MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

[Vi]

Please note this is not a new report but a “re-post”. The original report was lost/deleted from the site and couldn’t be restored in the final form which included many wonderful comments. This saddens me because those who shared became part of the adventure added another dimension to the story. I can’t say it enough; the comments were Priceless! However, I’ve gotten a lot of requests for the report so I decided to post it with the pictures. So here it is…enjoy… [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Vi

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

It’s a freezing morning, mid February 2002. Huddled under 3 heavy blankets, I lay in my bed, staring at the ceiling. Tears fill my eyes and overflow onto my pillow. My sadness has overcome me and made me weak. I can’t stop crying.

You would cry too if on one of the coldest days on record, you suddenly realize that you are a forty something, grieving widow, raising two teenage sons; both with raging hormones and mood swings worse than any sistah PMS’ing….without chocolate. Plus my dear friend has been calling me on the average of 8 times a day for the past 4 days because her boyfriend has broken up with her for the 5th time. On top of that, the company is downsizing and I made the, “You’re valuable to the company, but we have to let you go” list.

I forced myself out of bed, showered and drove to work. I sat for hours in front of a blank computer screen tying to figure out how to hold it together. In order to save whatever shred of sanity I had left, I had to separate myself from this madness called Vi’s life. I decided to leave and get away… far away. So after looking at countless websites, travel pamphlets, books and brochures I decided I’m going to escape to Montego Bay, Jamaica. Here’s my experience.

Monday – August 5 - Day before departure to Paradise

Today’s agenda: pick up Adrienne (a co-worker and travel partner), do last minute shopping, call to say good-bye to family and friends, finish packing, then to bed by 10:00pm. Yeh right! We shopped, delivered good-byes, crammed more stuff in bags, and finally in bed by 1:18am! I set the alarm for 4:15am. We had to leave at 5:00am for our 7:00am flight on Air Jamaica, out of Philadelphia. While I’m away, my wonderful mother is staying at my place with my 14-year-old son, Kenny. Kenny is okay with me going away on vacation without him because he received some slammin “guilt gifts” from mommy. He now has in his possession a new Game Boy Advance along with a new game cartridge, my Blockbuster movie rental card and $60 pocket cash. It may sound like a bit much, but I was going to be in Jamaica for 11 days, so this was a small price to pay for a little piece of mind and zero mommy guilt. The house bills are paid and the fridge is full. I said a prayer and eventually drifted off to sleep.

Day 1: Tuesday – August 6 – Panic in the Mawn & Arrival in MoBay: Hello Jamaica

RING…RING…RING ….(a very groggy Vi fumbles in the dark to answer the phone)…… ”Hello???”
“Vi I’m not going to keep you because I know you girls are headed out the door and on your way to the airport… just wanted to say…”
AIRPORT??!?!?!? OHMYGOODNESS OHMYGOODNESS!!!! WE OVERSLEPT!
“Mom, I love you, thanks for calling, we’ll be careful…kiss…kiss…gotta go!”
In a panic I wake Adrienne and we move like lightening. My sister, Vanessa, was there at 4:45am, right on time. She and her daughter, Natasha, are driving us to the airport. Baby sis is the best. I can always rely on her to come through for me with any insane request. Originally she was going with us, but she had other priorities. I’m going to miss her because we always traveled together.

We arrived to the airport in plenty of time. Security search and check-in moved along without hassle. We boarded the plane and settled into our seats. urghhh… I had the isle seat which I hate as much as the music played in Wal-mart stores. (I work there part-time, believe me I know what I’m talking about). You see…I don’t get up as soon as the plane lands and it seems that whoever sits in the isle seat, has to jump up the instant the plane wheels touch ground…. and wait…in the isle of a plane. Oh well. I love flying Air Jamaica. The flight was great and we were served a tasty little breakfast. The staff was friendly and helpful. So far, so good.

We land in Montego Bay at 11:20am. My heart pounds hard in expectation of what lies ahead. I’ve waited 9 months for this day, this hour, and this second and now it is FINALLY HERE! Words can’t describe my excitement and I haven’t even left the plane. The “unfasten seatbelt” indicator sounded with its standard ”ding” and I immediately get up. I think to myself…”I am so glad I had an isle seat.” I grab my backpack and patiently wait in line until it is my turn to exit the plane. It’s MY turn now! It’s MY turn now! I give the crew a friendly smile and thank you then step onto the metal stairway. I take a deep breath then exhale. aaaahhh I’m here. I’m in JAMAICA!!! I stood on the top step for a moment, closed my eyes and felt the warm breeze embrace me like a soft, gentle hug. Welcome to Jamaica, Vi.

A small group of performers, dressed in brightly colored attire, are dancing and singing an island tune welcoming us to their home. I enjoyed it. It was calming as we made our way through immigration and customs, which to me, can be quite hectic. (side note to “first-time visitors”.. I remember someone from the board mentioning giving each singer an envelope containing $5US. This is an excellent idea….my envelopes are stuffed and sealed for my next visit.)

