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If Jamaica were a quaint little restaurant, "no problem mon" would be its motto, jerked chicken would be
its signature dish, and views of lush green mountains and cool blue falling waters would be standard, but breathtaking.
Cocktails and appetizers would be served near a cool stream below a waterfall, and Red Stripe beer would flow like
water. And let's not forget that you would be tapping your foot to the legendary reggae beats of Bob Marley echoing
in the background. That is island life - Jamaica style.
Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean (144 mi/232 km long and 52 mi/84 km wide). The island took
its name from the Arawak word xaymaca, meaning "land of wood and water" from the Arawak Indians, who archeologists
believe settled there around 1000 AD.
Since Jamaica has seen tourism on the rise over the past several years, we now see the sprawl of north-coast resort
developments (many of them all-inclusive), whose affordable hotel-air packages have turned Jamaica into one of the most
popular spots to wed in the Caribbean. But keep in mind, if you want your day to be "Irie" (everything OK) there are
a few Jamaican requirements to consider:
- proof of citizenship
- certified copy of birth certificate
- original certificate of divorce (if applicable)
- certified copy of death certificate (if applicable)
- proper paperwork as required by the resort
- parental written consent if under 21
- Bride and Groom must be in Jamaica for 48 hours (2 business days - weekends do not count) prior to ceremony
- no weddings can be performed on Sundays
Some of the all-inclusive resorts even offer free weddings when staying at their hotel or if you book one of their
spectacular honeymoon packages. They offer such services as: a non-denominational marriage officer, a decorated
wedding area, a special wedding gift, Bride's bouquet and Groom's boutonniere, marriage officer's fee and license fee,
traditional Jamaican wedding cake, unlimited house champagne, witnesses upon request, etc. Our favorite time to wed
in Jamaica is November through April, but the temperature is fairly stable year-round, so it's very pleasant anytime.
Winter day temperatures for coastal area are in the 70s and 80s °F (23-32 °C). June through September is
usually in the 80s and 90s °F (30 to 35 °C). But you may need to pack that new spring sweater you bought
for those cooler nights. The hottest time is July through October, when the humidity, heat, and hurricane possibilities
are the highest. Most rain falls in May and October, but even then, it generally comes in short showers, and seldom
ruins a newlywed's excitement. But be forewarned, if you decide to marry during the Christmas or Carnival seasons,
on public holidays or during the Spring Break rush, be prepared for large crowds and a fight for rental cars at the
airport. So take heed of these times when planning a wedding date.
There is much to appreciate in Jamaica. Some of the Caribbean's loveliest white-sand beaches, steep mountains,
dense jungles, big cities, and charming villages can be found there. As easy and relaxing as the all-inclusives are,
you can also avoid that cloistered feeling by exploring the countryside on your own while shopping and mingling with
the natives. The physical beauty and vibrant culture of Jamaica are still its greatest assets. And if you were
wondering, yes, you CAN drink the tap water. The food in the resorts, restaurants, and hotels that cater to tourists
is as safe as on mainland North America. Local restaurant and/or market food is generally safe if it's freshly prepared
and served hot. You'll also find hospital facilities in each major Jamaican town and doctors are available 24 hours
a day in Kingston and the principal resort areas, and doctors or registered nurses are on call at most hotels.
Main coastal roads are excellent, but be aware that Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road - and they drive
like maniacs. Local buses are not recommended except for the budget-minded or well-seasoned traveler, though they do
offer a colorful, if crowded, glimpse of Jamaican life for the adventurous. Guided half- and full-day tours, bicycles,
rental cars, and taxis are enjoyable ways of getting around. The roads along the winding north coast and in the mountains
offer beautiful vistas, but driving them can be a bit harrowing because of the blind curves and potholes. Tropical
Airlines also offers daily flights between major Jamaican cities. So go Jamaica! The wedding could be free, and your
memories will be priceless! Irie!
This article was contributed by Karen Hohlen.
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