Current Time in Harper
Liberian culture regarding time
Liberian culture regarding time
Flexible sense of time
In Liberia, a very flexible attitude toward time is common. It is common for meetings and gatherings to start later than scheduled, so there is even a term for it: "Liberian time".
Social use of time
Conversations and interactions with people are emphasized, so deepening relationships with others tends to take priority over using time efficiently.
Public transportation departure times are a guideline
Public transportation such as buses and shared taxis do not have set departure times, and many of them depart after they are full, so they are not punctual.
Liberian values regarding time
Emphasis on relationships over gatherings
An attitude of valuing relationships is more important than arriving on time. Being too concerned about time can make you seem cold.
Flexibility and tolerance
They are tolerant of delays due to unexpected events, weather, and traffic conditions, and schedule changes are rarely seen as a problem.
Religious events emphasize content over time
Church and prayer gatherings can last for a long time, so it is important that the time is meaningful, not the length of time.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or moving to Liberia
Appointment times are only guidelines
Even in business situations, meeting times and start times are considered to be "guidelines," and you should be prepared to accept delays of 10 to 30 minutes as expected.
Rushing too much is counterproductive
When traveling, if you act in an efficient manner, local people may distrust you or take it as rudeness. It is important to have a flexible schedule.
Be aware of store and service opening hours
Stores and offices do not have set opening hours, and may close early or suddenly, so it is essential to check in advance.
Fun facts about time in Liberia
There is a term "Liberian time"
There is a term "Liberian Time" in the country, and it is used as a phrase that symbolizes the culture that "it's okay to be late".
Church services can last for several hours
Church services on Sundays often start in the morning and continue until late afternoon, with more emphasis on enthusiasm and content than on time.
Children go to school before dark
Except in urban areas, children in rural areas walk long distances to school, so it is not uncommon for families to start activities when it is still dark.