Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Jamaica

The weed of wisdom
One of the greatest myths about life in Jamaica is that marijuana (locally called ganja) is grown, sold and/or smoked everywhere by everyone. Although the local weed is said to be the best quality in the world, the average Jamaican does not smoke it. We all know it, because we have seen the pictures on countless tourist T-Shirts, bags, bath towels, etc., but most natives would rather not have it around them. It is also illegal to smoke ganja in public, even though in most cases such activity is widely ignored.

The scam of the earth
Phone cards, lottery, money remittance, it seems like everywhere you turn Jamaica is mentioned in these scams. It has even reached the point where even Jamaicans are wary of the 876-area code, since it appears as if every Jamaican is involved in a scam of some sort. In reality, there is only a very small faction that is involved in this most rejected activity. Although Jamaicans on a whole will seek ways and means to help make their lives easier, the overwhelming majority wishes to have nothing to do with scams of any sort.

No problem mon!
A nice shady tree on the hillside or by the beach; a plate of fresh exotic fruits on the left and some ice-cold coconut water (with a little dash of something extra) on the right. aah, this is the life. Most Jamaicans are usually awakened from this dream either by their alarm clock, crying baby or that nagging feeling that it is time to get ready to go to work. Inasmuch as Jamaicans have a serious zest for chilling, partying, hanging out, playing Dominos and going to cricket, football and other sporting events, they have not escaped the realities of the world. There are bills to pay, loved ones to care for, health, education, housing and crime concerns, just like anywhere else in the world. It is not a fairytale life but Jamaicans have a way of making it all seem like “no problem mon!”
Life in Jamaica is the same as anywhere else, but different. It is more than an existence… it is an experience. If you plan to move to Jamaica, for whatever reason, and you have general questions about life in Jamaica, or if you need assistance with your move, one of the companies that you can contact is Orandy Shipping,orandy.com/shipping-company-jamaica. They have been found to be quite helpful in providing information and assistance.

I have no misconception since I have been there several times. However, people do tend to judge them based on

Hi everyone,

@ Shakazulu26, based on what ?

Feel free to complete your post, your inputs could benefit members.

All the best,
Bhavna