Have you ever considered a solo trip in Jamaica? For some people, the idea of traveling alone may be intimidating, but taking a solo trip can have great benefits including the ability to explore at your own pace and do only what you want to do.
In this article we’ll talk about the benefits of a solo trip to Jamaica as well as how to ensure your safety as a solo traveler.
Benefits of a Solo Trip to Jamaica
A solo trip to Jamaica is a great idea. Not only are you able to see this fun and beautiful Caribbean country, but you also get to experience some real benefits.
A solo trip means you can only rely on yourself, since you don’t have a travel companion to help you plan or move about the area. This may seem intimidating, but that kind of self-reliance helps increase your self-confidence, awareness, and independence.
Another big benefit of a solo trip to Jamaica is freedom and flexibility. When you travel on your own, you don’t have to consider someone else’s wants or needs. You choose where to go, how long to stay, and what you’re doing next. This makes solo trips really exciting!
You also have the freedom to meet new people. Humans are usually creatures of habit and comfort. When we travel with people we know, we are less likely to interact with the people around us. That’s completely different when you’re traveling alone. You’ll find more opportunities to meet new people and really soak up the friendly Jamaican culture.
And don’t forget about the new skills you’ll learn. When you travel alone, you have to do just about everything on your own. You will definitely pick up a few new skills, maybe even a new language.
Staying Safe on a Solo Trip to Jamaica
While planning your solo trip to Jamaica, you’ll want to consider safety precautions. Especially if you’re female, you’ll need to be cautious. Beginning on the flight over, don’t tell anyone that you’re traveling alone and don’t share where you are staying.
Like anywhere, there is crime in Jamaica, and a recent spike has caused the US State Department to issue a Level 3 “reconsider travel” alert for the country. While the crime usually doesn’t affect tourists, you’ll still want to follow some “common sense” safety precautions when visiting there. (Check out our full article, Is Jamaica Safe? for more information.)
- Stay Commercial
The first tip is to stay in commercial or high tourist areas. There is indeed safety in numbers, and these areas have the most traffic. Plus, these areas have more security personnel–lifeguards, security officers, police officers–and better facilities, like parking, bathrooms, and changing rooms.
There are plenty of safer attractions around Jamaica that you will love. Check out places like:
- Dunn’s River Falls
- Seven Mile Beach
- Bob Marley Museum
- Frenchman’s Cove
- YS Falls
There are a lot of other great places to explore as well, in top tourist areas like Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios. Make sure to ask the staff at the resort or hotel where you’re staying for their recommendations. It’s probably best to avoid remote or deserted areas like hidden beaches or hiking trails unless you’re going with another person.
When you’re out and about, don’t carry a lot of cash or valuable items or wear expensive jewelry–you want to avoid attracting attention. Make a few copies of all credit cards and important documents like your driver’s license and passport, and keep a set in a safe place in your room in case those items are stolen.
You may also want to make a note of the contact information for local emergency services and for the closest embassy office.
- Hire a Travel Guide
It’s also a good idea to hire a trusted travel guide when traveling alone. Not only do these travel guides provide you with some extra safety and companionship, but you’ll also get expert information about the different areas around Jamaica.
This also keeps you off public buses, which have been known to be areas of concern for solo travelers. Just make sure you find a trusted guide; look for recommendations from friends and family or check out the Jamaica Conservation and Department of Trust.
- Find Group Tours
A wonderful way to explore the island is to join group tours. These tours are an excellent way to sightsee while staying safe. The local tour companies arrange your pick-up and drop-off, and maybe even a light snack on the tour. That’s always a plus!
Again, be sure to book with a trusted company. Ask for suggestions from friends and family, a Jamaica travel agent, or the resort or hotel where you’re staying.
- Avoid Night Travel
It’s best to avoid traveling at night. You’ll want to make sure all of your activities are done and you’re back at your hotel by nightfall. If you have to go out at night, make sure you are as safe as possible. Ideally, try to go with at least one other person.
Pick an event or place that is public and well-known. Plan out your transportation to and from the event, and be sure to use a trusted company like a cab that your resort calls or Uber. Don’t accept rides from strangers, no matter how friendly.
Don’t walk very far alone, and stay in well-lit and busy areas. Divide any cash between a few different areas and don’t take much with you.
If you’re going to a bar, drink responsibly so that you can maintain awareness and control. Keep your eyes on your drink at all times and don’t accept drinks from strangers. Remember not to tell anyone you’re traveling alone or where you’re staying.
- Share Your Itinerary and Schedule
Because you won’t be traveling with others, it’s a good idea to share your itinerary with someone back home. This doesn’t need to be an overly detailed list, just a general outline of the areas you’ll be in, addresses and phone numbers of where you’re staying, and your planned dates. You might want to set up scheduled check-in calls or texts as well.
If you leave your resort, you can also let the staff there know where you’re going and what time you expect to be back. If you’re taking an Uber, use the feature that allows you to share trip details with someone so they can track where you are.
A solo trip to Jamaica is a wonderful way to enjoy extra freedom when you travel, as well as expand your capabilities. When you do a solo trip to Jamaica, you’ll want to take a few extra precautions and play it safe. If you stick to those “common sense” tips, you’re sure to really enjoy your time adventuring around Jamaica!
Are you ready to plan your trip? We have plenty of articles that can help, including best things to do and the top resorts to stay in. We’re also expert travel advisors, so feel free to contact us if you’d like help planning your trip!