Immigration was a breeze, now on to customs. I’m a little nervous because I am literally dragging two heavy, 27-inch suitcases packed so tightly they are about to burst. One bag contains everything and anything I ABSOLUTELY need, plus stuff I MIGHT need and more stuff that I know I would not even touch. The other is jam-packed with toys, purses, wallets, children’s clothing, body wash, candles, a cassette recorder, blank tapes and a lot of stuff I probably forgot I even put in there. All to leave in Jamaica. I’ve removed price tags and taken everything out of it’s original packaging to make it appear as though these items are for personal use, but how can I explain 6 Barbie dolls and 4 ladies’ handbags. Oh yes, not to mention the 15 men’s shirts. Well I wasn’t going to sweat it. I brought a few extra dollars just in case I had to pay duty on the extra. It makes me heated to think I may be penalized for doing something good. I was headed toward a friendly looking female officer to the extreme right when I hear Adrienne call me.

“Hey Vi! Come over here…get in this line girl.”
I looked at the officer in that line and I knew he is going to put me through a detailed bag search. “I’m going to have to pay mega bucks in duty” I mumbled to myself.
I drag my bags over to the mean ole customs officer and start searching for my luggage keys. This really sucks; it is going to ruin this perfect morning. Adrienne went through without a hitch. Now it was my turn.
“Passport please.”
I hand him my documents. I never make eye contact with him. I just continued searching for my keys.
“Miss….your papers. Take them to the man standing to the right of that door.”
What, he’s not going to search my bags??? WONDERFUL!
He was holding my passport waiting for me to take it. I slowly reached for the folder and he turned to watch Adrienne away. He actually had a slight smile on his face. Like he was pleased about something.
I rushed to catch up with Adrienne.
“Adrienne, what was that all about??? How come he didn’t search our bags?”
“Girl, we were in the wrong line. That was the line for people who have things to declare.”
Now I’m even more confused.
“But, why didn’t he send us to another line?”
“I’m not really sure, but he was really nice and complimented me on my shirt.”
I looked at her top and noticed that she was showing a little more cleavage now then she was when we got off the plane. Oh, ooooookaaaaaay.
I turned to glance back at him, he was still watching us so I mouthed “thank you” He smiled and nodded.

We make our way to the transportation booth. No hassle at all. We were escorted to the bus that would take us to the Sunset.

“Welcome to Jamaica folks. My name is Stanley; I’m your driver. You folks ready to have lots of fun???”
The response was weak. I guess most weren’t expecting conversation, including myself. We were too busy absorbing everything around us. It was such an overwhelming feeling to finally be in Jamaica and away from…life as we know it. He asks again, this time with a lot more volume in his voice. Then all 10 of us simultaneously utter our first of many “yeh mon” .

“That’s much bedda. We will be arriving at the Sunset in approximately tirteen minutes. Feel free to ask me any ting.
We were all still too excited for small talk. All we can do is sit in our seats, enjoy the air condition and watch the view passing outside the bus window with child-like curiosity. Like kids sitting on a big old yellow school bus taking us to our own little personal favorite place in the whole wide world. Our minds thinking of unpacking, stripping off the anxieties of life back home and feeling the Caribbean ocean cool our toes. Noses pressed against the window and trying so hard not to be the first one to ask “Are we there yet???”

We arrived at the Sunset in what felt like only seconds. Stanley announced our arrival and informed us that although our transfers were included in the price of our tickets, we could tip him as an expression of our appreciation. I think I was the only one who expressed.

Montego Bay, Jamaica 12:16pm arrival - The Sunset Beach Resort & Spa


We weren’t even off the bus when a representative from Jamaican Tours greets us. She tells us that she will be our “tour coordinator” during our stay and instructed us to meet her at one of the tables next to the bar at 2:00pm. She assured us that she would give us the best deals on tours and activities outside of the resort. She also told us that she would make sure that we have “no problems” because there are “no problems” in Jamaica. We later find out, this was all talk.

We make our way to check-in. So far I am very impressed with the resort. The open-air lobby is significantly spacious. A roof covers 90 percent of the lobby, the rest, along with the sides, is open and quite attractive. It is decorated with a multitude of colorful tropical trees, plants and flowers. Oversized brightly painted chairs (the “big chairs”) were placed throughout. Such a bright and delightful treat for my eyes.

Once at the front desk, we are informed that our rooms would not be ready until after 3:00pm and were encouraged to move about and become familiar with our new surroundings. This was fine because there was so much going on we were sure to can find something to keep us occupied until 2:00. Yes indeed, there was PLENTY. Pools, the ocean, 4 bars, 3 restaurants, a grill, disco, a stage for nightly entertainment and a schedule of daily events conveniently written on a large billboard located outside of the main dinning area. They offer everything from water aerobics in the morning to karaoke in the evening. Ending each night with an invitation to visit the Galaxy disco. They also have house a cambio and two gifts shops. Believe me, the one gift shop has just about everything you would need if you discovered you forgot something essential and the prices are reasonable. Oh you can also purchase phone cards at the cambio. Take advantage of this. You can use your own calling card from the rooms, but there is a 3.00US connection fee, plus the international charges. Phone charges are kept on the room account so we could check it every other day. Local calls were only thirty cents. I’ll share other resort activities as the days go on. I intend on experiencing as much as possible. So far, this looks like a nice place. Now, what do we do first? Get A Drink.

