PACKING FOR NEGRIL

I pack too much. Every trip I do this. Yes I take out 1/2... The items I don't use are always the extra contacts (they only rip at home ; ), medicines, condoms, toilet seat covers, Shout wipes. However one would hate to get themselves into a situation where those things were needed and you didn't have them. I now bring 2 suitcases (checked. they are old and crappy so i don't fear checking baggage) and my big ol REI backpack (carry-on, also used for day trips). If the airlines allow it, I am bringing all I can. For so long I just brought 1 suitcase and stressed overpacking it. Mentally 2 suitcases is just easier. I am bringing some items/gifts for friends and to give away: clothes, toiletries. People in Jamaica appreciate donations - especially school stuff for the kids. Wages there are insanely low. Third World Country - although I cringe using that term. After all, we are all in the same world and it is a matter of opinion who really is 1st, 2nd, and last. I can get a list of places/names of organizations if anyone is interested in learning more about how you can help those in need in JA. The January 2008 trip will involve donations/fundraising on a bigger level than what I am prepared for this trip.

Stuff I'm bringing unique to this location:

small spray bottle to fill w/ ice water for the beach
Lonely Planet Jamaica 2006 - a must for any traveller believe me
Wicked - easy beach reading
big citronella candle, coils for patio, hopefully not needed in room (yes only with ventilation)
2 types of repellent WITH DEET! Skeeters and sand fleas love me
SPF 30 and aloe - sun is intense and you will burn w/o protection
snorkel set - nothing fancy $20 @ Target
floaties - rings and air mattress with cup holder for the ocean ahhhhh
cards (Mandy's bringing the dominos) - travel games are good to pass the time in case of rain
casual gear: NOTHING fancy about Negril - flipflops, Tevas, non-valuable jewelry

Other good things that I SHOULD have but don't:

clothesline/rope to dry clothes - dental floss always works too
clothes soap bar for sink washing yer undies, bathing suits

www.travelindependent.info is an awesome website to help you pack for almost anywhere in the world and gives the lowdown about specific countries: what not to miss, what you should miss, drinking/drug laws and accessibility, local culture - see for yourself. Found this link through Mike's awesome website: www.unrealtravels.com

Since I remembered - another great website to find accomodations of all types in JA is www.negrilonestop.com