Renting a Car in Jamaica
Should you rent a car during your Jamaica vacation? Lets just have
a look at one of the more common traffic campaign signs across the island:
Undertakers Love Overtakers. Jamaicans pass each other a dizzying
pace; passing cars pass other passing cars and the traffic fatality rate
is extremely high--in fact, it is the world's third highest.
On top of that, youll be driving on the left side of the road.
Gas prices are expensive in Jamaica (look for about double the price youd
see in the US and expect to pay in cash at many stations.)
If you do decide to rent a car, a few words of advice:
- Expect cars to pass other cars in ways you've never seen before. Passing
cars will overtake other passing cars.
- Expect the unexpected.
- Limit your night driving. Expect cars without lights.
- Expect a larger number of pedestrians than youd see at home.
- In rural areas, keep an eye out for stray goats and cattle.
Renting a Car
Drivers must be at least 23 years old (but not older than 70) and possess
a valid drivers license. Bond, with either a credit card or cash,
must be posted. The speed limit is 30 mph in town and 50 mph on the highways.
The most expensive time to rent a car is during the peak period for Jamaican
ex-pats to return home: Christmas, Easter, and August.
Some local car rental agencies include:
Avis Rent a Car
Hertz
Island Car
Rentals
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