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Guide
Port Antonio, Jamaica π―π²
#1106
,
Nomad Score:
58%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Port Antonio is a quaint town located on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 15,000 inhabitants. |
π» Internet Speed | Average download speed is 15 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Currency is Jamaican Dollar (JMD). Exchange rate: 1 USD β 155 JMD. |
π° Tap Water | Generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended due to inconsistent quality. |
π Power | Voltage is 110V, 50Hz. Plugs are Type A and B. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Digicel and Flow, offering prepaid options with 4G LTE. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Local banks such as Scotiabank and NCB offer services; international banks like HSBC operate as well. |
π Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | No, cash is commonly used. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses offer various options with prices ranging from $30 to $150 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | The Ocean Breeze Hotel offers rooms starting around $50 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The area around Frenchmanβs Cove and Blue Lagoon is highly recommended for its beauty and accessibility. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Look for accommodation near the town center for better internet options and access to co-working spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Port Antonio Co-Working Space offers reliable internet and a pleasant working environment. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Blue Lagoon Cafe offers a relaxing atmosphere with Wi-Fi access. |
πΌ Networking Events | Monthly meetups at various cafes and the co-working space to connect with locals and expats. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Join the Port Antonio Expats Facebook group for networking and community events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Use local taxis or the app-based service called JamRide for convenience. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Available at various rental shops in the town; prices around $15 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Frenchmanβs Cove Beach is a stunning option just 10 minutes away. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Caribbean Airlines offers flights to Kingston and Montego Bay. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | JETBLUE and American Airlines provide services to Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Located on the A4 highway, providing easy access to Kingston and Ocho Rios. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Port Antonio does not have a train service; buses are available for regional travel. |
π Public Transport Passes | No specific passes; local buses cost approximately 200 JMD per ride. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses connect Port Antonio to other cities; the fare to Kingston is around 800 JMD. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Port Antonio Hospital provides general medical services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Wellness Spa offers yoga and wellness retreats. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Members Only Gym offers membership options starting at $20 per month. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundry services are available locally, with prices around 500 JMD per load. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Use 'eatJamaica' for local food deliveries. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the Jerk Chicken and Ackee & Saltfish, both local favorites. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Veggie Oasis offers plant-based dishes and smoothies. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | The Sweet Spot serves delicious pastries and cakes. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | The Port Antonio Market offers fresh produce and local goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local online shopping can be done via Caribbean Marketplace. |
π Grocery Delivery | Delivery available through supermarkets like MegaMart. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Dockyard Bar is a popular nightlife spot. |
π» Local Brewery | Red Stripe Beer is a famous local choice. |
π· Wine Bars | The Wine Rack offers wine tasting and selections. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Try the fish fritters at local street food vendors. |
π Popular International Cuisine | The Italian Kitchen serves a variety of international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Blue Lagoon and the remains of the old Port Antonio Market. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Port Antonio Historical Society often hosts local art exhibitions. |
π° Historical Sites | The Folly Lighthouse, a beautiful historical structure, is nearby. |
π Religious Sites | Visit the Anglican Church for its architectural beauty. |
π Annual Events | The Port Antonio Film Festival takes place every October. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The local music scene thrives around the town center. |
π Theater Venues | The Port Antonio Cultural Centre hosts local performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Port Antonio Craft Market features local artisans. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live reggae music can be heard regularly in local bars. |
π¨ Street Art | Explore murals around the town showcasing local talent. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Book a cooking class at the Jamaica Culinary Institute. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Locally run galleries often feature works by Jamaican artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Check out The San San Estate, notable for its history and architecture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Port Antonio's heritage includes a mix of Taino, Spanish, and British influences. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit the Blue Mountains National Park for hiking and stunning views. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park offers diverse flora and fauna. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Nature trails can be found around the Blue Lagoon area. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at nearby Nanny Falls offers breathtaking vistas. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Visit the Blue Mountains for an abundance of bird life. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Public beaches near Frenchman's Cove allow bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local branches of DHL and FedEx operate in Port Antonio. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local electronics shops provide phone and computer repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers often host table tennis events. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | The Port Antonio Language School offers English and local language courses. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Local libraries offer study spaces and book selections. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Port Antonio Community Centre hosts classes and workshops. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming venues are available, often as part of community spaces. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos; however, local bars often feature gaming machines. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $60,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $108,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $90,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $192,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $144,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 25%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | The rate is currently at 15%. |
π¦ Tax System | Taxation is based on worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 25%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate is 15%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules currently in place. |
π Property Tax | Annual property taxes are assessed based on property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax at a rate of 4% for properties. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No specific tax incentives for digital nomads currently in place. |