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Had dinner at Quality Sea Breeze last Monday. Nice to see some full tables. My girl and I each got the “Moose Special” - mine fried and hers grilled with extra garlic sauce. Rice and peas and french fries. Delish as usual. As always, Quality, Fay and Kenisha took great care of us. Tru Jamaican hospitality.
Bottle that sauce cause I wanna drink it like a smoothie!
Aw man,
I forgot about Quality last trip,
Thanks for the reminder.
Mikey's got a girlfriend !! :) I bet it was great, hope you made it on the Yamon Red Stripe cruise.
Lmao Jojo... I had the same reaction!Quote:
Originally Posted by jojo p
haha. you guys are funny :cool-new: Sorry I didn't get the chance to introduce you and Rob but I didn't want to jam you up by trying to make plans. I know you're probably busy enough.Quote:
Originally Posted by Bnewb
I gave her the run down of what to do and not to do with the higglers and hustlers before we left and she handled herself like an old pro. no bracelets or pre-rolled subs were forced on her.
Didn't make it on yamon. Next time. always "next time"
Missed out on Dean and jerk pork too. bummer.
Other things we missed that I wanted her to see: Ricks (shes a first timer) and snorkeling (called Vincent but he already had 12 people booked on the morning we wanted to go. Good for him. Considered making some more calls but decided to make it a sand gravity day) , Jus Natrual, Booby Cay. Didn't even get to take a proper beach crawl...we only made it to sunbeach from TH. That's okay. "Next time."
We did make it on the pub crawl which was great. As well as Pelican bar and YS falls.
Spent a couple hours at YS and did the hike up the falls, rope swing and jump from the lower falls. Took care of our guide and sent him off and did some poking around by ourselves. Couple red stripe and pattys from the tiny bodega on site.
Spent about 3.5 hours at Pelican. I like to hang out there. I don't understand the people that come all that way and stay for 20 mins, then catch the next boat back. Lookie lous that just don't get it.
As the afternoon rolled on, a boat of about ten people showed up with a very tall female that was taking pics of them all. My girl says to me, "i know her; i know her face from somewhere." Then after a few minutes she says, she used to be a super model and pulls up pics on her phone. Sure enough, it was Lily Cole. I made a joke and said "of course super models hang out at the places I do in Jamaica." She played it cool and pretended she didn't know who it was, as to not make anyone uncomfortable. After their photo shoot was done we all chatted and joked about random things and stayed for an amazing sunset then went our separate ways.
We got absolutely destroyed by mosquitoes once we got back to the beach. Glad I always pack bug spray. Linston and the guys at the bar in Parotee got a real kick out of us running around swatting at the bugs. She went running into the bathroom in almost a sheer panic. It was quite the sight. They also got a kick of me doing shots of overproof. The bartender didn't quite understand what I was asking for when I first ordered. I usually don't drink like that when I'm walking the beach or cliffs because I want to stay somewhat level headed, but I knew I was in good company so I let it rip.
Needless to say, Linston took good care of us.
I can honestly say she "got it" and cant wait to go back.
Hey MikeyNYC......A "Moose special" is?????
Ha - we were at Quality's on Monday.
MikeyNYC....your trip report is crazy personal and absolutely beautiful.
I am so glad your girlfriend "gets it"...and Rob and I will be truly honoured when we get the opportunity to meet her. Love to you both!
Did you stop and try the soup at the little place on the side of the road halfway back to Negril?
Mahi with garlic sauce. Everyone knows that!Quote:
Originally Posted by rocknrollfarmer
We stopped somewhere for soup but it was very close to Negril, and I wouldn't say it was little, relatively speaking. It looked pretty official by Negril standards and the soup was really good. Linston said it was Captian D's go to soup spot, so maybe Cap can chime in with the name. I want to say it was called "Negril Soup Spot"Quote:
Originally Posted by Irine
Most likely the soup stand at Mr. Chin (Zang Wang) across from the transport center
Cap
Nope didn't know that. I'm just a ignorant country bumpkin, plow-boy, hay-seed, annoying man from Minnesota! grin.
haha. just teasing. I playfully dubbed it that a while back after Cosmic Moose came back and raved about it. The fish is good but that sauce, oh man.Quote:
Originally Posted by rocknrollfarmer
Aw shucks. Thanks:)Quote:
Originally Posted by Bnewb
Checked into Travellers on Monday after three great days in a cabin at Firefly. Time for me to get fancy! AC, fridge, indoor shower!!! I think this is my third time staying with them.
I always get a kick out of how some places like to present themselves. Check in and front desk was very professional and extremely formal. I'm more of a here's your key, your room is that way kind of guy.
