Jamaica
What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Jamaica. They wrote...
"Driving is the most challenging aspect of this new culture, because of the bad roads and driving on the opposite side of the road is definitely a challenge! Health care is another concern of mine, but for now I'm not letting that stop me from living my dream," remarked another expat who made the move to Negril, 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 Kingston, Jamaica.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Jamaica?
- How do I find a place to live in Jamaica?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Jamaica?
- What is the average cost of housing in Jamaica?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Jamaica?
- What should I pack when moving to Jamaica?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Jamaica?
- Why do people move to Jamaica?
- What are healthcare services like in Jamaica?
- What are medical services in Jamaica like?
- What are typical rents in Jamaica?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Jamaica, newcomers to Jamaica would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
