Knowing what to expect from Jamaica's people!
Knowing what to expect from Jamaica's people is crucial to the enjoyment of your vacation!
Don’t misunderstand what I’m saying. Jamaicans are far from lazy. They are raised from a very young age to have a strong work ethic and to take their responsibilities seriously. Most Jamaicans work hard, long days in the tropical heat; often lasting 10-12 hours--six or seven days a week. When their work day is done, they have no time for worry and with their friendly, carefree attitude, there is very little that will stress them out. Listening and dancing to music, chatting with friends and spending time with family are all treasured Jamaican pastimes.
As you step off the hotel grounds, you are sure to be approached by any number of Jamaicans offering a wide variety of products and services. It is good to remember that Jamaicans are a proud people. The sales pitch might be persistent, but they will not beg. When you are approached, the quicker and more confidently you react the better!
Jamaicans are some of the warmest and most accommodating people you’ll find. They are naturally friendly and genuinely enjoy interacting with tourists. The best advice I can give is -- as a visitor it is important to be courteous. A simple, “Yes, Please” or “No, Thank You” will go farther than you could ever imagine. Jamaicans always greet each other and their visitors with a pleasant “Good Morning” or “Good Evening". Using polite phases like "Please and Thank You" show genuine respect! Your Jamaican hosts will delighted to share what they know about Jamaica, if you’ll only take the time to ask This type of personal interaction will add value and depth to your vacation experience. If, however, you approach Jamaicans in a rude and demanding way, you can expect them to be insulted and, as a result, uninterested in your problem. The Jamaicans you encounter, on your visit, will take their queue from you. Understand, I am not suggesting that you respond rudely. On the contrary, if you are not interested in what is being offered, the best thing to do is make eye contact and, if you need to, take a step back. You can then smile, and with confidence, tell them that you are not interested. A simple, ”No Thanks, Mon“ should due. If you are confident, friendly and firm, you’ll be surprised at how quickly they will move off in search of their next prospect. If you are hesitant, appear unsure of yourself or are unable to say no, it will be taken as a sign that you are interested (or might buy) and you can expect the “hustler” to stay with you. To Jamaicans, it is all part of the every day task of making an honest living. Take heart, after a few days, the locals will get used to seeing you and you will notice a sharp decline in offers. After all, in the area where you are staying, all the vendors know each other and no one has time to waste on someone who is not buying. Remember, it's just a way to make a living and there is a fresh supply of potential buyers arriving daily. If, on the other hand, you are interested in what they are selling, all you need to do is slow down or stop. You are expected to haggle your heart out! Jamaicans love a challenge. Negotiating the price is expected and, very much, a part of making a sale. Jamaica, as a tourist destination, has much to offer. You will find beautiful beaches, spectacular mountains and a wide variety of attractions and activities. Certainly, one of Jamaica's greatest treasures are the proud Jamaican people that call this island home.
What to expect from Jamaica's people - back to - What to Expect
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The Jamaican national motto, “Out of Many, One People”, best describes these people known as Jamaicans. Due to the ethnic mixture of the island's people, Jamaicans display a wide range of skin tones and facial features. Coming from such diverse cultures as those found in Africa, East India, China, Europe, and the Middle East; they all consider themselves, quite simply, “Jamaicans“. Jamaicans are bound together by a rich cultural heritage steeped in tradition that goes beyond the color of their skin, ethnic backgrounds and social classes.
