Quote Originally Posted by Bellaspapa View Post
Hello all, We are a couple in our early 60's that have heard so much about Negril, both good and bad, we have decided to take the plunge and go for it. We have vacationed in Hawaii every year for the last 30 years, never missing a year, and although we truly love Hawaii we are ready to try some place new. We have booked a weeks stay at the Rockhouse Hotel at the end of May. We are of course concerned about safety. Can someone please tell us about the area around the Rockhouse? Is it safe to venture off the hotel property on foot? We love to walk but we are hearing that taxi's are safer. Are the hotel room safes secure? If not where do we store excess cash, laptops etc. Is there shopping within walking distance of the Hotel? What activities would you recommend for someone our age that doesn't involve drinking or partying? Any info we can get would be appreciated.
Well, I am in my mid 60's, vacationed in Hawaii every year for almost 8 years in the '70s and '80s, don't really drink or party AND I now live half a year or more in Jamaica each year so I understand where you are coming from (I think). I don't think you should be overly concerned about your personal safety. Tourists are a protected species in Jamaica and aside from petty problems exist in peace and harmony alongside Jamaicans. In fact, I found the attitude of Hawaiians towards "Hoales" to be more aggressive and dangerous than traveling around in Jamaica.

I do think that being way out of Negril at Rockhouse would not be my personal choice. Not that Rockhouse isn't nice but there are other places closer into town that would give you better shopping within walking distance of the hotel and would be a whole lot cheaper. I prefer to stay in a place like Seastar where you have a more inclusive environment with locals, staff and visitors plus access to the van to the beach each day.

In full disclosure, I must say that I live in a very remote, rural area in the Cockpits so I don't spend much time in Negril but I would recommend your contacting Linston a driver on this board who is the perfect person to take you out into the country. You might want to consider bringing some school supplies and have him take you there to deliver them in person. That would be one activity that would be a highlight of your stay.

Finally, I wouldn't ever talk about "excess cash, laptops etc." on a public board and connect that information to where you are staying. Do that through private emails or messages.

Have a wonderful vacation!

Peace and Guidance