Help me convince my dad I am fine to travel alone

[JamaicaLove]

My dad has been to Negril 27 times, since he was in his twenties in the seventies. He knows Negril is a safe part of Jamaica, he knows the locals are the most amazing and kind hearted people, he knows I have the street smarts to not get my self into any unsafe situation. Yet he is very uncomfortable with the idea of me going alone. I am a woman and will be 24 in September, and want to stay at Judy House Hostel in Negril. My dad took me to Negril last September, so I know the city and the outskirts well - we rented a motorcycle so he showed me around, and we went out into the country. I felt 100% safe the whole time I was there. We got lost out in the country several times, and could have potentially been in risky situations, but everyone was so warm and kind- wanted to show us around their little village, share stories and help us in any way they could. Although my dad cannot tell me not go - I am a woman and make my own decisions, I want him to feel okay with it and not worry too much. And not upset him or "go against him".

I have done a lot of research and read plenty of stories of women traveling in Jamaica alone- backpacking and staying in hostels, or in hotels. I was thinking of having him read some of these, possibly having him speak with the owner of the hostel and explain that the place is safe (still have not spoken with her/made reservations though), having him read reviews of the hostel on Trip Advisor (everyone has such amazing experiences there). I have also found out that only one woman has gone missing/been killed while on vacation in Jamaica since 2000! That surprised him, and I think warmed him to the idea SLIGHTLY lol.

I would really appreciate any advice I could use to help me convince my dad I will be okay!! I am desperate to go alone and have an adventure all my own

Thanks in advance!

[Maryann]

I remember when that girl went missing in Negril and was never found. Same thing with Natalie Holloway in Aruba. I have daughters your age. My youngest will be 22 in September. They have been going to Negril with me since they were babies. Of course, now they go to Negril without me, which I think is great, but they always go with a friend(s). You probably wouldn't have any issues, but no doubt your dad would feel more comfortable if you had someone go with you. If that isn't a possibility, then you'll have to decide if you're willing to go against your dad's wishes. You will have to find a safe place to stay and a safe driver, don't walk alone after dark, don't get enebriated and be very aware of your surroundings. Totally 100% understand where your dad is coming from, but you're an adult, and ultimately it's your decision to make.

[Maryann]

p.s. I go on solo trips to Negril all the time. Just be safe!

[jenb]

there's probably no logical reasoning that is going to allay your father's fears. that's what parents do, no matter what experiences he himself has have had, he's going to worry about you, even when you're 50! you have no choice but to live your life, just make wise choices and do him proud.
and have fun, i love traveling by myself.

[kaycee]

I go to Negril solo. To help my family, I print copies of my itinerary and be sure to check in by text or call once a day. If you have friends who can come, maybe you should bring them along. Good luck!

[original spanky]

go with a girlfriend. he will feel better about it.

[Tattoo]

all the women murdered over the years, chopped up put in the caves or left in the bushes and ditches ect ect but didnt think we could talk about such on here, My opinion just bring Dad along on the trip, he could be somewhere close enough he could respond if needed, or ask him to hook you up with someone he trusts while you are there. make sure you have a good battery in your cell with tons of mins.bless.

[sonja]

i have traveled solo to Negril, Kingston, Blue Mountains, etc for 20+ years.. i wouldn't travel any other way.

[biggbxguy]

I have been traveling to Negril for 30 years as Tattoo said in that time there has been a lot of Bad events that I do not feel should be told here. I totally understand were your Dad is coming from. Your experiences with getting lost with your father are good ones,but your father is a man and has been there many times. All jamaicans are not nice. especially out in the country and up in the bush. Bad things do happen. i am not saying that will happen to you but think about what your father is thinking. I am no way saying Negril is a unsafe place but as the saying goes "sh--t happens". Ever think about this? take your dad with you and have "alone time". Enjoy the good times with your DAD.

[yetta]

Being a parent myself, I overstand your father's concern. Worrying seems to be a parent's job. With that said, you are now an adult. You have been there before and your Dad has shown you around. If you are comfortable with going and use good judgement, I have no doubt you will be fine. I would give him your itinerary and keep in touch with him. I would also have a reputable driver that can transfer you from here to there with no worries. There are many on the board. Right off the top of my head, Kingsley comes to mind. I have known him for years and can attest to his honesty and reliability. Captain D's son Lynston is also a great guy. I'm sure you can send Captain a message and get all set up before you arrive.

Things can happen in small cites, big cities, the US and all other countries. Just remember to keep your mind clear and use good judgement.....always! Hope you guys work it out. Enjoy Negril!