Currency: Prices are usually posted in Jamaican dollars but check to make sure. The recent exchange rate was roughly US$1=J$36. When prices are given without any indication whether the are US$ or J$, the price usually is in U.S. currency. Always keep currency exchange slips if you intend to convert back before departing. In Montego Bay there is a bank in the departure lounge but it usually has long lines and if you're running late, you may not have time to take care of business. Banks are open 9-5 Monday through Friday.

Taxes & Tipping: A government tax of 12% on all hotel rooms, 15% on all rental cars and 15% on overseas phone calls. Tipping is 10-15% although a service charge of this amount is usually added to all bills. The airport departure tax is J$750 (US$22), payable in either currency.

Getting There: Jamaica is an easy island to reach. U.S. carriers include Air Jamaica (www.airjamaica.com), American Airlines (www.aa.com), USAirways (www.usairways.com) and Northwest (www.nwa.com). Air Canada (www.air-canada) flies from Toronto and British Airways (www.british-airways.com) from London-Gatwick. Most carriers land at Montego Bay but if you're going to hike the Blue Mountains, opt for a flight that continues on to Kingston. Otherwise you'll have to fly Tropical Airlines to Kingston; call 876/979-3565.

Getting Around: Rental cars are some of the Caribbean 's most expensive, costing as much as $100 per day in winter. The reason: In addition to the rental charge, there's a collision-damage waiver that's sometimes mandatory plus a 15% government tax. Hiking tour operators sometimes arrange for hotel pickups. Should you choose to drive in Jamaica, stay alert because driving requires your full, close attention. Roads are narrow, big trucks come barreling around the curves with no warning. In general, Jamaicans tend to drive like the devil is chasing them and closing fast.

Restaurants: Read Jamaica Restaurant Reviews from our partner Travelocity.com. Go to Mexico & The Caribbean and check the Jamaica Restaurant Index.

Health & Safety Warning: Be careful where you walk after dark. Crime is an increasing problem. Don't leave any valuables unattended anywhere; use hotel safes where possible. Don't be stupid in using drugs. Police use surprise roadblocks to catch those carrying drugs. Use the obvious care you would traveling anywhere and you should be fine; don't get caught off guard by too relaxed an attitude.

For More Information: In the U.S., call 800-JAMAICA. Web site: www.visitjamaica.com .

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Expect the Unexpected. That's half the fun.

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