Jamaica Inn Welcomes Guests ‘Home’
While already popular with Canadians, two officials from the Jamaica Inn in Ochos Rios, Jamaica are in Toronto this week promoting the quaint, family run all-suite resort, known for its personalized service and welcoming staff.
The 48-suite (and four, two-bedroom cottage) boutique hotel, a member of Resort To The Best, sits on an eight-acre, beachfront site offering guests a quiet oasis ideal for unwinding from life’s everyday stresses. Helping guests “unplug” is the fact the resort has no TVs, radios or clocks. It does, however, offer guests WiFi in every room so staying in touch is possible, but not encouraged.
The resort was built in 1950 and purchased by the Morrow family, who still run it, in 1958.
“It’s a special spot. To be family run in today’s marketplace is a rare bird,” said owner Eric Morrow. “It makes a big difference having an owner/operator on site. It’s our house and people feel that when they come in.”
Also helping make guests welcome is a staff where someone working there for 10 years is described as a “newbie.” Bartender Teddy, a favourite with returning guests, has worked at the Jamaica Inn for more than 50 years.
The resort offers a European Plan, designed to get guests out and exploring the island of Jamaica. But, for those wanting all-inclusive, a plan is available, one that features a dine-around program utilizing four local restaurants. Complimentary High Tea and pre-dinner hot and cold hors d’oeuvres are served daily.
Resort amenities include a spa, gym facilities and complimentary kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding and sunfish sailing.
Also helping make guests feel at home is Shadow, a fourth-generation black lab that calls the Jamaica Inn home.
Pictured at an industry luncheon in Toronto yesterday are Morrow (r) and GM Kyle Mais.
