by Steve Lassman, Vice President & General Manager
Although the Caribbean is a year round playground, offering abundant sunshine, turquoise blue waters, and miles of sandy beaches, it’s truly appreciated during the winter months when the thermometer starts falling and the ground turns white with snow. Jamaica, one of the most popular villa vacation areas, is a great destination for everyone. While many venture to Jamaica to tan and relax on the breathtaking beaches, there is also a plethora of activities to keep busy. Avid snorkelers and scuba divers will enjoy the beautiful coral reefs and exotic marine life that can be observed in the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Coffee lovers will take pleasure in the delicious home-grown coffee from the famous Jamaican Blue Mountains. This is one of the greenest and largest parks, ideal for hiking and horse-back riding. Sightseers will want to climb the world-famous 600-foot-high Dunn’s River Falls, and although some think this is purely a tourist attraction, I believe it is “a not to be missed” activity, especially if you have kids. Those who want to see beautiful sunsets should partake in the Jamaican tradition and head over to the famous, Rick’s Café, in Negril, where you will not only be mesmerized by the views, but you can enjoy cliff-jumping or diving into the crystalline water. For those who golf, there are incredible championship golf courses on the island. Try the White Witch or the Tryall Club (considered to be one of the finest courses in the Caribbean). No matter what golf course you choose, you will be impressed by the quality, and I assure you, the knowledgeable and friendly caddies will treat you like a pro. A villa vacation in Jamaica is truly memorable and the friendly staff will treat you with their “No problem, mon” service, where everything you desire is just a request away. It starts when you arrive at the doorstep of your private villa. Whether it’s your 1st or 15th time visiting, there is a smile greeting you when you first arrive and it continues until the moment you leave.
Villa Lolita
I want to share with you some of my thoughts on a few of our villas. My first recommendation is the villa Lolita. Located in Tryall, this magnificent villa, which received the “Villa of the Year” award for 2009, is everything you would expect from a luxury home. Upon entering this modern marvel, you are immediately greeted with a grand view of the ocean. The entrance way leads to an open air living room and indoor dining room, which is tastefully decorated with a stunning white section couch and a full marble bar. There is an expansive media room next to the living room, and since all of the public areas of this home are wired for sound, just plug in your iPod, and your musical tastes will surround you throughout your stay. And for those that want to stay connected via Internet access, the entire house is wireless. The 5 bedrooms of this home are all tastefully designed with a careful eye dedicated toward comfort. The master bedroom has its own private plunge pool, for an early or late evening dip. As with most Jamaican homes, it will be hard to spend any time indoors. With a large infinity pool overlooking the water, a freshly stocked bar, and high-end patio furnishing, the outdoor area will be where you spend most of your time. You will be completely pampered with a dedicated staff serving you cocktails and an incredible chef making you mouthwatering meals. You will not want to leave this little oasis in the sun. However, if you want to venture to the beach, or play a round of golf, Lolita has a membership at the Tryall Club, and all the amenities are available to you. This includes the Tryall Kids Club, if you are traveling with young children. Also, if you want to stay in shape while you are on vacation, this home has a full gym equipped with a steam room. I highly recommend villa Lolita for anyone looking for a beautiful modern home with all the staff and amenities one would want from a Caribbean vacation. Continue reading
