I get asked all the time about local restaurants or things to do off-the-beaten path by people. Today I was talking with a client about his upcoming trip to Negril, Jamaica and he presented me with that very question. Luckily there is one spot that always stands out in my mind as a good place to visit in Negril.... Alfred's.
My last visit to Jamaica was a weeklong stay on 7 Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica. Despite any reputation that may precede it, I have a not-so-secret love affair with the island of Jamaica. The very first stamp that I ever recieved in my passport is from Jamaica, and over the years I've built countless friendships that have come in handy on more than a few occasions.
It was on a night of this very trip that I decided to venture out with some local friends. In a town known for its layed back feel and sprawling beaches, I didnt really know how much we could get into. When I think of nightlife in Jamaica my mind usually drifts north to Montego Bay. Much to my surprise the night ended up being one of my favorites not only on this trip, but in all of my travels.
Alfred's Ocean Palace Negril, or simply Alfred's, is a small beach restaurant and bar in town. From the outside it looked like a small restaraunt down by the sand. We payed our 300 Ja (about $3.50 US) at the front gate and started down a crowded walkway towards the beach. The sound of reggae music pulsed from off in the near distance.
Its worth pointing out that Alfred's is open to everyone but, as a tourist, you will stand out. At night, I'd advise that you dont let anyone put anything in your hands unless its a Redstripe from the bartender. Just take my word for it.
The draw of Alfred's isnt in the cheap beer or the crowds of people laughing, jamming, and carrying on. The allure of Alfred's is definitely the live reggae shows on the beach. There's just something so aunthically Jamaican about a local live reggae show. Add in some Redstripes and put it on the sand and... you've got yourself a serious party.
Local people, local music, local beer. I spent the night... and the early morning... dancing, drinking, and making new friends. The show was amazing with each set and artist flowing one into another all night. I met a group of Spanish tourists who frequent the island and they told me that they come to Alfred's every time they're on island to hang with the locals. As the night came to a close I looked around and thought back to the night I had just had. When I left my resort I had expected to have a good time but... I really wasn't prepared for what I had just experienced. It might not be for everyone, but that's my kind of night.
The next day I decide to hit the pool for a bit before lunch. As I walk down the path from my room I can already see the pool area packed with people. It's already 5o'clock somewhere... even though its only 11:00am in Jamaica... haha. I see people gathered around the pool bar and my eyes drift to the speakers playing music out over the pool. I have to take a moment to have a laugh to myself. Everyone is having a blast in Jamaica... if only everyone knew what they were missing out on...
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Brandon Johnson, CTA
www.twitter.com/bjohnsonCTA
