What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Trinidad & Tobago?
We asked people in Trinidad & Tobago if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Trinidad & Tobago. It is considered rude to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. It is also important to be aware of local religious customs, and to be respectful of religious holidays and places of worship. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local taboos, such as discussing politics or religion in public. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local people and their culture, and to avoid making any negative comments about their culture or customs," remarked another expat who made the move to Trinidad & Tobago.
"Since I have troubles understanding the local slang, I sang a song from the radio like this: "Granny, girl, tell me why you are hunting me..." (thinking of the dead grandmother as a ghost) while the original goes like this: Indrani, girl, tell me why you are horning me... Indrani = a girl's name," explained one expat living in San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Trinidad & Tobago?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Will I be able to find a job in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What is life like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What do expats in Trinidad & Tobago appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Trinidad & Tobago accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Trinidad & Tobago like?
- What are healthcare services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are medical services in Trinidad & Tobago like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are emergency services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Trinidad & Tobago?
- How are local medical facilities in Trinidad & Tobago?
- As a foreigner living in Trinidad & Tobago, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Trinidad & Tobago?
If you live in Trinidad & Tobago, newcomers to Trinidad & Tobago would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.