What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Kingston. They wrote...
"Expats in Kingston often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is the official language but many locals also speak Patois. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. The climate can also be a challenge, as Kingston is a tropical city with high temperatures and humidity. Finally, the cost of living in Kingston can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy," remarked another expat who made the move to Kingston, Jamaica.
"Be careful about who you choose as friends, because the general advice I give is that people will always take your kindness for weakness. NEVER disclose info about yourself. Stay out of people's business and keep people out of yours. After a while you will see that Jamaicans rarely disclose their intentions or plans. They'll be packing their bags to go overseas but they won't tell you until the last moment if they feel the need to. If you're able to, keep guard dogs, don't stop to talk to strangers, don't listen to hard-luck stories, keep it moving, Don't think you can be a saviour because your life will soon become very difficult and uncomfortable - if you want to help, support, reach out directly to charities. Remember. People here adopt the saying that a fool and his money are soon parted. It's possible to have the best life here but you have to know and understand what you'll be getting yourself into. It's not all beaches and sunsets," explained one expat living in Jamaica.
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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Kingston?
- What do I need to know before moving to Kingston?
- How do I find a place to live in Kingston?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Kingston?
- What is the average cost of housing in Kingston?
- How do I meet people in Kingston?
- What should I pack when moving to Kingston?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Kingston?
- Will I be able to find a job in Kingston?
- What is life like in Kingston?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Kingston?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Kingston?
- What is the social scene like in Kingston?
- What advice to expats in Kingston have about housing?
- What are medical services in Kingston like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kingston?
- Is the cost of living in Kingston high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Kingston?
- Why do people move to Kingston?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Kingston, newcomers to Kingston would love to hear your answer to this question.