Why do Jamaicans think Americans always need something?

[Rambo]

There are many places with wonderful beaches, and you will be completely left alone, unfortunately most of us cant afford to get to those places................but going back not all that long ago 7 mile beach was just like that.........
in fact many places in the US were and some still are like that......

what brings out those "salespeople"are two things......poverty and Tourists............and it has become a "clash" of societies in Jamaica.....
those who dont have, see how it is to have "tings" so di "clash"................

because of the somewhat rarity of firearms on the low street level...it yet hasn't reached "US Gang Standards".............
but no longer can you "throw your cares and worries to the wind"..............just keep a eye on the lookout.....

[Irie_Dawta]

One has to wonder why some people have issues with the people workin the beach and others dont....I for one dont have issues. Maybe it really is all about how you respond/talk to them.

[Muck]

One has to wonder why some people have issues with the people workin the beach and others dont....I for one dont have issues. Maybe it really is all about how you respond/talk to them.

You can't lump everyone into the same category, tourists or vendors.

Personally, I ALSO have an issue with vendors who won't take "no" for an answer or put stuff in your hands and then demand payment. I don't however, begrudge vendors for attempting to earn a living.

Another thing...."Respect" is a two way street....if they show me respect, I'll give it back in return. Harassing people and demanding sales is NOT showing "respect". All it takes is a polite "sell pitch" and a polite response, and everything would be cool, IMO.

[Irie_Dawta]

You can't lump everyone into the same category, tourists or vendors.

Personally, I ALSO have an issue with vendors who won't take "no" for an answer or put stuff in your hands and then demand payment. I don't however, begrudge vendors for attempting to earn a living.

Another thing...."Respect" is a two way street....if they show me respect, I'll give it back in return. Harassing people and demanding sales is NOT showing "respect". All it takes is a polite "sell pitch" and a polite response, and everything would be cool, IMO.

Wow, my first post in forever and....well anyway.
Not sure how you got that I was lumping everyone into the same category but I all I am saying is that maybe, just maybe SOME of the people that are having a hard time could take a look at HOW they are responding to the people on the beach.
I have NEVER in 15 yrs of visiting JA had someone put something on my arm and try to get me to pay for it nor have I had anyone follow me down the beach begging for money. Im just sayin....

[Muck]

I have NEVER in 15 yrs of visiting JA had someone put something on my arm and try to get me to pay for it nor have I had anyone follow me down the beach begging for money. Im just sayin....

You're beating the odds....I'll be going for the 5th time this December and have experienced this a few times. The first time it happened, I got caught off guard, wimped out and payed for the bracelet. The next two times this happened (once to my wife), we held our ground and refused payment.

Does this make me want to stay away? Of course not. I love Negril and I love the beach at Negril. In fact, I even like the vendors....or at least 95% of the vendors. That being said, for anyone to say that there AREN'T pushy and shady vendors lurking on the beach are either lying to themselves and everyone else, or confines themselves to an area where they can't be gotten to. (I'm not accusing you of lying, Irie_Dawta ;0))

Most of the advice on this board that gives tips as to how to deal with pushy vendors is spot on. Don't let anyone put anything on your arm, and a firm, but polite "No thank you" will usually work.

[Mr. Twister]

I have NEVER in 15 yrs of visiting JA had someone put something on my arm and try to get me to pay for it

I agree with Muck....you are definitley beating the odds if you spend any time on the beach.

My wife and I have been going to Negril every year since the mid 90's and have had this happen on many occassion. While I don't appreciate it, I just listen to the sales pitch and nicely reject the "gift".

[Rambo]

I'm sure it is, maybe its not you, but the person they encountered just before you, is what set the tone.......
we never say NO more than once-twice, but I do see it happening.....