Jamaica Travel News

Jamaican Resorts Fill Travel + Leisure List

Jamaica, for the fifth year in a row, is the Caribbean island with the most resorts on Travel + Leisure magazine’s 14th annual World’s Best Awards readers’ survey, with ten hotels, up from five in 2008, named to the list of Top 25 Resorts in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas.

The Jamaican properties on the list of Top 25 Resorts, Caribbean, Bermuda and Bahamas category include:

• Couples Negril (2)
• Couples Swept Away, Negril (3)
• Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios (6)
• Couple Sans Souci, Ocho Rios (7)
• Couples Tower Isle, St. Mary/Ocho Rios (8)
• Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios (11)
• Rockhouse Hotel, Negril (20)
• Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, South Coast (21)
• Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Montego Bay (24)
  
• Half Moon, Montego Bay (25)

Survey results for the 2009 World’s Best Awards appear in the magazine’s August 2009 edition, on newsstands now and online at www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest. A complete methodology of the awards also appears on the Web site.

Labels: Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, South Coast

posted by Paris and John @ 5:55 PM

Reggae Sumfest to Present Michael Jackson a Lifetime Achievement Award

The 17th Annual Reggae Sumfest which takes place in Jamaica’s tourism capital Montego Bay, will pay homage to the “King of Pop” and legendary performer Michael Jackson. As part of its tribute, Reggae Sumfest officials will posthumously present a Lifetime Achievement Award to the late entertainer.

It was announced by the Reggae Sumfest organizers that members of the Jackson family will be in attendance on International Night Two of the world’s premiere reggae festival on Saturday, July 25 at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre in Montego Bay, in order to accept the award.

It is understood that the family will present a plaque of appreciation to the people of Jamaica.

“We are delighted that Sumfest will dedicate this year’s staging to the memory of this international icon,” Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett said. “We feel privileged to have the Jackson family here in Jamaica to receive this honor on his behalf and also to enjoy what our unique Jamaican culture has to offer.”

In honor of the special night dedicated to Michael Jackson, Tito Jackson and his band will also be performing. The last time the Jackson Five performed in Jamaica was in 1975.

About Reggae Sumfest

First staged in 1993, Reggae Sumfest quickly became the world’s premiere reggae music event. The festival showcases the best of Dancehall and Reggae music, as well as top R & B/Hip Hop performers and offers delicious Jamaican cuisine and arts and crafts. Each year, the event attracts more than 30,000 patrons to the tourist capital of Montego Bay.

Labels: festivals, Montego Bay

posted by Paris and John @ 5:03 PM

Air Jamaica Offers One-Day Lounge Pass

Air Jamaica Economy Class passengers can now wait for their flight away from the hustle and bustle of the airport terminal with the introduction of a one-day pass for the Lovebird Executive Class Lounge at Jamaica’s international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay.

The Lovebird Executive Lounge one-day pass is valid for one day and allows Air Jamaica’s Economy Class passengers full access to the lounges at both the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, providing a few extra moments of serenity as their Jamaican vacation draws to a close.

Price: Passengers can purchase the pass at the Air Jamaica airport check-in counters or from local travel agents in Jamaica at a cost of USD$30 per person. Passengers who hold Lovebird Executive Class tickets will automatically gain access to the lounges without charge.

For more information:

• visit www.airjamaica.com
• call 1-800-523-5585

Labels: Airlift

posted by Paris and John @ 4:58 PM

Two New Secrets Resorts to Open in March 2010

Secrets Resorts & Spas, the luxury all-inclusive, adults-only brand, will officially open its first Jamaican properties early next year. In March 2010, Secrets St. James Montego Bay and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay -- two new exclusive all-suites resorts – will be situated side by side on one of the most ideal beachfront locations in this popular tourist destination.

