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How do Jamaicans know that I'm British

by Faith
(UK)

QUESTION about: How Do They Know My Nationality

Hey how do Jamaicans know if you are from there? If you have not even opened your mouth. Yo are just walking down the street, and someone shouts out "British"

ANSWER: by Wellesley, April 2016

Hi Faith,

Very interesting question, lol.
I take it that you are British right?

Ok, good!

Let me take a guess at your question... remember this is all subjective now :-)

I also take it that you are Caucasian, right?

If you are, then that might be the first clue. Not only is over 95% of Jamaicans are dark-skinned, most visitors to Jamaica are either American, British and Canadians - in that order.

So if you are not dark-skinned and doesn't look Asian, how do we know?

Then I would presume it is your general demeanor. Americans are said to be a bit more flamboyant and confident here, where British nationals are usually more 'retained' - if you know what I mean :-)

That might be it!

Please don't hold me to this though, this is just my personal view, others might have other basis but I think I am speaking for the typical Jamaican- at least I hope so :-)

And by the way, many Jamaicans also typically calls asian-looking people (who they do not know their names) "Mr. Chin" and "Ms Chin" :-); That's one of 26 ways to instantly recognize (on the flip side) a Jamaican.

Please read it to add some humour to your day :-)

Anyway, I hope this helps!

See also: Understanding Jamaican culture

Regards,
Wellesley Gayle, My-Island-Jamaica.com

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