Tourist Reopening Guide for Jamaica

Editor's note: This article was first published on June 15, 2020, and updated with new details on November 6, 2021.

Although Jamaica reopened to tourists in June 2020, the country continues to revise its travel guidelines. Health advisories are constantly changing, so if you're planning a trip to Jamaica, it's wise to stay informed about the latest safety protocols.

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Essential Information for Visiting Jamaica

Jamaica is currently assigned a Travel Advisory Level 3, indicating that the Department of State recommends U.S. citizens to reconsider travel due to health and safety protocols related to COVID-19. As of September 7, Jamaica also appeared on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list of destinations to avoid because of rising COVID-19 case numbers.

If you plan to visit, you must obtain an approved Travel Authorization form before boarding your flight to Jamaica. This form should be submitted within seven days of your intended travel date. Furthermore, all travelers aged 12 and older need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test from an accredited lab, with samples collected within three days prior to travel.

Upon arrival, tourists are required to stay within the COVID-19 resiliency corridor, which consists of two sections. The first stretches along the northern coast from Negril to Portland, while the second covers the South Coast from Milk River in Clarendon to Negril in Westmoreland. Only COVID-19 Protocol Compliant Approved Listings, including hotels, villas, apartments, guest houses, and home stays, are allowed to accommodate guests during this period.

Traveling to Jamaica

Sangster International Airport (MBJ), located in Montego Bay, is Jamaica's largest airport. Major airlines, including American, Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest, offer numerous flights to MBJ and various other destinations across Jamaica.

In January, American Airlines provides several non-stop flights from Miami (MIA) to MBJ. Roundtrip fares start at $259 for basic economy, $339 for the main cabin, or 20,000 miles ($141.76). Business class tickets begin at $804 or 70,000 miles (+$141.76).

Delta Airlines also offers flights from Atlanta (ATL) to MBJ in January. Roundtrip basic economy fares start at $390, while main cabin tickets are priced at $415 or 23,000 miles (+$148). Delta Comfort+ seats are available for $748 or 53,000 miles (+$142), and first-class tickets are $1,689 or 157,000 miles (+$142) per person.

Where to Stay

Jamaica features numerous properties from major hotel chains. Highlights include Hilton's all-inclusive resort, the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, as well as Hyatt's Zilara Rose Hall and the AC Marriott in Kingston, all of which are listed as approved hotels by Jamaica's Tourism Board.

The Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers rates starting at $334 per night for January stays. This all-inclusive resort features meals, beach activities, access to Sugar Mill Falls Waterpark, and more in Montego Bay.

A stay at Hyatt's Zilara Rose Hall, an adults-only all-inclusive resort, in January would be $526 per night or 40,000 World of Hyatt points. Your stay includes all meals, drinks (including alcohol), 24-hour room service, entertainment, and non-motorized sports.

In Kingston, there are several approved accommodation options. One of these is Marriott's AC Hotel Kingston, with rates starting at $153 per night in January. It falls under category 4, requiring 20,000 points per night on off-peak days, 25,000 for standard, and 30,000 for peak days. Starting March 2022, Marriott will transition to dynamic award pricing, eliminating its current award charts.

Conclusion:

Jamaica, the home of reggae, remains a top choice for travelers. With clear guidelines, international visitors can easily explore all that this vibrant destination offers. Major airlines provide numerous nonstop flight options, and a variety of hotels are available within popular loyalty program categories.