Experience in Kingston, Jamaica by Rica

What is it like to live in Kingston? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Kingston is a city where the sun wake you up in the morning. Mornings are very bright from the sunshine. If you are going to work or school and you do not drive your own vehicle or have a designated ride, it is important to get out of the house early enough to avoid the traffic and get where you are going in time.
It is important to keep your valuables out of site. i would not wear expensive jewellery on public transport as pick pockets etc. may be lurking around.
The city is beautiful if you love a life where things are moving all the time.
Many house have fruit trees and supermarket have all you may need in terms of food. Fresh food can be bought from the market as well. There are also a lot of fast food shops and local food restaurants around. The food is most times tasty.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kingston?

Students love to party here. If you live on campus then students often travel in groups, which is recommended.
Jamaicans are generally nice and a student from abroad can find genuine friends who are willing to help show you around or even take you to their home for weekends etc.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Kingston? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not too difficult to find accommodation but students have to start looking early.
Living condition may not be the same as where you are coming from at times.
Campus living is decent.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is goof if you love tasty dishes.Fried chicken and fried fish are good if you eat meat. Ackee and saltfish is my favourite and i would eat that with anything, it is also the national dish.
Fresh local fruits are vegetables are available in the markets but not in large variety.

What places would you recommend visiting in Kingston?

Places for visits in Kingston are: Bob Marley Museum, national Gallery, Port Royal, Devon House, Emancipation Park. I love to explore so i would take a bus to its destination and back.
You can also visit areas outside of Kingston, there are companies that offer tours which are good. going in groups is always good and recommended.

What advice would you give future students heading to Kingston?

Ensure that you stay in groups and use reputable services. The University can generally point you to safe places and provide advise.
Do not expose valuables too much in public places.