| The Caribbean provides all a traditional tourist could | | | | getting used to for people on Caribbean holidays is the |
| want and more - sun, sea, sand and surf. But there is | | | | notion of time that applies throughout the region. |
| more to this beautiful collection of islands than just | | | | Caribbean people are famously (or should it be |
| beaches and relaxation. To get the most out of your | | | | infamously?) laid back, and this is reflected in the local |
| Caribbean holidays, you should try and engage with | | | | attitude towards time. If you book something for nine |
| the local cultures, which are vibrant and full of history | | | | o'clock, do not expect it to happen at nine on the dot - |
| and their own rich traditions. Here is some advice on | | | | in fact, be pleased if it does before ten. There is very |
| how to engage best with islanders and learn | | | | little you can do about this - people in the Caribbean |
| something about the culture of the place while you are | | | | are simply not in the same rush as you. Accept it and |
| there. | | | | learn to live at the same kind of pace as the locals - |
| One peculiar aspect of many Caribbean cultures is | | | | you will find yourself much more relaxed as a result, |
| that it is traditional for the visitor to an establishment to | | | | and much better placed to enjoy your Caribbean |
| speak first, rather than whoever works or lives there. | | | | holiday. |
| Thus, many tourists think islanders are being rude | | | | As a final note about getting into real Caribbean culture, |
| when they do not speak to them straight away - | | | | be sure to try local cuisine wherever you are. Too |
| instead, it is you who should say the first words. This is | | | | many tourists on Caribbean holidays stick to the kinds |
| gradually becoming less of an issue as major hotels | | | | of food they are used to at home. If you go for more |
| and resorts are training their staff in more Western | | | | local food, you will often find that it is not only far |
| culture. However, you will nevertheless start off a | | | | tastier, but often much cheaper as well. Caribbean |
| conversation well with a local if you speak first rather | | | | islands obviously specialise in seafood, but you will find |
| than waiting for them. | | | | many more surprising dishes as well, and who could |
| Another element of island culture that takes some | | | | resist real Jamaican jerk chicken? |