Even in today’s fast paced world there are still places where time seems to stand still. The beautiful beaches along Runaway Bay in Negril Jamaica are a perfect example of this wonderful phenomena. Day in and day out the scenes seem to be the same as yesterday.. The turquoise waters splash upon sugar sands as they have for thousands of years, where pirate ships and Spanish galleons cruised past the reefs creating history and adventure. To a visitor such as I, this is calming as well as restful in a world where things change too quickly.

There is always music in the background, whether from the many small bars along the beach or from musicians continually working the tourists from morning to night. The sweet smell of ganja wafts through the air and seems to be an essential part of the island’s personality. Familiar faces with smiles for everyone appear frequently to offer the wares of the local economy. “Old timer, when did you arrive, it’s good to see you again,” always, they remember me and treat me as an old friend. This is comforting too, even though I know it is mostly part of their spiel. But some are indeed old friends and I value this small part of their lives.

Poverty makes entrepreneurs out of almost everyone in Jamaica. The beach hawkers sell anything they can to get by. Freshly boiled lobster, with a lime to squeeze over it, can be bought without leaving one’s chair. All manner of fruit such as pineapple, bananas, mangos, and coconuts, are there for the asking. If you see a few people start to get up and walk quickly in the same direction, then you know the “patty man” is approaching. These treats are like a flat tart filled with beef, shrimp, lobster, or just vegetables for the vegans. The “patty man” tends to sell out very quickly, hence the quiet stampede in his direction.

Artists and craftsmen also display their specialties for the visitor’s approval. Intricate wood carvings of beautiful colors and form are offered for very little money. Bead necklaces and bracelets are almost a must-buy item for the first time visitor. Hand rolled cigars and American cigarettes are offered by several vendors who have been here for years and seem to have their own special beach areas to patrol.

Brightly colored glass bottomed boats lie at intervals along the pristine sands of Runaway Bay. These craft, filled with excited passengers, head out to the reefs or cliffs for sightseeing or snorkeling. Speedboats, pulling parachutes with dangling tourists beneath, ply the offshore waters, keeping a safe distance from swimmers and jet skiers. The water feels so good it is almost a sin to use the resort pools, the water temperature is ideal, as well as clean and crystal clear.

Learning to haggle with the vendors is a must if you are on a budget. Never pay what they ask for their wares. They will give sob stories, act hurt and disappointed or use any of the other ancient ruses to convince you to buy. If you want one banana they will try to sell you three, no money on you, no problem mon, they will wait for you to go get it from your room, or see you later. And they will find you later, no matter where you are. You soon learn it’s all a game which is fun to play if you know the rules.

People from all nationalities blend evenly together up and down the beaches of the many resorts. World problems are forgotten in this tropical setting, seeming somehow less important that they once were. Part of the charm is trying to converse with someone from another culture without being sure if either of you are successful or not. Unlike governments, people seem to get along okay.

Entertainment is seldom lacking to the oil coated, sun blistered observer of the ever changing tableau taking place before their eyes. Parasailing adventurer’s float past, jet skis skim the waters and people promenade continually until the sun sets in the water. But the day is not over yet. Many go to Rick’s Café on the cliffs to witness the timeless transition from light to dark while tourists and locals dive from the rocks. If you want to party all night long, again no problem, there are many clubs and bars just down the beach.

As in any country, travel in groups at night, avoid dark area and obey local laws. Negril is a unique, wonderful place for those with a sense of adventure and fun. Enjoy this most beautiful of beaches and have a great time. If you are like most, you will return again and again. Take it from someone who knows.