Travel to Jamaica to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Image  Jamaica

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Jamaica?

  • “No problem, mon”, that traveling in Jamaica! And yes, you hear Bob Marley on every street corner, but this beautiful Caribbean island is much more than just white beaches and reggae… It is a country of culture, beautiful nature, food that makes you overheat, very large butterflies, happy people and of course rum, rum, rum and coffee. It is a country that is often seen as a luxury destination, but even with a limited budget you can certainly find options.
  • Activities spotting: climb the Dunn's River Falls; visit the Bob Marley Museum; take a dip in the Blue Hole; visit the Pelican Bar completely surrounded by the sea; swim through luminous water in the Luminous Lagoon; stroll through Kingston and enjoy the energy, music and street art; learn all about rum on the Appleton Rum Estate Tour; hike to the Blue Mountains; taste everything and anything during a Jamaican street food tour.
  • Animal spotting: Jamaican amazon parrot, sea turtles, doctorbird (Jamaican hummingbird), lobsters, Caribbean manatee, boa, dolphins, land crabs.
  • Food spotting: prepare for a lot of spice and spiciness with dishes such as jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, patties, bammy, festival, curry goat, escovitch fish, callaloo, rum cake.

Study in Jamaica?

  • There are several educational institutions with quite a few study options, so not a bad place if you want to study on a tropical island. Popular studies include business administration, computer science, medicine and social sciences.
  • Study cities: Kingston, Montego Bay.
  • Language: English.

Internships in Jamaica?

  • There are quite a few internship opportunities in Jamaica. You can work at international companies, in healthcare, education and community development.
  • Competencies: intercultural communication, resilience, leadership.
  • Volunteer in Jamaica? As a volunteer you can contribute to care for stray animals, community development, childcare, education, agriculture and so on.

Working in Jamaica?

  • You have little choice and in Jamaica it is quite a close-knit community, so making connections is very important. If you want to find a job, you could look in the tourism sector, healthcare, financial services or agriculture.

Working as a digital nomad in Jamaica?

  • Looking out over white beaches with a nice drink in your hand while typing your last email of the day? That is the digital nomad life in Jamaica. In the larger places you will find good facilities such as co-working spaces and good wifi, in the countryside this is a bit less. Furthermore, life is pleasant, you can easily connect with the locals and there are many adventures to experience.
  • Favorite locations: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston.

Living in Jamaica?

  • In Jamaica you can enjoy a relaxed life full of color, music, sun and coziness as well as a humid climate, a not always safe environment and still considerable accommodation costs. Island life isn’t always a bed of roses (or white sandy beaches in this case).
  • Expat community: there is an active expat community, especially in the tourist areas.
  • Safety: the country suffers from a fair amount of violence and has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Most of this occurs between Jamaicans, but it can also be unsafe for expats, especially in urban areas. So keep this in mind.
  • Health insurance: the quality of care may not be what you are used to and for some (emergency) treatments you will have to fly abroad. So make sure you have your own health insurance with good coverage.
Jamaica Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Jamaica Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Jamaica on WorldSupporter

Jamaica: Updates & Travel

Jamaica: Updates & Travel

Travel in Jamaica?

  • Caribbean reggae paradise with tropical forests, fast-flowing rivers, sugar and coffee plantations and of course snow-white beaches.
  • Take a mountain hike through the Blue Mountains, which owe their name to the mist that often hangs there. You can also cycle beautifully here (especially down the mountain).
  • Visit the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Not only interesting for Bob Marley and reggae but also for the enormous number of hippies who visit this place.
  • Swim with dolphins in the dolphin lake in Ocho Rios.
  • There are numerous beautiful waterfalls to visit.
  • Take a boat trip on one of the many rivers.
  • Kingston is not the safest city in Jamaica, but if you have not been here you will never really know Jamaica. With a beautiful harbour (Port Royal), immensely busy markets and a lively atmosphere.
  • Bobby Bloom sings “Come and sing me Montego Bay, oh oh oh oh oh”. This is the perfect description of the city, it's all about relaxing and partying on the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue). Diving here is also great.
  • Perfect Caribbean beaches: Treasure Bay and Lime Cay.
  • Lover's Leap is a 518-meter high cliff from which two slaves once jumped down together because they would rather die together than live without each other.
  • Waterfalls: the tourist Dunn River Falls and Reach Falls, but also at lesser-known places, such as the YS Falls in the south, Mayfield Falls in the west, etc.
  • Rivers: for example on the Rio Grande along banana and sugar plantations. During a boat trip on the Black River you can climb into the mangroves and see crocodiles. The Martha Brae River is also recommended for rafting along its beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Portland: one of Jamaica's most relaxed parishes.
  • Be prepared that the traffic rushes past you.
  • For your information... Because income in Jamaica is largely untaxed, the government levies relatively high taxes on import and trade. Prices in Jamaica are therefore more expensive than you would expect.

