Yeffers, I can only speak for myself but what brought me to Negril in 1975 was an awesome beach, great weather and a very inexpensive vacation. I either stayed with a family, pitched a tent or rented a small room I made it on about $10USD a day. In comparison Fort Lauderdale and Key West were totally overcrowded and expensive. Negril was still somewhat of a secret and along with being inexpensive everybody going there knew that Ganja was available and lots less of a hassle than the US so combined with cheap airfare from NYC it was a no brainer.
JaHowards, glad my photos invoked an OMG moment for you. The Villa's Negril was one of the best spots and deals in Negril. Close enough to walk to the beach but the pool was killer. Rooms had AC and functional bathrooms with hot water, comfortable beds. Brimsley Hall was second to none as a bartender, always a good act on Saturday nights and a Manager's Cocktail Party (Happy Hour) with free food and drinks. I think the room rate as a solo was in 1977 about $50USD maybe less so I could do a week in a tent and then splurge for a couple of nights at the Villa's.
