The Beach Boy Industry

It is not ad hoc.

Specifics might be uncertain, but the Beach Boy Industry operates on the islands of the Caribbean as prolifically as Car Rental agencies. A few tourists might be surprised, but many come armed with the names of popular gigolos, and know exactly where to go.

Barbados was the first island which actually understood the Industry. As Barbadians did not harass the tourists, and by quiet agreement did not enter hotel premises but kept to the edges of the property, there was never any reason to employ security guards or interfere in the ‘natural’ sequence of events.

Women would arrive at Accra Beach Hotel, take the brilliantly coloured towels, go to the southern section of the beach, far from the hotel’s terrace, and wait. In a few minutes polite young men would approach, speaking softly and flatteringly. His meals, entertainment, even his wardrobe taken care of for the length of his “gooses” stay. (Goose is the generic name for a white female tourist who supports a Beach Bum).   Whether the Goose was young or old, fat or slim, the Beach Boy would be devoted to her until she left.

This is what was expected, and this is what was paid for.

In Jamaica, the Rent-a-Dread Industry was born with Sunsplash. During the days of the festival, booths would be rented to up to five persons (each had a free pass which allowed them complete access to the venue) who would sell food or craft to the attendees. They also sold themselves.

Boys with a few inches of dreadlocks would be available for any tourist who wanted them. Some “Rentas” made quite a bit of money simply by never giving change. (The value of the Jamaican Dollar to the U.S. meant that even $10.00 US would be more than a day and a half’s pay at Minimum wage).  Most Rentas received gifts of clothing and other item from their Goose, while others steal whatever they can palm.

Out of Sunsplash season, Rentas lurk about North Coast Hotels, security guards lax in chasing them, save if they attempt to enter the hotel proper.

Where Bajans adopt a “submissive” posture, the Industry flourishes. The Goose has absolute control over the relationship.

Rentas, however, try to dominate, and the Goose, who would have been willing to support him the two weeks of her vacation, rejects the predatory stance.

On other islands, the Bajan model is more often followed, but there are exceptions. Often a “Goose” might believe the Beach boy “loves” her or is her “boyfriend” not appreciating that she is nothing more than a wallet. Those who play the “girl” to his “man” will be virtually sold to his friends, robbed of property, (the same kind of behaviour female prostitutes practise on Johns who believe she “loves” him). Many Geese return home without their jewelry or computers, but return home.

Some, of course, are never found.

Danger can always be mitigated by understanding that this nice young man isn’t dazzled by white skin but is no more than a paid escort. He is with the Goose to get his ‘freeness’   until she leaves. The word “love” may be used, but the definition is akin to that on a tennis court.

Most Beach Boys/Rentas have wives, legal or common law, and children, and use their take to support them. The sale of an ipod can feed his family for a month. Older women who come armed with names and know the rules get the benefit of a young male body and a companion who will sit and play “Go Fish” with her on the seaside. Younger women who believe that this island boy actually is in love with her, will have a very rude awakening when she finds herself cleaned out, and her ‘darling sweet sugar’ gone into the hinterland.

A few foolish American women actually marry these men and import them, where they often linger until they get legal status, then take what they can carry and leave.   Most women, however, know the relationship is Cash & Carry, and leave the Caribbean with most of their property and memories.