Updates Jamaica

  • More about Jamaica, updates and contributions, see the link below.
How does healthcare work in Jamaica, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Jamaica, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Jamaica?

What is the quality of healthcare in Jamaica?

  • In Jamaica, you can relax to the max. However, it is wise to be prepared if something does happen to you. Healthcare is available, but not of the quality that you find in more developed countries.
  • However, the government is working hard to improve healthcare for the local population. Who knows how it will change in the coming years?
  • There are about 30 hospitals and clinics with at least one small hospital in every part of the island. For emergency care, this is not enough and you have to go to Kingston or Montego Bay.
  • So it depends on where you live whether you have access to good care and good options.
  • The healthcare system in Jamaica consists of both public and private options.
  • Pharmacies work with an electronic prescription system for medicines.
  • Medical emergency care is limited and only available in large cities. Call 110 in case of an emergency.
  • In case of serious medical emergencies, a medical evacuation is most likely necessary.

How does the public healthcare system work in Jamaica?

  • The public healthcare system is called Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and is based on the British National Health Service model. Healthcare is free for residents and permanent residents. Others have to pay for healthcare.
  • In general, the quality of healthcare is reasonable, but waiting times are long, there is sometimes too little medical equipment (in exceptional cases you even have to bring your own), there are few specialists and it is difficult to obtain prescription medication and a lot of cash has to be paid.
  • Public hospitals usually have sufficient staff and medical equipment, but are not known for their use of the most modern technology and treatments.

How does the private healthcare system work in Jamaica?

  • There are several private clinics on the island. The care is good, but not always of the standards that people are used to in the West.
  • Most expats opt for private healthcare, or even healthcare outside Jamaica (for example in the US).
  • Private hospitals generally have good staff and good facilities and are recommended for emergency care and major operations.
  • Many locals cannot afford private healthcare, which makes public healthcare even more overcrowded.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Jamaica?

  • GPs are usually the first point of contact for a medical condition.
  • The Association of General Practitioners of Jamaica (AGPJ) is the professional body for GPs. Through them you can find all registered GPs in Jamaica.

How is the dentist arranged in Jamaica?

  • There is a shortage of dentists in the country and the quality of dental care may not be what you are used to.
  • Most dentists can be found in Kingston and Montego Bay. The quality can be good here.
  • The costs for private dental care are relatively high.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Jamaica?

  • In Jamaica the number of pregnancies has decreased in recent years, but the percentage of maternal mortality has increased. The government is working hard to counteract this.
  • There are limited, but good options for maternity care in Jamaica. All prenatal tests are available and if you can go to a good, private hospital or clinic, you can also take pregnancy courses.
  • The Jamaica Hospital, among others, has neonatal intensive care facilities and offers good, comprehensive care.
  • Abortion is illegal in Jamaica and has severe penalties. An abortion can only be performed when the mother's life is in danger. Many illegal abortions take place each year, which is the leading cause of death among mothers.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Jamaica?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Jamaica?

  • Crime is quite high in Jamaica. All over the country, but especially in Kingston. Corruption and drug trafficking are also major problems in the country.
  • The country has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
  • You are especially at risk at night. It is not recommended to use public transport or to walk alone in the dark.
  • Also be aware of people who spontaneously come and what to chat with you. There is a slight possibility that they are out to grab your bag from your hands and run instead of chitchat.
  • ATM fraud is common.
  • In general, don't worry too much. There are problems, but the chance that you will encounter them is still small if you pay close attention yourself.
  • So make sure you have as few valuables with you as possible and avoid walking around alone in the dark as much as possible.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Jamaica?

  • Make sure you check well in advance which vaccinations you need for a stay in Jamaica.
  • HIV/AIDS is relatively common.
  • There are also mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and zika. Protecting yourself well against mosquitoes prevents problems!

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Jamaica?

  • Driving in Jamaica is pleasantly bumpy. The maintenance of the roads has been neglected and you will find many large holes in the road and inadequate signage.
  • Also, the drivers are not always as relaxed as you would think and they can drive unpredictably.
  • In the cities, major traffic jams can occur during rush hour.
  • There is a risk of flooding in the rainy season. This type of flooding can seriously damage the roads and pose a danger to drivers.
  • Public transport consists mainly of buses. The network covers the entire island, but is somewhat chaotic. Do not expect fixed departure times!
  • There are many taxis, but not all of them are registered. The safest taxis are those registered with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). These have a red number plate.
  • The same applies to minibuses, locally called “coasters”. Those with a red number plate are registered with the JTB.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Jamaica?

