MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

[Vi]

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

After calling our homes to check up on things there, we decided to just chill and sit by the pool for a while.

You can tell its Friday because a new load of tourist arrived and every last one of them are in the pool. One group in particular is having a great time. Very loud and happy, happy people. Adrienne decided to put on her suit and go for a swim. Me, I’m having too much fun watching the antics in the pool. Watching the waders boob up and down in the water like floating bowling pins. I have to laugh and shake my head.

I slip on my headphones and turned the volume up on the reggae mix cd. I can’t believe how beautiful it is this evening compared to yesterday. The sun is bright the sky is clear and my drink is gone. WHAT my drink is GONE! I rushed over and got a double this time because I don’t want to get up again. I have on my dark shades so that the pool frolickers don’t know when I’m peeping them. Dark shades…never leave for the Caribbean without them.

6:00 the DJ is playing now so I put my tunes away and listen to him. He plays a lot of good music during this time of the day, today it sounds like early 90’s R&B. The folks in the pool are really pleased as they are singing and drinking and having a ball. One of the guys in the pool swims down to the end closest to me and says hi. He told me to go and get my suit and join the fun. I told him tomorrow is my pool day. I can see that he was working hard to come up with something else to say, boy I wish I still had on my headphones.

“Where are you from?”
“New Jersey. What about you?”
“We're from Connecticut. We just got here today. When did you arrive?”
“Tuesday.”
“When do you go back?”
“Next Friday the 16th.”
“Wow..you’re going to be here THAT long??” He said it like it’s a bad thing.
“Yes, I wish I could stay longer. When do you leave?”
“Tuesday coming and that’s long enough for me.”

“Hey Marvin!” One of the females from his group notices that he is spending just a little too much time on the far end of the pool. I bet it’s his wife.

“What?” He, responds pitifully.
“Leave that lady alone. She don’t wanna be bother with your ole drunk behind.” He wasn’t budging so she paddled her way to him. Please, I prayed, no drama.
He kissteet. “Miss what is your name?”
“Vi”
“Vi, I’m Marvin and this here big beautiful babe is my wife Carla.”
“Hi, nice to meet you Carla.”
“Look here Carla, Vi is from New York and she is going to be here for what??? A month?”
“No, not quite, 11 days and actually I’m from New Jersey..(thought to myself “fool”)
“I told you we should be staying longer then 5 days, it ain’t gonna be long enough babe.”
“Marvin you know we can’t stay longer than no 5 days. Come on let’s go get something to eat, I’m hungry and I think they close down the food soon”
“Nice meeting you Vi, maybe we’ll see you around later.”
I hope not, I said to myself. You just stood here and lied to your wife and I think you were about to try and move on me. Gway eediot.
Am I sounding anti-social??? I hope not.

“Hey girl, it’s Friday night…what are we doing??? Back to Margaritaville?”
“Nooooooo! I can’t go back there tonight Adrienne. It’s Friday night and that place is going to be filled with teenagers.”
“Maybe not. Come on, let’s go and if it’s the same as last night then we can check out that place across the street.”
“Okay, I’ll do that.”
We grabbed a bite to eat and then headed to the room for a shower and short nap.

[Vi]

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

We catch the 10:00 shuttle to the hip strip. Margaritaville was not like last night, it was WORSE! There were just as many teenagers as last night plus their brothers and sisters. It was packed. We went in anyway and made our way to the back again. We couldn’t even go upstairs because the stairway was roped off. I had no desire to dance to the music being played. I hear it all the time at home; I don’t want to hear it here. We left and headed across the street. This nightspot is called The Coral Cliff. Very impressive from the outside, but I can’t hear any music yet. One of Jamaica’s finest, a tall absolutely gorgeous man in a black suit stood at the door to greet us. I like this place already.

“Good evening ladies, welcome!”
He opens the huge door for us and we enter trying not to trip because we couldn’t keep our eyes off him. After ascending two short flights of stairs, we enter the casino area. Adrienne’s eyes lit up because she likes to play the slot machines. We walked through the casino to get to the lounge area. There was a band playing and they sounded fantastic. There were people…over 25, on the dance floor. We stood to the side because all the tables were occupied. I loved the décor…an African motif. Very, very nice atmosphere. The band is doing the song “Electric Boogie” and they sound good, no better than good, they sounded great.

