Bark Di Trute!: 'LAST LICK' - BIDDING FAREWELL TO TULUM..MEXICO

As our Tulum escapade winds down, influencers converge for a night of entertainment with Divan, the charismatic Cuban singer, courtesy of Chagod Tour. Dressed in our evening finery, we immerse ourselves in the captivating Latin rhythms and Afro beats. Despite tequila flowing generously, I opt for sparkling water, resolute in maintaining control.

The atmosphere transforms into a lively spectacle, with everyone revelling under the stars. Witnessing the carefree spirit of the group provides its own joy. An unexpected highlight occurs when a Sinatra-sound-like figure from the audience graces the stage, adding a touch of nostalgia. Exhausted from the day's hustle, I decide to retire early, knowing that Monday holds rest for me while others embark on their homeward journeys.

Monday morning, Julio and I decide to seize the day, soaking in the sun, and beach, and sipping on sparkling water. Cautious of Mexican water warnings, I've encountered no issues so far.

On the beach, I finally delved into "Reggae Silver" by Horane Smith, a book I had carried but never found the time to open. The day is spent reading and relaxing, knowing that Tuesday marks our early flight back to Santo Domingo and eventually home to Jamaica.

Tuesday's journey begins with a 6:30 am taxi ride to Cancun. The airport check-in is a diverse mixture, featuring Latinos travelling with their pets. Reflecting on Jamaica's stringent rules in contrast to its corruption, I find myself deep in thought. Our flight to Santo Domingo unfolds, with Jamaicans returning home. I'm impressed with their youthful style of venturing into these unknown markets, something we would never even consider.

Amidst the banter and seat-rushing typical of Jamaican travel, we take off, and I enjoy my fruits as the plane climbs. Landing in Jamaica after 8:00 pm, we navigate through customs, where the online immigration forms introduce an unexpected hurdle. The abruptness catches some off guard, underscoring the need for better warnings.

As we clear customs, I contemplate ending these chronicles here. An airport saga is something I must share in another chapter.

So I bid farewell to Tulum, embracing the familiar sights of Jamrock. Until the next chapter unfolds.

Try

Writer, Lois Grant

Lois Grant
Ms Lois Grant - JP, MA, BA.(Hons) Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London. Lois Grant's involvement in the communications and creative industry began in the newsroom at the now-defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC). She then went on to head the Public Relations unit, at the now-defunct Grimax Advertising. From there, Grant went into partnership with the creation of the Promotions/Production agency.. Innercity Promotions. Innercity was responsible for the creation of the live dance hall series of concerts at the Harbour View and New Kingston Drive-in cinemas... the firsts in the history of entertainment in Jamaica. At the start of the '90s, Grant formed her own agency under the banner, Corporate Image Communications and Productions. She stood out as a trailblazer in developing several innovative events as well as programmes for corporate brands such as Tastee Limited, Jamaica National Building Society, City of Kingston Cooperative Credit Union, and various government agencies. Looking back Grant notes that she has played her role in changing the political landscape of three Caribbean islands, including Jamaica. Her last assignment before taking early retirement saw her as the Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica from 2007 - early 2013.

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