  • Is the trip to Jamaica and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Jamaica, if you are going to live there for a while?

  • A good, international health insurance is important for Jamaica. There is a chance that medical evacuation is necessary. Medical evacuation means you will also get charged in a neighboring country such as the US, which won't be good for your wallet. But even when medical evacuation is not necessary, international health insurance is useful because you will probably want to use the relatively expensive private care.
  • So… Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Jamaica: Updates & Travel

Jamaica: Updates & Travel

Travel in Jamaica?

  • Caribbean reggae paradise with tropical forests, fast-flowing rivers, sugar and coffee plantations and of course snow-white beaches.
  • Take a mountain hike through the Blue Mountains, which owe their name to the mist that often hangs there. You can also cycle beautifully here (especially down the mountain).
  • Visit the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Not only interesting for Bob Marley and reggae but also for the enormous number of hippies who visit this place.
  • Swim with dolphins in the dolphin lake in Ocho Rios.
  • There are numerous beautiful waterfalls to visit.
  • Take a boat trip on one of the many rivers.
  • Kingston is not the safest city in Jamaica, but if you have not been here you will never really know Jamaica. With a beautiful harbour (Port Royal), immensely busy markets and a lively atmosphere.
  • Bobby Bloom sings “Come and sing me Montego Bay, oh oh oh oh oh”. This is the perfect description of the city, it's all about relaxing and partying on the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue). Diving here is also great.
  • Perfect Caribbean beaches: Treasure Bay and Lime Cay.
  • Lover's Leap is a 518-meter high cliff from which two slaves once jumped down together because they would rather die together than live without each other.
  • Waterfalls: the tourist Dunn River Falls and Reach Falls, but also at lesser-known places, such as the YS Falls in the south, Mayfield Falls in the west, etc.
  • Rivers: for example on the Rio Grande along banana and sugar plantations. During a boat trip on the Black River you can climb into the mangroves and see crocodiles. The Martha Brae River is also recommended for rafting along its beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Portland: one of Jamaica's most relaxed parishes.
  • Be prepared that the traffic rushes past you.
  • For your information... Because income in Jamaica is largely untaxed, the government levies relatively high taxes on import and trade. Prices in Jamaica are therefore more expensive than you would expect.

Updates Jamaica

  • More about Jamaica, updates and contributions, see the link below.

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

Check out more about

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances for Jamaica

How does healthcare work in Jamaica, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Jamaica, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Jamaica?

What is the quality of healthcare in Jamaica?

  • In Jamaica, you can relax to the max. However, it is wise to be prepared if something does happen to you. Healthcare is available, but not of the quality that you find in more developed countries.
  • However, the government is working hard to improve healthcare for the local population. Who knows how it will change in the coming years?
  • There are about 30 hospitals and clinics with at least one small hospital in every part of the island. For emergency care, this is not enough and you have to go to Kingston or Montego Bay.
  • So it depends on where you live whether you have access to good care and good options.
  • The healthcare system in Jamaica consists of both public and private options.
  • Pharmacies work with an electronic prescription system for medicines.
  • Medical emergency care is limited and only available in large cities. Call 110 in case of an emergency.
  • In case of serious medical emergencies, a medical evacuation is most likely necessary.

How does the public healthcare system work in Jamaica?

  • The public healthcare system is called Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and is based on the British National Health Service model. Healthcare is free for residents and permanent residents. Others have to pay for healthcare.
  • In general, the quality of healthcare is reasonable, but waiting times are long, there is sometimes too little medical equipment (in exceptional cases you even have to bring your own), there are few specialists and it is difficult to obtain prescription medication and a lot of cash has to be paid.
  • Public hospitals usually have sufficient staff and medical equipment, but are not known for their use of the most modern technology and treatments.

How does the private healthcare system work in Jamaica?

  • There are several private clinics on the island. The care is good, but not always of the standards that people are used to in the West.
  • Most expats opt for private healthcare, or even healthcare outside Jamaica (for example in the US).
  • Private hospitals generally have good staff and good facilities and are recommended for emergency care and major operations.
  • Many locals cannot afford private healthcare, which makes public healthcare even more overcrowded.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Jamaica?

