Jamaica Travel News

Reader Question: Can I Use My ATM Card in Jamaica?

Dear JamaicaTripper:

I am visiting Jamaica on a cruise at the end of the year. I'll be spending one day in Ocho Rios.

Do you know if I will be able to use my ATM card? If so, should I obtain Jamaican currency (or, if not, should I exchange money somewhere?) Thank you, Dean, Knoxville, Tennessee

Dear Dean,

Thanks for your question. In the old days (not so many years ago), you couldn't use foreign ATM cards in Jamaica; only Jamaican ATM cards were accepted by local machines. This is still the case at some machines but many now accept US cards. In fact, in Ocho Rios you'll find some ATM machines that not only accept US ATM cards but will give you your money in US dollars. Look for CoolCash ATM machines; these provide money in US dollars as do some others (they'll be marked that they're dual currency.)

You'll find numerous ATM machines in Ocho Rios; the biggest one in town is located at 11 Main Street. Near the cruise dock, stop in at Margaritaville in Island Village for another ATM (it's located near the restrooms); you'll also find machines at Soni’s Plaza, Gem Palace, Dolphin Cove, Sunset Jamaica Grande, Breezes Runaway Bay, Dunn’s River Falls, and other locations around town.

Don't worry about obtaining Jamaican money; just about every place we've ever stopped in Ocho Rios has accepted US dollars (and provided change back in US dollars on most occasions.)

Happy travels! Paris and John

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posted by Paris & John @ 3:14 PM