Returning Residents Guide - A Complete Safety & Security Guide to Coming Home to Jamaica

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Lifestyle

priority Areas to consider^ Why^

Coastal calm

St. Mary (Oracabessa/Prospect), St. Ann (Runaway

Bay/Ocho Rios), Hanover/Westmoreland (Negril/Orange

Bay)

Sea breeze, slower pace,

good amenities.

Cooler climate Mandeville/Manchester highlands, parts of St. Andrew

hills

Mild temperatures;

gardening culture.

Active social Kingston & St. Andrew; Montego Bay; Ocho Rios Clubs, concerts,

restaurants, airports.

Low

maintenance Gated strata (apts/townhouses)^

Security & exterior upkeep

handled.

Retirement set-up checklist

• Budget bands (needs • wants • give): pensions, savings drawdown, FX plan.


• Healthcare: insurance in force; GP chosen; hospital routes rehearsed; NHF card if eligible.


• Home safety: grab bars, non-slip tiles, lighting, step-free entries.


• Mobility: reliable driver/taxi; license renewal reminders; night-driving plan.


• Community: join a service club/church group; volunteer once a week.


• Documents: will, powers of attorney, beneficiaries, secure contacts list.

Design your week (sample)

• Mon: Morning walk + market day.


• Wed: Service club meeting / choir rehearsal.


• Fri: Beach swim or garden club.


• Sun: Worship + family dinner.
  Rituals = friendships = wellbeing.

Public vs Private Beaches – Your Right to Relax

Plain-English orientation (not legal advice):

• Many beaches in Jamaica are publicly owned or managed for public use; some are licensed to
  private operators (hotels/attractions) that may control access and charge fees for upkeep and
  safety.


• Municipal/UDC-operated beaches are typically open to the public, with facilities and lifeguards
  where provided.


• Respect signage, lifeguard flags, and protected areas (marine parks, turtle nesting zones).


• Always follow local instructions from lifeguards, security, and marine wardens.

Picking your beach—what to expect