Information on Jamaica

Jamaica is a Commonwealth country that gained independence in 1962. It is an island country, and part of the Greater Antilles of the West Indies. It is a popular tourist destination as the sun and the sands of Jamaica attract people from all over the world. The island is very aptly named after the Native American word Xaymaca, meaning "isle of springs."

The island is made up of coastal lowlands, a limestone plateau, and the Blue Mountains, a group of volcanic hills, in the east. The coastline is long and irregular and has a number of natural harbors. Thermal springs are common. The island is prone to severe earthquakes, even though no volcanic eruption has taken place.

Jamaica has a rich biodiversity. 3000 species of plants grow here of which 27% are unique to the Island. More than 200 species of flowering plants have been classified. Cedar, mahoe, mahogany, logwood, rosewood, ebony, palmetto palm, coconut palm, and pimento (allspice) are the common trees. Occupation by foreigners has lead to the introduction of many trees like mango, breadfruit, banana, and plantain for commercial plantation.

The Jamaican animal life, as all over the West Indies, contains a highly diversified bird life. Parrots, hummingbirds, cuckoos, and green todies are especially abundant. No large indigenous quadrupeds or venomous reptiles exist.

Jamaica, a Caribbean island, is located south of Cuba and west of Haiti.

Jamaica climate enjoys a Tropical climatic with mean annual temperatures at 27°C (80°F). The extremes of heat and humidity are however rendered moderate by the northeastern trade winds at frequent intervals. Temperatures in the plateau and mountain areas are much less. Rain falls in plenty though it varies from region to region. The island is subject to hurricanes in late summer and early autumn.