Jamaican Culture

By: Stephen Thiele

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Looking for information on the Jamaican culture? Jamaica is a small country that is located in the Caribbean Sea, about 90 miles south of Cuba. If you are looking for a good vacation spot where the people enjoy a laid back lifestyle, Jamaica is the country for you. Although the Jamaican people can be very direct when they are speaking to you, don't take offense with it. That is simply part of their culture. In Western culture, being on time is very important, but it isn't to the Jamaican people due to their relaxed attitude.

Music is a huge part of the Jamaican culture. If you are visiting Jamaica, expect to hear loud music playing everywhere you go. Some of the most famous music traditions in the world trace their roots back to Jamaica. Many of the current music genres, including Punk, Ska, and Reggae, were created thanks to the Jamaican culture. When Jamaican people aren't listening to music, you will often find them watching filmed plays and movies. Other activities that are a big part of the Jamaican culture include playing cricket and soccer.

Food is also a very important aspect of the Jamaican culture. Being that the people who live in Jamaica come from all over the world, you will see cuisine that is quite different everywhere you go. One of the favorite lunch meals of the Jamaican people is the island hamburger, which is a spicy burger that the English brought to the country way back in 1655. People in Jamaica like to include home grown foods in their meals, such as yams, potatoes, and plantains. If you are from the United States, you would be surprised at how differently the Jamaican people prepare those common foods.

Posted on: Apr. 14, 2011