Jamaica Mon’

Based on a last minute invite by 2 of my yoga retreat students, Phil and I dashed off to Beijing last night to watch the men's 100-meter dash for the Olympic track and field event at the Jamaica House. Jamaica House is where the country of Jamaica holds it's swanky events for athletes and their families during the Olympics. We thought it would be an open event. However, when we arrive at what we thought was the designated time, a large sign informed us that it was a private party. A bit nervous about barging in and obviously NOT being Jamaican, we decided to use our foreigner status as a tool for inquiry. We didn't even make it in the door as a young women intercepted us and informed us that we were too early. Period. no negotiation. In somewhat disbelief, we headed off to procure some Indian food-the first non-Chinese cuisine of the past 2 months. It was good, but I still like the authentic Chinese food better. After dinner, we went back to the Jamaica House. Walking in as if we belonged, we looked around and clearly saw that the race wasn't on and that there were very few people. We were informed that things would not begin until about 10:00pm. Phil asked the waiter for is name, Eric, and we headed out to Beijing's only designer bar. We managed to make it for Happy Hour. It was a trip as it totally catered to westerners. So we all ordered mojitoes. Talk about a cross-cultural evening! After a drink, we decided to give Jamaica House a final try. Again, walking in like we owned the place, we encountered some Chinese-speaking people who Phil informed that were invited by 'Eric'. Then we met the ladies with the guest list. In quick loud English, Phil shared his invitation from 'Eric.' Carefully examining the guest list, the ladies asked, "Erin?" Phil nodded, they crossed someone named Erin off the list, and all four of us quickly entered the Jamaica House. Things were going full swing! Chinese, Jamaicans, British and Americans were everywhere. Relatives and well -known Jamaican musicians were being interviewed by multiple magazine and television reporters and video cameras and photographers worked nonstop. Unlimited wines and mixed drinks were flowing free of cost. The only thing we had to pay for was water! And it was expensive! Life music, dancing, mask wearing, and Olympic viewing-awesome!