I have now officially spent over half my life visiting Jamaica.

[rjonsun]

Great story. We went up to Accompong a few days after you left and it wasn't a pretty story. If I get a little gumption, I'll tell it with a few photos.
Regards,
Bob

[alix]

Thanks for sharing! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your visit. Condolences on the loss of your friend.

[redground]

wow ...thanks for taking the time to write all that....I have been with the anjo hines family in redground for 2/3 of my life from 19 in 1978 till 60 now. have gone from "little boy" to "old timer" now. I wish I could write like you because I enjoy all your postings. I always relate to your post having had many similar experiences. It may be Negril but when I go to Jamaica I go to Jamaica not a resort on the beach.(its just near the beach). thanks again for your writing its a great story from a great storyteller...……..view of Negril beach from our home

[Accompong]

wow ...thanks for taking the time to write all that....I have been with the anjo hines family in redground for 2/3 of my life from 19 in 1978 till 60 now. have gone from "little boy" to "old timer" now. I wish I could write like you because I enjoy all your postings. I always relate to your post having had many similar experiences. It may be Negril but when I go to Jamaica I go to Jamaica not a resort on the beach.(its just near the beach). thanks again for your writing its a great story from a great storyteller...……..view of Negril beach from our home

Developing a close enough relationship with a local Jamaican family (regardless of the location in Jamaica) where you can stay and learn about the culture and history is a great experience. One I have been lucky enough to do several times over the years.

In those 36 years, I have never stayed at an All Inclusive and only walked on a property of one a couple of times to see friends who were staying there. I was lucky enough to start my trips to Jamaica by camping out and staying in low-cost accommodations highly recommended by Lonely Planet Travel Guides.

Here is a camping picture from St. Mary many years ago.

Respect.

[Accompong]

Thanks for sharing! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your visit. Condolences on the loss of your friend.

Glad you enjoyed the story and thank for for the condolences.

Peace and Guidance

[Accompong]

Great story. We went up to Accompong a few days after you left and it wasn't a pretty story. If I get a little gumption, I'll tell it with a few photos.
Regards,
Bob

Hi Bob. I will be interested in hearing about your visit. I don't want to leave an impression that visiting a historical spot like Accompong Town should not be on ones list of things to do. Remember, when I first visited in 1990, they were relatively untouched by tourism and were authentic in their welcoming of the rare visitor. Over the years, Accompong Town has matured and not always in a good way.

Now, a visitor is treated more like a source of income much like at a restaurant where the waiter is anxious for you to leave (after leaving a tip) so the table can be filled by another customer. Even that wouldn't be so bad if they meal is worth the money or, in their case, the experience is worth the cost which can vary by the visitor and/or the guide.

A few individuals have weaseled into positions representing the town where they have adversely affected the process. Enriching themselves at the town and the town people's expense.

I will always love Accompong Town though.

Respect