Island Hopping, Appendix O: Caribbean Etiquette

ISLAND HPPING

Appendix O

Caribbean Etiquette

Proper etiquette is high on the list of important things to bring with you when visiting foreign lands; lack of it can be embarrassing at the least and can create serious misunderstandings. For instance, when greeting people as you board a bus, give a hearty “Good morning” (if indeed it is morning) all around and it will be returned. The rule is greetings first, business later. Not offering a greeting first may be received as rude. If you approach a home that has a fence, stop at the front gate and say loudly “Inside”. If you receive no answer, try again. If there is still no answer, the folks are either not at home or don’t wish to be disturbed. And by the way, when two people are speaking, as with good manners everywhere, it is extremely rude to interrupt. West Indians don’t do it, neither should you.

Many Americans judge a man by the grip of his handshake, this does not work in the Caribbean where a soft, gentle hand “embrace” is more the norm. I’ve head some folks (Canadians and Americans, never the British) say that they are surprised that West Indians do not smile. This can create the misconception that the person does not like the cruiser. This is, to say the least, ridiculous. West Indian manners call for a reserved face to be shown, saving the smile for something funny or someone they are familiar with. The lack of a smiley-face should not imply a negative attitude to the visitor unaccustomed to the lifestyle here in the Caribbean.

Finally, let’s discuss a very important subject, it will be a part of a lot that you do here in the Caribbean. Let’s take a moment and touch briefly upon the Caribbean pastime of liming. If you’re invited to join a group for a drink or a bite to eat, by all means, do! Hang out! You’ll be liming! People in the Caribbean can be found liming everywhere, in the streets, in restaurants and bars, at home, or even on your boat. Liming is just chilling, hanging out...get the picture?

I cannot end this section on etiquette without mentioning dress. What we cruisers take for granted in dress while aboard is different from what is expected in public in the Caribbean. In town, a bathing suit is not acceptable and men should wear shirts as well as shoes. We should dress as we would in going to our local mall when we go into town in the Caribbean. Shorts & shirts are fine, bathing gear is considered inappropriate. On some of the islands it is not unusual for women to go topless on the beaches, and yes gentlemen, it is rude to stare!