Caribbean myths or Caribbean misconceptions are an issue I must address. In fact, I was born and lived in the Caribbean for most of my adult life. I was surprised to be confronted with some of those Caribbean myths. This occurred when I took up residence in the US. Without a doubt, I consider the large number of Caribbean myths to be Caribbean misconceptions.
Caribbean Misconception: Everyone from the Caribbean is from Jamaica?
Truth: No. All Caribbean people are not from Jamaica? Everyone said my accent was Jamaican. The Caribbean comprise of several islands. Each island has its own distinct accent and some places their local dialect.
Misconception: Do the Caribbean speak only Spanish?
Truth: No. The Caribbean speak several languages. The islands were occupied and colonized by the English, French and Spanish. As a result, several islands speak Spanish, French and Dutch. For instance, Dominica is located between two French islands. Guadeloupe in the north and Martinique in the South. Dominica’s main language is English. However, the indigenous Carib Indians speak both English and their local dialect. The young generation is reviving the dialect.
Caribbean myths
Caribbean Myths: All Caribbean islands are basically the same.
Truth: Each island in the Caribbean is different in size, culture, attractions and economy. As a matter of fact, the bigger islands in terms of land mass are more developed. They inherited their infrastructure from their colonial occupiers. An integral part of numerous islands economy is based on beach tourism. Other islands like Dominica provide eco-tourism for nature lovers. That island does not have white sandy beaches which is popular among cruise tourists.
Misconception: All you can do in the Caribbean is lay on the beach.
Truth: This is false. Caribbean people work as hard as any nation. People enjoy the numerous beaches available on their island. The beach activities are done after regular working hours.
Caribbean Myths: Drinking Caribbean tap water will make you sick.
Truth: You can drink Caribbean water right from the tap. The Caribbean islands are doing their utmost best against pollution. On some islands like Dominica you can drink water from the numerous rivers on the island.
Misconception: Only one type of ethnicity exists in the Caribbean.
Truth: Some islands population is mainly the descendants of African slaves. Whereas, some islands are a melting pot with whites, Chinese and Indians. Some islands have the local natives.
Caribbean misconceptions
Caribbean Misconception: Caribbean people are always laid back and slow moving.
Truth: The pace in the Caribbean is slower. That does not mean that Caribbean people do not work hard. Caribbean people
have definite working hours during which the emphasis is on maximizing profits. After work there is time for leisure and recreation. Relaxation is an important component of health and production.
Misconception: Reggae is the sole music in the Caribbean.
Truth: The well-known and popular music from Jamaica is reggae. Bob Marley was a successful musician. As a result, he made the music internationally popular. Also admired in the Caribbean is calypso music which is highlighted during the carnival festive season. In addition, some islands have their own island music. Dominica is located between two French islands and it’s “compa” and “zouck” music caters for that market.
My analysis of the so-called Caribbean Myths is intended to provide a better perspective of the Caribbean region. I do not think that they are truly Caribbean myths. In fact, they should be considered Caribbean misconceptions.
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