What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Barbados?
We asked people in Barbados if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"My first time at the Oistins fish fry I saw "Dolphin" on the menu and was a bit upset at the thought of eating dolphin and went on a bit of a rant about saving the dolphins... only to find out that in Barbados "dolphin fish" is actually Dorado or Maui Maui and not a Dolphin at all," wrote a member who made the move to Hastings, Barbados.
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"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Barbados. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using profanity. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and to avoid engaging in activities that are illegal in Barbados. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local people and to avoid making assumptions about their culture," explained one expat living in Barbados.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Barbados?
- How do I meet people in Barbados?
- What is life like in Barbados?
- Is there a lot of crime in Barbados?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Barbados accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Barbados like?
- Is the cost of living in Barbados high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Barbados?
- What are healthcare services like in Barbados?
- Is the cost of living in Barbados high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Barbados?
- What is the weather like in Barbados?
- Are there good restaurants in Barbados?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Barbados?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Barbados?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Barbados?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Barbados?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Barbados?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Barbados?
If you live in Barbados, newcomers to Barbados would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