2:00 we make our way to the “table by the bar” to meet with Mervena, trip coordinator. Only 4 of us show up. I wished I had been one of the smart 6 who decided to forgo the “tour sales pitch”, but we couldn’t turn back now, we were there. She showed us a brochure listing the attractions that can be purchased and the cost of each one. As we look it over, she is chattering non-stop about each one while telling us that each excursion would be an experience of a lifetime. I try to tune her out and concentrate on the printed text but it was hard. She was, as I said, non-stop. I was personally interested in an evening cruise. I would pay handsomely to be on the ocean from sunset into the night. The brochure listed the Calico Sunset Cruise.

We told her that we would take the brochure to look it over and return tomorrow to book. She said not to wait too long, get back to her soon because the spaces were filling up quickly. Oh really? I said that if we miss out, then it wasn’t meant to be. She had no response. We thanked her for her time and departed. It was now 3:45; yes we spent almost 2 hours with Mervena. Adrienne goes to see if our room was ready. It was. Tower B, eighth floor, room 809. We are on our way! We got on the elevator, off on the 8th floor, turned right, then left, then left again. There it was, the door leading to our home away from home for the next 7 nights.

I was the first to enter and the first thing I needed to do was to go out on the balcony and check out the view.

Magnificent! There she was…the Caribbean in all her glory. She is beautiful. I was so pleased.

The first thing Adrienne did was turn on the TV. I had no desire to watch television and could have done without it. That’s just me. I can live without the telly while on vacation, but I could NEVER be without music.

Adrienne unpacked and put her things in the dressers drawers. I never unpack. I don’t know why because it is a royal pain in the butt to lift the suitcase, unlock, unzip and move stuff around…over and over. Laziness????? Definitely!! I end up refolding my clothes every other day because I mess everything up! Oh well, hopefully on my next trip I’ll unpack like a normal traveler. Does anyone one else live out of their luggage while vacationing???

The room itself was “average” looking. Two full-sized beds, a full bath, phone, color TV, Gideon Bible and a balcony. Something similar to a Comfort or Holiday Inn. On a scale from 1 to 5, I would give the room a 4. Without the view it would be, without a doubt, a 3. We freshened up and went down for dinner. The main dinning area was also an “open atmosphere” setting allowing the fabulous tropical breeze to blow through to cool and refresh you while enjoying the meal. That was fine for me. We found a table, set our bags down and a waiter came over to ask if we would like coffee. We both said no, so he filled our glasses with ice water. The buffet was stocked well with a variety of fresh fruits, salads, meats, deserts and beverages. More than I would have prepared for myself if I were home. This was a small feast. I could find my pleasure amongst this spread. I did. Tonight’s menu was a Caribbean theme. Jerk Chicken was featured. I have never tasted jerk chicken before now and I was looking forward to it.

The jerk chicken was good, along with the tossed salad, a roll and ice water. I enjoyed everything. Adrienne did also. We were full and needed to move round a bit. We located the pools, the bars, the disco and other important locals such as the bars. Oh I said that already!

My dear friend,(AGee) and her family were stopping by tonight. I had contacted her through meetthejamaicans.com. We are meeting for the first time. I was extremely excited and a likkle nervous. We had been emailing each other for over 4 months so we got to know each other, but now we will be face to face, sistah ta sistah.

She was to arrive at 6:30. After changing we waited outside for her. There she is…7:08…right on Jamaican time. We exchanged hugs and kisses and were introduced to her family. Husband and 3 adorable children whom call me Auntie Vi!

After our 2-hour visit, we hugged and kissed and made plans for getting together later in the week.

This was a long day, so I was ready to turn in and get some rest. But wait!! Not so fast. We heard music playing in the distance and went to check it out. A band was performing on the main stage before a small weary audience. We decided to get a drink and listen to them for a while. After about 20 minutes, we decided to turn in. The band was good, but it was late and we were in need of sleep. The end of our first day in Jamaica. Good night.

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Day 2: Wednesday – August 7 – Poolside, Tour Sign-ups: Sunset Cruise, Karaoke Night

I wake up about 7:25 this morning. The first thing I did, which became a daily ritual, was to go out on the balcony to feel the warmth of the sun and give thanks to Jah for this day.

A view from the balcony

Now what does one do on one’s second day in Jamaica? I didn’t have an agenda but I knew I was getting the heck out of that room asap!

I wake Adrienne. We decided to put on our suits and sit by the pool after breakfast. Ackee and saltfish were on the menu along with bacon, eggs, sausage, hash browns, etc, etc, etc. I like ackee and saltfish. Adrienne wouldn’t go near it. After finishing with some fresh fruit and a cup of tea, we headed out to pick up our towels and sit by the main pool. Adrienne jumped in without hesitation. I didn’t get in. I was too busy checking out the tour brochure we got from Marvena. I scanned the pamphlet and circled the ones I felt were worth paying the small fortune to experience.

