Welcome to the vibrant city of Kingston, Jamaica! This vibrant and diverse city is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Caribbean. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday, an adventurous getaway, or a cultural experience, Kingston has it all. From its stunningly beautiful coastline to its rich cultural heritage, Kingston promises a unique vacation experience. From outdoor activities such as snorkeling and kayaking to historical monuments and vibrant nightlife, Kingston has it all. Join us as we take an in-depth look at the city of Kingston, Jamaica.
Getting to Know Kingston
Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, situated on the south coast of the island. The city population is 937,700 according to the 2019 census, making it the largest city in the Anglo-Caribbean.
Kingston is located in the Eastern Standard Time Zone, which is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time.
Official languages spoken in Kingston are English and Patois. English is the language used for business and government. Patois, a creole language, is commonly used by citizens in everyday colloquial Speech
The official currency of Kingston and Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar. It is divided into 100 cents. Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted with Jamaica.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Kingston is typically a humid subtropical climate, although milder compared to other parts of Jamaica due to its relatively low elevation. Summers are hot and humid, with the average maximum temperature in July and August being around 90 F (32 C). Winters are mild and short, with temps rarely dipping below 65F (18C). Rainfall is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, with the heaviest months typically being May and October. The highest recorded temperature in Kingston is 106 F (41 C), while the lowest recorded temperature is 47 F (8 C). Its location in the Caribbean makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, so visitors should be sure to check the weather before they travel.
Touring Kingston: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Kingston - Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) and Tinson Pen Aerodrome (KTP). The main airport is Norman Manley International Airport which is located about 11 kilometers or 7 miles east of Downtown Kingston. One way fare from Norman Manley International Airport to Downtown Kingston is about $20.00 USD, depending on the time of day and the availability of the mode of transportation one chooses.
At Norman Manley International Airport, one is able to to exchange their currency at the International Money Exchange (IME), which has a convenience store and an ATM that dispenses Jamaican Dollars.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Kingston
- Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica, and is a hub for Cuban and North American culture. Home to many important heritage sites, such as the Bob Marley Museum and Devon House, the city has a rich and diverse history
- Kingston's vibrant music scene is especially known for its reggae and dub scenes. The city also offers many cultural attractions such as National Heroes Square and Jamaica House, as well as a number of annual festivals including Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest and Kingston Music Week
- Visitors to Kingston can explore the city's colonial roots and vibrant present-day culture through its art galleries, museums, and distinctive neighbourhoods. There are many opportunities to sample local cuisine, sip coffee at beach-side cafes, and experience street art, relaxing beaches, and stunning mountain views
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