ATI What a way to Party

Every Jamaican party goer looks forward to Independence weekend. The ATI Weekend has become a part of our independence celebrations and part of our culture. Many visitors make their holiday plans in an effort to be on the island around this time so they can be a part of one of the best party weekends in the world. Hotels in Negril and as far away as Montego Bay book out quite fast, and for month in advance, because of the parties, and the tourist industry gets a boost from all this inflow of visitors.This year the Emancipation and Independence weekends have clashed, leaving all of us in a frenzy. With both RTI and ATI on the same weekend the question that everyone is asking is “you going ATI or RTI”? Both RTI and ATI have upped the ante this year. Red Stripe has been pulling out all the stops to promote their package with the Red Summer campaign, having many parties leading up the main event. It seems Appleton is allowing Red stripe to get the party crowds psyched to go to Negril while they sit back and plan their attack in the package they plan to sell. The entire island is a buzz. In just three weeks everyone will know just who came out on top this year, Appleton or Red Stripe.

For those of you who would like to be in a better position to make a decision about which events to attend, here is some more information about each event:

Both events allow for a “pay one price party all weekend” option, with both RTI and ATI making available All Inclusive Arm bands. If you intend to go to most of the events under one brand, then it makes sense to get an arm band. If you think you might want to “shop around” as you go, or not attend all the parties, then it’s better you pay party by party. But make sure you plan this ahead of going down to Negril so you can have an idea. You will be treated to a variety of music from different genres such as Dancehall, Hip Hop, R&B, Rock/Alternative, and Soca Music.

Some things I've learnt from partying in Negril: Wear comfortable shoes, you will be doing some walking on the strip in between parties, traffic tends to be very stagnant after each party; dress tends to be very causal but you can dress up if you feel like, don't forget most parties are on the beach, there really are no rules; Network service on your cell phone will be very intermittent, there are a lot of people in Negril trying to find their friends, so top up early and try not to get too annoyed if you cant get through; Drink Responsibly, especially if you have to drive to get back to your hotel.

Just a taste of what Negril Weekend has to offer

Negril weekend is one of the things that draws many visitors to our island and makes many of us Jamaicans feel proud. We are proud that we can put on a world class event and we hope that you can come and join in the fun. What more can you ask for than sizzling beautiful people, great music and food, all on our beautiful seven mile strip of white sand beach. Party in Jamaica like you've never partied before. See you in Negril