastafarians use marijuana as part of religious rituals, it is important to remember that it remains illegal in Jamaica.

For any further questions, please consult the U.S. Dept of State website.