I showed Adrienne my suggestions and she was in agreement with the choices. We made our way over to Marvena and booked the following: Calico Sailing Cruise – 3 hours on the ocean, rum punch, red stripe, wine, coke, but no snacks ($29US), the Bamboo River Rafting – about 1 hour, a guided slow paddled down the river ($45US), and the Negril Beach & Sunset Tour – beach, shopping, then to Rick’s Café ($25US). We wanted to book more, but decided to see how these turn out first as there were NO REFUNDS.

Adrienne dove back into the pool, I planted myself back in the lounge chair.

It was beginning to look like rain. The sun kept peeping in and out between the many puffy, gray clouds that were accumulating above. I have to admit the short periods of shade were refreshingly soothing from the intense heat of the sun.

I was really enjoying myself lying on the lounge chair listening to my personal anthology of Maxi Priest tunes. I can feel the heavy weight of stress and worries literally ease from my body. I want to get into the water, but I feel so relaxed as I am. Plus it would be rude of me to interrupt Maxi as he serenades me with song after wonderful song.. mmm yes Maxi, tell me “what a woman needs”. I am a die-hard Maxi Priest fan, and as a rule I never leave home without an assortment of his melodies. Hey, you’ve got yours…I’ve got Maxi.

Adrienne finally resurfaced from the depths of the pool to say it is lunchtime. ALREADY??? “Come on Vi. Let’s get something to eat. It’s got to be close to 2:30.” Lunch is served from 11:30am to 3:00pm. The staff starts putting food away and cleaning around 2:30 and they don’t replenish anything if it runs out unless you ask for it. We made it in time to select from what was still remaining. I had a half of turkey sandwich and some cole slaw. The cole slaw had become one of my favorite sides. It was sooooo goooood.

As we were eating, it started to drizzle. I thought about The Calico Sunset Cruise tonight. I hoped that the rains would stop before we sail. I was so looking forward to drifting on the Caribbean and seeing my first Jamaican sunset across the waters. I have visions of some of the wonderful photos shared on Jamaican.com, I couldn’t wait to have this breathtaking experience.

We still had a little time before we needed to get ready so we sat and listened to the DJ spin tunes. Some type of music is always sounding during the day here, either cd’s, a DJ or band. Sometimes the DJ may coax some of the spectators into getting involved in some silly dancing and singing thing. Depending on the crowd and how much they’ve had to drink. I, of course, kept a safe distance.

Thoughts of the Calico…. We were to be picked up at 4:30. I am imagining this boat to be large, enough for up to 100 people. I’m not worried about the rain because I’m sure there’s an overhead covering. We managed to shower and change in plenty of time to make it out front for our ride. I was ready fe dis!!!!!!

I began to worry when 4:30 came and went. The other guests were concerned also including Adrienne. “Vi, this blasted bus is late! What if it doesn’t show up at all?”
“Adrienne, we would have gotten a call from someone if the cruise was cancelled. If they don’t show up, I’m sure we will get our money back.”
“I hope so.”

I started to get a bit more concerned when it got closer to 5:00. Then we saw this white mini van barrel up the drive and come to a screeching halt. The driver jumped out in a huff and definitely in no mood for nonsense, and announced the Calico Sunset Cruise. Everyone, without hesitation, obediently boarded the van like good little school children, sat down and released a sign of relief. We are on our way.

Once we made our way off the Sunset property, I had a thought…..“Hey Adrienne, the cruise is from 5:00 to 8:00 right?”
“Yeah, three hours.”
“Well it is 4:55 right now. There is no way we are going to be on a boat in 5 minutes.”
“Yeah, I know. I’m sure they will extend the cruise to make sure we get 3 hours.”
“I hope so, I really do.” Then to add to my anxiety ..the driver was not driving at the speed of light; he was CRAWLING because we were stuck in the middle of rush hour traffic! Rush hour is rush hour. It doesn’t matter whether it’s rush hour in Jersey or Jamaica. We were stuck in it and we were soooo late. I wondered to myself if I was the only one bothered with this?? I glance at the faces of the other riders it appears that they are surprisingly calm, including Adrienne. Me, I’m stressing big time. Okay, okay I won’t worry until we get to the boat. I sit back and put Buju on the cd. No, his music pumps me up…I need something a little more calming. Aahhh yes, Maxi!

Upon our arrival were greeted by a tall, thin gentleman who led us up a short flight of narrow cement steps and along the pier. The boat didn’t look anything as I imagined it. It was a medium size sailboat only large enough for about 25 people. Plus it was still raining and there was no covering. This put a damper on the evening right at the start. Obviously I won’t see a sunset tonight.

