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From aggressive street vendors, to friendly locals offering you the "ganja", here are a few tourist scams and local hassles to be on the lookout for in Jamaica.
Photo © iStock/BrettCharlton
The island of Jamaica offers visitors some of the most incredible experiences, from exciting outdoor adventures amid Caribbean landscapes to relaxing on white sandy beaches that stretch on for miles. Despite a few hassles and annoyances, Jamaica is an amazing place to discover.
Watch out for these frustrating things while you're traveling to avoid annoyances such as vendors spruiking their latest rip-offs, and your trip will go off without a hitch.
Drugs in Jamaica
It's no secret that Jamaica is known for the widespread use of drugs, whether you call it cannabis, the ganja or marijuana.
Medical use of cannabis was legalized in 2015, as the government had its sights set on wellness tourism, and more importantly the money it could bring to the economy. Travelers who are prescribed medical use of marijuana overseas can pay for a permit authorizing them to purchase small amounts of the drug in Jamaica. Possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana is a petty offence, and will not result in a criminal record.
Chances are at some point (or several) during your stay you will be approached by a local and offered some "ganja". If you're caught with possession of an illegal amount of drugs, you may be arrested, charged and imprisoned. The conditions in Jamaican jails are less than ideal, and the justice system is questionable.
Other drugs often found in the region include cocaine and heroin, both of which are considered to be extremely potent in Jamaica. Not only are they against the law, but partaking in either is extraordinarily risky.
Always keep your wits about you in foreign countries. Jamaica doesn't have the best record when it comes to safety, so use your common sense and don't deliberately do anything that could put you in harms way.
Merchandise and services
Aggressive Street Vendors
Many Jamaican residents make their money from selling tourist merchandise (usually handmade) and offering services, such as massage or hair braiding.
While it may seem like a great way to take a little piece of your trip back with you, unfortunately many of these street vendors can get aggressive in their sales pitches.
Some will simply call out to you as you walk past, others will follow you around, and some may even attempt to physically pull you in to their shops. Your best bet is to avoid eye contact and be polite, but firm. If you're having problems, ask for help from a nearby police officer.
Begging
You might see people begging on the streets, particularly in touristy areas, since these are the areas they are most likely to receive handouts.
It may seem like an annoyance, but take a moment to consider the widespread poverty in Jamaica. Feel free to contribute if you're so inclined, but don't feel obligated. Again, just a firm but pleasant "no, thank you" should suffice.
Scams and other hassles in Jamaica
1. The one way fee trick
Jamaica has its fair share of scams against tourists, particularly involving local transport. If you're approached by a young citizen offering you a ride on their moped or canoe to a popular point of interest, beware. Once you arrive at your destination, he'll likely insist that you only paid for a one-way trip and demand more money to bring you back.
2. Prostitution
Prostitution is a problem on the island and many of these girls can be just as persistent as the local street vendors. Male travelers should be cautious.
3. Renta-rasta or renta-dreds
Female travelers should be aware that a lot of women come to Jamaica for what's known as a "renta-rasta" or "renta-dreds". These are slang terms referring to a casual relationship where the woman gets companionship, attention or intimate relations, and the man receives money or gifts in return.
Because of this common arrangement, females traveling alone may be propositioned by local Jamaican men. It's a good idea to always travel in groups for this reason, especially at night.
4. Drink spiking and nightlife
Use of various date-rape drugs is an ongoing issue at nightclubs and bars, as well as private parties. Victims are drugged, rendered unconscious and then robbed and often assaulted.
If you plan on partaking in the local night life, be sure to do so with caution. Never accept drinks from strangers, always watch your drinks being poured and keep them in your hand (or at least in your sight) at all times.
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