Two days ago I was a soybean. Patties are a local favourite in Jamaica, and after trying one, I can see why. Slightly like Cornish Pasties, but with a hint of chilli and a range of fillings from fish to beef to soya, it makes the perfect snack.
When thinking about Jamaicans 'laid back' and 'no problem' comes to mind. And indeed, many are. However, after travelling to a number of places, especially Kingston, the relaxed attitude is clearly being stretched. The center is packed with shoppers closely monitored by policemen carrying rifles. Shanty towns, rather like the slums of India stretch for miles. Horns blare as cars make their presence known (usually while cutting up other drivers or people). And families selling local produce (or men tapping on windows to ask for change), weave through the queues created by pot-holes and traffic lights. Night-time brings a whole new world. Iron railings and shutters close across shop windows and home porches causing them to resemble miniature versions of Fort Knox. The volume is muted as the streets slowly become deserted. And yet even with barriers guarding their possessions and the slight road-rage, everyone remains friendly, open and helpful. From directing traffic when a lorry breaks down to pointing you the right way when lost, a wave and a smile, whatever their mood, goes a long way.
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