We boarded the boat and immediately the crew starting pouring plastic cups full of rum punch and passing them out. I was offered two cups at once. WRONG! I mean if I look that vexed then talk to me…don’t try to get me tanked-up!!!
“You look like you could use deeze two. Pud a smile pon u sweet face.”
I looked him in the eyes and with a slight smile I declined “No thank you.”
He wasn’t expecting that. So he moved on to the other passengers and hoped they would be drinking participants for this evening sail. I’m sorry, but all I have on my mind right now is we are shorted 35 minutes on this trip and I can’t think of anything else right, not even the rum punch. I can’t even enjoy being out on the Caribbean waters which is why I booked this jaunt. Oh no matter how hard I try I can’t let it rest. I think the others are thinking the same thing because no one is loosening up and some of them are working on their 3rd rum punch.

Okay..enough! It is 6:30 for goodness sake and I would like to think we are going to be out on the waters for at least 2 more hours. Then I can drink and loosen up and actually this gift from God. The same guy comes our way, but he approaches only Adrienne and sits next to her. He offers her a cup filled to the brim with rum punch. She takes a sip, turns to me and gives me that “I can’t drink this stuff” look. (Adrienne is not a drinker.) He starts making small talk about partying and having fun while on the boat. I heard him ask why no one is crazy drunk and getting buck wild.

“Oh please!” I chimed in. “For one thing, we’ve been on this boat for almost an hour and we’ve been listening to the same Sanchez cd the entire time. How about changing the music for starters! Don’t you have anything else more upbeat??? Personally I like Sanchez, but not 75 minutes of just him. And by the way…could I see the Captain please?”

“Sure, mi a chang de music firs, den mi get de boss fe yu. juss fe yu.” He said with a smile and a finger pointed at my nose. I think he wanted to poke it, but from the look on my face, he realized that may not have been a good idea.

He gave me a sly grin and a quick wink before descending into the lower part of the boat. I guess that’s where they keep the cd player. Then silence.

NOTE: I know my patois is not good as I am still learning, and I apologize if it sounds silly or discourteous. I started to leave it out, but felt that it is important to the flavor of my story. Please bear with me.

The captain arrives….and he is handsome! This is going to be hard.
“Hello, I ‘m the Captain. You would like to talk to me.”
“Yes I would. What is your name?”
He looked puzzled, but still managed to maintain that wide pearly white grin that could be seen from one end of the boat to the other.
“Bruce, and yours?”
“Look here Bruce, as you are aware, the boat didn’t sail until 5:35. It was advertised to sail for 3 hours, from 5:00 to 8:00. We lost over a half hour. Does this mean that you will extend the time? We dock at 8:35?”


Captain Bruce. Let me tell you, this picture doesn't do that fantastic smile of his any justice.


See what I mean??? This is why it was so hard to be real and tell him I was not happy. Charming...simply charming!

Well anyway...

Remember it was quiet now because crew guy was changing the music, so the other folks can hear our conversation. All eyes were on Captain Bruce waiting for his response. Just as he was about to answer me, the music blares at it’s highest tempo…

My crew..my crew...My dogs, my dogs..

He speaks softly so that only Adrienne and myself could hear.
“No I am very sorry, but I cannot extend the sailing. I have no control over the time the driva arrives with the guests.”
“Well that’s not very fair.” I told him. “We paid for 3 hours! What’s up with that Captain Bruce?”
“I cannot extend the trip. Dere is nothing I can do.”
“Who can I talk to about this??? Yeah right, like he was going to tell me.
“You can go to your tour coordinator. Tell dat person and they will handle your concern.”
Then Adrienne spoke up, “The cruise should have been cancelled because of the bad weather. It’s raining, we are getting wet and forget about seeing a sunset.”

(When I look back at this…I was re-acting like a spoiled child. Shame on me.)
Captain Bruce continued manning the boat, trying to maintain a half smile. He wasn’t saying anything.

The song changed and the rest of the crew leaped out on deck twisting and jumping around like puppets in an attempt to improve the mood of the down heartened passengers. It didn’t work and they looked ridiculous. Some of the passengers were guzzling down 4 – 5 drinks obviously a desperate effort to induce mental numbing. To be honest, it didn’t even look like they felt the slightest buzz. I was disappointed and I couldn’t and didn’t hide it. After about 10 minutes, Captain Bruce came over and sat next to me and quietly whispered. “Just for you, miss, I will extend the time until 8:30.” I just looked at him for a moment or two because for some reason, I was doubtful about that. I reserved the thanks for when we docked. The pearly white smile was back on Captain Bruce’s face and he went his way.

The ending of the cruise aboard the Calico was just as dull and disappointing as it begun. The crew had tired themselves out and stop trying to amuse us. It turns out that they only had two cds. The Best of Sanchez and Reggae Explosion 2002. This crowd could not appreciate either one so the music tired out also. At last, we docked…it was 8:03. I didn’t even bother to talk to Captain Bruce. I’ll save my words of dissatisfaction for Miss Mervena and put her customer service skills to the test.

I have been on a lot of sunset/booze cruises and I’ve found that it is almost impossible to have an unpleasant experience. No matter the number of people on the boat or weather condition, at least 90% of the passengers always had a fantastic time with little entertainment by the crew. Well this disappointment was the first! It was awful and the crew was less then entertaining. In fact, after a while they became straight out irritating. Instead of rousing us to get loose and have fun, we were on the verge of ending our misery by jumping overboard. I would never recommend the Calico Sunset Cruise to anyone. It was a huge regret. I couldn’t wait to see Mervena the next day. If ANYONE had a different experience on this cruise, please share.

