Many of us return to Negril for the same reason. Mine being a cool laid back vibe that I have felt nowhere else. Rob spells it out pretty good, back in the late 60's and 70's Negril was quite a novelty, very limited electricity and running water. The entire Negril beach only had about 5 hotels but many guest cottages and camping areas. Very little crime although once in a great while something bad happened.
Today it is entirely different except the positive vibe that exists for the most part. I Love Negril!!