Frequently asked questions
May Pen: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
May Pen: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.9°C, during the day — up to +31.5°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
May Pen: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +21.9°C, during the day — up to +28.5°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
May Pen: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on September-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
May Pen: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $103.00 (≈ 8 644 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
May Pen: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $22.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $75.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $110.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $160.00 per night, an apartment — $55.00 per night, a villa — $130.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
May Pen: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $7.00, dinner at a restaurant — $18.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.80, a 0.5L beer — $2.20, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
May Pen: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $90.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $4.50, car rental — $42.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
May Pen: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: May Pen Market — Lively market with local produce and crafts; May Pen Cemetery — Resting place of many influential figures in Jamaican history; Iron Bridge — Historic bridge spanning the Rio Minho River; Milk River Bath — Natural mineral spa with healing waters. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
May Pen: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Jerk Chicken — Marinated and grilled chicken with spices; Curry Goat — Stewed goat meat with curry; Ackee and Saltfish — National breakfast dish; Patty — Jamaican meat-filled pastry. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
May Pen: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — Historic part with market, courthouse and park; Coastal Zone — Beaches and fishing villages. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
May Pen: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
May Pen: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Norman Manley International Airport (code KIN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $90.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
May Pen: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — JMD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $103.00 (≈ 8 644 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
May Pen: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
May Pen: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
May Pen: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Treasure Beach — Scenic beach on the south coast 40 km away; Black River — River safari with crocodiles 30 km away; YS Falls — Waterfalls 50 km away; Appleton Estate — Rum farm with tours 60 km away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
