Just wanted to stop by and say high to everyone. Its been a great trip so far. Long lazy days in my hammock and peaceful nights under the stars at my own private resort. A looong roadtrip that circumnavigated the entire island (Honda 125) Lots of cooking and trying new cookshops anywhere I can find them plus frequenting my old favorates. Went to some great parties, some not so great. Its a very hard time here right now, the hardest ive seen it. People are thin, their spirits seem down and the begging is worse than ever. But my NOs are strong and most people get the point right away. This trip has ruined Negril for me which I will elaborate on once I feel like typing a book, the beach area anyway. It has caused me to feel strong resentment towards Jamaicans and become very upset at times which has led to 2 altercations. The only time I will ever go to the beach area now is if Im passing through or going to my 2nd favorate pork shop, Ossies, the first being Red Dragon (Ragga Bones).
This trip has been a real eye opener for me. Maybe because Im becoming wiser as i get older or because ive traveled other developing countries and seen how their way of life is and how they interact with foreigners. I love Jamaica and it will always have a place in my heart, but this will be mý last trip for a long time. Much of my feelings go back to what we talked about in the begging thread. I ám treated differently here than i am anywhere else. its a shame because jamaica has the potential to be a truly wonderful place, but until its people learn to pick up the pace, lose their sence of entitlement, the constant hustle and begging and strengthen their work ethic, things will always be as they are. I have seen most of this country now and nearly every single nook and cranny I was treated the same way by some, not all, like a walking ATM. Im white, i must be rich so i should give you some money or a cigarette or buy them a beer or a meal, it neve stops. I am a young solo white male traveler on a motorcycle dressed like a typical backpacker and show no flash, but still it happens everywhere. Everywhere accept Treasure Beach where I am sitting as i type this. I found a wonderful little guesthouse near billys bay called Nuestra de casa, to take a vacation from my vacation with my new german friend. Had a wonderful dinner at Jakes last night, found private hidden beach and well, the rest is for me... Anyway, i hope everyone is well and enjoying themselves as much as i am. ill post some pics when i have time. it´s a long ride back to broughton sometime today. im here for a few more weeks so if anyone wants to catch up, let me know, i have lots of seasonings i need to use up so cookout anyone?
Bless Up!
John