Jamaican Patois: Language, Dialect, Slang?
Fearful of not being understood, many Americans seek out vacation and retirement options where English is the official language.This leaves many at a loss when they vacation in Jamaica and encounter Patois, the “unofficial” language. Misunderstanding Patois can easily send…
Misfits, Oddballs and Freaks
I’m frequently questioned about my choice to eventually live in Jamaica with my husband, Robin, when we retire in a few years. Getting to know me tends to help folks see why Jamaica is such a nice fit. I thought…
How Slow Can You Go?
I think it’s safe to say that most countries run with a definitive sense of “time.” Offices and businesses run on a schedule. Life is hectic and often stress filled. Meanwhile, life in Jamaica is generally slower and simply moves…
4 Cultural Norms: Just Roll With It
People often seem surprised when I mention going through Jamaican culture shock. While many things about Jamaica are similar to the USA, others require one to make adjustments. For instance, I have recently noticed that Jamaicans, in general, seem to…
Life on the Verandah
If kitchens are seen as the gathering spot in American homes, the verandah garners that title in Jamaica. It seems that it is THE place to meet and greet. A centerpiece in Jamaican culture, they aren’t hidden away on the…
Remodeling in Jamaica: 4 Helpful Hints
Who would’ve ever believed that something as simple as replacing a toilet or fixing a water valve could turn into a drawn out ordeal? Anybody trying to do it in Jamaica sure will! Remodeling in Jamaica is not for the…
The Joy That Is Jamaica
Have you ever had that feeling of going someplace completely outside your normal realm yet finding you felt as if you’ve always been there?The very first time I set foot on the island of Jamaica, I felt like I had finally…