I tell you, Vince. If the owners were home, I would beg them to let me walk the property and pretend for 5 minutes it's mine.
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I tell you, Vince. If the owners were home, I would beg them to let me walk the property and pretend for 5 minutes it's mine.
I met this absolutely delightful young couple from Australia…
The greeting was “G’day, Miss Vi!” followed by “Melissa cooked this or Melissa cooked that…would you like a bite, ay?”
Melissa is vegan; Scott is not so she’s learned to be creative with the meals. She made a wonderful breadfruit cake with homemade icing. They worked & saved money for a year then quit their jobs to travel to different countries for 6 months. Not only was I surprised that Jamaica (first time) was on their itinerary but staying in Portland instead of one of the popular places really impressed me.
They fell in love with Portland. When I learned they had not gone to Reach Falls, I didn’t hesitate to invite them to join me. So one afternoon I called Devon and the four of us headed to the falls.
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There was a threat of rain, but these two did NOT want to cancel so we pressed on.
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Portland Waterfall (Up in the Blue Mountains)
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In 2000 I was doing an inventory of the reefs along Jamaica’s coast. Most of our travels were by boat, but we stayed in hotels and experienced the generosity and flavor of Jamaica in many of these out of the way communities along the way. In 2004 I spent 10 months on the north coast as I was working on the island. I bought a used car and travelled all over the island on my days off. I return to Jamaica every couple years.....
Nice shots, JohnG. I passed the second falls when returning from Moore Town.
Kritter, You must have some collection of interesting stories and amazing photos. Just talking about your work would captivate the attention of any lover of Jamaica.
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I went in for a nice relaxing wade. There were a lot of people out today, but I was never cramped for space. When Scott found out the lifeguard will take folks on a tour and through the caves, he was ready to go. He and Melissa invited others to join them. I was surprised when they all said yes. They left me alone…ahhhhh it was heavenly. Only sounds heard were the whispers of my sighs of contentment and the water falling over the rocks and rushing through the cove’s channel. I turn in one direction to feel the light spray of cool water on my face then spin around to let the sun dry my nose and cheeks.
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Like a natural jacuzzi the water’s pressure invigorates the body.
Good stuff boss.
We probably won't get back to JA til next year. We just went to Sanibel this year, it definitely isn't Jamaica. Somewhere else this summer, not sure where yet. We'll see.
Thanks TAH. I can't wait to get back...I so need a mental re-charge. I'm still thinking of going somewhere else, but it will be quickie on my way to Portland. I wonder if anyone has traveled like that. From the US to two islands in the same trip? Interested in how different the customs and immigration process may be.
Nevertheless, TAH, Jamaica will welcome you back with open arms...just don't stay away for more than a year...lol
Vi, I have been trying to get Tah to go to Cuba, but one minor issue......lol !!!
Ahhh, jojo, I may have a work-around for that issue. Still a little risky, but maybe one I'm okay with. I need to do more homework before I'd attempt it. It's on my list though! Everything I see (except that) looks incredible.
Vi, we've done sort of similar trips routing through Puerto Rico to the VI's. Stay a night in Old San Juan, then catch a puddle jumper the next day to the VI's. Not sure if the logistics would be tougher heading to JA, but I'd think it would be do-able with some leg work. I do think our next JA trip will be to Portland though. We seem to need to keep exploring, and not get so comfy with a single destination the past five or so years. JA is always in the rotation though.
TAH, I'm trying to arrange a stop in Cuba before going on to Jamaica. Just not sure what type of immigration snags (if any) that would create for me. I was detained on my last trip for a silly thing :culpability: so if I can avoid that happening I will.
JoJo you are a gem!!!! If I get there, I'll do a private report and share it with you and TAH. Maybe that might help lol
Hi Sam I Am. I'm hooked too. That chicken was gooooood!!! The fried weren't bad either and I don't usually eat fries.
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Because it takes a lot of effort to hoist myself up, I decided to get out before the group returns. Save myself possible humiliation. You know, in case I fell back into the water or needed someone to help me up. Well the lifeguard that stayed behind saw me swim to the edge and without hesitation extended his hand to help me up. His arm of steel effortlessly raised me up as if I were a lightweight child.
“Weeeee….that was fun!” :excitement:
He laughed too. I was amazed at his strength for real. He offered to help me back in so we can swim together. It was fun, but not that much fun. “No thanks”. So I pulled out my bottle of pre-mixed rum & club soda and gave him the camera. I took a sip and after a quick tutorial, told him to take many pictures of me. Give me something to laugh at when I’m back in the room. I danced a little to the reggae coming from my dynamic portable speaker. Best $30 I spent in a long time.
The music filled the cove; keeping in rhythm with the cascading waters. Shaggy tune…”Sugarcane” had me standing on the rocks, swaying and daydreaming about some thick, strong brother having…my back…as I whine...lol Not to mention the effect the rum is having on me. The thunder from the falls keeps your mind & soul stirring…
“How to bring you close to me?”
“Huh??”
He peeks over the camera. “How can I get you closer?”
“You asking how to zoom? You see that button…”
“No, YOU, you darlin…you body closer to mine.”
I burst out a schoolgirl squeal then giggle while thinking to myself, NO WAY!
