Reasons To Avoid Stereotyping When Making 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 might have perceived this country as one of the poorest in South America thanks to current affairs. You may come across numerous beggars and street urchins on the streets. If you are not interested in helping them, avoid showing your negative side. A polite negative reply is better than embarrassing them. Well, beggars can be found in almost every other country; even in the US.

Assuming that all Jamaicans as weed smokers is terrible for you as a foreigner. You may have noticed one of the musicians smoking in public. However, it is wrong to perceive all of them as chain weed smokers. By all means, avoid enquiring about it.

People staying in high-end accommodation facilities may not enjoy what the country has to offer. Obviously, the staff is trained to handle clients professionally so that they can enjoy their stay. However, walking down the streets to meet the real people will enable you to enjoy your experience.

It is often assumed that every US citizen is aware of Marion Jones as a renowned athlete. Similarly, you may also be tempted to believe that all Jamaicans are fans of Usain Bolt or Bob Marley. Well, it may work for the majority. However, there is still a small percentage of people that do not recognize their contribution to the Jamaican industry.

Now that you have already made allies with one of two people, it is time to join them at a famous eatery in town. Joining them for lunch or dinner will enable you to make more friends. The secret is to avoid posing as an arrogant tourist that looks down upon certain people.

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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