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.
Greatview
Another great villa recommendation is the Greatview, located in the Spring Farm development in Rose Hall. This is directly across from the Half Moon Resort and a short drive to the new Palmyra Resort & Spa. This magnificent 6 bedroom home was the site of an Architectural Digest photo shoot. It is a stunning villa and certainly gets its name from the view. As you walk through the front entrance, you are greeted by an unobstructed view of the Caribbean Sea. And as you enter into the wonderful designs of a formal dining and living room, elegance and comfort combine to offer a warm and enticing welcome. All of the bedrooms and bathrooms are beautifully furnished. You will be impressed by not only the interior, but exterior of this home. The professionally landscaped property will take your breath away. It is truly gorgeous. There is a heated swimming pool and lots of outdoor dining and sitting areas. This house is spectacular – perfect for couples, friends or a family looking for a Jamaican paradise.
If you are looking for a villa that is located on a beautiful white sand beach, then I suggest one of our amazing homes in Discovery Bay, which is approximately 1 hour from Montego Bay airport. All of these homes are privately gated, and you will be awed by any of the following; Keela Wee (6 bedrooms), Makana (6 bedrooms), Fortlands Point (7 bedrooms) and my personal favorite, Whispering Waters (7 bedrooms). Each of these homes has beautifully landscaped grounds with magnificent outdoor dinning areas, high-end outdoor furnishings, infinity pools, and its own private beach. Each villa also has its own staff that is just waiting to tend to your every need. The living space in each home is comfortable and elegant and is equipped with many amenities including fitness equipment and complimentary sea kayaks and other water toys. The bedrooms of each of these homes have beautiful wood flooring throughout and are tastefully decorated. I assure you, if you are looking for a beachfront location, you can not go wrong with this selection of homes along the magnificent Discovery Bay.
One last thing I wanted to share with you – if you love jerk chicken or pork, you will love “Scotchies” in Montego Bay. It may not be much to look at, but this casual outdoor restaurant has some of the best meat around. Also, try the sweet yams and the breadfruit, all with a Red Stripe of course.
