By Taxi
Taxis are the easiest mode of travel and can be obtained at any resort. Look for red PPV (Public Passenger Vehicle) license plates; these indicate legitimate taxis. Agree on the price with the driver before you depart.

On Tour
Guided tours can be an excellent introduction to Jamaica, especially for first time visitors. They can also be a good way to experience the island's more remote regions such as Cockpit Country.

Check with your hotel concierge or tour desk about tours which will pick the two of you up at your hotel for real convenience.

By Rental Car
Driving in Jamaica isn't just a way to get from point A to point B; it seems to be a national sport. Cars pass other passing cars, all in the face of oncoming traffic. Warnings that "undertakers love overtakers" have done no good; Jamaica still has an alarming rate of traffic fatalities.

If you are driving, expect the unexpected. We would recommend strictly limiting any night driving. If you are caught out on the roads at night, be on the lookout for cars without lights and for abandoned cars that do not have on flashing lights. Always watch for pedestrians.

And don't always assume that cars have properly functioning brake lights. On a recent trip from Port Antonio to Ocho Rios, a car in front of us suddenly stopped to make a right hand turn without benefit of brake lights or a turn signal, sending our van lurching as the taxi driver hit his brakes. This was just hours after a car sideswiped us while trying to pass--and then kept going at full speed.

Still want to rent a car?

Rental cars are pricey, and are available from most major rental companies. Renters must be at least 25 years old and possess a valid driver's license. Bond, with either a credit card or cash, will need to be posted. Service stations are open daily but accept only cash. The speed limit is 30 mph in town and 50 mph on the highways.

Driving Times Within Jamaica

Whether you opt for a driver or self-drive, here's a handy look at the drive time from area to area:

Montego Bay to Negril --about 1 hour
Montego Bay to Ocho Rios --under 2 hours
Ocho Rios to Port Antonio --97 km (60 miles), under 2 1/2 hours
Ocho Rios to Kingston --97 km (60 miles), under 1 1/2 hours
Port Antonio to Kingston --109 km (68 miles), under 2 hours
Kingston to Mandeville --about 1 1/2 hours to 2 hours