I was worried about the state of the pool and bar because I kept hearing about renovations but everything worked out. Pool was accessible and the new deck looks great. The bar wasn't finished yet but they had a make shift bar in the dining room where most, if not all the reg bar items and drinks were stocked. Daily breakfast that was included with my package was great. Had ackee and saltfish with fried dumplings two days and fried eggs with bacon (excellent, crispy, just how i like it!) on the last day. The ackee is offered with, boiled yam, boiled banana, fried plantains, and fried dumplings. I knew this was a ton of food and no way I was getting through all those starches, so asked for only fried dumplings. The next morning, the GF ordered before I got there and forgot to make that request. So we carb loaded. Did our best but still couldn’t finish it all.
Overall, I think Travellers offers a great value, especially for those that want a modern “hotel” experience. Definitely recommended. I personally like a little more “yard” feel; plus the location and beach isn’t optimal in my opinion. Will keep them on the radar, and would certainly jump on another group on in the future.
Cool report MikeyNYC,
Yeah, the Jamaican B-fast will fill you up.
Thanks.
Quality's Mahi with Garlic sauce,
Its on my list.
Good to carry a small bottle of bug spray.
Once I went out in the day,
but did not return until evening.
Out of sequence, but oh well.
Linston picked her up at the airport where she already had a patty in hand. Stopped to grab me at Firefly and off we went. Asked to go to the ATM and to "China Mon" - He asks "what china mon you want to go to?" I said "whatever is easiest." We ended up at Value Master (?) by the Cambio where we stocked up on snacks and some water. I usually drink the tap water but wanted to get her bottled for the first day. Unfortunately I left her in charge of getting "chips" which meant we had 6 different kinds of cheese puffs, curls, big foot, etc and no banana or plantain chips :( But that's fine because I had half a dozen wedges of cheese and a couple packs of buns! I explained to her that it's best to plan ahead for food; keep snacks on hand and never wait until you're hungry to go out to eat.
Stopped in the cambio but there were at least a dozen people in there waiting, so we just hit the Scotia instead. Hopped in the car and headed up "One Love Drive" - It was quite a few turns before I realized, oh crap, "Uh Linston, sorry man we're staying at Travellers" haha. I spaced out and was just enjoying the scenery.
After check in, I sat on the patio and enjoyed my bun and cheese while she unpacked. I jumped in the shower and when I came out she was just finishing one and asked why does this taste so good? I said I don't know but it's mushy and delicious and always hits the spot. Honestly it’s one of my favorite things when I visit and I always look forward to it. It’s the little things :p
Later on she said she laughed to herself when I asked to go to the “ChinaMon” because she wasn’t entirely sure what it meant. I think she thought it was code for something. :confused: After walking in the store, she saw a Chinese guy walk out of the office and thought “oh, there he is.” :biggrin-new:
Had dinner at Chicken Lavish on Friday (?) night. Hard to believe this was my first time there. It's been on the list for so many trips but I just haven't made it until now. That's one of the things I love about Negril. It's small enough that, it's fairly easy to learn the lay of the land and get yourself around once you're comfortable, but there's so many places to eat and explore, that you can’t get bored. The only place I’ve been that comes close in that aspect is Playa Del Carmen but obviously the vibe is totally different there.
Wish we went with more of an appetite but after a full day of drinking and grazing, it was tough to change gears for a full meal. She got the sweet and sour chicken and I got 2 pcs of fried. Fried chicken was crunchy, juicy and cooked perfectly. The s&s was so-so for me. I think it was a little bit flat and too close to s&s that I would get from a Chinese take out back home. I think that’s what confused me. I was expecting something more. I know that others love it though. We had so much food left, we asked for it to be boxed. Our driver didn't have dinner yet, so it didn't go to waste.
I think most boardies have been there, but if you haven’t, try to make it a point to do so. Doc (the owner?) is a great host and seems like a warm and genuine guy. Will certainly be going back.
MikeyNYC wrote: "I sat on the patio and enjoyed my bun and cheese"
HA ha, The local kids love, love that combination too. :congratulatory:
"Fried chicken was crunchy, juicy and cooked perfectly."
Man, I forgot about that place ........AGAIN.:culpability:
Thanks for the reminder.
Bun and cheese is traditional Easter food.
Cap
Considered calling a car and taking a trip up to the cliffs to check out Kool Vibz or maybe 3 dives but after a long day in the sun and many redstripe and overproofs we just couldn’t commit, so decided to keep it close. Had been craving Chances jerk chicken pizza for a couple days so decided to take a walk up to Chances from TH. We were the only ones there when we arrived. Store clerk sitting in front of the gift shop and one bartender. I asked her if they were open, “ya mon.” Cool. Ordered a couple drinks, jerk pizza well done and asked if they had any scotch bonnets. She checked with the kitchen and I was in luck. Got a couple of those diced up on the side. Pizza took about 30 minutes but we were in no rush. Just enjoying our drinks and sitting in the sand while we waited.
