Koffee asked, "Where will we go when the quarantine ting done and everybody touch road?" But with Covid-19 seemingly ubiquitous, going anywhere, let alone for a vacation, might be the last thing on your mind. Still, taking a few days staycation at one of these certified COVID-19 Protocol Compliant locations may be what you need. Thanks to the Jamaica Tourist Board's “Resilient Corridors”, the relevant authorities have inspected and permitted tourism operators compliant with required standards of training, protective equipment and processes to accept guests.
Any of these six villas in the northern Resilient Corridor could be your place to put relaxation pon Lockdown.
1) Sparkling Waters of Hanover (Cousins Cove)
This luxury property is an easy drive from Negril or Montego Bay, but it feels a world away. On 80 metres of unspoiled waterfront, you can rent together or separately a 3-bed, 4-bath main villa and/or a fully contained studio cottage. Both offer ample greenspace and unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea. The villa also includes access to the infinity pool, private beach with watersports and a team of ‘Guest Experience Specialists’ to meet your every need.
2) Afimi Bay Beach House (Montego Bay, St. James)
Spend a few days in this beachfront paradise and you’ll definitely wish a did “fi yu”. Housed in an upscale gated enclave in Freeport, it’s a watersport lovers dream! Enjoy full access to snorkeling, two kayaks, and even a small catamaran to explore the reef and bay off the private beach. Prefer to stay on land? No problem! The shaded verandahs, sun deck and infinity pool are perfectly positioned for you to enjoy the water without lifting a finger.
3) Worthy View Cottage by the Sea (Duncans, Trelawny)
The oldest of this bunch, this cliff top villa's panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and its ample outdoor space means you probably won’t spend much time indoors anyway. When you do though, Worthy View has three air-conditioned bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, and a living and dining room combo that opens out to the private patio. It’s only a few minutes’ walk to the Silver Sands beach, but social distancing guidelines still apply. Instead, enjoy the beach view and sea breeze from the pool or terrace, giving you the beach experience without compromising your health and safety.
4) Eight Rivers (Ocho Rios, St. Ann)
Technically, Eight Rivers is not in its namesake Ocho Rios, but is rather one of five luxury villas on the Prospect Estate in St. Mary, just six minutes drive away. While each has its own lush garden and breathtaking sea views, Eight Rivers stands out for its expanse of outdoor living space, including four private patios off each bedroom and the gazebo just above the sea. The villa’s full-time personal concierge starts taking care of you even before you arrive. Talk to them about pre-stocking the villa with all your essentials, for an additional fee, so when you get there, you can get right into vacation mode. Go for a swim in the large freshwater pool, then head down the steps that take you right into the calm blue seas. Finish the day off lounging on the sun terrace, enjoying the sunset.
5) Wag Water (Prospect, St. Mary)
Another Prospect Estate Villa, this 3-bedroom is smaller than its counterpart but no less beautiful! Spread across two buildings, swathes of trees offer you complete privacy. You and your small crew can comfortably relax on the patio or lounge on the terrace as you would at home! Sit back and take in the view of the immaculate gardens or the private pool or the Caribbean Sea sea–you’re spoilt for choice here– and let the staff take care of you.
6) San Cove (San San, Portland)
Only a few minutes’ walk from the famous Blue Lagoon, San Cove is one of several luxury waterfront villas in San San in Portland, Jamaica. Towering over a large sun deck, this villa is spread across three levels, with almost every room looking out onto the bay. While it sits beside its sister house, San Bar, the two villas can be rented separately. You’ll also have your own chef, butler, and housekeeper, ensuring all COVID-19 distancing is met! Go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters or kayak over to the famous Monkey Island. Then, end the day with sunset dinners in the gazebo right on the water.
Covid might not be taking a break, but that doesn’t mean you can’t! Where will you go?