The neighbourhood known as Spanish Town is on the western outskirts of Kingston and was capital of the island under Spanish rule between 1662 and 1872. Today the architecture is an interesting mix of Spanish and British Georgian, and there are some historic attractions to explore. St James Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church outside England, having been built in 1523. The Jamaican People’s Museum of Crafts and Technology showcases some vintage farm implements, musical instruments and pottery, and the Town Square is overlooked by the Old King’s House, former residence of Jamaica’s British governors that once hosted Admiral Lord Nelson and Captain Bligh of HMS Bounty fame. Spanish Town also has a very busy, colourful local market in the Town Square.
Things to See & Do
* St James Cathedral
* Town Square
* Old King’s House
* Jamaican People’s Museum of Crafts and Technology
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Jamaican Dollar (JMD; symbol J$)
Language – English
Land Area – 10,991 sq km sq km
Population – 2,700,000 (Jamaica)
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT minus five hours
International Country Telephone Code – 1 + 876
Port Location – Most cruise ships dock at Montego Bay or Ocho Rios.
Transport Links – International flights are available from Norman Manley International (KIN) (Kingston) is 18km (11 miles) southeast of the city.
There is a reliable bus service in Kingston; less reliable for trans-island travel. Coach and minibus tours can be booked at most hotels. Taxis are the cheapest and quickest way of getting around the island. Most major towns, as well as airports, have rental car facilities.