MoBay - ...my 1st Jamaica experience

[rudemonk]

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

the real feather in their cap is the Ochie and airport spots.

it's easy to romanticize a lot of places in Jamaica, but trust me, most of the places are just as cut throat as anywhere, in fact, they could even be more cut throat and I mean that literally. most people probably never see that side of Jamaica, but people get murdered over business routinely.

Margaritaville pushes a good product, they are American enough for people to enjoy themselves and just Jamaican enough to not be a Chilli's/Applebees/ whatever you want to call them. When they merged with Jimmy Buffet they scored a huge deal- he was suing them for using the name, then they showed him how much more money he could make if they joined forces. You can't begrudge them their success, they understand their market very well and they are very smart and talented, so it pays you to enjoy the fruits of their labor when they offer it, lol...

Last time I was down was Feb-mid April.

It sounds like you are looking forward to your next trip.

[Vi]

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

Hey Seveen....yeah the Galaxy looks like a cave, bu girl it wasn't rockin at all. Get out the tissues...the touching part is coming up.

[Vi]

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

ATTENTION READERS….

Up to this point, I have given you the name, rank and serial number of everyone I met. Sorry, but I can’t with this driver. You see, what started out to be just a cab ride, turned out to be the turning point in my life. I hope you understand.

The driver, whom I will call Kareeb (pronounced, according to the Vi unabridged dictionary Kah-reeb), offered to take me to get my drink. He was a short cutie and his cab was really nice.

I can’t believe I’m actually going with him. It must be about 10:30, risky, but I was dying for a drink. Yeh I know…what else is new????

I reached in my pocket to see how much I had on me. hhhmmmm only $11. I asked him to wait a minute while I go to the room and get more cash.

While I was happy about getting my drink-on, I suddenly realized this might not be a safe thing to do. Okay, this is August 13, after tonight I only have 2 more nights in Jamaica. I deserve a drink.

When I returned, Kareeb walked to the car and held the door open for me. He went over to the guard, shook his hand and said farewell.

Kareeb drove to the corner of Gloucester and Sunset, turned left, then another left onto what I thought was a vacant lot. As he drove further, I could see the small bar sitting in the middle of the very dark and deserted field.

What the heck am I doing here?

He stopped and we both got out and went to the stand. The guy at the bar did not look to be too friendly. I asked him how much for the bottle of rum punch. He said $20US. WHAT?? I saw that same bottle of rum punch in the window of a store for $4.99US. I purchased a cup, no ice, for $150J.

Kareeb and I got back in the cab and made our way out of the lot. It felt like it took him forever to turn that car around and get out of there. As badly as I needed some alcohol in my system at that moment, I wouldn’t drink any of the punch until I got back to the room. Even with the shaking of the car as it drove across the bumpy field, I didn’t spill a drop.

I remained silent. I just wanted to get back to the Glorianna, pay the diver, out of the cab, into my room, lock the door, mix the Rum Punch with the Appleton and drift away.

Kareeb broke the silence, he asked my name.

Vi.

After that he introduced himself and began a rapid fire blast of the usual questions..where from?…first time?… alone?…did you meet anyone? …when leaving?

He wants to take me out tonight, but I told him I was exhausted and really needed to stay in and unwind. He promised me that it would only be on a friendly basis. A chance for me to see where the locals party. He said I had nothing to worry about.

If I weren’t alone, I would have gone, but even though this guy seems nice, I didn’t think it was a good idea to take that chance.

He said he understands and that if is was alright with me he would come by sometime tomorrow to see if I feel like going out to have a drink and dance a little. He drives from 7:00am to 7:00pm, after that he’s free. I told him I already had plans for tomorrow night. I don’t think he believes me.

We arrive back at the Glorianna, and he backs the car into a parking slot at the far right end of the lot.

Relieved to be in familiar surroundings, I take a sip of the rum and savor its sweetness. I close my eyes and can feel the liquid do its job to quickly calm me. For a moment I had forgotten that I had to pay this man and get out of his cab so that he could be on his way. I glanced up at Careeb and gave him a smile. Still not saying a word, he just sits patiently while I get it together.

