Jamaica is an incredible destination and one of the most sought-after islands in the Caribbean. And for a good reason, the island has a unique culture, stunning white sand beaches, palm tree-fringed coastlines, and sparkling azure oceans surrounding it.
It’s hardly surprising so many Americans choose it as their annual vacation destination. While the island will have you swimming in the warmest, most tranquil waters on the planet, lounging on white sands, sipping cocktails, and shading under palms, there are some huge differences between the island and the US culture.
Differences that can be, at first, shocking to a tourist. Even staying at the most luxurious hotels and all-inclusive resorts, navigating local customers and interacting with the locals can be tricky. So what are these differences, and how can you navigate them when staying at hotels and resorts in Jamaica?
Drop The Times & Schedules
While the more luxurious resorts cater to more rigorous tourist itineraries, remember you’re in the Caribbean, and Jamaican time runs slightly differently. This is known as island time, meaning times and schedules are followed loosely here, so relaxed Caribbean vibes are the go. Even with the most luxurious resorts, things don’t happen as punctually as at home in America.
So our advice here is to go with the flow and adopt the slower, more relaxed pace of life. And as a guest to Jamaica, following island time won’t hurt; you may find it shifts your life perspective a little.
Book An All-inclusive & Save Money
While at first, an all-inclusive resort may seem more expensive than tackling Jamaica on your own with your own time and catering, an all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay can work out more cost-effective in Jamaica.
Due to the island’s ever-increasing popularity, the prices of transport, taxis, accommodations, food, and excursions–costs add up super quickly when you’re planning your trip. Whereas if you book everything beforehand, you not only remove the stress and planning from your trip but also save money simultaneously.
Understand Some Cultural Differences
The main thing to know when booking resorts and hotels for your Jamaican vacation is the massive difference between the US and Jamaica. These are often shocking to tourists, but for a stress-free holiday and heading to the island in the know, here are some of the major differences you must be aware of:
- Homosexuality is illegal and highly frowned upon by many Jamaicans, so if you are in the LBTQ community, you should be careful.
- Marijuana is illegal despite what many think.
- USD is widely accepted, but local currency is more appropriate for smaller payments
- You can drink tap water.
- The time and schedules are flexible; remember you’re on island time, so flow with it.
- Don’t walk around alone at night, no matter where you are on the island)
All of these tips are crucial to know before visiting the islands, and while some can be shocking and frustrating, you have to flow with the rules and culture of the country whether you agree with them or not. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive, you may be sheltered from many cultural differences; they are still vital for excursions and dealing with the locals, including hotel staff.
Tipping
As is customary throughout the United States, tipping is also standard practice in Jamaica. While you’ll tip according to the service you receive for restaurants and excursions, it is common to tip 10-20% for top-end hotels in Jamaica.
In contrast, many resorts and hotels don’t allow tipping, so you should always check whether this is customary when booking your all-inclusive. However, due to the low wages for many hospitality workers, you may find any hotel staff you give tips to are hugely appreciative.
Put Up With Insects & Bugs
Many resorts deal with numerous complaints of bugs and insects from unsuspecting guests while in jamaica. But if you’re in the Caribbean, it doesn’t matter if you’re staying at the cleanest, most luxurious 5-star resort on the islands; you’re on an island vacation, so insects and bugs are part of life here, and so it’s inevitable you’ll find one or two in your rook or around the vicinity. Rather than complain, don’t touch them and leave them alone.
Summary
Jamaica is an incredible destination and boasts some fantastic all-inclusive resorts which can serve as the venue for your next perfect Jamaican venture. Now you know some cultural differences and how to tweak your life outlook to align with island time, you can head to the island in the know and ready for a fabulous vacation.
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