This past March, I returned to Negril after twenty years. My mother brought me there when I was around 20,
and I knew id be back , someday. I just didn't know it would take this long. I don't know how much of a flair I have for writing, like some on this board, (note: Tizzy) But I will give it a try.
It was a cold day in December and I knew it was time to escape somewhere warm. I had been all around the
Caribbean, but it was time to go back to Jamaica. What is it like now after all these years, where do I stay?
I told my travel agent I was looking for a moderately priced hotel, on the beach in Negril, that would be safe
for a single women traveling solo. My usual travel friends couldn't come this time.
"Well, theres a great hotel called CoCo LaPalm, that's owned by a Minnesota family, and since im from
Minnesota, chances are I would meet people from the same area." Sounds great, so I booked it! The wait seemed like forever, Hoorah for my airline, non stop right through to Jamaica. Hmmm, customs a lot longer than I remember, well, busy time, and what am I complaining about. I just left snow back home.
First step outside and I knew I was back, cant explain it, just knew. As I was getting ready to load in the
van, ahha, a bar. It was time for my first rum punch. The van driver smiled and said I could bring it with.
I watched out the wndow, in wonder how everything looks so more built up, but just as beautiful!
I mention to the driver that this seemed like a different road than the last time, indeed it was. One they
improved on quite a long time ago.
My stomach was flipping as we pulled into CoCo, and I was dropped off. The bellman with his huge smile,
and all the friendly ladies greeted me so warmly, I knew I had found the right place for me.
I threw my luggage on my bed, and with anticipation of what was ahead, didn't even take the time to unpack.
It had been to long, and I needed to see what I had been missing. I had noticed a little store across the
street when I was dropped off. I think its time for my first Red Stripe. As I try to cross the busy road, I see my biggest challenge of the week will be to go back and forth on this road safely!! I look in the cooler, and find Red Stripe lite, really? I guess I shouldn't be surprised. So I grab a six pack, and go back to y room to
quickly put in fridge. Time to open up my first cold bottle, and what, no twist off? Note to self, have to
buy a bottle opener. It was time to head to the beach, and really see things.
I sat down while I sipped my drink, soaking up the beauty of the water, the beach, everything. It wasn't
long before I started meeting other tourists, everyone is so nice! It also wasn't long before all the offers
started coming. Miss, would you like me to be your guide? Would you like this or that? Would you like me?
I was prepared for all of that and took it all in stride. I see CoCo has great security, I feel at ease!
I couldn't sit still long, and started my first of many walks down the beach. I see Margaritaville, and stop
for a drink, I think I need to leave the rum alone for awhile, so a cold beer will do. My fears of being alone
in Negril were swiftly melting away. As I continued my walk, I was surprised at all the hotels, the size and the amount. Whats up with all the AI'S. No disrespect to anyone who likes them, but not for me.
I pla to venture out and see as much as I can, safely!! I quickly turned around and went back. Do I want to jet ski? Maybe later in the week, not quite ready for that yet.
All sorts of thoughts were darting through my head, change, I don't like change, but it has to be. As I walk
in the silky white sand, and feel the water rush up on my feet, and watch the sun start setting on the horizon,
I realize all the important things haven't changed, and that's all that matters. As I walk by a resort called sun
beach, I notice a sign, live band tonight. Looks like ill be dancing later!!