An interesting crew showed up in a van. Couple Sikh looking dudes and girls but sounded like brits and instead of traditional Sikh head garb, had Rasta looking head wraps on and tie-dye tshirts with pot leaves on them. They were with a what I guess was their driver and a female tour guide or fixer that did most of the talking to the staff. They were looking for pizza but also wanted a veggie burger. They put an order in for a couple pies and then jumped back in the van. Maybe to search out that veggie burger? They came back about 45 minutes later, picked up their pies and left. I’m guessing they came from one of the AIs and had never been before.
I’ve learned that setting expectations is a good way to keep people happy. I explained to the GF that this shouldn’t be compared to “NY style pizza” and should be judged on its own merits. I think it’s a decent pie for Negril but I’ve had limited exposure. Our pie came out and was what I expected, which was nice. Thin deep dish with a slightly doughy crust. Even cheese, sauce and topping distribution. Some olive oil in the bottom of the pan would have helped it crisp up a little more but we were happy. And I got my scotch bonnets which made me really happy. Few more drinks, wrapped up a couple slices to go, then headed up to Firefly. Heard there was live music at SunBeach but didn’t want to deal with a crowd, so we just chilled at FF in some loungers under the SeaGrape tree (prob my fav spot in Negril) and listened to the music coming from next door. After the band wrapped up, walked over to SB for a drink then headed back. Was a short walk and no real hustle either way, which was nice.
Attachment 50060
Back to TH for a couple more drinks in the room, then down to the beach to watch the stars. Nice mellow evening.
So, what does a shot of over proof feel like. Burn light hell, or is it tolerable? Bringing my 20 something kids if feb, they like shots but I'm not a tequila fan. Wondering what the Whey & Sons is like, never had it in a shot form.
My drink for years, has been Irish whiskey neat - no chaser, so I don't think it's too bad. Definitely hits me a little on the way down. That said, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone, especially for inexperienced drinkers. More than a couple will put a youngin on their ass, that is if they don't toss their cookies after the first one. You probably already know, but if not, it's 126 proof, typical spirits are 80. I'd keep them away from shots, especially during the day in the hot sun. If they must do shots, stick with some of the vodka (flavored or otherwise) chilled then served straight up. Also many places on the beach have "specialty" shots that are cut with fruit juices and mixers that will help cut the alcohol.Quote:
Originally Posted by Irine
The first shot / drink is always the worst. I'd avoid shots. Respect your alcohol. Sip whatever you want, but count to 3 before swallowing. This softens the blow to whatever you're drinking dramatically! I'd suggest the Appleton before the overproof for the lightweights. Or even better, keep them to the rum punch. Nobody want to be calling housekeeping for a mop
I drink 'proof (overproof) rum and water. Nowadays, proof rum is only 126. Back in the day the label read "guaranteed full strength"
I worked at Appleton and at that time "full strength" was about 165 - 170 proof. To be stronger than other rum producing countries's 151 proof.
It was and is till this day (in the hills) it is each drinkers taste that determines how much water or "chaser" to add.
When I pour drinks for my work crew (don't tell OSHA :friendly_wink:) , I pour straight 'proof rum in one glass. A "chaser" (ting, ginger beer, water, etc) in a bottle and a bowl of ice. Each man make his own.
Me no whan cut de rum and mash up de mahn drink
Cap
I prefer whiskey as well. We drink a lot of irish car bombs, but hard to find in Negril. Bring home overproof every year to make rum punch. As far as the kids go they drink shots regularly, I'll tell them it's overproof, we'll see how they do. Had my brother on the beach a few years back, told him 1st rum punch is a little tough, 2nd tastes better and the 3rd you don't give a sh#*. After 3 or 4 you should go back to beer. My brother had 4 before he tried to get up out of his lounger to get another one as they were "not very strong". When he picked himself up off the sand he stumbled to the bar and got us a couple Red Stripe Lights:) I'll have to try an Irish Boiler Maker while I'm there (RD Light and overproof), that should be a short day.
I think I saw Jameson somewhere on the beach. You could grab a bottle at duty free and pack a small togo flask with you each day. Sub the Irish cream with rum cream...some places will have Guinness stout, but you could sub dragon stout. Think we just invented the "Jamaican car bomb"Quote:
Originally Posted by Irine
Irene, head to Mi Yard in Mary's Bay on the West End Road and order a 1/2 que of JB Overproof, water or pepsi, ice and some limes.
I personally never enjoyed shots of OP regardless of which brand Wrey & Nephew or JB.
A 1/2 que is 1/2 a pint.
Enjoy,
VVHT
It burns like hell, in fact i spit it out on the floor and turned beet red. Now I know why nobody drinks it straight!!Quote:
Originally Posted by Irine
Great Trip report, you had me at bun and cheese mmmmm!!!
MikeyNYC,
19 F this morning in Boston! It is very warming to read your TP!
Thanks,
VVHT
"Jamaican Dragon".......oh oh, I can feel the hang over already:culpability:Quote:
Originally Posted by MikeyNYC
I would LOVE to have been at the bar when you did that!!! Must have had your peeps rolling on the ground:excitement:Quote:
Originally Posted by Bluez