I booked my first few stays in Negril via Third Party "package" type deals, it CAN be less expensive unless you wheel and deal a little bit. I stayed at Footeprints for 11 days for $850 or so including air from NY in 2004. Ya don't ee those deals now.

I am a direct booking guy now. This coming trip I saved $80 for a 7-night stay on the beach just by asking nicely, and directly, via email. That savings will cover the scooter for a few days....and I get some beach time after spending the first week on the cliffs.

I don't try to gouge, but I saw a competing hotel nearby making an offer of "Pay for Six, Stay for Seven" deal.

I mentioned I'd seen that special elsewhere, asked my preferred resort if they would accept $xxxx vs. $xxxxx, and they agreed, no problem, no haggling. I think it's a win-win for both me and the hotel.