please help me discovering jamaica, not like a tourist

[Toto]

hi!
im toto.
im 20 years old and living in germany.
my dream is to live my life in jamaica, but first i need to discover it and check out how is life there. i dont want to travel there like a tourist for a few weeks because i need to be there about 1 year and search for work and a place to sleep.
i completed an education as metalworker and blacksmith

so i need to know:

- the situation on the job market (especially for metalwork and blacksmith)
- are there places or families who offer a place to sleep in substitution for work
- what licenses do i need for living and working in jamaica for 1 year

thanks for ur help
... if u answer me please try to write english because ive just begun with learning patwah so i dont understand that much...

[DiamondDave]

Re: please help me discovering jamaica, not like a tourist

Hi Toto, welcome to Jamaicans.com

You are wise to do your research...a good place to start would be here at Ja.com in the forum called Tek Mi Back A Yard where you can find information about moving to Jamaica....also check the Business/Professional Connection forum....

The Jamaica Tourist Board has a program called Meet the People which may be of interest....

You might also like to check out some of the Jamaican newspapers:

www.jamaicaobserver.com

www.jamaica-gleaner.com

Also keep in mind that as far as employment, as long as there is a Jamaican qualified to fill the position, you won't be getting the job....

Good Luck!

[Grandmother]

Re: please help me discovering jamaica, not like a tourist

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Toto</div><div class="ubbcode-body">hi!
im toto.
im 20 years old and living in germany.
my dream is to live my life in jamaica, but first i need to discover it and check out how is life there. i dont want to travel there like a tourist for a few weeks because i need to be there about 1 year and search for work and a place to sleep.
i completed an education as metalworker and blacksmith

so i need to know:

- the situation on the job market (especially for metalwork and blacksmith)
- are there places or families who offer a place to sleep in substitution for work
- what licenses do i need for living and working in jamaica for 1 year

</div></div>

Most of us on this board are tourists, I never understand why people like to pretend otherwise, You can be a tourist and know a lot about a place you visit, this is not a bad thing.


With regard to the living and working in Jamaica for a year, after contacting the Jamaican Embassy, I found out that as a US citizen we are allowed to stay for six month increments, but you can leave, (now here is where it gets sketchy) for a period of days or weeks not sure which and return for another six month period. You can get this permission or okay at point of entry, through the immigration officer. I tested this when I was there in May and the agent did give me a six month stamp, but even she was unsure about the length of time between the six month period.

AS quoted above the job market would probably be where your problem would come in. I have also heard of agents asking for info regarding your financial status, as a 20 year old this may be a question you might get asked. So research, ask questions and learn as much as you can, so that you are prepared for the obstacles/questions you might get. I've been visiting for over 25 years and there is stil much that I have to learn.

Dream your Dream, but do as you said &quot; DISCOVER AND CHECK out how life is there.&quot;

Bless
O

[Toto]

Re: please help me discovering jamaica, not like a tourist

thanks for ur answers and links!

i see it will be though for me getting a job but its okay cause i dont want to steal any Jamaican the chance of getting a job.
i think ill try this 6 months tourist thing, it makes sound sense

thanks again and maybe we will meet anytime in Jamaica

[Schuttzie]

Re: please help me discovering jamaica, not like a tourist

Good luck, toto! Research as much as possible.. hope you are able make your dream come true. It is a wonderful country rich with culture and wonderful people!