Needless to say…I didn’t tip as much as I wanted to. This really hurt me. And to think that we contemplated doing that particular cruise TWICE! I’m sorry to say that once was too much.

After getting back to the Sunset, solemn and gloomy, we heard the sound of live reggae music sweetening the air. We perked up and followed our ears to the main stage near the grill and bar. Oh happy day! We headed straight to the bar for now I was parched.
I couldn’t wait to place my order, “Three shots of Appleton please, straight-up”
“Anyting dis lady wan, dis lady reseeve” the bartender kindly replied with a big smile.
I like that, I’m feeling better already. As I sip my simple but powerful drink, the earlier events of the evening begin to slowly fade. Gradually I became me again. Vi in Montego Bay! NO MADDA now! Everyting cris!

On the stage was a group --- don’t remember the name (sary). They were good. The leads were male and female singers. I honestly can’t remember the songs they sang, but I did enjoy them. They must have been an aspiring group because we were not allowed to photograph or video tape their performance. Oh well, after a triple shot of Appleton, it didn’t matter. The music was good and I was mellow. The band finished performing and the crowd dispersed. Next on the agenda for the night…KAREOKE!! Adrienne and I decided to stick around and check it out. As the participants were being rounded up and given last minute instructions, I decided to walk on the beach.

Standing on the ocean’s edge I had thoughts of how wonderful it is to be here, to be in Jamaica and not wanting to ever leave. In spite of all the commotion going on just a few yards behind me, I was in total solitude. The Caribbean ocean is soooo different from the Atlantic Ocean. It says, “come into me I will heal your body; listen to me, I will calm your thoughts; respect me I will sooth your soul”. I was being comforted, mind, body and soul. I found myself in a place I had forgotten even existed…contentment.

The Atlantic Ocean??? Well let’s just say…it say nothing to me.

Adrienne came to check on me. “Hey girl, you alright?” Adrienne is the caring motherly-type. She has been so attentive and protective of me during our trip. She knows what I am going through.
“I’m fine.” I told her. I struggled to maintain my balance standing on the sandy beach; hey the Appleton was in effect. “I’m sorry I left you for a minute or two, but…”
“A minute or two!!!!! You were out here for almost an hour! I kept watching you to make sure you didn’t vanish into the water.”
My friend doesn’t know, my being close to the ocean at that time was turning this miserable, cranky tourist into a happy, respectful visitor.

We strolled back to the room, not really saying much. Although the thought might have crossed our minds, neither one of us dared to bring up the cruise. It would have shattered the peace we both were enjoying.
"How were the kareoke performers??"
"It was okay, only 3 people sang."
We watched a little telly, then lights out. Good night Jamaica, see you tomorrow, Jah willing.

[BlueAngel]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Alllllll righty then Ms. Vi I am there already with you. Thanks for taking the time to "re-post" keep it coming for your fans

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Hey sweetie..I'll post more later tonight...

[Grandmother]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU

[Marilyn]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Can it be possible that this is better than the first time I read it???? Maybe so because maybe the first time I was devouring it with my eyes because it was the first good thing I had read in so long. Maybe so because I did not know VI at all when I read it the first time, and now I know this woman so I can internalize it.

Thanks heavens someone saved this for us.

[cinnni]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience


More please!!! I love it the first time and love it even more this time. I actually printed the whole thing out the first time but cannot find where I put it [img]/forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif[/img]

Please continue on..we're dying here gyal!

[sjb1221]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Great start....can't wait to read the rest.
Thanks, Vi.

[sheanlee]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

woooohooo...away for two days and I come back to THIS!!!

[sammy]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

i printed this the first time for people that were close to me...but not myself...that won't happen this time

(((((((vi)))))))))))))))))

[Marilyn]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Alright sweetie, no one knows better than I do that you are working round the clock, but forget the sleep thing......next installment please.

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Hi Orbra! Marilyn! Cinnni! Sjb! PastLifeJamaica! and Sammy! Sorry for taking so long. Work and coordinating this tech stuff was a challenge…you know, report in one place, pictures in another place, brain somewhere else.

Oh yeah, pictures will be added later. Snapfish is not cooperating this afternoon and I didn’t want to hold up posting any longer.

Anyway..here’s more…

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

Day 3: Thursday – August 8 – aaaahhhh…A Taste of Negril

After a restful night’s sleep, we were up bright and early to start our 3rd day in Jamaica. OOOhhh how sweet the reality of this moment. I’m IN Jamaica. We showered and dressed, then headed to breakfast. On our way, we stopped to check the board of daily activities. It makes you wonder, who has the task of writing this stuff everyday??? Starting from 7am clear up to 11:30pm there is something going on. Wonderful how your mind has room for mundane thoughts like this when your head is clear and your soul and heart are healing.

