Katherine Gould

Posts Tagged ‘Jamaica’

Jamaica Inn: Timeless Elegance

Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010

I just returned from a visit to the Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios. This Virtuoso hotel has been on my short list of places to stay because of its legendary reputation as one of the top Caribbean resorts since 1950. It’s family owned and operated, and the atmosphere is incredibly unique. I would describe the hotel as glamorous yet unpretentious; relaxed yet polished. It’s truly one of the most special hotels I’ve had the good fortune of visiting during my tenure as a luxury travel consultant.img_36626

The Jamaica Inn has it all: gorgeous rooms, delicious food, a warm and attentive staff, a fantastic spa, immaculate grounds, and one of the best beaches in all of Jamaica. The beach is 700 feet long and looks over a protected marine park on the northern coast of the island.

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The hotel offers several different suite categories, all with spacious outdoor sitting areas. There are also a few select cottages, some of which have been converted from two bedroom to one bedroom suites. I was lucky enough to stay in one of these units and can honestly say it was stunning and worth every extra penny for clients seeking a particularly memorable experience.

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Travelers will find no shortage of luxury hotels in the Caribbean with pretty rooms, food and beaches. What sets the Jamaica Inn apart is the staff. Every aspect of service was flawless - dining, housekeeping, grounds, management, and of course, the bartenders!   Teddy has been there for over 50 years, and Rupert boasts a nearly 35 year stint at the hotel. Pretty amazing, and it speaks volumes to the loyalty the staff has to the hotel.

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Spa lovers will be delighted with Kiyara Ocean Spa, which is nestled on a bluff at one end of the property.  I enjoyed a private yoga lesson in one of their outdoor treatment areas with the waves crashing below. Inspirational to say the least! Additionally, the spa menu has a strong wellness focus with many fabulous treatments offered.

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Brownell’s preferred relationship with the Jamaica Inn enables me to offer extra amenities, including complimentary continental breakfast daily, a room upgrade if available, and a special in-room gift.  I can’t think of a more romantic place for a couple to celebrate something special.  For me personally, the trip was an opportunity to celebrate my wedding anniversary with my husband.  We commemorated the event with a private dinner on the beach; away from all modern day distractions.  The Jamaica Inn is all about relaxing, unplugging, and spending time with that special someone in a spectacular destination.  What could be better?

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Round Hill: Elegance and Luxury in Jamaica

Friday, January 23rd, 2009


Round Hill, which is located in the Montego Bay area of Jamaica, is one of my favorite Caribbean boutique hotels. The luxurious hotel rooms, which were recently renovated and designed by Ralph Lauren, are all located in The Pineapple House in a central spot within the resort grounds. All 36 of them are oceanfront and decorated in a quintessential Caribbean style. Additionally, there are 27 privately owned villas dotting the hillside.


I recently visited the property and found the resort to be one of the most elegant spots I’d seen in all of the Caribbean. Past guests include a “who’s who” list of celebrities, politicians, entertainers and more. It’s not uncommon to dine beside someone famous, so be on the lookout while you’re there! Ralph Lauren himself owns two private homes on the grounds, as he spends a large amount of time at Round Hill each year.
Looking for a tranquil and sumptuous spa while on vacation? Round Hill’s spa is the the ideal spot to pamper oneself. Guests on route to the spa enjoy a beautiful walk along a secluded path flanked by tropical foliage, only to arrive at a peaceful haven at the top of the hill. The spa treatment menu is extensive and will meet the most discerning spa lover’s needs.

Dining is a special experience at Round Hill. Guests enjoy gourmet meals daily on a romantic waterfront terrace. The atmosphere certainly made me want to linger over a glass of wine for as long as possible. Want to bring the children along? Round Hill caters to families of all ages and offers a robust children’s program for little ones between the ages of 3-12. The entry enrollment age of three is actually quite unusual and a big bonus for parents of very little ones. Most children’s clubs require children to be five years of age before they can participate, so Round Hill provides a nice perk for very young families. Arts, crafts, water sports, etc. are available on a daily basis, and the children I saw on property seemed to be having quite a good time!

For a limited time, Round Hill is offering an excellent deal for Virtuoso clients. I must also add that it’s highly unusual for a property with such an accomplished track record to offer any deals in high season. For travel now until February 12th and again between February 25th-March 5th, guests staying 4 nights pay for 3, 7 nights pay for 5, and 14 nights pay for 10. Additionally, I’m able to secure a $100 food and beverage credit per room. Contact me for more details and availability information.

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