This is an interesting thread to read and see what take people have on things from their visits to Negril.

In the last decade there have been some great changes. The most obvious ones are the improvements of the roads, water, electricity, phone, internet and availability of items to purchase. It is much easier to get around, stay in touch and get the things you want and need. These are major improvements for sure.

The perception about the ganja and the other illicit drugs are interesting. While still common, the public partaking of ganja is much less than it was 10 years ago. Perhaps a few folks hang around in a small group and their group are more public users, but overall the public visibility is way down. The police patrols see to that.

The cocaine/crack use is also way down. Unfortunately Jamaicans learned the same way as most places have, that cocaine is simply not a wise idea. The few that survived their habits are walking lessons for others, and the few addicts still alive are becoming so well known for their behavior that regular stints in jail are the norm for them.

One of the most obvious signs that the cocaine use has diminished is the fact that the late late night shows are no longer well attended by locals and visitors alike. The number of 24 hour spots have decreased as well - there is no longer much "need" to find a beer at 4am because you are too wired to go back to your room. The local enforcement of the laws are reflecting this change - and the police are taking a bit closer watch on those who regularly stay out all night.

The "higgler" changes are much harder to gauge, it seems that like the shifting sands, it depends on the day you are experiencing it. I have heard a person say that it was the worst experience they ever had and the very next day have someone say it was the least aggressive they have ever seen it. And I think that last part is the real explanation. It is only based on what the person "has ever seen" and not based on a large statistically significant study.

Again, this is an interesting thread.