Two more sleeps and then we're off to Negril - a few ?s

[hygieia]

It's freezing, windy and there is far to much snow here in MN (even for a true Minnesotan) and all we can do is remind ourselves we only have a few more days. We leave Friday morning . We can hardly contain ourselves! I am so grateful for this board and just wanted to thank you all for sharing so much. We are smart travelers andso always like to have all the info I can when we go to a new place - but this this board in particular has been so helpful for little things you just can't know unless you've been there. So thanks!

Some last minute questions:

Are there any places to get clothes like handmade sundressees, etc? Not like your typical beachwear but unique things? I like to get handmade jewelry and clothing from the places we go , rather than pack stuff like this from home.

Best place to exchange money? I've read so many things I think my head is ready to explode.

How far in advance do we need to make reservations for things like the pub crawl (does anyone have the number?) or a nice dinner?

We probably won't get to our hotel on Friday until 430. It's my guy's Birthday. I don't want to head right to a nice dinner on the cliffs our first night, I want to get our bearings first and relax into the evening and explore the beach a bit. Any good suggestions for dinner on the beach to celebrate his birthday?

Oh and anyone else going to be there this weekend/next week? we'd love to meet some new friends. We know Negril is going to be the place we continue to return to, and are hoping to plant some roots there. Thanks!

[HarryH]

I will be there! Email me at chrisharry@aol.com !

[gerryg123]

Lots of clothing and speciality shops. Check the area near the roundabout and go to the Indian store, or perhaps Time Square across the road from the beach.

Pub crawl you can do last-minute. Call Lenbert, 876 874 6631. He is generally eager to pick up as many folks as possible. Exchange money at the Cambio at the roundabout or at Hi Lo market near the roundabout or perhaps at your hotel. Do not deal with anyone in the street.

Rarely do you have to make dinner reservations or worry about getting a table. All the best places are generally wide open -- it's just the way Negril is.

There are a bunch of good restaurants on the beach. In fact, just about every food experience in Negril will be a good one. They take their food very seriously on the island. From road side stands to the AIs, the food is always good. For a birthday dinner, I would go for somewhere right on the beach so you can enjoy the waves.

[SandT CHI]

Ask your driver to stop somewhere in Montego Bay to exchange money. Might be cutting it close if you wait until Negril. Don't wont to be stuck your first night with no cash, first night always seems to be the most fun. Haven't been to much of a beach person but we had dinner at the treehouse table I think they call it at kuyaba. A table a story up right on the water and you're by yourselves. Call ahead to see if it may be available. Tough to get during the high season I'm told.

Also count your money right in front of them if they don't count it out for you. I really feel I was screwed over big time once. This of course comes with knowing how much you are supposed to receive. And if you go to the cambio next to Hi Lo the exchange part is in the back of the store. First time I went in I stood in the western union line for over a half hour before I realized it was back there.

[Seveen]

i suggest Charela Inn for the birthday dinner ---- go for the fixed price dinner --- always fresh and unique

enjoy!

[juls]

hygieia...Congrats for getting out of this Minnesota polar vortex!! Looks like you're getting outta here at a good time! Have a great vacation and think of us back here in Minnesnowta!!!

[sabu]

I agree Charela would be a great spot for dinner. Country Country is right on the beach and also consistently very good.

I wouldn't bother to stop to change money on the way -- every place takes US dollars (and usually gives 100 to 1 exchange rate). The formal exchange rate, last I checked, was 107 to 1, which you can get at the cambio in town. Airport is a complete rip off at around 87 to 1. Most hotels will also change at 100 to 1.

Have a great trip....and report back!

[hygieia]

hygieia...Congrats for getting out of this Minnesota polar vortex!! Looks like you're getting outta here at a good time! Have a great vacation and think of us back here in Minnesnowta!!!

Yes, no kidding. I remember the last time we traveled to Mexico in the spring, we were leaving as things were just warming up and it just wasn't as rewarding as this will be - leaving the cold temps and all the snow and the ice on the roads - sweet bliss!

Thanks everyone. Will definitely report back.

[mn negril fan]

Have a great trip!!! Enjoy Fire Fly although you may be the only woman tanning your buns! Usually a bunch of old guys...

[hygieia]

Have a great trip!!! Enjoy Fire Fly although you may be the only woman tanning your buns! Usually a bunch of old guys...

That's okay. I just like to have the option - it's certainly not meant to be a production for me.