THE EDITOR, Madam:
AS A visitor to Jamaica on a number of occasions, I wanted to comment on a story that appeared in your August 1 edition. The story was about the business interests in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios concern that they may not be getting their 'share' of dollars from cruise ship passengers. The businesses further expressed concern that many passengers were remaining on board ship during Jamaican port stops.
I believe that much of this is caused by the cultural differences between Jamaicans and the visitors, most of whom are from North America and Europe. In my visits to Jamaica I have learned that the way Jamaicans relate to others, be they natives or visitors, is vastly different from what most North Americans an Europeans are used to.
The open and forward approach of most Jamaicans is viewed as overly aggressive by tourists from North America and Europe. The 'aggressive' reputation of Jamaicans causes some passengers to fear getting off of the cruise ships.
This is especially true when they are greeted at the port gates by panhandlers and very aggressive jitney drivers.
While I am not suggesting that Jamaicans change their culture, I am suggesting that a more laid-back approach will bring in more tourist dollars in the long run. It is analogous to trying to hold water in your hand. The harder you squeeze, the more water slips through your fingers.
I am etc.,
DAVID M. KNIGHTS
E-mail: loulaw@aol.com
P.O. Box 22272
Louisville, KY, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
