Goooooood Morning Fellow Negril Lovers
Got to the airport in the nick of time, 2 minutes until check-in was cut off. Was told there was a good possibility our bags wouldn't make it to Toronto with us, therefore not to Jamaica with us either.
First flight was turbulent and we had to circle when we got there, but we made it on time. Enough time for a quick smoke, duty free shop, and then it's time to check-in for the the much awaited flight to MBJ. Once on board we were told that a flight from Montreal had been delayed and that we had to wait for some guests and their luggage, that was about 30 minutes, then we were told that there was a thunderstorm in our flight path and they were waiting to be given a different one. Finally, it's time to go!!
Arrived almost an hour late, but we made it through customs in no time flat. Sooooo excited to see our suitcases waiting there for us! Thank you Westjet! A new green line opened up just as we got there, quick as can be we were outside, found Latoya (from Joe-Cool Taxi). Next stop, Scotiabank for the cash, and Lime for a cellphone. Got a good little Nokia phone and minutes for under $3,000 J.
Next stop, Cocolapalm. The drive went nice and smooth, not too much traffic. Pointing out the sites we remember, and seeing many that we never noticed before. Barely a cloud in the sky and it's hot and humid, just the way I like it.
We were greeted at the hotel with a big smile by Patrice. Find out that they have booked us in room 806, that will never do, I don't want to be around the backside staring at a concrete wall. Find out the beach-front room that overlooks the adult pool is open. We have ALWAYS wanted to stay in that room! The location doesn't get any better and who doesn't love to lay in bed and look out at the ocean?
Ran into Hazel on the way to our room and after squeals and hugs chatted for a bit. Larry calls Hazel his Jamaican girlfriend, and this always makes her blush
On my way to the bar I saw Rasta Husmo on the beach, so went down and said hello. I absolutely love the way that they are able to remember people! We had met him last year and looked at his paintings, and didn't quite see what we wanted. He asked us what we were wanting and that he would paint one just for us. I didn't really believe at the time that this would happen, but there he was the next day with a fresh painting with the scene and colors that we had asked for. It was beautiful!!
Some much needed frosty cold Piña Coladas were drank (what great timing, 2-for-1 happy hour had just started) and we were all settled in. We spent about the next hour just sitting on the balcony taking it all in and settling in to the vibe. It is so much to take in at first, but then you start to feel the sites, sounds, and smells just wash away reality and the peace wash in. Man did I miss this place!
A couple more drinks and we realize that we are starving and can't wait to head to Best in the West for some jerk chicken. Much to our disappointment it is closed. We are too lazy to search for someplace else to eat so order jerk chicken and fries to eat on the balcony. The restaurant at Coco doesn't have any customers at all and it's pretty quiet in general. The hotel is pretty full but where are the people?
Knowing Jamaica time to get food, we change into our bathing suits and hop in the pool for a refreshing swim while we wait. This pool is awesome and it feels like we have our own private pool. The jerk chicken and fries were delicious and we leave the bones out for the cats. (I know, I know, we shouldn't be feeding the cats, but Larry is a huge old softy when it comes to animals.)
Sitting on the balcony, listening to the tree frogs and the waves, and feeling thankful that we are able to be here ......... We have arrived!
The day has been long with our 3:00 am start and we are both exhausted and as much as I don't want to end the day, it is off to bed. Tomorrow is another day.
. We will find Rob and Maureen at their new place this week. I spend the morning reading and relaxing on the beach and the balcony letting Larry have a bit of a sleep-in.
