Should Jamaica scare me?

[PictureNana]

I've heard a lot of people say they stay on the ship if their ship stops in Jamaica. (We will be on the Allure which ports in Falmouth) They fear for their safety there. I've never chosen to stay on the ship and not explore a port. Our favorite thing to do is hire a private tour guide. I would never just wander around on our own, but have had great luck being driven around by a local in places like Roatan, Belize, St.Maarten and Dominica.

Should I be concerned about doing this in Jamaica?

[princessme]

We went to Jamaica on Royal Carribean and did a ship excursion to Doctors cove ??? Beach. The locals can't go in there because it cost too much. As your walking there from a store the people are more aggressive than in Mexico wanting you to go in their store. And stay away from Alleys. I would stick with the ships excursions. I loved it. Best cruise ever. In Jamaica in February it was warm. The water was so clear you can see the fish swimming around you. I got in to my neck only because of that. Lol

Have fun

 

 

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[browns3030]

No! Jamaica is not scary! At least it wasn't for us! We have been there twice now, and love Jamaica! We used Chris from Chris Jamaica Tours both time. Chris is amazing! You will never feel unsafe! Our last visit looked like this- river tubing, then he took us to a great little restaurant way up high so we could take Picts of our ship in port (Ocho Rios), then shopping. Then Dunns River Falls (this was amazing), then he took us for an authentic jerk lunch at Scotchies. And got us back to the ship in plenty of time.

Chris Jamaica Tours dot com (no spaces)

 

 

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Edited January 15, 2017 by browns3030

[pghdvcer]

The Falmouth port area is nice shopping area but 100% phony/touristy. But beyond the gates it is a little scary. We did the 'Historical Walking Tour of Falmouth' through RCCL because I wanted to see local culture. Yikes! Nothing happened but I was completely uncomfortable entire time and there was nothing but a few crumbling buildings to look at. Next time I'll stay on ship or get on a tour bus headed out of there.

 

 

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[pso418]

Been there twice and as long as you stay with your private or ship tour I felt safe. Done dolphin cove, Dunns River Falls, tubing, but my favorite was the secret falls and scotchies was awesome.

 

 

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[PictureNana]

Thanks for everyone's advice. We decided to book a tour with Courtney Taylor. Going to do some sight seeing, visit Blue Hole, do a little shopping and enjoy an authentic Jamaican lunch. Never been scared off before, and we aren't starting now! Life is about taking chances and going on adventures. Have a great day!

[maldenmusic]

We've been to Jamaica several times and never had a problem. Just stick to main areas and use your common sense.

[niborHS]

Glad you booked something. This is the only port that I have ever been in that I do not feel comfortable without having something pre-booked. I have done it through the ship, and privately, but either way, would not go alone. We have done it where we walked a short distance from the ship, but really don't feel comfortable doing it.

[Grantl14]

I have to admit that I was in your shoes before visiting, but I am beyond glad I decided to get past my fears and give Falmouth a chance! I have traveling to Falmouth, only for one day at a time periods on cruises, and it is not my favorite spot. Not because of the amazing excursions or nice beaches, but because of how awesome the experience can be if you make it. Chatting with the locals is one of the most interesting parts, and they are some of the nicest people I have met. I had about an hour long conversation with a man weaving baskets about how he is an art teacher at a local school and what he does when cruise ships arent in the port. Obviously, using caution when outside of my comfort zones, but letting loose and just going with the flow for a day is really awesome. Great shops, nice people, and a really cool experience to just stroll around outside the port and see what is going on and what its like.

[M&M Mousers]

We've been to Jamaica several times and have docked at all the ports. We've taken a ship sponsored tour (our first time) private tours, taxis, and have just walked around by ourselves. We are an older couple, started going to Jamaica when we were in our 40s.

You have to use common sense regardless where you are - we live in Las Vegas, and if I sit down in a casino I put my leg through my purse straps, or better yet I don't carry a purse around town. I grew up in Los Angeles, now that's a scary place.

Jamaica is an incredibly poor country in spite of tourism. Many of the people live in huts smaller than my living room without modern plumbing. But, they are a happy people. Jamaicans don't know how to talk without smiling. Be aware of the cultural differences. We have what we refer to as "personal space" and we don't stand too close or touch. Jamaicans, and most Caribbean Islanders we've met, don't have a sense of personal space. They will get too close to talk to you. They will put their hand on your arm. Some of them are persistant and even agressive salespeople - but 99% of the time a "no thank you" is enough. There are uniformed (in white) police everywhere if you need to call for help - but I wouldn't worry about it, particularly in the touristy areas and if you aren't alone.

Ganga/Marajuana is not legal in Jamaica. Unfortunately, the promoters of the Bob Marley sensation have tried to make it all about his smoking pot. Of course he smoked pot. Marley was a Rastafarian - it is part of their religion, as is only eating raw food and not drinking and many other dietary and lifestyle rules. If a Rasta is smoking and a policeman walks by the Rasta will put it behind his back as a sign of respect. The Rasta won't usually offer tourists weed. But there are people who do. Say "no thank you". If you get busted it's a very bad thing, jail, miss the ship, lots of money, etc. Don't chance it. The only time we've ever been offered weed was when we were on an excursion in Hawaii, USA.

Just like in any other port, don't wear your bling. Separate your money into different pockets so you aren't flashing a lot. Stay in public places. Travel with someone. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't be dumb like that girl that allowed herself to be lured away from her friends on the beach to a private house to get her hair braided. If you want to get your hair braided, you can have it done on the beach.

Ok, I'm rambling on, sorry. We love Jamaica. We've been able to help some orphanages there. We've met missionaries who serve there. And, we've met hundreds of happy, smiling Jamaicans that have made us feel safe and welcome.