Added: 07/09/2005 |
Living the Island Lifestyle in NegrilNegril has started its history as a haven for shipping, largely cut off from the rest of the island by bad roads and a large swamp. Development started on a slow pace in the 1950's to 1960's when canals were cut to drain the swamp and built a highway. When in the sixties with the population under a hundred, the American "flower children" discovered Negril. Due to the fact that they were not welcomed in the few establishments on the beach, they rather went to the West End and The Rock where they lodged in the homes of the local people.
The more affluent landowners were worried about Negril becoming a "Hippie Haven", but the simbiosis proved to benefit all parties and a unique character of free-spiritedness was established. Negril is still not the busiest place around, but has taken the lead in environmental issues, such as the establishment of marine parks, and several eco-friendly development projects. Over the years, in little over two decades Negril has changed from deserted fishing beach to full-blown resort town.
A spot so enamored with nature's bounty that its tallest building cannot reach higher than the ever-present palm trees, Negril embodies the ultimate relaxed lifestyle. Imagine seven miles of unimaginably silky white sand beach and five miles of cliffs dotted with eccentric watering holes and eating establishments. Envision all of this overlooking some of the most marvelous turquoise water in creation. Add in some of the most spectacular sunsets you're ever likely to witness, where the sun sinks into the sea from this westernmost tip of Jamaica in a blaze of fiery finery. And you'll soon see why Negril is a place you won't soon forget.
There are so many places at Negril from where to watch these splendid sunsets. Sip your papaya daiquiri as you watch the sun set over the Caribbean: the bars and clubs have both the ambiance and the fruity drinks to make your Caribbean adventure a success. For tourists looking for a night out on the town, many restaurants offer a genuine cultural experience, featuring the freshest seafood the Caribbean has to offer, nightly shows, and live reggae music.
Explore the deep sea fishing, and get that one fish of your life. Climb over Negril Cliffs which are located on Negril's West End; feel why these dramatic and soaring cliffs were used as a backdrop for the James Bond film "Thunderball." To feel yourself in the Neptune's kingdom, visit the Throne Room, the underwater cavern, whose walls are covered with yellow sponges. Bike tours of the Jamaican countryside are available for all levels of ability.
The Negril Watershed Environmental Protection Area includes the Great Morass. It is set aside for the preservation of the island's tropical environment. Visit this natural reserve and you will amaze the Nature's contrasts and interrelations.
The famous seven-mile stretch of golden sand - Seven Mile Beach was once haunted by Pirates beach, but now ruled by pleasure-seeking beach bums and sun-worshipers.
To feel close to history of these places take a horseback tour to the Jamaican countryside, the Rhodes Hall Plantation, while friendly and knowledgeable guides would lead the way.
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