A very classy woman comes over and asks if this was our first visit, we said yes. She told us to follow her and she asked these two guys if we could share their table, they said sure. We thanked them and sat down. The band played one song after another and I was enjoying them to the max. I wanted to dance so bad I was about to bust! These two guys at the table were older than us, but they look like they could still shake a likkle. Just as I was turning to ask one to dance, Adrienne tapped me to move to the empty table in front of us. I got up and moved and lost the nerve to ask.

“Hey..you ladies don’t have to move” one of the silent duel finally spoke!!…just a little too late buddy. Adrienne was already sitting down and it would look silly for us to move back at this point. I just gave him a smile and said thanks, we’re going to stay here.

We ordered drinks, which were very reasonable. Red Stripe was $1.75US and other mixed drinks were $3.50. The Red Stripe came to be my favorite at the Coral Cliff. While waiting for my drink, I ventured out on the patio to see what’s going on. There are actually two decks with tables and chairs. I stood to admire the view of the street from the top deck. You can see the people gathering outside of Margaritaville waiting to get in.
“How are you this evening?”
“Fine, thank you.” I didn’t even notice this guy standing next to me.
“First time ere?”
“Yes. It’s very nice, I like it a lot.”
“Yes, less commotion den across the street. What is your name?”
“Vi..and you?”
“Raphael” (I had to ask him to repeat his name 3 times, besides his accent is very strong, the music was loud and he spoke softly. He had no problem hearing everything I said, but I had to struggle with understanding his words. This conversation will not go far because eventually I’m going to get frustrated and end it.)
“Where are you from Vi?”
“Jersey.” I ask him, “Are you from Jamaica?”
“No, I’m from the Cayman Islands. I’ve only been here for 10 months. I came ere to work.”
“What’s it like in the Cayman Islands?”
“Pretty much like ere, very, very beautiful, but HOT. Mi mean it is soooo hot dere. You would like it dere, just too hot. How long will you be in Jamaica?”
“Until the 16th then I must leave.” He could see the sadness in my face when I spoke those words.
“Are you here alone?” He asked anxiously.
“No, my friend Adrienne is here. Two ladies enjoying whatever the island have to offer.”
“let me tek both of you out tonight. Dere is a nice local club not far from ere I know you would enjoy yourself so much.”
“Thanks for the offer Raphael, but I’m going to have to pass. We had a long day and I’m getting tired. I think we are going to head back to the hotel soon.”
“Oh dat too bad Vi. You would have a good time. Where you staying?
“At the Sunset.”
“Can I call you?” I was not prepared for this question, so the best I could do was ask him his age.
“me 30 mon.”
“I’m sorry Raphael, you are a sweetheart, but you are too young for me..even to just hang with.”
He just smiled and stared at me. Even in the dark I can see that he had big beautiful eyes. But he was too young.
The moment became awkward and uncomfortable. He just stood there staring at me.
“Well, it was nice talking with you, but I better get back inside. Take care Raphael.”
“Yeah mon, you too. Maybe I see you around,”
I went back to the table and asked Adrienne if she danced. She said no.

The name of the band is Jamanji. They play until 2am. They take a half hour break in which another local performer gets the chance to entertain the audience. Patrons get to ring this enormous cowbell in the lounge area and the band has to start the song over again. This took a little getting used to, but it’s all in fun. I am so glad we found this place. It’s a mature crowd that comes here so I feel comfortable. The music, as I said, is great. The price of the drinks and food is more than reasonable. We plan to return another night if we don’t find a better night spot. We had to leave at 1:45 to catch that last shuttle back to the Sunset.

Off course the shuttle was packed with drunken partiers who still had super energy. Next time I’ll stay for as long as I want and hire a cab to take me back. A leisurely, quiet cab ride at 3 am sounds like a good idea. If I weren’t trapped waaaaaay in the back of this vehicle, I would have gotten off and did just that.

