Fisherman’s Inn – Ocho Rios - 77 km
True to my nature, I couldn’t wait another day and cycled to Ocho
Rios. The weather was blistering hot, so the going was slow, and the
hills I encountered slowed my pace even further. But, at least
butterflies darted around my head, not flies as in other parts of the
world.
Besides the oppressing heat, the day was fascinating. Past Runaway
and Discovery Bay I cycled, where vendors sold the ever-present Jerk
Chicken accompanied by rice and beans. In Jamaica, there’s no
stopping without someone striking up a conversation. Soon, I was
invited to stay the night, but I declined and proceeded to Ocho Rios.
Ocho Rios’ well-located and aptly named Reggae Hostel is a stone’s
throw from the beach and right in the town centre. The hostel was
pretty laid-back, and practically everyone stayed longer than planned,
so I booked a dive for the following day.
The scuba diving was spectacular and revealed the most
extraordinary visibility. The water was crystal clear and offered an
abundance of colourful fish. So fabulous was the dive, I straightaway
booked a dive for the next day as I thought it was well worth the
effort and money.
At the hostel, I was presented with a bracelet in Jamaican colours
from Sheldon (a kind Jamaican guy) and his girlfriend. How awesome
is that?