Jamaica

[midagetrolop]

Traveling to Jamaica soon, first time, what is the best currency to take?

[jno]

they use the Jamaican dollar. You shouldn't have any trouble changing pounds.

[Buenchico]

Simply take your debit card and get local dollars from cash machines;
http://www.visitjamaica.com/your-travel-guide/currency-banks-money

[mikey4444]

I was going to suggest taking loads of Ganja although they probably have enough of that already !

[DocHH]

On the occasions we have been there US$ were accepted everywhere.

[Prudie]

I agree with taking $US to get you by and get local currency from the ATMs,

[237SJ]

Paying by US$ is a pain in the Caribbean. It`s always having a few dollars in your purse for the taxi from the airport and bellboy tips but when you go out and about it`s best to pay in local.

[Buenchico]

Throughout the world, businesses which accept payments in foreign currencies tend to do so because they' give you a lousy exchange rate and make additional money from the deal when they convert your pounds/euros/dollars into their local currency later on.

If you seek out local currency beforehand you'll be able to look for the best rates (or, at least, be confident that you're getting a reasonable rate if you use ATMs).

[Prudie]

Must say I've not found that in Antigua nor Barbados, we pay for meals and supermarket shopping most of the time in US dollars. In the supermarket I pay in US and get my change in EC dollars (in Antigua).

[Prudie]

Chris I'm fairly sure in most of the Caribbean they have a fixed exchange rate for US dollars so you always know where you are (not factoring the US/£ rate of course).

[-SharonA-]

I would get Jamaican Dollars. Get these when in Jamaica for a better rate.
Just change up a couple of pounds at the airport here to tide you over until you can get to the exchange shop.

Out of curiosity, what part of Jamaica are you going??? Just back from Ocho Rios!!!

[midagetrolop]

Thanks for all your replies - Sharon A we are going to the Luxury Grand Bahia Principe in Runaway Bay. It's our first time in the caribbean - we have been all over the world but are really looking forward to this.

[-SharonA-]

Have a great time. Runaway Bay is lovely, often driven through there and seen the hotel too, looks very posh.
Don't forget to climb Dunns River Falls!!!!!