Jamaican culture lies just beneath the surface!The Jamaican culture will be found just beneath the surface. Many tourists that descend on the island for the beautiful beaches and warm weather will never really glimpse the real Jamaica. It will be up to you to what extent you experience the Jamaican culture.Stepping out from beyond the walls of a foreign owned all-inclusive, which quite frankly could be located anywhere, is the best way to start. I agree that street-level Jamaica can be a little uncomfortable at first. In Jamaica, tourists mean money and livelihood. Still by using a little precaution, you will soon feel more comfortable and and begin to relax and experience Jamaica's charm. Violence rarely affects tourists. It is mostly restricted to the poor areas of Kingston, Spanish Town and some areas of Montego Bay, that you are unlikely to ever visit. Jamaica's African heritage is celebrated in the islands infectious Reggae music, celebrations and traditions-- and enjoyed across all social and economic classes. In Jamaica, etiquette and manners are taken very seriously. Throughout the Caribbean, mostly due to the heat and the way it‘s always been, things move more slowly. The transfer to your hotel, reception and check-in, food preparation, daily housekeeping and maintenance might all take a little longer than you would expect at home. Jamaicans work long hours, often 12 hours a day--six or seven days a week. Unemployment is rampant, so Jamaican’s take their positions and responsibilities seriously. Unemployment, has spawned a whole island of entrepreneurs--give a Jamaican something to sell and a potential buyer and they are off to make some money! When approached by a street or beach vendor, and you are not interested, the best thing to do is take a second to make eye contact. Smile and with confidence tell them that you are not interested--”No, Thanks Mon“. If you are friendly and firm, you’ll be surprised at how quickly they will move on in search of the next potential buyer. If, however, you are interested in what they are selling, you are expected to haggle your heart out! One of the best ways to get out and see the countryside, meet some people, try some authentic Jamaican food and experience Jamaica is to
hire your own personal driver.
You can arrange to see the attractions and do some shopping on your own schedule and when its convenient for you. Traveling Jamaica with your own personal driver is safe, fun and entertaining!
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