He is a sweetie, about 5 feet 10, 160 pounds with smooth dark brown skin. He has large honey colored eyes, more hypnotic than Vincent's. A fresh haircut perfectly detailed. He was wearing a stud in his ear, couldn’t tell if it was real or not. Didn’t really matter, it fit him and looked nice. NO WEDDING RING!

I don’t know, maybe it’s the alcohol or maybe it’s finally a vibe…a good one, because I feel comfortable now. Maybe it would be nice to hang with him for just a little while. Nah..he has to be on his way.

I am holding the cup of rum in one hand and struggling to get at my money with the other. Somewhere in one of these many unnecessary pockets on these tight-as-skin shorts of mine there is a twenty dollar bill--smothering.

I kept checking the same pockets and finding nothing. I couldn’t help wondering why he dosn’t offer to hold this blasted cup, why didn’t I just give it to him to hold.

I was getting frustrated and irritated really fast. Nervous??? Yes cuz he’s just sitting there watching me.

“I’m sorry for taking so long. I’m trying to find my money so that I can pay you. I guess I should have kept it in my hand after I bought the rum. I’ve become so darn forgetful these…”

“Vi..why are you here?”

“Excuse me???” I stopped the search to look at him.

“Why did you come to Jamaica?”

It felt like life itself came to a screeching halt after he asked that question. It’s none of his business what I’m going through. I want to say vacation. Just say it…VA-KA-SHUN. But I can’t because all of a sudden, the real reasons began shooting through my mind like flashes of lightning…my grief, my family, my job, my insecurities, my loneliness.

My eyes immediately fill with tears. I blinked to try to hold them back, but it didn’t work, the tears kept coming. I tried to take another sip of my drink, but I can’t raise the cup to my lips. I want to leave, but I can’t move. I just let the tears stream down my cheeks.

“Talk to me Vi. Tell me wha trouble you.”

“It’s a long story Careeb.”

He turns and reaches in the back seat for a brown bag and takes napkins out and hands them to me. I just hold them. He removes the cup from my hand and places it in the holder on his side of the car. He glides his fingers across my face to dry the wetness from my cheek and says ever so softly.

“Mi have nuttin but time.”

I take a deep breath and tell him all that I am facing and trying to escape. I must have talked for about 8 minutes straight without him saying a word. He would nod every now and then to let me know he was following me. I really don’t care if he is listening or not, I need to get this out. I need to cry and ramble on uncontrollably, you know borderline hysterical. I need to release…I need to exhale.

I pause to regroup and try to make my exit before humiliating myself any further.

He stretches out his hands and invites me into his arms. I don’t hesitate, I accept because I don’t have anywhere else to go.

I rest my head on his chest. He kisses my forehead and tells me to be calm now. We sit still and quiet. I begin to regain my composure as he cradles me securely in his arms. I can’t help thinking, he doesn’t even know me, but he knows how to hold me, how to comfort me, how to release me. He is soothing my mind, body and soul just as the Caribbean had done countless times during this trip. He is MY Caribbean, he is my Careeb.

After about 90 seconds of silence, he simply says, “You should not continue to be alone Vi.”

He bluntly tells me, “ooman, you need a man”. He said it is “wrong” to intentionally deny my body of the human need to love and be loved. It would be the same effect if I stop drinking water or refuse to sleep. I will become cold and bitter inside; worn and old on the outside and no one would want me. I would die lonely and unhappy.

“Give you body wha you body need, younoa.”

I say softly to him…”You’re right.”

He was. His words are not cruel, they are real and customized to fit MY situation based on what he now knows about me.

He continues talking to me...educating me...complimenting me...encouraging me...cautioning me. Please don’t stop.

He turns off the air conditioner, stops the engine and rolls the car windows down. The cool air outside rushes in as though it couldn’t wait to encircle us. The tree frogs serenade us. It feels wonderful.

As he speaks, his demeanor is sooooo laid-back. Nonchalant. An “as-a-matter-of-fact” disposition. His responses to my expressions are effortless yet perfect; rehearsed. Like he has “been there, done this” hundreds of times before and knows just what to say to either…get paid with a generous tip…get what he wants physically, or…just satisfy another desperate, lonely tourist so SHE will come back again and again. I was beginning to think that he was still here with me only because he had nothing better to do.

