Planning a trip to Mandeville
To reach the South Coast, head east from Negril, following the signposts to Savanna-la-Mar along Sheffield Road; the highway isn't particularly good until it broadens into the A2 at Savanna. After passing through the village of Bluefields, continue southeast to the small town of Black River, which opens onto Black River Bay.
From Black River you can take the A2 north and northeast to the city of Mandeville. Or you can continue along the coast to Treasure Beach, though the road narrows at this point. If you'd like to continue to the very end of the road, head east to attractions at quaintly named Lover's Leap, Alligator Pond, and Milk River Bath.
Fast Facts
Banks -- A branch of National Commercial Bank (tel. 876/962-2083) can be found at 9 Manchester Rd.; open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 3pm, Friday 8:30am to 4pm.
Hospital -- The town's major hospital, Mandeville Hospital, Hargreaves Avenue (tel. 876/962-2067), is the best medical center in the Central Highlands of Jamaica.
Internet Access -- The Internet Café at Manchester Shopping Centre (tel. 876/961-1829) is the largest in Jamaica, boasting 20 computers and charging US$3.20 per half-hour. It is open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5pm, Friday 8:30am to 4pm.
Mail -- The Mandeville Post Office, South Racecourse (tel. 876/962-4445), is open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm. To mail packages, it's more efficient to use Airpak Express, 11 Caledonia Rd. (tel. 876/962-5101). Include "Jamaica, W.I." in all island addresses.
Pharmacy -- The most convenient drugstore is the Caledonia Mall Pharmacy, Shop G5, Caledonia Road (tel. 876/962-0038), open Monday to Friday 7:30am to 6:30pm, Saturday 8am to 5pm.
Safety -- The police station, 8 Parkerson Rd. (tel. 876/962-2250), is on the north side of the central village green. Of all Jamaica's cities, Mandeville is the safest; still, take all the usual precautions.
Travel Agencies -- The best one is Sterling Travel, Caledonia Plaza (tel. 876/962-2203), open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm.
