Island Customs
The islanders are wonderful people. Just remember that you are in their country. Be respectful of their customs. Before you ask someone a question or speak to them at all, say “good morning/afternoon/night, how are you?” Greeting people before you get to your point is a very polite and proper way to communicate. If you are pleasant to them, they will return the gesture. If you do not acknowledge them before conducting business, they will return the rudeness.
You will find the driving here to be “crazy” as the rule of thumb tends to be “first one to go gets the right of way.” It has been said that the drivers are courteous but not cautious. Most intersections are roundabouts, and you may need your sponsor to help you learn the proper way to navigate them. Honking your horn is done in kindness, whether to let someone know it is okay to merge in or just to say hello. Be prepared to wait while passing cars stop to have a conversation with each other. Also, always be cautious when turning, people will pass you on the left even if you are taking a left turn. Finally, be aware of motorcycles at all times. They tend to drive down the middle of the street, weaving in and out of traffic. No matter how unsafe you may believe this behavior to be, if you hit them even when they do something unsafe, you are still at fault. So just pay extra attention on the roads.
The best advice for adjusting to island life and customs is to just slow down from our fast passed American lifestyle and have patience. Once you learn to not always be in a rush, be kind to people, and have patience, life will be much easier and more enjoyable here.
Also to note, high season or tourist season is from December 15-April 15. It is very busy on island during these times, prices are increased almost universally, and you will always be considered a tourist. Try to be respectful and represent yourself, the school, and America in a good way.
