JAMAICA: Goldeneye Resort

Trying to find somewhere for us to take a week long vacation, that we haven’t been to, that would be a slice of paradise, somewhere to stay put and chill, AND somewhat easy to get to from Los Angeles, posed itself as a challenge for someone like me who already has a hard time making decisions.  Since it was only for a week, I really wanted it to be the place from out of a dream. Any of the Hawaiian Islands are a sure thing, and so easy to get to from Los Angeles, but we really wanted to go somewhere new.  All I can say is the Goldeneye Hotel & Resort in juicy Jamaica is that spot I was dreaming about.  This place is so delicious, so gorgeous, so luxurious in the most unpretentious way, and so off the beaten path, that I am already wondering how & when we can return.

Goldeneye was once the modest 3 bedroom house where in the 1950’s Ian Fleming wrote his James Bond novels.  Along came legendary music producer, Chris Blackwell, (whom among other great musicians, introduced the world to one of my personal favorites, Bob Marley) and turned this little gem into the wonderful place it is today.  In November 2010, they reopened with brand new beach cottages to go along with the lagoon digs. We opted for the gorgeous, huge, one bedroom beach cottage that sits right on the white sand and is only steps to the crystal clear Caribbean. Sure they also have two nice, small pools as another option, but if you are looking for an incredible little fish sanctuary to swim in, go for their beautiful fresh water lagoon.

The management did a stellar job at hiring each and every member of their team.  They really take such good care of you and your kids.    When it comes to doing some snorkeling or any water activity, ask for Daney Dunkin (aka Double D).  This sweet man is incredible with kids and will help inspire all sorts of adventure.  Be it paddle boarding in the lovely lagoon, an incredible off-the-coast snorkeling venture, or if you’re lucky enough to find some small waves in the cove, a little surfing.  As far as the food, I have to make a special note about their master chef, Conroy Arnold.  They found this treasure in New York City at the famed Nobu restaurant.  Traveling as a vegetarian, practically vegan, can often be a challenge and end in a complete carb overload.  Of all the places that I have traveled to, I have never been so indulged and treated like royalty as was at the Goldeneye thanks to this incredible chef.  For sure anything this master creates is enough to have you chanting his name in your sleep, but for those of you who don’t eat animals, it’s like having your own personal chef everyday.  Do yourself a big, big favor, let this man run with his creativity.  Everyday will be another heavenly treat after another.

At Goldeneye, they are rumored to not be able to say no to any guest.  I have to say, from our experience this is true.  But don’t take my word for it…

ROOM CHECK

1. midnight munchies √

If you can actually stay awake late after an entire day at the beach, with kids, (best of luck to you), you can always go for the pint of vanilla Haagen Dazs ice cream and the 2 chocolate bars that are stocked in the frig. Other than that, it’s slim pickins.

2.  roomy √

ALL of the cottages have ample room for the entire tribe.  We stayed in the one bedroom cottage and had tons of space to spread out…even build forts. 

 3. extra fluff √

These king size beds hold their own.  They are super comfortable with great sheets and pillows.  They even come with a mosquito net to help deliver a very peaceful sleep.

4. the plushities √

I love their hand batik, soft, thin cotton robes and the huge, gooey, hand batik towels that they provide. (These items are also for sale) I love that for no extra charge they keep your room fully stocked with many fresh bottles of water and your own French press coffee maker with plenty of coffee and the fixings.  Also in the kitchens, they provide everything necessary to cook and create meals if one was so inspired.  I also really love that all the light switches are on dimmers and labeled.

5. super secret sexy time √

The cottages at this place give ample amount of space for a little late night lovin.  But for those of you who still have a bit of zest and adventure left, those who want to smell the sea air and gaze at the starry sky… put the kids to bed and steel a little time away on the man-made island right in the middle of the cove.  It’s only a quick waist water walk to reach it.  (note: of course, this recommendation goes only for those who opt for the beach cottages.)

6. snaggables♦ 

none worth mentioning.

7.  the dock ya’s ♦

They don’t charge anything extra for kids.  But do note, that they do add a 20% service charge on absolutely everything.

to visit their website: www.goldeneye.com