Wonders of Jamaica

    If you are the kind of person to be up for an early morning swim, then you are in luck, this trio will serenade you with songs from The Legend (Bob Marley) with a more traditional twist…mento style. I was in my room watching this lovely, mix-matched performance and had to run down by the beach so I could drop a few bills in their tip jar…yes man, please TIP them. These wonderful men walk the beach singing and playing their instruments for us, that is how they make their living and $1US will not break you man. It is just the way we think, try thinking this way. 

First always wear the other person’s shoes completely because, I believe, that is one of the keys to understanding each other’s behavior. Second, jobs are scarce in Jamaica and these guys have amazing talent, so instead of stealing or begging they formed a band, walking the beach working for us while at the same time sweating their butts off. Now they’ve worked…they should get paid. However if you do not feel like giving then fine, but please do not go around telling your family and friends how you got bothered in Jamaica just because you cannot think globally. I see it as a plus, I am sure you are in Jam Rock to relax, unwind, and to get away, so enjoy the ‘cheap’ but beautiful sound of live music…it only adds to the experience. Anyways, by the time they left everyone was happier and friendlier. I think that is a job well done. Remember to pack lots of smiles and patience when traveling to Jamaica; she does not like grumpy people. 

List of people one should usually tip and as always tipping is a personal choice:

• Driver that drove you around all day to different attractions
• The tour guides
• The beach singers
• Beach attendants
• Waitresses and waiters (check bill to make sure tip was not added on)
• Maid
• Room service
• Bell boy
• Baggage handlers 

A famous Jamaican proverb says “every mickle mek a muckle”, (every bit adds up), I give a few bucks, you give a buck, then someone else gives another dollar. The amount of money that person made at the end of the day will not get he/she rich, but will make life a little more comfortable. Now, please also respect how much you tip. I have seen folks tip a driver $50JA (59 cents in US) and he drove us around all day. One can get away with a lot in Jamaica when it comes to how inexpensive things are, but remember it’s about respecting another person and their culture. Use discretion when tipping, so not to insult anyone after a very courteous and friendly service.  This Rasta Man walks a different beach singing Songs of Freedom. His style is crisp, clean, and at a faster rhythm. He too had great vocals.