Well, we’re back at the Sunset and what was once a quiet lobby is now crawling with intoxicated tourist looking for a few more minutes of action and food. We peeked into “The Galaxy”, the disco on the property to see if anything was going on. The dark décor had a space thing going on. Black walls with fluorescent painting. It’s extremely small, but then too, there was only about 8 people there, including Adrienne and myself. I think this was considered a good night. We went out to get a drink and returned to listen to the music for a little while longer. After about 20 minutes the crowd began to thin out so we decided to call it a night and turn in. Another good day.

[Sugar Shug]

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

Vi-its been an hour and a half since your last post.

Who told you that you could keep me waiting this long. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]
I never saw the first posting, but I am sure enjoying the second posting.
Keep it coming please. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

[Sugar Shug]

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

Opps my bad-I didn't hit refresh.
Forgive me. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]ray:

[Vi]

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

Originally posted by Sugar Shug:
[qb] Opps my bad-I didn't hit refresh.
Forgive me. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]ray: [/qb]

oh don't worry about it love!!! I'm glad you like it. I forgot how long it was and the chatter goes on and on. Just like me sometimes!!! But you gotta stick around..the best is yet to come.

btw..love your board name..so cute! [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

[sjb1221]

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

Thanks, Vi. This is so refreshing. Keep it coming.

[Seveen]

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

Originally posted by Vi:
[qb]




[/qb]

Now this one makes me really homesick for MoBay. I love going into town and mingling. The Farmer's Market is mesmerizing. I have literally spent hours in there just staring.

Thanks again Vi.

[Vi]

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

Happy Friday sjb, always a pleasure to see you around. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Seveen, I know what you mean about the downtown activity. I didn't get much of a chance to wander around, but what I saw from the van was fasinating.

[Vi]

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

Day 5: Saturday – August 10 – MTV Road Rules, Mr. B mi new sweet fren

Things started a little differently this morning; the sun came to wake me. We accidentally left the curtains open before we feel asleep. What a wonderful feeling I had today. Thanks to Jah for allowing me to see another sunrise in Jamaica.

The weather report called for clear skies all day. My energy was being renewed more and more each day. Each morning I looked forward to what the day will bring, instead of wanting to just stay in bed. Today we decided to do the beach thing all morning and afternoon. After a quick shower, we suited up and headed for breakfast. There were more people on the beach and by the pool than usual. Oh yeah, today the producers of MTV were on site. They were filming an segment of Road Rules, the obstacle course part. They had actually been working on the set-up all week. We could not figure out what the challenge was going to be but then again, it didn’t really matter.

After breakfast, we found a perfect spot on the beach, Adrienne had her shade and I had the sun, yet we were side-by-side. I had my usual 2 strawberry daiquiris, an Essence magazine and my music. I was ready to start the day. This had to be the hottest day of our visit. I don’t mean just tropical hot, but 5 inches to the equator hot. Soon I came to my senses and found myself hearing the invitation to feel the waters of the Caribbean. I accepted and made my way across the hot sandy beach and into the ocean.

The water was refreshingly cool, not cold or uncomfortable. I felt the firmness of the ocean wrap itself around my body and ask me, “What took you so long?” The feeling was indescribable. I don’t think I will ever leave.

There was an American guy swimming next to me. He introduced himself to me and told me his name is Steve. Steve is an aircraft mechanic from Baltimore and he flies for free. Talk about having the perfect J.O.B.! He was there with his wife and he told me they were having the time of their lives. That made me smile. This was their first time to Jamaica. We chatted for a while and I felt that perhaps this may be a couple we could party with later tonight, but they are leaving tomorrow so their last night will be spent packing and preparing for a 8am departure.

How sad the thought of leaving must be, especially if you weren’t ready. Glad its not me. His love for Jamaica was so real that I felt his agony at having to say good-bye. He expressed his admiration for the beautiful women of Jamaica. In fact after taking a hearty gulp of his drink, he shook his head and said…”they are the most gorgeous females I’ve laid eyes on.” I think I saw a tear.

I was really enjoying the conversation until we were called to come ashore by the beach security. MTV was about to tape the show and no one was allowed in that stretch of the ocean until they were finished. I thought to myself that this is so wrong and down right cruel. I returned to my beach chair, put on my headphones and got lost in my music. Adrienne decided to get into the pool, as did many of the other spectators.

