Athaliah Reynolds, Staff Reporter

Negril is cementing its spot as the entertainment capital of Jamaica.

This is evident each year as young and hip locals and overseas visitors converge on the island's third major tourist-resort town to attend the popular ultra-exclusive weekend party series, Red Stripe Temptation Isle (RTI) and Appleton Temptation Isle (ATI).

Evelyn Smith, chairperson of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association's (JHTA) Negril chapter said part of the town's pull is its wide cross section of accommodation - from the small inexpensive cottages to its luxury super-inclusive villas.

"There's something for everyone in Negril," she said.

Striking a pose.

Smith said further that Negril represented the ultimate choice for entertainment in Jamaica because it had perfect laid-back appeal. She added that the concept of weekend partying, with several different parties taking place at various times throughout a single weekend, fits in quite well with the spirit of Jamaicans.

"Most Caribbean people are known for their love of partying and a good time," she said.

Carl Barnett, first vice-president of the Chamber of Commerce's Negril chapter, agreed with Smith.

Friends try to have a conversation over the loud music.

"It's just the atmosphere of the area. It has a lot to do with the pace, the people and the natural environment, including its seven miles of beach," he said.

The annual party weekends, however, represent a two-way love affair for both patrons and partygoers.

According to Smith, this holiday period is perhaps the first time since the start of the year that most, if not all resorts in the area reported full occupancy levels as a result of RTI and ATI.

Increase in revenue

"It has not been a good year for arrivals for Negril, so this weekend offers an increase in revenue for most hoteliers," she said.

There are, nonetheless, a number of challenges involved in hosting an event of this magnitude.

Demerce 'Popeye' Whyte (left) and Romaine 'Milky' Pearce of Sheffield, Westmoreland, demonstrate the 'Sway' at Redstripe Temptation Isle.

The JHTA chairperson said it took the cooperation of several organisations, including the police, the Westmoreland Parish Council and the National Solid Waste Management Authority to effectively prepare for the many situations that are likely to arise.

Deputy Superintendent Cyril Brissette of the Negril police yesterday told The Gleaner that the law enforcers would be out in their numbers this weekend. He said while there had not been any reported increase in crime over the years during this time of year, there is a concern over traffic conditions. "We had a terrible experience last year - it was gridlock. So, we're hoping to get things under full control this year," he said.

A couple dances up a storm at the Redstripe Temptation Isle. - Photos by Noel Thompson