Mornings start early, while the air is soft, because by afternoon the heat builds and a sudden shower can send everyone under the nearest awning. People plan around the sky, with errands before noon, a long rest when the sun is high, and a cold drink once the rain has passed.

The climate is tropical and warm all year, with two monsoons that bring rain to different coasts at different times, so some corner of the island is usually sunny. A Local Friend keeps the plan flexible, swapping a beach for a market when the clouds roll in.