Pros and Cons of Living in Kingston

"Expatriates in Kingston appreciate the vibrant culture, friendly people, and the laid-back atmosphere. They also enjoy the city's rich history, diverse cuisine, and the beautiful beaches. The city's music scene is also a major draw, with a variety of genres from reggae to dancehall. Expats also appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Finally, the city's tropical climate and lush natural beauty make it a great place to live," explained one expat.

"Jamaicans are like every other people. Some you wouldn't want to make friends with, others that you will wonder just how you managed o live your life without having had that person in it. Most Jamaicans are warm, friendly, hospitable and helpful. In the time that I have been here, for the most part I have experienced nothing but warmth in my interactions with people. This is not to say that you will never encounter some mean, bad-minded people, but bad-minded people exist everywhere," said one person in Kingston.

"Expats in Kingston often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is the official language but many locals also speak Patois. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. The climate can also be a challenge, as Kingston is a tropical city with high temperatures and humidity. Finally, the cost of living in Kingston can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy," said one person in Kingston.

"Be careful about who you choose as friends, because the general advice I give is that people will always take your kindness for weakness. NEVER disclose info about yourself. Stay out of people's business and keep people out of yours. After a while you will see that Jamaicans rarely disclose their intentions or plans. They'll be packing their bags to go overseas but they won't tell you until the last moment if they feel the need to. If you're able to, keep guard dogs, don't stop to talk to strangers, don't listen to hard-luck stories, keep it moving, Don't think you can be a saviour because your life will soon become very difficult and uncomfortable - if you want to help, support, reach out directly to charities. Remember. People here adopt the saying that a fool and his money are soon parted. It's possible to have the best life here but you have to know and understand what you'll be getting yourself into. It's not all beaches and sunsets," remarked one expat in Jamaica.