Jamaica Part Two – Jamaica Inn

So suitably refreshed I start Day Two.

Today we visited Jamaica Inn. I have to say this was one of the Hotels I was most looking forward to going to.  I suppose it would fall in what you might call a Boutique Hotel category, but this is not how I would describe it.  It feels more like coming home to a family. As you walk through reception you are greeted with the first view of the Stunning crescent beachfront setting.

With sun loungers, an adequate but not over the top pool and croquet lawn, Palm trees and manicured lawns topped by the main building you are standing in with its terrace to sit and let the world go by. It has a real colonial feel to it. From the white painted buildings and furniture to the elegantly styled architecture itself.

The Hotel is in fact family owned and has been for over 50 Years by the Morrow Family. The owner regularly stays at the hotel as well so can often be seen about the place as can the Hotels Black Labrador Shadow, who they have had in residence since they opened in the 1950’s. Obviously, we are not talking the original shadow, I believe we are up to Shadow the 5th currently.  The emphasis of this hotel is getting away from it all, so no flow riders, Pool games, Noisy bars etc here.  Don’t worry you can relax, sunbath, swim and the Hotel offers complimentary snorkelling, kayaking, sunfish sailing and paddle boating. But as it’s all about the escape there are no motorised water sports to spoil the tranquillity. There is, however, a good Wi-Fi signal, so you can still indulge in a little Social media whilst there.

The rooms again are colonial in style, simple yet elegant and no TV’s to be seen. Every room has an outdoor terrace where you can sit and relax, have a pre-dinner drink, talk or just watch the sunset in amicable silence.  Some with sea views, other overlooking the beach area, I think they are a great feature. It has a real feeling of exclusivity and so it is no wonder it attracts a constant stream of A-list celebrities who enjoy the simple anonymity of the setting. So, follow in the footsteps of Marilyn Monroe, Ian Fleming, Noel Coward, Errol Flynn, Kate Moss and Sir Winston Churchill to name but a few. Don’t worry I researched these as the staff will not divulge who may or may not be staying there.  Luckily when I visited, the White Room, (Winston’s favourite) was not occupied as they were expecting a gentleman from the UK who had booked it for 4 weeks to arrive that afternoon.  Celebrity? Who knows, the manager’s lips were sealed! However, this meant we got a chance to take a look around. The moment you walk through the door you are in paradise, with its large dramatic sea view terrace, Private plunge pool with lounge area under the shade, Spacious Bedroom with Four poster bed, beautiful bathroom, its own sunbathing platform with direct sea access, it feels like you are in your own villa.

The hotel is small compared to most with 48 Spacious suites and Four one and two bedroomed cottages, they all have colonial shuttles and louvred doors, so you can open them and let the breeze cool the room naturally, but don’t worry they do have air conditioning too.

The cottages are stunning with French doors leading onto open terraces, plunge pools and al fresco showers.

On an evening the main Terrace becomes an outdoor dining area, where you can drink, eat and watch the sunset while you chat with friends or other guests or just indulge in a little romance.  The staff, some of which have been there far more years than they care to divulge just seem to know what you are wanting before you know it yourself.

Eating at the Jamaica Inn is all about doing what you feel comfortable with.

Breakfast is served on the Restaurant Terrace overlooking the bay or if you prefer in the convenience of the private veranda of your suite or cottage.

Lunch is a selection of fresh delights, served once again at the seaside restaurant, at the Beach Bar, on the beach or on the veranda of your suite or cottage.

Afternoon tea is served daily on the terrace.

In the evening why not start with a drink on the cocktail terrace while enjoying complimentary hot and cold hors-d’oeuvres. Then Dine on Chef Maurice Henry’s gourmet creations under the stars.

Live music plays each evening whilst you savour the International cuisine infused with local Jamaican flavours.  The menu is never repetitive as it changes daily reflecting the freshness of the locally produced ingredients, including their famous Caribbean lobster.

If you don’t feel sociable then you can indulge in the room service dining where the dedicated staff will serve your meal course by course. Enjoy each at your leisure as you dine by candlelight in the comfort and privacy of your veranda.

The beauty of this hotel is that the choice is yours. It is your holiday, your experience and you can have it how you like.

TOP TIP:  After 7 p.m. on the cocktail terrace, main bar and dining terrace, a collared shirt with long trousers are required for gentlemen and ladies should dress accordingly. Footwear is required, so no flip flops are allowed.  If you are feeling ultra-casual, then just dine in.

The Spa experience at Jamaica Inn, like everything else, is unique. The Ocean Spa offers the usual range of spa treatments, to allow you to heal body and mind. I am not going to list the options as they are all similar to those found in any good spa.

TOP TIP:  You may want to book the treatments as the spa is often quite busy

Points to Note:

Children Under 10 are not allowed.  This hotel is not all inclusive as standard, however, there are meal plans including an all-inclusive option which you can add to your stay.  The EP plan, which is what the rates are based on includes accommodations, complimentary resort amenities, afternoon tea and evening hors-d’oeuvres. Meals need to be added as an extra.

All in all, this Hotel is definitely my kind of place. Low key, Luxurious without being ostentatious.

Laid back and all about relaxing and enjoying each other’s company.

What do you think?

 


About Me

I have worked in the Travel Industry for 33 years, ever since leaving school. My Dad was in the Navy so I guess I get my wanderlust from him. I was a Manager in a successful Travel Agency for 16 years before joining Cruise.co.uk. I am married and have a son who…

Read more
Thank you for subscribing!