  • GPs are usually the first point of contact for a medical condition.
  • The Association of General Practitioners of Jamaica (AGPJ) is the professional body for GPs. Through them you can find all registered GPs in Jamaica.

How is the dentist arranged in Jamaica?

  • There is a shortage of dentists in the country and the quality of dental care may not be what you are used to.
  • Most dentists can be found in Kingston and Montego Bay. The quality can be good here.
  • The costs for private dental care are relatively high.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Jamaica?

  • In Jamaica the number of pregnancies has decreased in recent years, but the percentage of maternal mortality has increased. The government is working hard to counteract this.
  • There are limited, but good options for maternity care in Jamaica. All prenatal tests are available and if you can go to a good, private hospital or clinic, you can also take pregnancy courses.
  • The Jamaica Hospital, among others, has neonatal intensive care facilities and offers good, comprehensive care.
  • Abortion is illegal in Jamaica and has severe penalties. An abortion can only be performed when the mother's life is in danger. Many illegal abortions take place each year, which is the leading cause of death among mothers.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Jamaica?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Jamaica?

  • Crime is quite high in Jamaica. All over the country, but especially in Kingston. Corruption and drug trafficking are also major problems in the country.
  • The country has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
  • You are especially at risk at night. It is not recommended to use public transport or to walk alone in the dark.
  • Also be aware of people who spontaneously come and what to chat with you. There is a slight possibility that they are out to grab your bag from your hands and run instead of chitchat.
  • ATM fraud is common.
  • In general, don't worry too much. There are problems, but the chance that you will encounter them is still small if you pay close attention yourself.
  • So make sure you have as few valuables with you as possible and avoid walking around alone in the dark as much as possible.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Jamaica?

  • Make sure you check well in advance which vaccinations you need for a stay in Jamaica.
  • HIV/AIDS is relatively common.
  • There are also mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and zika. Protecting yourself well against mosquitoes prevents problems!

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Jamaica?

  • Driving in Jamaica is pleasantly bumpy. The maintenance of the roads has been neglected and you will find many large holes in the road and inadequate signage.
  • Also, the drivers are not always as relaxed as you would think and they can drive unpredictably.
  • In the cities, major traffic jams can occur during rush hour.
  • There is a risk of flooding in the rainy season. This type of flooding can seriously damage the roads and pose a danger to drivers.
  • Public transport consists mainly of buses. The network covers the entire island, but is somewhat chaotic. Do not expect fixed departure times!
  • There are many taxis, but not all of them are registered. The safest taxis are those registered with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). These have a red number plate.
  • The same applies to minibuses, locally called “coasters”. Those with a red number plate are registered with the JTB.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Jamaica?

  • Is the trip to Jamaica and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Jamaica, if you are going to live there for a while?

  • A good, international health insurance is important for Jamaica. There is a chance that medical evacuation is necessary. Medical evacuation means you will also get charged in a neighboring country such as the US, which won't be good for your wallet. But even when medical evacuation is not necessary, international health insurance is useful because you will probably want to use the relatively expensive private care.
  • So… Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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Gain work experience in the hospitality sector at a resort near the Caribbean Sea.
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As a volunteer, you will assist teachers at local schools with English lessons. You will use creative methods to make English lessons as enjoyable as possible. There are...
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Become a licensed diver with this free diving internship in the Caribbean. During your internship you will be trained to become a Divemaster and assist at the watersport...
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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Toeristenvisum Een toeristenvisum is niet nodig voor Jamaica voor een verblijf tot 90 dagen. Als je langer wilt blijven zul je een visum aan moeten vragen bij het...
      Image How does healthcare work in Jamaica, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the healthcare system work in Jamaica? What is the quality of healthcare in Jamaica? How does the public healthcare system work in Jamaica? How does the private...
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      Image Kaya Responsible Travel
      Kaya Responsible Travel offers volunteering and internship programs abroad. Based in the USA and UK they offer internships, volunteer projects and gap year programs in...
      Image Xtabi
      Xtabi is a resort in Negril, Jamaica that offers a variety of different accommodations near the Carribean Sea.
      Image Xtabi Resort Jamaica
      Xtabi offers accomodation in Jamaica near the sea and close to Negril. Their goal is to fuse tourism and local Jamaican life.
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      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
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      Kaya Responsible Travel

      Kaya Responsible Travel offers volunteering and internship programs abroad. Based in the USA and UK they offer internships, volunteer projects and gap year programs in more than 30 countries world wide.

      Xtabi Resort Jamaica

      Xtabi offers accomodation in Jamaica near the sea and close to Negril. Their goal is to fuse tourism and local Jamaican life.

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