It is not ad hoc. Specifics might be uncertain, but the
Beach Boy Industry operates on the islands of the Caribbean
as do Car Rental agencies.
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 she was young or old, fat or slim, he 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 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. Many received gifts of clothing and other
itmes. 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.
Dreads, 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
a paid escort. He is with her 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 of the beach boys 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.