Two hours had passed and we still weren’t allowed in the ocean. The extremely bright sun was burning me so I reluctantly joined Adrienne in the pool. It was soothing because my body was literally on fire, but the feel of the pool water was nothing like the Caribbean itself. Tomorrow will be different. The ocean shall be mine!!!

[Vi]

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

After dinner we decided to get dressed and go back to the Coral Cliff for some dancing. We arrived around 9:15, the place was packed, the music was kickin, but no one was dancing. Adrienne and I got a nice table, she ordered some hot snacks and I order a Red Stripe. Song after song sounded better and better. One of the lead singers, who have a voice like Chaka Demis but looked like Pliers, was jumping off the stage and rolling on the floor, mike in hand and not missing a note. He was excellent. Still, no one was dancing and I was getting restless. I mentioned to Adrienne how I couldn’t understand how these people could come here and listen to this music and not want to dance. She said..”It wouldn’t be like this in the clubs or on the beach in Negril.” I silently wished I were in Negril.

We stuck around until 11:50 and decided to catch the 12 midnight shuttle back to the Sunset. I was disappointed because I really wanted to dance and wasn’t ready to go back to the room. After arriving to the hotel, we peeked into the Galaxy and there were quite a few folks dancing away..GOOD..they were all teenagers…BAD! Nothing but bumping and grinding to the endless stream of unedited hip hop. Now I know what my sons listen to and I will make a note to have a little parent talk with my 14 year old…after I confiscate his CDs.

We went to the room to change shoes and freshen up a little. BUT, Adrienne yawned. She said she was going to stay in the room and watch a little tv. I wasn’t feeling that at all. I didn’t want to stay in the room, and I certainly didn’t want to watch the old telly. I couldn’t talk her into staying up a littler longer so I grabbed my player, the Toni Braxton and Phyllis Hyman cd and made my way to the elevator. Once in the lobby, I stopped to get a Long Island Ice tea and headed for the beach and enjoy a midnight stroll. I didn’t want “company”, just wanted the opportunity to walk the beach at night. I guess I needed the time to be alone with my thoughts.

As I made my way to the beach area, I heard someone call out “Good evening.” I stopped and turned toward the friendly voice coming from the direction of the beach bar area. There were two guys sitting near the bar.

Not knowing who spoke out to me, I replied very vivaciously. “Hello, how are you?” Immediately one of them stood up and approached me. Weaving and squeezing between the rows of plastic tables and chairs, carefully replacing any that may have been misaligned as he cleared his path to reach me. My initial thought was to think fast and to get rid of him as soon as I could so I could get on the beach, after all this was girl’s night out, me, Toni (Braxton) and Phyllis (Hymann) (smile). However, as he came closer and closer, wellllll that all changed.

He had beautiful, caramel brown skin and the biggest brown eyes I had the pleasure to gaze into. I couldn’t move, I couldn’t think, I couldn’t do anything but stand there and wait for his voice to break the trance I found myself in.
“You on your way to de grill?”
“No, I was headed for the beach.”
“Alone?”
“Yes.”
“Well before you reach, may I occupy 5 minutes of your time?”
“Sure” I said with a big smile. Oh my..if 5 is not enough, take 10. PUHLEEZE!
“My name is Wills. May I ask what you name?”
“Vi”
“Vi?? You said Vi?”
“Yes..You said Wills???”
“Yes.”
“Is that short for Wilson or Willis?”
“No, jus Wills.”
“That’s different.”
“I like Vi. Sounds so sweet.”
“Thank you, I like Wills. ” Of course by now I am grinning from ear to ear. My eyes are probably so squinty that they appear closed.
“Where are you from?”
“New Jersey.
“How long will you be stayin ere in Jamaica?”
“I leave the Sunset on Tuesday, the 13th then I’m moving to another hotel. I leave Jamaica on Friday, the 6th.”
“Where are you staying when you leave ere?”
“I don’t know yet.”
“Are you ere alone?”
“No, I’m with a friend, she’s in the room. She wasn’t feeling well so she went to the room early.” I was so nervous and self-conscious that I tried to make sure that all my responses to his questions were perfect; or at least what I thought he wanted to hear.