I feel a rain drop…then another…then another. DANG! I check the sky and it’s clear a downpour is about to happen. Time to go!! Said good-bye to Mr. Player Lifeguard, pack my gear and head up the many steps to find a dry spot to sit and wait for Melissa and Scott. It was pouring by the time I reached the top. Thank goodness for purse size umbrellas to protect new hair!
Devon was waiting patiently in the car. I sat on the bench at the office watching the rain fall on the deep, green vegetation.
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Melissa & Scott arrived and we are on our way. They talked non-stop about their Reach Falls experience. Scott said it was the best day of the trip so far. That’s so cool.
Reach Falls looks so good! My experience was slightly "different"
Pictures look awesome!
Maralunatic...Slightly "different" in a good way, I hope. Can't wait to hear about it in your fabulous report!
Cliff Hanger Restaurant and Rooms
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The sun came out just as we entered Long Bay. Now what?? Scott was hungry so I suggested we stop at Cliff Hanger Restaurant. I heard so much this place…good and bad…that I had to check it out for myself. Devon parked and I stepped out plunging my foot ankle-deep in a grassy mud puddle. Not cool!!!! Felt like stepping into a trough full of slimy worms. Nasty! Bottled water to rinse it off and we're on our way.
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Those are the rental units. I didn't see the inside but will next time I visit.
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Definitely curious to hear your thoughts about the Cliff Hanger. I've looked at this place, and the neighboring property that has a similar set up (can't recall the name).
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The property is nicely laid out and decorated, but the view from the bar is utterly GORGEOUS. If I were a guest here, this is where I would spend most of my time. The design of the bar area truly impressed me. The tables and stools are on levels so the view of the endless ocean is always before your eyes. Lovely!!!
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I didn’t tour the units because I had to consider the others with me. It would have taken close to an hour to see everything. Besides, Scott was really hungry, but due to their tight budget, they opted for a smoothie to share which they enjoyed. I treated Devon to a smoothie and he said it was very good. None of us sampled the food. While they sipped their drinks, I walked around taking pictures and enjoying the scenery. I do intend on going again so maybe next time I’ll order a meal and possibly meet the owner. He was there, but sitting with guests so I didn’t intrude. I can say he’s just as handsome as his masterpiece.
It’s a quiet place, or at least when we were there. It appears to be best suited for adults. The bar & restaurant, which are separate areas, are both very spacious. The hostess said they usually have music playing, but shut it down due to the rain. From what I could see and knowing that the rooms are new, I would consider staying there.
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That place looks beautiful. Wish we would have know I'd have stayed there in a heartbeat. Especially if the owner is handsome....heehee
Maralunatic, I think you started out just right by being close to town and branching out. Best way to get a feel of Portland in order to know if you like it or not. That's how my first visit was. This place is about 40 minutes from where you stayed. I will tour the units when I return. I'll have plenty of photos to temp you and your honey to return to Portland :). And Yes, even from a distance, the man was very nice looking.
Yeah it looks real nice. Is there any sea access at all? I didn't think so, but can't really tell from their site or using google earth. Just wasn't sure if there was a path, or stair down to the water. Even if too rough to get in, we like to be able to get near it.
Sorry, don't mean to de-rail your report. Carry on... *cough, cough*
TAH, that's a good question. I don't remember seeing any way to get close to the water. But when I go back, I'll find out. Less than 30 days yipeeee. Oh and you have re-railing rights to any of my reports.
Okay...intermission is over. I just returned from my happy place, Portland. It was beyond awesome but WAY too short. I will be adding that experience onto this report.
In the meantime… Mr. & Mrs. Lunatic and Vacationlovaa, Devon is still a sweetheart and I’m whipping him into shape when it comes to being on time!!! LOL His daughter is a 2-year old genius. The child’s vocabulary is outstanding. TAH I’ve got some GOOD stuff to pass on about Sea Cliff/CliffHanger. JoJo…missy…I know if you were hanging with me, we would have gotten into a HEAP of trouble almost every night!!! I attended three parties that were rockin!! Tubes, I revisited Under the Rock…sigh…that place is still so tranquil.
Vi what a nice treat ...man do you have a way of capturing the very essence of sweet portland..thanks for the ride....more please
Yayyyy!
Hey Rob, we need a popcorn emoji! Vi's reports are like reading a good book, and you always need snacks!
He has a two year old ! Awh. Going to get her a gift our next reach is in September. Can’t wait to hear it ! Was looking into cliff hanger
I look forward to experiencing your trip through your words, Vi :cool-new:
Sorry you had to come back :concern:
You know me…can’t hold back telling it like it is Sammyb. Portland is truly a picturesque region. Places that have become familiar to me still reveal something new to gaze upon.
Maralunatic LOL @ snacks. You might want to load up on a few bags of your favorite munchies for my summer report. I plan to provide a lot of reading.
Yes, Vacationlovaa, his adorable little princess starts school in September and I get to give her her very first backpack and school shoes! So nice of you to consider getting her a gift. I’m sure whatever you pick out, she will love and Devon will appreciate.
Hi there agregory…always a treat when you stop by. It was HARD coming back, but having a couple of weeks to look forward to this summer helped somewhat.
Hi TAH! I was so personally impressed by the vibe of Sea Cliff that I’m staying there during my Fall reach.
Nice! I'll be eagerly awaiting that report for sure. If it has any sort of sea access (even if it's difficult), we'll definitely give it a go.
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