What happens when Jamaican culture meets Vietnamese tradition? For Andre Kay, who was born and raised in Jamaica, and Thuy (Twe), a Vietnamese American raised in California, the answer has been a relationship built on curiosity, food, laughter, and mutual respect.
In this episode of Married to a Jamaican, Xavier Murphy sits down with the couple to explore their backgrounds, how they met, and what has helped their intercultural marriage thrive.
Two Cultures, One Foundation
Thuy grew up in Stockton, California, in a large Vietnamese household with nine siblings. Raised in a Catholic, culturally Vietnamese environment, her early years were largely shaped by family, faith, and tradition. She was introduced to Caribbean culture later in life after moving to Florida as a teenager, where she encountered Jamaican music, food, and social spaces for the first time.
Andre’s upbringing was firmly Jamaican. Born and raised on the island, he grew up across two households—one side Christian, the other Catholic—spending time between different grandparents before migrating to South Florida in his teenage years. That dual household experience shaped his adaptability and openness, qualities that would later play an important role in his relationship.
The Love Story: From Nightlife to Lifelong Partnership
Andre and Thuy’s paths crossed through mutual friends in South Florida’s social scene. Their first real interaction came during a group hangout that turned into a night out dancing. While the meeting itself was casual, the connection was immediate.
The moment that sealed the deal, however, came the very next day. Andre asked Thuy what she wanted to eat—and she was specific: jerk chicken and a pineapple-flavoured Jamaican soda. He showed up with not one, but two plates of food. That simple, thoughtful gesture made a lasting impression, not just on Thuy, but on her family as well.
From there, the relationship grew naturally. Dates followed, including steakhouse dinners and more formal outings that introduced Thuy to a different dining world. Andre, known for being intentional and creative, made effort a constant feature of their relationship—something that would later inspire his date-planning app, Best Date Ever.
Navigating Culture Without Conflict
Despite coming from different cultural backgrounds, Andre and Thuy say they experienced very few misunderstandings. A big reason, they believe, is willingness—particularly Thuy’s openness to Jamaican culture from early on.
She embraced the food, music, language cues, and humour, even learning cultural nuances like calling avocado “pear” and understanding that questionable customer service at a Jamaican restaurant often signals excellent food. In return, Andre immersed himself in Vietnamese culture, learning the cuisine, traditions, and family dynamics that shape Thuy’s world.
Their home and holidays reflect that balance. Meals often feature both Jamaican and Vietnamese dishes, and family gatherings are shared rather than separated by culture. For them, blending traditions has never felt forced—it simply became part of who they are as a couple.
Advice for Intercultural Couples
When asked what advice they would give to couples navigating cultural differences, both Andre and Thuy emphasised the same principles: openness and communication.
Andre encourages couples to try everything—food, language, traditions—before deciding what works for them. Thuy adds that honest conversation is essential, especially when something feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Understanding, she says, starts with asking questions rather than making assumptions.
Their story is a reminder that cultural differences don’t have to be obstacles. With curiosity, effort, and respect, they can become the very thing that strengthens a relationship.
Are You Married to a Jamaican? Share Your Love Story!
If you’re married to a Jamaican, we’d love for you to share your journey with us. Tell us how you met, the cultural surprises you’ve encountered, and what makes your relationship special. Submit your story here.