He turns and reaches for two. That was all right with me.

“Are you married?”
“No.” There was a moment of silence before I added, “I know you are single.”
He looked a little caught off guard at my statement.
“How do you know I’m single?”
“Well, you wouldn’t be sitting here talking to me if you had someone waiting for you at the end of this night. If I’m wrong, I better let you get on your way.”
“No man, me single. No one waits fe me to arrive home. Dats why its no problem to spend long hours ere workin. Me not quick fe be alone you know.”
“Do you have any children?”
“A son and a dauda.”
“Oh really?
“I have two handsome sons, 14 and 19, my oldest son has his own place.”
There was a slight pause when out of the blue he said, “You are very pretty. Why are you by yourself?”
“It’s a long story..rather not talk about it right now, but believe me, it was not my choice.

We continued chatting for about 10 more minutes. The conversation got better and better as the seconds ticked away. We both eagerly asked and answered all the first round questions to get them out of the way. I could have listened to talk him all night. He spoke softly, but clearly.

He pauses for a second, turns away and looks towards the ocean. He takes my hands in his and looks into my eyes. My heart skips a beat with this unexpected physical contact.
“The ocean is silent, no longer calling your name for the present time Vi. “
I thought to myself…Ocean??? What ocean???????

He fondled my fingers tenderly as if he was touching rare gems. I was speechless.
“I have to go now. I see you tomorrow?” He asked while tenderly stroking my inner palm.
“I will be away from the resort most of the day, but I should be back around 8 or 9.”
“I’ll be ere bout dat time, waiting just fe you. “His eyes beamed as he smiled and waited for my response. “I like talking to you. Your words are nice. Your voice is sweet and soft…like your hands.”
“Thank you Wills. You are so sweet. I’m glad you don’t mind me rattling on and on.”
“No, it’s not like dat at all Vi. I like everyting you say.”
EVERYTING?? He said he like EVERYTING!

He firmly cupped my hands to emphasize his sincerity. It worked. I would have believed him if he told me it was snowing flakes the size of boiled eggs along the beach shore.

We sat motionless for about 5 seconds. It was a nice feeling. We got up and walked toward the lobby in silence. We were met by one of his employees who asked him for a ride home. They spoke quickly in patois and the guy rushed off. Wills was taking him and two other workers home that night. It was about 2:45am and I knew he must have been exhausted. We made plans to get together again tomorrow night after his shift. He held my hand and reminded me to put aloe on my sunburn. We hugged and said good night.

I kinda floated to my room with this huge smile pon mi face. Adrienne was asleep, but I had to wake her just so that she could see my smile. She slightly opened her eyes, mumbled a few words and went back to sleep. I walked out onto the balcony to take some time to savor the events from this day. Today was a great day and I know tomorrow will be just as memorable. I’ve come to realize that the only good thing at the end of a Jamaica day is the beginning of another. 3:14am…I could have sworn I had a drink with me….

[dr. bones]

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

I am loving this so much Vi. The places you talk about, Mt. Salem, Mango Walk, Richmond Hill...I know all of these places, and it makes me miss Mobay. Can't wait until July, and it would be great to meet you. I'll link you w/ the Ja cellie number.

Your description of the singer in Jamanji made me laugh out loud at my desk. He was there in April when we were at Coral Cliffs. He is quite a tall drink of water. His black dress pants were more like high waters, and he was wearing white socks to boot. He is very energetic, and bounces all over the place. Something about his performance struck Pillows and myself as funny, and reading your report reminded me of his show. Thanks for the laugh.

[Vi]

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

Originally posted by dr. bones:
[qb] Your description of the singer in Jamanji made me laugh out loud at my desk. He was there in April when we were at Coral Cliffs. He is quite a tall drink of water. [/qb]

Hey Dr. B!!! Yes he was quite animated. His voice was perfect though. When he jumped off the stage and rolled on the floor I didn’t know whether to watch him or call the paramedics. He could move for someone his size and height.

Now tell me, did people dance when you were at Coral Cliffs??? I would get so frustrated that all that good music was being wasted. And did they still ring that bell???

Oh yeah, I forgot about the cellie…I guess I will need one also. We will keep in touch!

