It could catch on...hey, I hear that the hummingbird has a good band...it could go viral..
lol.![]()
It could catch on...hey, I hear that the hummingbird has a good band...it could go viral..
lol.![]()
When the locals ask where I'm from, i love to tell them "Kingston." Usually gets a wide-eyed reaction.
LOL, next time gerryg123, tell them TrenchTown!
Do they have a/c rooms at hummingbird?
LOL! I've been cracking up while reading some of the posts in this thread!
Regarding Hustlers - I found that the first few days in Negril were the hardest. We were pale as ghosts and looking around nervously like blatant newbies. We were fresh bait. The vendors were literally forming a line and coming at us one by one.
After a few days, they knew who we were and waved. We weren't really hassled so much after that.
I found that not always carrying money on us helped make it easier to refuse the offers. I also had to keep my hands behind my back so they wouldn't try to put something in it and use the "Here. You can just pay me back later" line. The easiest to refuse was the drug offers. A simple "No, thanks. I'm not into that. No drugs, just drinking." works. no hassle after that.
It was also easier once we left the Grand Pineapple and took off those stupid AI bracelets. Those bracelets caught everyone's attention and made it impossible to say we were staying somewhere else..... like "The HummingBird" for example.LOL
Last edited by Clarity; 05-25-2011 at 07:20 PM.
Carpe Diem
Just an FYI when I stay AI I do one of two things. I have them hook the bracelet loosely and I slide it off and in my bag when offsite OR I suddenly grew an obsession for thick banded shell bracelets while in Jamaica and I cover my band if too tight too slip off. Yes, AI bracelets make you seem like rich meat.
I should just wear a shirt that says I'm not rich I'm an alcoholic and it's cheaper this way. LOL ( no offense to anyone with addictions)
Children Are Our Tomorrow !
The thinking is, if the average tourist spends a full week in Negril, then for every seven you approach, one of them will be on their FIRST day ....
I have to say this; no one has bothered us for the last half dozen visits.
Well; maybe once or twice.
Guess we don't look like targets?
Just a few thoughts from my heart and only one person's view:
I don't like the word beggar but you guys know I am a prude (lol). Jamaicans nah worry about speaking straightforward so probably would not be offended but for some reason I am. The homeless man on my corner here at home (Eddie) has become a good friend and I would never call him a beggar. I prefer to think of them as business people just trying to make it. Each with their own "story".
A respectful "No thanks I'm good" is all that is required in my personal experience, if necessary repeat if someone is being agressive. Hopefully those new to traveling to JA will research and be prepared or we can help them out if we see someone being overwhelmed. I have seen locals and property security be very helpful too so I never worry. I try to walk a mile in someone's shoes but can't imagine how hard given the downfall in tourism and the economy.
Now hustlers....got mad skills - top salesman.....can be a challenge but I have gotten to know a few and although I cannot relate completely, I can admire their charm and perseverence. Bless all of us on our journeys and respect when our paths cross.
Preach Peace / Live Love / Blessed Be
ONE LOVE
Sweetness
I think a lot of us can relate to this -- look at the number of views! Actually, I don't mind vendors one bit, it's the guys who ask for a free dollar or follow you into a bar and try to order a beer on your tab -- those are the ones who drive me crazy. I must have met 100 hustlers who've tried to guide me somewhere, then beg a tip!