General History of Jamaica

Jamaicans are friendly, amusing, warm and kind.

Jamaicans are known to make up their own word to suit the topic they are speaking about. The way Jamaican people get food is not by going to the local grocery store but by going to a traditional market in the middle of town. Or by food plants that bears food for consumption such as ackee, yam, banana ect.

Etiquette
Jamaicans are easygoing people, but a few codes of conduct will keep everyone smiling. Common courtesy always goes a long way, and handshakes and politeness are always respected, especially in business situations. Travelers are reminded that business and social situations punctuality is greatly appreciated. And when it comes to fashion, locals in Jamaica consider short skirts and shorts for women to be inappropriate.

Jamaican language
The official language is English. English has been the national language for more than 300 years. However, most likely you will hear what sounds like a foreign tongue. This unique language is called "Patois". Patois is a combination of Spanish, English, Portuguese and African phrases which sounds more rhythmic then traditional English.

Jamaican music
The Reggae music is a very strong part of the Jamaican culture. Their music has achieved international fame by singers like the late Bob Marley. Other singers such as Sly Dunbar, Shaggy, Melody Makers, Shabba Ranks, Black Uhuru and Robby Shakespeare have won Grammy Awards in the Reggae category.

Dance Hall Music
This is a spin off from reggae music born within the ghetto of the country. Which showcase the likes of Bennie Man, Bounty Killer, Vybes Kartel, Ninja Man and more.

Jamaica is an island nation of the Greater Antilles, 234 kilometres (145 mi) in length and as much as 80 kilometres (50 mi) in width situated in the Caribbean Sea. It is about 145 kilometres (90 mi) south of Cuba, and 190 kilometres (120 mi) west of the island of Hispaniola, on which Haiti and the Dominican Republic are situated.