While the origin of the name seems obvious, this neighborhood's title actually has little to do with the country of the same name. When Europeans first arrived in the area that would become Jamaica, the indigenous Lenape occupied the area. The Dutch immigrants adapted the Lenape word for beaver and called the settlement Yameco. The Dutch spelled the English "y" sound using a "j." When the British assumed control over the area, the name was modified further into Jamaica when read and pronounced in English.
Modern-day Jamaica has turned into an incredible blend of cultures with people originating from the Caribbean, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, India, and other countries. All these cultures influence the local cuisine and provide an experience that you won't find anywhere else. To experience this beautiful melting pot for yourself, you'll need to find a hotel that can offer you the experience you're looking for. Being located in New York City, you won't find a shortage of hotels, so you'll have no problem enjoying everything this neighborhood has to offer.
When should you visit Jamaica, NY?
While in New York City, you'll find plenty of attractions to enjoy no matter what time of year you travel. It comes down to the type of experience you're looking for. New York winters can get fairly cold, which is why the most popular time to travel is in July. While the weather is beautiful, hotel rates tend to be slightly increased during the busy season.
For more affordable lodging, traveling during the winter may be your best bet. December through February are the slowest times for travelers, which pushes hotel prices down significantly. Winter temperatures can get cold with mean temperatures just above freezing. In fact, average lows in January are around 24.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow is also a common weather event during the winter months: Expect to deal with a few inches of snow through almost the entire season.
Both spring and fall offer appealing alternatives to the busy and slow seasons in Jamaica. Springtime is still moderately cold, but highs can reach near 80 degrees around May. Jamaica is somewhat warmer in the fall, which is why hotel prices are more expensive during that season compared to the spring. Additionally, less than a 10-degree difference in average temperatures exists between the spring and fall, so you may want to take advantage of springtime prices.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Jamaica, NY:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Jamaica, NY. Analyze these line graphs to calculate the least expensive time period to stay in Jamaica for your upcoming travels.
Are there luxury hotels around Jamaica, NY?
4 Star Average Prices: $231.88
If you're on the other end of the lodging spectrum and want luxury in your hotel, you'll find plenty of luxury hotels in Jamaica. If you want the best of the best, the experience doesn't get much better than the Hilton New York JFK Airport. This incredible hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, and a seasonal outdoor pool. On-site concierge services are available in addition to a limo and town car service. Along with room service, you can enjoy the daily breakfast buffet, or you can grab a bite to eat at 144, the on-site restaurant.
You can also book a stay at the Crowne Plaza JFK Airport Hotel New York City. In your room, you'll find iPod docking stations and a 37-inch flat screen television. The bathrooms feature shower and tub combinations along with designer toiletries and hair dryers. Outside of your room, you'll find many other amenities such as concierge services, a 24-hour fitness center, and the Idlewild restaurant. In addition to full breakfasts available every morning, feel free to bring your pet along as well since this hotel is a pet-friendly establishment, a rarity for luxury lodging.
What affordable hotels can you find in Jamaica, New York?
3 Star Average Prices: $165.27
With much to see and do, some travelers find it best to opt for more affordable hotels in Jamaica rather than anything overly luxurious. After all, with many local attractions to explore, you'll want to spend as much time as possible taking in new discoveries. One of the greatest options for this type of experience is the Super 8 by Wyndham Jamaica North Conduit. Despite its affordability, you still get a flat-screen television in your room along with satellite programming. Enjoy the on-site fitness center, a complimentary breakfast, and a free roundtrip airport shuttle.
The Jets Motor Inn is another great option with affordable rates and a surprising number of amenities. It's located in the middle of Jamaica to give you easy access to all the local attractions. Wireless internet access is free in every room along with complimentary toiletries. Blackout curtains come complimentary to ensure you get your sleep, and a 24-hour front desk maximizes your convenience. With a flat-screen television in your room, you can have some entertainment at the end of the day or background noise to help you sleep.
