WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? Citizens of the United States of America and Canada are not permitted to visit the
island for a period not exceeding six months. Citizens, sixteen years and older
of these countries may use the following documents for entry: valid passport (or
passport which has expired for a period not exceeding one year). After January 1st,
2006 U.S. residents now need a passport to leave and re-enter the United
States due to changes in U.S. entry requirements. A raised seal birth
certificate is no longer be valid for entry or departure from the U.S. Additionally, all visitors are required to travel with a
round trip or onward airline ticket for entry into Jamaica. All other countries, please contact
the JTB office near you for requirements.
WHAT ABOUT TRANSPORTATION? Upon arrival at Montego Bay airport you may chose to
rent a car or take a taxi to Little Bay, which is 50 miles or 1-1/2 hours away,
between Negril and Savannah-la-Mar. If you are taking a cab, there are many
drivers at the airport, or if you like we can arrange to have our local driver
pick you up. His charge is $80.00 minimum each way for up to 4 people, plus
$20.00 per person each way for each additional person. He is also available to
hire for the entire week, or for day trips. Shorty can make those arrangements
for you. If you chose to rent a car, please be aware that driving in Jamaica is
on the left hand side of the road, and many of these roads are primitive dirt
roads with local families and children walking and chatting along the sides of
the roads…so don’t be in a hurry.
WHAT TIME ZONE IS JAMAICA? Eastern Standard Time, Jamaica does not observe Daylight
Savings Time.
WHAT ELECTRICITY IS USED IN JAMAICA? The island uses 110 voltages.
ARE THERE MEDICAL FACILITIES AVAILABLE? There are facilities in all major resort areas as well as
drug stores that provide pharmaceuticals.
IS IT SAFE TO DRINK THE WATER? Jamaica’s water is perfectly safe to drink with no need for
boiling. Bottled water is available for those who prefer it.
WHAT ARE THE AVERAGE TEMPERATURES DAY AND NIGHT? Temperatures remain fairly constant year round on the West
coast, mid to high 80’s, up into the low 90’s by day, with nights dropping down
into the mid to low 70’s most months. December through February may drop a
little bit more, prompting some people to feel the need for a light wrap if
outdoors. Humidity is highest August to October. The trade winds and mountain
breezes are year round.
WHAT CLOTHING DO I NEED? Packing light is the order of the day and casual is always
appropriate. Lightweight cotton pants and a long sleeve shirt will keep you very
comfortable during a cool evening. Summer dresses are light in weight and pack
easily. Sarongs are available at the craft market. Footwear should include
tennis or walking shoes, sandals and water socks. Most days will be sandals and
bathing suits.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD AND BEVERAGES? A full breakfast and delicious dinner are included in your
stay. Specialties of the house typically include Jamaican ‘Jerk’dishes, lobster,
locally caught fresh fish, or local chicken along with the usual huge garden
salad and fresh as can be fruit. Shorty and Margaret would be happy to
accommodate whatever special food needs or requests you may have. Sodas and
snacks are always on hand. Alcoholic beverages are not included, however Shorty
can arrange to purchase for you whatever you may wish in that regard. Please pay
him directly for these items.
IS TIPPING INCLUDED IN THE RATE? Tips are not included in the rental price. If you are pleased
with the staff, a tip of $75.00 per guest per week is suggested. Give the tip to
Shorty and he will split among the staff. Feel free to adjust the amount for an
excellent job.
WHAT ABOUT MONEY? US
dollars or traveler's checks are good in most places. It is good to have a major
credit card along for emergencies. ATM machines are found throughout the island.
You may want to change some of your currency into Jamaican dollars at the
airport or at a cambio for small purchases during your stay. Please be aware
that if US currency is used for purchases from local merchants you will likely
receive some, if not all, of your change in Jamaican dollars.
WHAT ABOUT CREDIT CARDS? Major credit cards are accepted in Jamaica.
WHAT ARE THE BANKING HOURS? Commercial banks maintain branches throughout the island. The
hours are 9 A.M. - 2 P.M. on Mondays to Thursdays; 9 A.M. - 12 P.M. and 2:30 - 5
P.M. on Fridays. Exchange bureaus are open in the Montego Bay airport for all
international flight arrivals and departures.
WHERE CAN I GO SWIMMING AND SNORKELING? The property has several cliff side deck areas that
provide access to the brilliant blue Caribbean Sea. Outside the main gates of
the 3-1/2 acre estate, there are two white sandy beaches within a short walk in
each direction.
ARE THERE SWIMMING AND SNORKELING SUPPLIES ON THE PROPERTY? There are numerous deck chairs, lounge
chairs, beach towels, rafts, as well as snorkeling gear at your disposal. Please
take special care with the snorkeling gear. It needs to be rinsed with fresh
water and returned to the house after use each day. Sun and salt water make
these items deteriorate very quickly.
CAN I RENT BICYCLES LOCALLY? There are bicycles provided for your use and pleasure. There
are lots of roads and paths to explore in the area.
THERE ARE TENNIS COURTS, IS THE EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED? If you wish to use the tennis court during your
stay, please bring your own rackets and balls, as they are not provided.
IS A TELEPHONE AVAILABLE IN THE VILLA? There is a phone in the Villa, however outgoing calls are for
emergency use only unless prior arrangements have been made. Of course, incoming
calls are permitted. The telephone number in the villa is (876) 890-1591. It is
recommended that you purchase a Jamaican calling card if you wish to make
outgoing phone calls.
IS IT OK TO WALK AROUND LITTLE BAY? Little Bay is a small remote fishing village. Outside the
Lookout estate are 2 beaches and many places to walk or jog, bike ride, and
several interesting caves to explore. The local people you meet on these
excursions are friendly and welcome conversation with you. The dialect is
Patois, so if you don’t understand at first, fine tune your ear and try again.
IS BOATING AVAILABLE? If
boating in the Caribbean is of interest, Shorty can arrange for you anything
from a game fishing trip to catch marlin and tuna, to a leisurely day trip to
Negril beaches.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO GET MARRIED AT LOOKOUT COVE? Yes, your personal wedding planners, Shorty and
Margaret would be pleased to arrange everything for you. Basic packages start at
$475.00 and include the arrangements, the marriage certificate, the Minister,
the flowers, photography, the traditional Jamaican Wedding cake and champagne.
Documents needed are Certified Birth Certificates and Proof of Citizenship.
24-hour residency is required with no blood test needed. Please see our wedding page for
more information!