Okay, now what but about Vi!

I was elated, in my glory, on cloud-9, on top of the world, just plain old feelin good.

Were our feelings mutual?? NO! But he is holding me; I’m in his arms. I am touching him. I can’t help but remember how wonderful it feels to be in a man’s arms. To again feel the essence of masculinity after so very, very long.

As he continued to fondle and caress me with his words, I could feel every nerve in my body, from my head to my toes, come back to life. My heart began to beat again, pounding to the melodious rhythm of his deep voice complimented by his beautiful, flowing dialect.

What a wonderful feeling! It is so satisfying and so right it’s indescribable. “Wait a minute”..I say to myself… OhMyGoodness!! YES, I remember this feeling. This is how you feel when you are falling in love.

Falling in love!?!?!? DRIVER stop the bus, it’s time for me to get off!!!!!

“Hey, you okay babygirl?” He squeezes my shoulder, my heart skips a beat.

“Yes, I’m fine.” Still in his arms I say, “So you say I need a man in my life…what about you?”

“Dat can never happen.”

“Why??? Are you married?”

“No.”

“Engaged??? Have a girlfriend???”

“No, I have no one in my life right now.”

I sit up. I listen to him tell me that there are many beautiful women in every culture. He said I am one of them. But he loves women of his culture. His eyes lit up and his voice elevated as he describes the exceptional qualities of Jamaican women. Strong, determined, loving, beautiful, sensual, hard-working, dedicated, smart…and committed. I’m sure there were many more.

I understood. I appreciate his honesty, in fact, his honesty made me even more attracted to him. It showed he had a profound respect and appreciation for women. He knows what he wants and won’t be happy with any one else…no matter how hard any farrin women try. Even me.

A car drove into the lot and parked bringing me back to earth and reality.

I am crushed. I had to get away from him before I did something desperate or stupid or both.

“I better let you go Careeb, I’ve kept you long enough. Thank you for the ride and thank you for listening. How much do I owe you!”

"No problem...no charge."

He rubbed my cheek and looked into my eyes. “You okay???”

“Yes.”

I lied. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

“Do you think I can see you again before you leave?”

“I don’t know Careeb. I don’t know.“

He shuffles some paper around in a slot on the side of the door. He squints to read the writing on a ripped piece of paper he found. He turns it over and writes his cell phone number on it. While I watch, I am dying a slow death.

“Here is my numba. Call me at 10:00 tomorrow night. I’ll be waiting. I hope you call me Vi, but I will understand if you decide not to call.”

I take the tattered piece of paper, fold it and hold it tightly. I smiled, thanked him again and said good-bye. My voice was so soft I barely heard my own words.

I open the car door and get out. I heard his door open. As I crossed the back of his cab, he met me and started to walk me to the hotel. I didn’t want him to.

I stopped half way and told him I would be fine. He just stared at me. I said I want to walk the rest of the way alone. He nodded. I turned to go and he grabbed my hand. I turned to face him. He gave me a hug. A “pity” hug…the worse kind.

I approached the door and the guard let me in. I couldn’t even look back to see him drive away.

Once in my room all I could think about was how my mind and body responded to him. I could not stop thinking about being with him. I popped in a Maxi Priest cd, kicked off my shoes, lit a candle and laid on the bed, bewildered. Take me away from this moment Maxi.

I sat up to undress but changed my mind. I could smell the faint sweet scent of his cologne on my top. I wasn’t ready to let go completely, not yet, not tonight. I'll let him go tomorrow.

Tomorrow...another day in Jamaica.

I blew out the candle, turned Maxi up just a little bit and eventually drifted off into a sound sleep.

[Vi]

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

Thanks for the info (((rudemonk))), very interesting. I have glanced over your report and plan on reading it word for word when I get home from work. So far, it is wonderful! I will save the bulk of my comments for your thread, but I must say now that I love your writing style.

And YES, to say I’m looking forward to my next trip is an understatement. I can think of nothing else these days. There is so much I am longing to experience such as Roaring Rivers and Jackies on the Reef that I find myself daydreaming constantly. I’ll be in the company of a great group of friends this trip and I am really excited about that.

