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Buses
Large buses are few and far between in Jamaica due to the narrow twisting roads. Throughout the island, there are bus stops at most road intersections along routes, but you can usually flag down a bus anywhere except in major cities, where they only pause at designated stops. When you want to get off, shout ‘One stop!’ The conductor will usually echo your request with, ‘Let off!’
Minibuses
Private minibuses, also known as ‘coasters, ’ have traditionally been the workhorses of Jamaica’s regional public transportation system. All major towns and virtually every village in the country are served.
Licensed minibuses display red license plates with the initials PPV (public passenger vehicle) or have a Jamaican Union of Travelers Association (JUTA) insignia. JUTA buses are exclusively for tourists. They usually depart their point of origin when they’re full; they’re often overflowing, with people hanging from the open doors.
Route taxis
These communal taxis are the most universal mode of public transportation, reaching every part of the country. They operate like minibuses, picking up as many people as they can squeeze in along their specified routes.
Most route taxis are white Toyota Corolla station wagons marked by their red license plates. They should have ‘Route Taxi’ marked on the front door, and they are not to be confused with similar licensed taxis, which charge more. A rule of thumb: avoid any taxi that lacks the red license plate.