Today the straw market comes here. WOW! We see the many vendors with their woodcarvings, jewelry and other hand-made works of art. We did not shop because today, WE ARE GOING TO NEGRIL! Pick up was at 10am and return by 8:30pm cost only 25US! 4 hours on the beach, 1 hour to shop then on to Rick’s Café for the duration. Adrienne was really looking forward to this trip. This was her second visit to Jamaica. The first time she came, she stayed in Negril and has shared some very fond memories of her experience. Yes, ooohhh YES, she started comparing MoBay to Negril from the moment we landed. She praises Negril so much that it makes me feel a little uncomfortable. You see, I was the one who selected MoBay as our destination. So far, mi noah tel ah lie, mi don’t regret it. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

After breakfast we made our way out front to wait for our driver. Pick up was 10am; it was now 9:48. Quick inventory…do I have everything?? Camera, sun block, shades, something to read, and aaahh yes, mi music! I’m ready to go. Our transpo arrived on time and I was the second one on the van. Then coming aboard is a group of about 6 women ranging in age from 23 to about 40. I find out later, they are from Georgia. I find out immediately, they are LOUD! They disrupted the comfortable silence by opening their mouths. They were going, I mean, boasting, on and on about their antics from the previous night in downtown MoBay. Definitely not something I wanted to listen to first thing in the morning. Adrienne takes the window seat, I slip on my headset and listen to my selection of reggae tunes. The music will be relaxing and drown out the chattering going on behind me. This is going to be a good day!

Adrienne promises me that I will fall in love with Negril and that I would regret staying in Montego Bay. Let me say this, I feel happy, ecstatic, even blessed just to be here. This is my first trip to Jamaica and I can’t see how any one part of this tropical paradise can be, in comparison, worse than another. But what I do know now is, without a doubt, my first trip to Jamaica will inevitably lead to another, and another, and another.

The driver informs us that the trip will only take about an hour and 20 minutes because we will be taking the new road. I was hoping for a longer travel time so that I could enjoy the scenery, which I heard so much about. He also encourages everyone to ask him anything. The chicks from Georgia asked if they could hire a rent-a-dread while in Negril. All six of course thought this was hilarious. The driver pretended that he didn’t hear them. They repeated the asinine question and he just smiled and told them they can get anything they desire in Jamaica. Good answer to a ridiculous question. They all cheered…he just drove. I felt his frustration.

I realize this is the first time I even noticed the driver. As the bus motors along, I look at him…he is really attractive. He appears to be about 44-47. Oh my, his beautiful smile enhances his attractiveness. All right Vi, focus on the scenery OUTSIDE the van. And what beautiful scenery it was. Each passing mile made me long to see more.

I tilt my head to the right to peek a glance at Adrienne. She is into her own world. I let her have her moments and crank up the volume. Third World is the featured artist now. “Committed” starts the tracks. I’m fine now as I watch the many trees pass by and catch a glimpse of a house here and there.

Sooner than I expected we arrive in Negril. Looking up at the sky, it is a little overcast, it may rain. To be honest, it would be okay if it did. I was in Negril! I was in Jamaica! As Maxi Priest perfectly and carefree sings…”So What If It Rains”!!!”

We arrive at the Margaretville Beach in Negril. Very, very nice. We both make a b-line toward the ocean. We take pictures and utter our oohhh’s and aaaah’s without even dropping our bags. This is so beautiful, the beach, the set-up and even that colorful inflated trampoline sitting directly in front of us. I like it here.



After pictures, I looked around for somewhere to set this body of mine down to rest. I do not sit in the sand because it gets everywhere and there is too much of me that can collect the grainy little irritants. Oh, beach chairs…I love them. One of the workers comes over and I ask for two chairs. I tip him; he says…with a BIG smile…”Much respect.” Nods and leaves. I take that as a thank you. Adrienne appears and informs me that we have complimentary welcome drinks, rum punch, at the bar. COOL! We go back only to find that the Georgian six have helped themselves to our drinks. After telling the bartender that we didn’t have our complimentary drinks, and a little dashing back and fourth, we got our drinks along with a sincere apology.

For some reason I felt bad for even asking for them. It’s a free drink for goodness sake. A free drink in New Jersey is literally nothing. A free drink in Jamaica is a sacrifice. Everyone was so sweet and kind. I had to remind myself that I was not in Jersey…not in the US! Stop acting like you are dealing with cut-throat proprietors who are only out to make a buck and don’t care their customers. This is not the case here. These people are upset that you are not happy. I feel so bad. I come to my senses real quick when not only do they give me the free drink, but also they give me an EXTRA one…jus fi mi! I felt worst. I try to pay for the extra, but they refuse. I mean sincerely refuse. Like they felt bad for offending me. I took the drinks, discretely left $3US near the beer dispenser and made my way to my little spot on the beach in Negril.



Meanwhile, Adrienne had made her way into the water. I fastened my headphones to my head and blasted Maxi Priest pon mi playa. His voice could always mellow me out and help me regain my focus no matter what has me vexed. After about 13 minutes of Maxi, the breath-taking ocean view, and two rum punches…everyting now cris. Adrienne was nowhere to be seen so that meant that she was okay. I lay back to soak in the moment. I was loving it so much that I hadn’t noticed the dark clouds that were huddling together above me.