[Grandmother]

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

Marilyn and I have been discussing books that she has been reading, either About Jamaica and Jamaicans, or written by Jamaicans. I do like to get in a book or two while on Vacation. I plan to take your Trip Report as one of my Book Choices.

Thank you for reliving this expeirience and going thru all of this torture to repost.

[Vi]

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

Originally posted by Orbra:
[qb] Marilyn and I have been discussing books that she has been reading, either About Jamaica and Jamaicans, or written by Jamaicans. I do like to get in a book or two while on Vacation. I plan to take your Trip Report as one of my Book Choices.

Thank you for reliving this expeirience and going thru all of this torture to repost. [/qb]

ooooooh Orbra!!!!!
You have truly brought a smile to my face at the end of this day. I was not in good spirits when I got home from you-know-where so I wasn't going to log on. But I did and I am soooo glad I did.

But listen, that thing is so thick and will take up some vital space in your luggage. Remember, you will be there longer than I so you will need room for more important stuff [img]/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] . I will try to have it condenced to a compact size and bring it with me. Can I at least do that for you Sis??? Mi luv you bad Sis...you and Ms. M are always in my heart.

[Vi]

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

oh and dear Orbra...almost forgot...this is not torture at all, in fact I feel it's just what I need. The original post went to almost 500 posts. That is my answer to whether or not my report was welcomed or not. And I still thank EVERYONE who contributed to that thread. Your comments were priceless!!!!!

However, this time, even if ONE person posts that they are reading my report, than I will continue on because that one person feels what I am feeling. A profound love for Jamaica with all her many glorious surprises and wonders.

July soon come!!!

[keesha]

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

Well Vi I am reading your report and enjoying it so very much. I am leaving for Mo Bay tomorrow nite for 3 months and reading your report makes me realize just how much I have missed being there.

[Laurel]

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

Vi - I am new to this web site - so this is first time reading for me, and I love reading every entry. Is there more?? If this started in August of 2002, there must be more. I will have to pop into the archives to find any other stories from you.

My love affair with Jamaica started with my first visit nearly 25 years ago, and my love affair with my Jamaican began 4 years ago at the time in my life that I never expected to experience "those things" ever again in my lifetime.

I am off to search the archives.

[Vi]

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

Originally posted by keesha:
[qb] Well Vi I am reading your report and enjoying it so very much. I am leaving for Mo Bay tomorrow nite for 3 months and reading your report makes me realize just how much I have missed being there. [/qb]

Hi Keesha!!!
I’m so glad you are enjoying it. Wow 3 months????? That’s wonderful. Oh if I could!!! I have only been on this job for a year so two weeks max for me. Will you be staying in a hotel or with friends???

Well I don’t have to tell you to take lots of pictures. I don’t think I took enough on my first trip and now that I am looking back, I remember so many other little details that could have been captured on film. Being there for three months you may let days slip by without taking one picture, try not to do that. Each day you are there creates a special memory even if it is a small one. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img] Have a blast Keesha!!! Stay in touch while you are there, if you can.

[keesha]

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

Thanks Vi,

I feel so lucky to be able to stay the 3 months but the time always goes by so quickly. No matter how long I stay it is never enough and leaving to come back never gets any easier. I will be renting a 2 bedroom apt there and am going with my little girl.She has been going there since she was 9 mo old and is now 10. She has so many little friends that she has grown up with and has a swim and tennis group that she does.It will be fun to see old friends and renew friendships.

[Vi]

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

Hi there Laurel!

Welcome!! Yes there is more. I’ll be posting another entry in a few. I’m glad you are enjoying it. Actually this is the only report I’ve written and the original was not archived, that’s why I was asked to re-post it. Girl I was amazed at the responses and comments. I know you heard me say it over and over, they was wonderful. I was hesitant about posting it at first, but after getting some much encouragement from everyone here, I just let it flow. Just wished I had taken more scenery pictures. Those are the ones that take folks back to what they remember.

So you discovered Jamaica 25 years ago??? How many times have you been??? When will you be going again??? I have my first taste in 2002 and I’ve longed to be back there ever since. I can’t wait to return in July as I too feel in love with Jamaica.

