Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Perceptions To Shun When Establishing Friends In Jamaica

By Michael Lewis


Visiting a foreign country is one of the most breathtaking experience you can ever have. You may experience nostalgia at first. With time, you will start getting used to their ways of life and make the most out of your stay. If you want to understand their way of life, take time to visit a certain area and learn more about political ideologies. You have more reason to interact with the locals by striking a good conversation with them. Here are some of the perceptions you need to avoid when making new friends in Jamaica.

Most people tend to assume that all Jamaicans either perform or listen to reggae songs. This may not be the case. What you see on television may not depict the real situation on the ground. In fact, some of them cannot stand that type of music. Therefore, before befriending anyone, avoid asking if they listen to reggae. Assuming that they are not fluent English speakers may also turn away their feelings towards you. You will be surprised at how good their command in English is.

You may have seen disturbing pictures in the news about the current situation in this country. Most people live in abject poverty thus they are forced to beg on the streets. You can choose to give them a tip or opt out of it. If you are not in a position to help, simply give a polite negative reply and go our way. Avoid provoking them into mugging you.

You may have come across a particular music smoking weed in his/her video. Nevertheless, not every Jamaican smokes this drug. Some are law abiding citizens that have never tasted it. Asking weed related questions may portray you as a judgmental person who does not respect everyone in that country.

Getting the entire experience form your high-end apartment may not be possible. The only people you will meet with only deal with international guests. They might not present the actual situation on the ground. Therefore, it is advisable to go out there are meet the real locals.

Just like in the US where most people assume everyone is aware of the best athletes and musicians, the same case may not apply here. Avoid assuming that every Jamaican is a fan of either Usain Bolt or Bob Marley. Some of them have no clue about those two among many.

A good friend will help you in any way they can. To save on costs, ask them to recommend a cheaper but clean place to eat. It will help you to make more friends and enjoy their delicacies. Most tourists like to intimidate the locals by degrading their suggestions. Some locals may not take it lightly. They may end up mugging or bullying you to make your experience unbearable.

This is one country filled with friendly people and rich culture. If you attain a good chemistry with the locals, your stay will be more enjoyable. Making assumptions will make them feel inferior and repel them to wards you. By all means, try to appreciate their efforts to make you happy.




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