All of a sudden, the heavens open up and the rains poured down to cool the blazing hot ground. I cover my CD player, gather up our stuff and head for a table in the dinning area. I find the perfect spot on the edge of the dock, sheltered from the rains, yet not completely in the mix of the tourist. Booms of thunder and flashes of lightening begin their concerto so Adrienne gets the hint and makes her way back to shore. My girl is all smiles. She tells me, she met a young man while out swimming, Simeon. She said they were enjoying good conversation before it started to storm. He told her all about himself and his love for his country. I can tell she really enjoyed that brief “connection” and hoped that there would be more to follow. I hoped for her. It never happened.

We shared a jerk chicken meal. Adrienne didn’t care for it much but I thought it was delicious. We sat at a table across from the Georgia Gals. They were trying to “entice” a driver to take them all back to MoBay because they hated Margaritaville and they hated Negril. From what I could make out, a driver offered them to take all six of them back to MoBay for only $75US. This price was for the whole lot of them. They said no. The driver would not lower his fee and I don’t blame him. He had a mini van and the price per person would be a little more then $10US. Plus he had to drive all the way back to Negril to pick up the rest of the group. It amazes me how people will demand a whole lot of sumtin fe nuttin. So they ordered fries and complained for the next hour or so.

The rain was coming down pretty heavy so Adrienne and I headed back to the bus. No one was there yet and we enjoyed the quiet and the cool air. Our seclusion came to an end when a couple seeking to escape the storm joined us. They were from New Jersey also. Not a very exciting couple at all. We chatted with them for a while, but would have preferred the silence. Soon, others began to return to the bus and it looked like everyone was ready to leave.

[Vi]

Re: MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

The driver took a head count and we were on our way to do a little bit of shopping. All I could think of is getting a DRINK….Appleton! We ended up at a busy little area buzzing with both tourist and everyday folks going about their daily routine.


I got out, went to the first place I saw advertising Jamaican rum, purchased a bottle of Appleton for $6US and headed back to the bus. The driver was standing outside the van watching the activities and keeping an eye on who goes where. Oh my, he does look good. Beautiful, smooth brown skin and gorgeous gray eyes. I saw them from my seat, but up close they are hypnotic.

“Wha, you noah shoppin?” He asks as I walked toward him.
“Yes, I shopped. I bought the necessity.” I showed him the bottle of rum. He glanced at it as if he really didn’t have to look and smiled.
“Now, wha are you going to do with dat?”
“Enjoy the rest of this day.”
He had a look of disapproval. Disappointment. Pity. I was no longer proud of holding a brown paper bag containing a bottle of rum labeled 80 proof. No cup with ice, not even a straw. Boy did I not feel like a lady.
“Wha is your name.”?
“Vi”
“You rememba my name?”
“Of course I do. It’s Vincent, right?”
He smiled again and nodded in approval. “You would be surprise how many ridas don rememba my nyam.”
“I bet they remember those beautiful eyes of yours.” Boy, did he give me a smile this time.

Looking into his eyes is no longer hypnotic and sensual, but comfortable and safe. The kind that would make you feel so secure that you would open up and blurt out all your deepest thoughts and secrets in hopes that he would be able to tell you why you sometimes lay awake at night and weep. Protective, trusting “let me handle everyting” eyes.

“How long will you be wid us in Jamaica?”
“Until the 16th. But I don’t want to think able leaving, it’s too sad.”
“Are you enjoying yourself.”?
“Yes, so far everything has been nice.”
“Do you have a male companion ere?”
Now it was my time to smile. “No, I really don’t need one. I just want to enjoy Jamaica. In fact, I haven’t even thought about meeting someone until you mentioned it.”

OOOOOOOhhhhhhhhhhh HOW I LIED!!!!! He knew I was not being truthful, I could feel it.

“Well Vi,” Vincent said while deliberately focusing on the bottle of Appleton I had firmly clutched to my right side. “Mek sure you handle dat wid respect. You don’t want to move too fass.”
Oh this is sweet..he’s cautioning me.
I removed my sunglasses. “Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.”
I went to step on the bus then he put his hand on my right arm and said. “You have very pretty eyes too.”
“Thank you sir.” I responded with a perky, schoolgirl squeal.

Oh boy…now where did that come from????? I have to get away from him. I admit I was enjoying his company, but I was feeling self-conscious and I didn’t understand why. Not yet anyway. Right now I needed to crack that seal on the bottle of Appleton and take a big swig, but not in front of him. I guess this was another reality check. The first, now that I think about it, was on the boat. Again, I come face-to-face with another one of my weakness, which I was not ready to see.

My eyes zoomed in on that vital place on his body…third finger left hand. Cho! There was a ring. Not a big one, but definitely a wedding band indicating that he is taken. Get movin Vi. I gave him a quick smile, put on my shades and made my way to my seat. I could not stop thinking about his smile, his words, his eyes, but I knew I had to. I wish I had at least taken his picture so that I could stare at them any time I wanted…needed…DARN!