Our host from week 1, Sean Clark drove us to Negril, stopping in Sav la Mar to do a quick shop first.
We arrived at “Sunset Serenade”, which is a VRBO located approximately 300 yards west of the Westender Inn, about 3:30 in the afternoon.
My wife’s mother Diane and our son Trevor arrived on the island the same day and arrived at the house approximately an hour after we did. On the same flight were close friends of ours from our hometown. Al & I have known each other since grade school, and have been known to get in to mischief together for over 40 years. There we also some friends from our hometown staying on the beach. Week 2 won’t be quite as quiet as week 1.
Although we arrived too late to have supper prepared, the staff (Miss Kitty – the cook / Marva – the housekeeper & Bravo – the gardener / security) were waiting for us. Once we got settled and arranged a grocery shop with Miss Kitty, we headed to the Westender for supper. Once we got back to the house we had a visit from some of the staff from another house (High Life) managed by the same people, to ensure we had settled in and everything was Irie. A few too many Red Stripe’s later – bedtime. Travel day – early night.
Thursday after breakfast we decided to head out to locate our friends. They were staying at Sunset on the Cliffs, so the natural first stop – Eddie’s De Bar. We were the first customers of the day, and Eddie quickly got things rolling, and the cold Red Stripes were flowing. Late in the afternoon it was time to get home. When Miss Kitty asked what time we would like supper, we told her around 5:30 and we didn’t want to be late the first night. Supper was delicious, as you can well imagine. The guys from the other house showed up after supper and the rummy (card) games began.
Trevor had a blast hanging with these guys the entire week and the roars of laughter were music to my ears. I was somewhat concerned about having an 18 year old becoming bored being so far from the action, but it turned out I had nothing to worry about.
Friday started out slow as is usual but midafternoon things got rolling. Al and his wife arrived for a few refreshments, which, surprise surprise, turned into more than a few. Other friends stopped in, and we ended up having extras for supper. Miss Kitty’s response………..No Problem. Turned into a late night with multiple Rum & Coke nightcaps. Had a blast. Our location was perfect for that type of gathering.
Saturday once we got rolling Shawna and I walked down to the Westender to enquire about their shuttle service. Turns out it’s a great deal. The shuttle leaves every hour on the hour and will take you anywhere you like, even to the far end of the beach for $3.50 per person. When you’re ready to head back you just call the driver and he will pick you up on the next trip. Based on our experience getting home from Eddie’s …… $20 ….. after some negotiation. This was a deal. That was about all we got accomplished, but a relaxing day was in order.
After another great breakfast Sunday morning, we got organized and headed to the beach early afternoon. Our plan was to meet up with our friends staying at Sunset and the visit with friends staying on the beach before heading to the Jerk Fest. The first part of the plan went fine, and then Diane got a serious case of sand gravity, so we left with friends and headed to the Jerk Fest.
We arrived at the Jerk Fest early, before much was going on and after a few Red Stripes headed back down the beach to retrieve Diane and head out for supper. My son’s big concerns were NFL playoffs and a cheeseburger. Seasplash fit the bill perfectly. Good food…nice vibe.
Monday, Trevor and I headed out to do some shopping. (not my favorite pastime). Took the shuttle down to De Bar, grabbed a couple of little things at the store across the street and then walked up to Dr. Quality & Fay’s gift shop. Trevor got himself a real nice carving of a crocodile and a necklace. The shopping was complete, so we called the shuttle and headed back to the house. Sean, Geneva and Toby from Good Hope retreat had dropped a guest at Little Bay on Monday afternoon and came for a visit before heading home.
Another evening of great food and spirited card games rounded out the day. It had been cloudy most of the time we had been in Negril but we had a beautiful sunset Monday evening.
Tuesday was our last full day, and we decided to chill and soak up as much of the vibe as we could. Al and his wife joined us for “Happy Hour” midafternoon and then Miss Kitty, Marva and Bravo joined us for dinner. It was truly a pleasure serving them dinner instead of it being the other way around. Tuesday evening was filled with more card playing and one last visit with our friends. A great way to remember “Sunset Serenade”.
Wednesday our driver picked us up at 11 sharp and we headed to the airport. Worth noting it was 27C according to the readout in the car.
Unfortunately, our flight left as scheduled. 5 ½ hours later West Jet had us in Winnipeg safely, ensuring that we could head out of the airport into -28C plus the windchill.
Once again we had a great trip with no problems.
I would recommend “Sunset Serenade” or it’s sister “High Life” to anyone looking for this type of accommodation. It’s out of the way, safe and quiet. We live in the country so it was perfect for us.
I’m already looking at a plan for next year. Can’t wait to get back
Cheers
Beefer