[Vi]

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

Day 7: Monday – August 12 – Tour #2

This day the sun was out in all its beautiful brightness. Unfortunately we were somber. Today is Adrienne’s last full day in Jamaica and I only have 4 left. Time is precious now so we were careful not to waste a second of it. I told her to choose what we would do today. She said, let’s get something to eat. We decided over our breakfast of omelets and fruit, that we would hire a driver to take us on another tour of Montego Bay.

Nelson was recommended so we gave him a call. He was available and picked us up around 10:00. The cost was $20US each for 3 hours. It was just the two of us so Adrienne sat in the front. I wished I thought of that. Nelson was happy to have her sitting shot gun, he couldn’t take his eyes off her. I soon got the feeling she was his only passenger. But that was cool; I’ll just sit back, take notes and enjoy the scenery.


We headed through a little area called Fairfield. We stopped at a little bar, gift shop, eatery called (don’t remember the name) Nelson gave us a brief lesson on “haggling”. I wasn’t catching on, so I asked if he would go with us and help out a little. He said no, because it would look like he was giving us special attention and the owners would get on his case about it later. Okay, I understand. So I had a certain amount in mind to spend and I wasn’t going to spend more than that, no matter what.

I browsed and found a mug, 2 t-shirts and a little bag. I kept everything under $20US. Now that I that I think about it, the girl who helped me was very attentive and I could kick myself for not buying just the mug and slipping her the $15. When I return, I will go there again only to search for her and give her something nice. I don’t remember her name, but I remember what she looks like even to this day.

I went to pay for my merchandise and while the owner was adding my purchases up on a hand calculator, I looked around for Adrienne to let her know that I was leaving. She was no where in sight. I paid and went outside to find Adrienne.

View from the veranda

There she way, standing alongside the pier overlooking the waters with Nelson. They were deep in conversation, I mean DEEP. I had to make my presence known by taking out the old camera.
“Adrienne, stand next to Nelson so that I can get a picture of you two.”

He was more than willing to pose with Adrienne. After a few more pictures and a break to “tinkle”, we are on our way.


In our travels I got my very first close look at ackee.


It is a beautiful red colored fruit. We were told that you cannot eat is until it has “opened” up. To eat it prior to its opening would be detrimental as it is poisonous.

Along the way he proceeded to share other tidbits of information such as the different things they get from sugar cane; vinegar, sugar, and molasses. The cane is burned for cooking and heat. He also shared some catch phases such as underground hotel (cemetery), Free Hotel (jail), and the Greenfield Hotel (parked cars on the grass at night). They were corny, but cute. There are 70 different types of fruit that grow in Jamaica, mountains cover 80% of the island, and 120 rivers that flow through it. Enough of the statistical stuff, I want to see and hear about the things that make Jamaica such a fantastic place. He did tell us about the love weed. When two people fall in love, one of them will throw this weed upon a bush. If the weed dies, the love will die. If the weed remains and grows, the love between the two will flourish.

After spending about an hour and a half traveling through the country, we head back to MoBay. Nelson is still feeding us island info, some interesting some not. Actually I was enjoying listening to him speak; he has a very pleasant voice.

Anyway, we made our way down St. James Street. Although this is the second time I’ve traveled this particular roadway, it is just as fascinating as the first time. This has got to be the busiest fairway in Montego Bay. People, cars, and buses everywhere. This is definitely a sight to see. If you are searching for someone, go look for him or her on St. James Street (smile).

Adrienne mentioned beef patties. Nelson was more than willing to accommodate. We stopped and he told us to go to Juicy Patty. This little place was as busy as St. James Street itself. It was 12:45 right in the midst of lunch break for everyone and I think everyone felt like eating a Juicy Patty.

The activity resembled a New York stock exchange headquarters. We stood in line while EVERYONE went ahead of us. Okay, what are we doing wrong?? As I observed the pros I got the hang of it… you place your order, pay, receive a ticket then hand it to one of the counter people the first chance you get. After placing the order, you are on your own. Either stand there and starve while everyone else is getting their meal, or SPEAK UP!. So I boldly spoke up and handed in our ticket and waiting for our patties. We both ordered 2 chicken patties and 2 beef patties plus a Ting. The aroma in that place was heavenly.