Guests of these two new Secrets Resorts & Spas will have the freedom to explore each property as they please, and enjoy eight gourmet á la carte dining options ranging from elegant to swim-up, seven chic bars and lounges, large free-form swimming pools and beachfront Jacuzzis, and world-class spas and Beach Club. A main plaza conveniently located between the two resorts also will present guests with a host of exciting activities and entertainment options including a game room, boutiques, cafes, movies and more.

Secrets St. James: Secrets St. James, set on one of the most pristine beach areas of the Bay, is located just 30-minutes from Montego Bay International Airport. The 350 all-suites resort honors Jamaica’s history by featuring stunning British Colonial-style architecture and elegant décor in warm tones with dark wood accents. Oversized four-poster beds, extra-large showers, Jacuzzi’s for two, private balconies and Secrets’ signature discrete room service, along with access to shimmering pools and breathtaking ocean views offer guests a serene and romantic retreat. For relaxation, the lavish spa offers indoor and outdoor facilities, the latest hydrotherapy treatments and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Secrets Wild Orchid: Boasting a contemporary and chic design, Secrets Wild Orchid sits serenely on a half mile of private beach on the Montego Bay peninsula. This 350-all suites resort takes inspiration from the island surroundings with its warm neutral tones and unique indigenous art. Select suites at the property offer private, swim out access to the free-form pool surrounding the luxurious resort. Lush gardens and sparkling fountains surround the resort’s 15,000 square foot Spa and set the stage for a variety of pampering treatments
Zozaya added that combined Secrets St. James and Secrets Wild Orchid offer a multitude of amenities and activities to afford guests a fantasy vacation experience unlike any other.

In addition to luxurious and spacious accommodations, members of Preferred Club-recognized properties will be invited to enjoy the benefits and offerings of each resort, its restaurants, lounges, spas, open-air theater and more.

For More Information:

• call 1-866-GO-SECRETS
• visit www.secretsresorts.com

Labels: Montego Bay

posted by Paris and John @ 4:53 PM

Chukka Caribbean Musher to Compete in Iditarod

Following his recent sign up in Alaska, Jamaican musher Newton Marshall (who we met in May when we in Jamaica for JAPEX) looks set to build on the island’s tradition of excellence in winter adventure sports. Under the guidance of three-time Iditarod, four-time Yukon Quest champion and two-time ESPN/ESPY “Toughest Athlete” nominee Lance Mackey, Marshall will begin preparation to test his skills in the 2010 Iditarod, also called "The Last Great Race."

Marshall who had his start at Chukka Caribbean Adventures is the first Jamaican and Caribbean musher to enter the race and has his sights set on building on the success of the Jamaican bobsleigh team which first participated in the Winter Olympic Games in 1988. While Marshall will be a rookie racing the Iditarod, he has proved he is qualified to face his toughest test, having completed the grueling Yukon Quest and winning the coveted ‘Challenge of the North Award’ for best exemplifying the spirit of the Yukon Quest.

Mackey is delighted to be given an opportunity to work with Marshall and the Jamaica Dogsled Team. “Newton has proved himself to be courageous and able to beat the odds as he did at the Yukon Quest. I am proud to be part of the team that will see Newton complete the last great race on earth,” said Mackey.

Marshall, one of Jamaica’s newest sports ambassadors is excited to be working with Mackey and has his sights set on blazing a trail next year in Anchorage. “It is a real honor to represent Jamaica in this non-traditional sport, whose beginnings were in helping children. I am looking forward to working with Lance and his kennel in making Jamaica proud,” noted Marshall.

Jamaica’s Director of Tourism John Lynch has high praises for Marshall who he stressed has achieved a feat no Jamaican or Caribbean national has ever done. The Tourism Director believes Marshall will place Jamaica’s name in yet another chapter in sporting history and a winter sport at that.

“Jamaica’s long and distinguished history in sports is well-known and it is heartening that a new ambassador has emerged in a non-traditional sport, as we seek to find creative and innovative ways to promote our destination in a challenging economic period. Visitors to Jamaica can also get a taste of the dog sled experience at Chukka Caribbean in Ocho Rios, one of our major attractions.” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism.

The 2010 Iditarod begins next March in Anchorage, Alaska.

Labels: Ocho Rios

posted by Paris and John @ 4:49 PM

Strawberry Hill Offers Unplug & Unwind Package

Unplugging and unwinding come easy in Jamaica, which was recently ranked third as the world’s happiest nation using the Happy Planet Index. This study, as reported in CNN on July 4th, 2009, seeks countries with the most content people and considers the ecological footprint of that country.

The best place to admire this happy nation just might be Strawberry Hill, the luminous 25-acre mountaintop, mystical retreat ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, peace and oneness. The tranquil retreat is now offering the Unplug and Unwind Package, perfect for enjoying the peace and quiet of the Blue Mountains.

Price: Starting at $455.00 per night based on double occupancy or $296.00 per night based on single occupancy.

Dates: Strawberry Hill Unplug and Unwind is valid now through December 18, 2009. Tax and service charges are additional.

The Package: The package includes:

• Elegant Suite with private balcony overlooking the majestic Blue Mountains
• Breakfast and a la Carte Dinner
• Elemental consultation and Elemental Nature Massage
• Free use of Sauna, Plunge Pool and Yoga Shala
• Amenities include blended tropical fruit punch, herbal water and teas

Strawberry Hill’s new Living Lounge, located in the Living Spa, houses a private wine bar exclusive to hotel guests and Spa clients. The Living Lounge is ideal for special occasions or for those who want to socialize while savoring wines, indulging in treatments and unwinding to their favorite music. Also on offer is a 60-foot negative-edge swimming pool, nature trails, bird-watching expeditions and mountain bikes to help guests connect with the intense natural beauty of this fertile region.

For More Information:

• visit www.islandoutpost.com
• call 1-800-OUTPOST (688-7678)

Labels: Kingston

posted by Paris and John @ 4:43 PM

Island Records Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Roots, Rock & Reggae Tour

The Roots, Rock & Reggae tour offers emerging artists and music aficionados a chance to hone in their beat when booking six nights or more in any of or a combination of Island Outpost’s artistically influenced hotels, Strawberry Hill, Geejam and Jake’s, now through now through December 14, 2009 with stays in specific room categories:

Strawberry Hill, Blue Mountains

Room: Studio Suite. Situated on the mountaintop to stunning effect, Gong, Tree, Cedar and 59 Steps make up the property's four studios suites. Housing palatial four-poster beds with all-purpose kitchenettes, bathrooms and balconies, the studios capture the refined luxury and absolute peacefulness of the property. Each studio offers a quiet, personalized environment and features an uninterrupted canvas of the city lights of Kingston

Room Rate per Night: $595

Roots, Rock & Reggae: Strawberry Hill’s Musical History

In addition to touring Chris Blackwell’s wall of fame at Strawberry Hill, take a day to truly dive into the roots of the reggae culture. Tour the Bob Marley Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of the phenomenal Reggae artist who Chris Blackwell led to international acclaim. Emerge through a musical history of artifacts, memorabilia, numerous writings and photographs, and other awe-inspiring mementos. The museum is Bob Marley's former place of residence and was home to the Tuff Gong record label. Feel the vibe and get inspired from the hundreds of artists, musicians, and producers from all over the world who have previously recorded at this studio and visited the museum.

Geejam, Port Antonio

Room: Ska. A unique cabin named in homage to the legacy of its respective Jamaican musical genres, Ska offers a mellow, airy octangular space with glass doors opening onto an elevated surround sound view. Ambient reverb of the sound-systems rolling across the hills or a rooster announcing the day can easily be heard from the room’s balcony or the cabin’s private hot tub..

Room Rate per Night: $595

Roots, Rock & Reggae: Geejam’s Studio Experience

A recently refurbished state-of-the-art recording studio is one of Geejam’s most prized features. An A-list of international music talent, including Gwen Stefani and No Doubt, Common, India.Arie, Björk, Tanya Stephens, Sly and Robbie and Gorillaz, have all written and recorded at the property. In addition to the top-of-the-line technology, including Pro Tools and a Neve console, the atmosphere at Geejam also lends itself to the continuous flow of creative juices. Even if not a professional, guests can book time on the mic to fulfill that lifelong fantasy with the 3-hour complimentary session. Studio packages are available to those booking a recording session. The three hour studio experience includes an introductory session in the control room and a demo session on the mic in the live room. Learn how a recording is assembled from tracking to mixing using the Pro Tools and start recording your stardom!

Jake's, Treasure Beach

Room: Deluxe One Bedroom Oceanfront. The ocean spray can be felt from the veranda of Seapuss, the deluxe oceanfront room. The aquatic theme enhanced by warm Moroccan accents redefines island groovy chic. Queen-sized bed offers ultimate refuge, while the private outdoor showers complete the perfect bathing ritual

Room Rate per Night: $295

Roots, Rock & Reggae: Henzell’s Drive

The bohemian atmosphere comes as no surprise here: Jake’s is run by the Henzell family, also responsible for Jimmy Cliff’s The Harder They Come, the hippest Caribbean film of all time. Sally, its set designer, unfurled her talents here. Receive a Harder They Come DVD and CD and a poster, and take a beautiful drive down Jamaica's southwestern coast from Sav-La-Mar leading to Belmont’s fishing village which is the birth and resting place of one of the Wailers’ founding members…Peter Tosh.

For more information:

• visit www.islandoutpost.com
• call 1-800-OUTPOST

Labels: Kingston, Port Antonio, South Coast

posted by Paris and John @ 4:38 PM

Jake's Offers Volunteer "Goodwill Jamaica Package"

Jake’s, Jamaica’s hip Treasure Beach boutique hotel, unites visitors and locals with the new volunteer “Goodwill Jamaica Package”.

Jake’s guests are invited to explore and even participate in community development projects from the non-profit organization BREDS.

“The true soul of Jamaica is born and bred in our local communities,” said Jason Henzell, president of Island Outpost and owner of Jake’s. “By volunteering in Treasure Beach, our guests not only earn the satisfaction of giving back to local residents, but they can also meet the people whose joyous spirit defines the island – and hopefully lean to integrate that joy into everyday life.”

For guests that stay four nights or more, Jake’s “Goodwill Jamaica Package” includes three days of guided visits and activities at BREDS-sponsored organizations, surrounding schools, local farms, fishing communities and construction projects.

Henzell is also a founder of BREDS. Formed in 1998, BREDS is a non-profit organization concerned with the promotion of education, sports and heritage in Treasure Beach. BREDS is run by volunteers and is funded by donations. With the Dollar-a-Night initiative, participating guest houses, including Jake’s, contribute $1.00 for each room night rented. Annual fund-raisers, such as the Treasure Beach Off-Road Triathlon and the South Coast Hook n Line Fishing Tournament, also provide support.BREDS’ upcoming projects in Treasure Beach include the development of the Treasure Beach Sports Park.

Guests and locals mingle cheerfully at Jake's, a 30-room resort, set on six acres of land. Dramatic cottages commune with the garden, sea and sky, near a secluded fishing village. The bohemian atmosphere comes as no surprise: Jake's is run by the Henzell family, also responsible for Jimmy Cliff's The Harder They Come, the hippest Caribbean film of all time.

Prices: Package rates range from $95 per night for a gardenview one bedroom up to $325 per night for an oceanfront romance suite. Villa accommodations and rates are also available.

For more information:

• call 1-800-OUTPOST
• email: jakesinfo@cwjamaica.com
• visit www.islandoutpost.com/jakes

Labels: South Coast

posted by Paris and John @ 4:35 PM