Current Time in MontegoBay
Jamaican culture regarding time
Jamaican culture regarding time
"Jamaican time" is common
In Jamaica, a relaxed sense of time called "Jamaican time" is common, and it is not uncommon for people to be a little late for appointments. Relationships with people take priority over time.
Public institutions and schools are relatively punctual
On the other hand, in official places such as government institutions and educational institutions, there is a strong awareness of punctuality, and there is a tendency to require punctual start and strict adherence to deadlines.
Religious activities and local events are flexible
At churches and local festivals, events may start after the scheduled start time to accommodate the people who have naturally gathered, and there is flexibility regarding time.
Jamaican values regarding time
Relationships are valued more than time
There is a culture where people are understanding of the reason for being late, and people tend to value human connections and dialogue more than formal punctuality.
A sense of time to avoid stress
The idea that it is healthy to spend time without being pressed for time is deeply rooted in the country, and "doing things at your own pace without rushing" is valued.
Increasing awareness of time in urban areas
In urban areas such as Kingston, due to the influence of globalization and business, there are increasing cases where being punctual affects professional evaluation.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Jamaica
The trick is to be punctual to appointments
It is not uncommon for local people to be late for meetings or appointments, so foreigners can reduce stress by being flexible and allowing plenty of time.
Punctuality is the basis in business
Flexibility is required in tourism and daily life, but in the business world, being punctual is important as a basis for building trust.
Public transportation timetables should be considered as a guideline
Buses and shuttles often do not run on schedule, so it is necessary to act early and respond to time changes.
Interesting trivia about time in Jamaica
"Soon" does not necessarily mean immediately
The expression "soon come" is often used to mean "sometime in the future" rather than the literal meaning "right away", symbolizing the difference in the sense of time.
Church services start with a "starting atmosphere" rather than the "scheduled time"
For Sunday services, the actual start time is sometimes determined by the arrival status of the participants rather than the start time, and a relaxed start is the norm.
Reggae festivals and live shows are also expected to start late
Music events often do not start on schedule, and the style of audiences waiting leisurely with this in mind is deeply rooted in the culture.