Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Kingston, Jamaica

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Kingston

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

After. I'm learning as I go

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Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

No

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

Dramatic

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

In Jamaica its really hard to find a good professional help such as, carpenter, plumber, electrian. Everyone one has been recomended highly only to be let down with them having to do the work not twice, but 3 and 4 times before it's correct. Even the Lawyer I dealt with when my grandmother died, was really extreamly SLOW in responding and not being pro active, now I'm having to deal with a Realtor, it's living the Lawyer issues all over again. It's taken me 5 years to realize it's a culture thing not the individuals.

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

The people in general are warm hearted and love their family

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Not getting work done right the first time, and having to wait for things to be done right away.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

Have patience.