Back on the van, we are on our way. Adrienne took a pinch and tasted her chicken patty. After that she couldn’t stop and ate the whole thing. I wanted to wait until I got back to the room to eat mine. She saved her beef patty. I did guzzle down the Ting, which was absolutely delicious. I am hooked on Ting.

We are on our way back to the Sunset and I am still sitting in the backseat taking in the view outside. I think they have forgotten I was there (smile). Nelson was chattering away and I couldn’t hear a single, solitary word he was saying, but Adrienne was all smiles and giggles.

We arrive back to the Sunset and Nelson jumps out to open the doors for us. I jump out, as gracefully as I could, Adrienne is aided by her personal, and very attentive, chauffeur. I had to smile to myself. I hope this tour was a memorable event for her. I gave Nelson my $20, said my good-bye and walked to one of the activities board, giving them a moment alone (snicker). I turned to tell her about the free shuttle to Margaritaville tonight and I think I saw her give him $10US!!!! That’s okay, it’s all good girlfriend.

This was a good morning, and we talk and laugh about the days’ activities. I hadn’t seen her smile like that since we arrived. I couldn’t wait to get to the room so that I could finally bite into one of my patties. I just reached into the bag grabbed one. It was chicken. The taste was out of this world. There was a lot of chicken mixture inside and the crust was perfectly light and flaky. I drank the rest of my ting, (oh why didn’t I get two??) and then started on the beef patty. The flavor of the filling was great, but there wasn’t much of it; not like the chicken. I enjoyed it just the same because the crust was, as I said, perfect.

[Vi]

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

We showered and had the chance to rest for a while. Agee and her family were coming by to take us out for dinner sometime after 6:00pm. They arrive at 6:45, right on time. Agee bought along another couple.

We went to the Pork Pit. You place your order; they give you the sides and your beverage inside. You go outside, with your receipt, to get your meat hot off the pit. I had jerk pork, which was really good. It came with rice and bread.

We drove along Gloucester Avenue down to the end and sat along the short wall to eat. The air was a very comfortable 73 degrees. The wonderful ocean and a small section of beach was behind me and hot jerk pork in front of me…mi ah happy gyal. We all sat and interchanged conversations for about 90 minutes while the kids got into the water. I thought this was so cool, being able to take a dip into the ocean no matter what time of the day or year.

We gathered up and headed back to the Sunset. Adrienne and I were beat. We said our good-byes to our friends, exchanged hugs and were on our way to the room..bellies full.

It was now around 8:30, I didn’t realize we were out that long. We went back to the room to freshen up and change clothes. I was re-dressed and ready to go, Adrienne was talking to her husband so I left to give her some privacy and made my way to the bar for my usual nightly drink.

Cedric was the bartender tonight and he hooked me up..minus the wedge of lime. I drank about a third of the Ice Tea and started walking towards the Grill Bar. Along the way I was stopped by a “psst…psst” then a “ello”. I looked to my right and this guy was standing on the walk wearing a kitchen uniform. His name is Christopher, Chris for short. He was a chubby, baby faced guy of about 20. I walked closer to him to see what he wanted. I thought to myself, this is gonna be fun.

The first 2 minutes of the conversation was sweet, then he really let me have it when he told me he wanted to give me a full body massage and after that he had the expertise to “rock my world”. I was too amused to be offended. He was such a cute little butterball that I couldn’t be rude. I’m sure he is good at what he does, but I wasn’t the least bit interested. Besides, physically he reminds me of my fifteen-year-old son and that was too creepy for me.

It was time for me to move on. I was about to let him off gracefully when Wills appeared. I was very happy to see him. He gave me a sly grin and a wink. I thanked Chris for his offer, but told him that I had plans for the evening and made my exit. Wills and I proceeded to walk towards the Grill Bar.

[sjb1221]

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

Nice pictures, Vi.

I'm leaving for Mo Bay tomorrow and plan on going to Coral Cliff sometime this weekend. They added pool tables so I can't wait to play. Hopefully a good band will there and someone will dance [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

I look forward to reading the rest when I return.

Have a good weekend.