July Trip Photos - Negril Beach

[Jewelbeemon]

It was very quiet for the week we were there. We LOVED it, but know the vendors would fare better with larger crowds. There was plenty to be purchased at the beach, however, fruit, guitar picks, things we wanted and needed, in addition to non-essentials like bracelets, hats, flags, etc. I can only imagine what it's like there during the main tourism season. I've only ever traveled to Negril in July -- a few trips in April. That was a long time ago so the beach was a bit different. And I was always down at the Hedo end.
Pablo - yes! That was just next to Rondel's property. I bought some cute, carved cats from him to give to my cat-sitter. He didn't mind posing for the picture so we snapped a few. He was super nice. He was painting the wooden sculptures and talked to me about how the dye is made and what they are carved out of. Dye is from tree bark and shoe polish is used as a colorant and sealant.
A few people have asked about Delroy at Rondel's bar. When I frequented Hedo, Delroy and Scumba were the bartenders there - is it the same Delroy? I was not at the Rondel bar, but did eat in the restaurant so could see the bartender. He did not look familiar.
I'm wondering what Negril is like, now, in the "on" season - the people watching must be spectacular! The only place that was relatively busy while we were there (July 2-8) was Push Cart and Roots Bamboo - we were at both in the evening, rather late, so that must be the regular time to be out for some music, food and drink. I was incredibly bummed that Boat Bar was closed during out visit - had hoped for some musicians nearby with whom Drew could jam. He did okay finding bands willing to let him join, however, and then enjoyed walking the beach while playing! He is always happy to accommodate requests for a tune. Lots of locals request Bob Dylan, incidentally. One fella explained that Jamaicans can relate to the lyrics.
I'm still riding the wave of serotonin from the entire experience.
After former trips we called the wistfulness and withdrawl "Dreaded Island Fever." I've seen a different term on this message board - what was it again?
A few more pix: