reviews

The Dallas Morning News, "Going Funky in Jamaica," July 2005
"Deciding to visit Jamaica was easy enough. Two girlfriends and I agreed we wanted a beach and lots of sun. Soon enough, we settled on Jamaica. But where to stay? Should we go the all-inclusive route? Easier, maybe, but we're not take-it-easy girls. So began our search for funky, cool, eclectic boutique hotels near Negril on the island's western shore. We wanted spots that wouldn't be overrun with families and spring-breakers. Hotels that would be boho chic, laid-back and hip. Here's what we found.

Outdoor spa services in tents on the edge of the cliffs are heavenly. Daily yoga classes overlooking the sea add to the cool factor. Who should go - families with older children, friends looking for a laid-back stay. A great romantic getaway for couples. Solo travelers who want serenity, not seclusion.

With 34 rooms, a full service restaurant, spa and a swimming pool, the Rockhouse has more of a hotel atmosphere. But it still ranked high with us. We entered the gates, the friendly staff at an outdoor reception area greeted us. We checked in and were immediately shown to our room. Soon we found the gorgeous 60-foot cliff-top pool. Rock ladders through the property allowed for easy access into the cool water. The more adventurous just jumped off a bridge that connected the cliffs.

The first night we stayed in a premium villa, one of the pricier and more modern rooms. It was a round rock room with an outdoor shower behind one door and the bathroom behind another. A spectacular view of the water from the bed and from our private patio allowed us to sip drinks and watch the glorious sunsets.

The second night, we moved to a more cabin-like regular villa. Still, we had a direct view of the sea through the sliding glass doors that lead to our wrap around private terrace.

Rooms are air conditioned and include a CD player and telephone. A communal television and games were in the lounge and bar area. Guests who want to stay connected can use computers in the outdoor business center.

Because non-guests dine there too, reservations are required at the popular and bustling restaurant.

More guests meant more jockeying for prime sunbathing spots along the cliffs. Still, there were plenty of chairs, and no matter where we were, the views were breathtaking.

The grounds were immaculate, well manicured and filled with the beauty of lush Jamaican vegetation. A great gift shop at the front of the hotel makes you want to spend money.

We liked that the hotel emailed us a list of tips ahead of our visit: information about Negril and its history, how to deal with vendors, the tax rate and service charges, and directions for getting to the hotel."