Jamaican Culture

[Mrs K 2010!]

Some of you I have talked to have never been to JA, or have vacay'd there once or twice and decided to make it thier DW.... and there are some that are either from JA or have family there.

 

I wanna know if anyone has any good advice, secrets or tips anyone wants to share about the country ?

 

P.S.

 

On another note, JA is always been associated with Cool Runnings, JA bobsled team..... If their is any other Olympic supporters out there....? Has anyone seen the Womens JA Track Team!?!?

 

Those women are super awesome!!!! They give EVERYONE a huge run for their money... And I cannot wait to cheer them on In Chicago in 2016!!!

 

Just thought I'd shout that out. =)

 

Jennifer

aka Mrs K 2010!

 

[~*petals*~]

My first tip is to relax and realize that everything really runs on "Island Time"- no sense in rushing or getting impatient when you're there.

 

And Happy Jamaican Independence! (yesterday)

[jenninjamaica]

I second Petals reminder that everything runs on Island Time! Once you adjust to that you are set! Also, don't forget it is a third world country, so you will see goats rummaging through garbage in the streets. Just be prepared

 

And I love that they have the Cool Runnings Bobsled at the airport, but too bad you can't take photos of it!

 

Where-about are you getting married?

[YoursTruly]

I note that they are always willing to bend over backwards to help you out..Everything is no problem! But as others have said it may take a minute or hour or so...lol

[OchieBride]

I also agree with Petals. Jamaican time is not like US/Canadian time. Things move slower and people are sooo much more layed back. Take a deep breath, smile and remember you're in paradise ~

 

Do some tours with your hotel (YS Falls is a great alternative to Dunn's River), Blue Mountain mountain bike tour and zip lining is SO much fun, Sunset dinner at Ricks Cafe is a must, Rafting at Marth Brae (sp), Bob Marley Museum and Chukka Tours has a Safari that I've heard is great (I haven't done it personally though). I don't suggest you go off on your own. Its not a matter of danger but in any country if someone feels they can rip you off...they will. At least with the hotel tours (or approved tour providers) you know what you’re paying for and you won't get a special 300% mark up tourist price!

 

I also suggest being open to tying some of the local food (not just the Jerk).

 

Have you decided which resort you’re marrying at?

 

Jamaica is an amazing place...enjoy!

[OchieBride]

Speaking of movies about Jamaica. There is a really nice love story called One Love. Its staring one of Bob Marleys sons, Kymani Marley. Its very reflective of Jamaica..if you can find it I strongly recommend it.

[Ms325i]

As previous posters have said the best way to ensure you have the best JA experience is to leave the go-go-go mentality at home. In JA everything works on Island time--so experiencing long waits for service whether in restaurants/shops etc..should be expected. Also, Jamaicans are some of the best salespeople in the world--they can talk you into buying anything. Don't be afraid to bargain with them--it's expected! A HUGE recommendation I would make is to do the Blue Mountain Tour. If you have the time it is well worth it.

[Mello78]

I will have to prepare myself to relax and work on "island time" lol I am always go-go-go all the time...it will be nice to shift down a few notch and relax.

[~*petals*~]

Quote:

Originally Posted by OchieBride I also suggest being open to tying some of the local food (not just the Jerk).

Very good suggestion! Don't miss out on trying the local cuisine while you're there.

Jamaican Recipes (Jamaica)

[kdnicholer21]

Yes relax. They are great people. Its funny because they seem to live without worries. They are always laughting and will do anything to get you to have fun