Let me tell you Laurel, as you can see I’m a romantic at heart. I would love to hear how you and your friend met. You don’t have to give names as that is personal, but the “how you met” and “how you knew he was the one” stuff. Feel free to PM me if you like. I wish you both much success in your relationship.

Vi

[Vi]

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

Oh Keesha! a mother and daughter holiday! That is so precious. I have two sons and believe me I long for a daughter every day. Cherish your moments with her!!!! Have a great time!

[Vi]

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

Day 9: Wednesday – August 14 – Show at Breezes

I wake up this morning a little disoriented. It could be from all the activity yesterday, it could be the music blaring directly outside my window or it could be that I actually slept in my clothes!!!! urghhh.

I lie here trying to regroup. I think about yesterday…last night and wonder if it really happened. I glance over at the night stand and see the torn piece of paper lying next to the candle. I reach over and pick it up and wonder what I am going to do with it. Couldn’t think about that now, the music was a distraction and I had to get out of these clothes. I fold it and place it in my camera bag.

I was starving so after a long, hot invigorating shower, I dressed and made my way outside to check out the hotel restaurant. Breakfasts were $5US. It was then that I missed the free meals at the Sunset. I decided to find some place along the strip to have breakfast. It was almost 11:30 so I better get moving. I grabbed my music and shades and was headed out the door when the phone rings. It was Agee. She asked me what I was up to. I told her that I had not eaten yet and she told me about a place on the beach that sells good food. She told me where to meet her and we can have lunch together.

I pumped up the music, slipped on my head phones and was on my way. There were a couple of guys sitting at the desk outside the front door. Everyone greeted me with a friendly good morning. Henry offered to drive me where I wanted to go. I told him I wanted to walk because I needed the exercise. He also took this opportunity to ask me out for an evening of music and dancing. He said he goes to a spot where oldies are played. Oldies reggae or R&B??? He said both. It was tempting, but honestly I wasn’t feeling his vibe. Thanks, but I have plans. I slipped on my shades and headphones and was on my way..again.

It was HOT today, about 98 degrees, and the sun was intense. Sun block is a must when dealing with these rays. The walk to the corner was an experience. Within the mere 4-minute span, I was offered 7 rides. I couldn’t help but laugh to myself and think these guys are either hard up for fares or hard up for women because I have neither money nor looks.

I headed for the Cambio to buy a phone card and to exchange $50US. It was surprisingly quiet along Gloucester Avenue this morning. I peeked in a window or two, but I’m not in the mood to shop so I didn’t linger.

I met Agee and we headed out to a stand on the beach. I was so hungry I just wanted whatever was already prepared. I ordered the fish with fries and salad. She ordered a burger with fries. Everything was prepared fresh and although it took a while, it was well worth the wait. It was delicious.

We sat at a little table facing the ocean. We listened to a small group of rastas discuss the plight of their people. Their thoughts were interesting, what I could understand.

Agee told me that she and a couple of her friends were picking me up tonight to see a native show at Breezes. That sounded good and I told her I would be ready. We finished lunch and walked back to the office. I gave her a hug and was on my way back to the Glorianna.

On the way I spotted bottles of Rum Punch in a store window and slipped in to buy one to mix with my Appleton later tonight. This store had some nice island gifts displayed, but I still didn’t want to shop for that stuff.

I was tempted to open the Rum Punch and take a few swallows, but I don’t think alcohol in my system, in this heat, is not a good idea. As I neared the corner of Gloucester and Sunset, I glanced over at the open lot I visited last night. For the first time today, I began to have short, quick flash backs of last night.

[sjb1221]

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

Hi, Vi. I'm back from my short trip to Montego Bay. The few posts brought tears to my eyes. This is better than the books I've been reading.
I'm also going back in July. Are you staying in Ochii?

Oh yeah, I went to Coral Cliff last Saturday and had so much fun. They added a pool table and an arcade. We played pool, ice hockey and skee ball all night. Of course, we also enjoyed the band and rum and coke for $2.

Yesterday this time, I was eating oxtail downtown at Smokin' Joe with my boyfriend [img]/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img] Now I'm just sitting here waiting for July.