Jamaica Inn

Congrats to Teddy: 60 years at the Inn

Congrats to Teddy: 60 years at the Inn.

On December 28th, 1958 Teddy Tucker commenced working at Jamaica Inn. Today he officially celebrates 60 years of service at the Inn!!

Teddy reflected on his time saying, “I have enjoyed my years here and all of the repeat guests coming back makes me feel so good. All the celebrities visiting the hotel also makes me feel so nice. I just enjoy and have enjoyed every day so much.”

Many guests have commented over the years on Facebook, Trip Advisor and other platforms that their vacation would not have been complete without a chat and a drink with Teddy. Today sir we recognize your integral part of Jamaica Inn culture and your role in making so may stays memorable.

Thank you for being such a loyal and giving member of the Jamaica Inn family Teddy, and we toast to you many more years of wonderful service!

September is Peak Turtle Month

The magical experience of witnessing hundreds of tiny Hawksbill turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea is one you will always remember.

So far this year we have had fifteen mama turtles nesting on our beach, with 630 babies now safely released into the Caribbean Sea. Our on-property turtle whisperer, Ovan Coombs, marks each nest and keeps track of the days to make sure the eggs are safe, and our guests can enjoy watching and assisting the babies to take their steps across the sand into the sea.

Plan your September visit around the next release dates. Join us, as we help to ensure more turtles make it safely to their ocean home.  Save with free nights and credit!
 

2021 World's Best

It’s award season and we’re so grateful to all our ever-loyal guests and partners. We couldn’t have achieved such recognition without support from you and, for that, we sincerely thank you.
World Travel Awards
For the fifth year in a row, Jamaica Inn has been named the Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-suite Resort in the 2021 World Travel Awards. The World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.
 
Travel + Leisure
We are very excited to announce that Jamaica Inn was recently recognized in the prestigious Travel + Leisure’s 2021 World’s Best Awards as one of the Caribbean’s top 25 Resort Hotels listed #8 in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda. Travel + Leisure provides travel inspiration and information on the best destinations and properties to visit around the world.
 
Condé Nast Traveler
We are also pleased to share that Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards announced Jamaica Inn as being ranked in the “Top 40 Hotels in the Caribbean Islands,” with a score of 93.93 and Jamaica is in the top 5 islands in the Caribbean with a score of 93.33. As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel, Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse, offering both inspiration and vital intel. They understand that time is the greatest luxury, which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that a reader never wastes a meal, a drink, or a hotel stay wherever he or she is in the world.

LetsTravelCaribbean - 60 years of wellness: Jamaica Inn

Wellness retreats, free yoga classes, and a spa that uses all-natural products from plants grown on an expansive property that made social distancing possible long before it became all the rage. That’s Jamaica Inn, where owner Eric Morrow proudly boasts that they’ve been doing wellness tourism for six decades.

“Jamaica Inn has always been about wellness because just being here makes you feel better,” he says with a chuckle.

He’s only half-joking.

Just setting foot on the Ocho Rios property seems to take stress levels down a notch. It may have something to do with that unmistakable feeling of camaraderie that comes from having employees who, on average, have been with the family-owned property for 15 years. Some have been there for close to 45.

Then there’s that calmness that comes from being unplugged. There are no TVs, radios, or alarm clocks in the rooms, and there’s nothing a massage and soak in the saltwater spa tucked away in the side of a cliff overlooking the sea does not seem to cure. A wide range of water sports activities are available, but be prepared to work up a sweat as they’re all manually powered. The result: no noisy engines to interrupt the serenity that’s only punctuated by sighs of contentment.

Over the last few years Jamaica Inn has amped up its focus on wellness. It’s everywhere on the property, from the locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables crafted into exquisite meals to the coffee grounds that make their way into treatments used in the fever grass-scented Ocean Spa.

“For the last five or six years we’ve had a wellness retreat every year. And the last year, it’s really taken off. We have Lena Franklin, who’s an acknowledged yoga teacher, spiritualist, and mental well-being expert and she attracted a lot of people this year. In fact, I think we may even have two retreats,” says Morrow during a recent visit.

He and his team are eager to see the market grow.

“Our in-house spa deals, essentially, only in natural products. We literally take things from our garden and make the face wraps and the papaya scrub. We have a coffee scrub that we literally make right here. So we’re well prepared and open to wellness tourism. We’re small, so we can react quickly to any new trends in the marketplace,” says Morrow.

While conceding that sun, sand, and sea will continue to be the main features that attract tourists to Jamaica and his property, he is convinced there is also a genuine interest in the wellness niche. Fifteen years ago, Jamaica Inn didn’t have a spa, now it’s one of the things most guests ask about when booking their stay.

Tourister.ru partners with JTB to showcase James Bond Film Locations

Editor-in-Chief of Tourister.ru out of Russia Nikolay Lebedev, recently visited Jamaica in collaboration with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) to highlight film locations of the James Bond movie franchise for his piece “James Bond in Jamaica: filming locations then and now”.

Areas in and around the island were featured during his trip, which showcased some magnificent local spots that are sure to send you packing your suitcases to come to our beautiful island paradise. The Jamaica Inn was also featured as one of the spots that famous novelist Ian Fleming frequented while on the island, where he spent much of his time while he the infamous James Bond novels.

Please view the link to have a full read and view the amazing photos and videos of this island paradise.

 http://www.tourister.ru/responses/id_36025

Ocho Rios Electric Car Charging Station Launches

The Electric Vehicle (EV) revolution is here, and Jamaica Inn is undoubtedly a part of this international transformation as the first resort in Jamaica to house EV charging stations.

The emergence of the electric vehicle industry has allowed Jamaica and by extension, Jamaicans to be more mindful of the harmful effects that some daily practices have on the environment. The most noticeable of course is the reliance on our very prevalent gas-guzzling vehicles that are major contributors to environmental pollutants.

Currently, there is an anticipated increase in the number of electric vehicles coming to the island. The Inn recognizes this and charged full speed ahead with this initiative of having electric charging stations installed on the property. This move aligns perfectly with the resort’s goal of being carbon neutral by 2025.

The housing of these easy-access stations is the resort’s contribution to national e-mobility. EV owners are no strangers to range anxiety, which is the worry of the EV driver that their vehicle will power down before getting to their destination or getting to a charging port. Travelers are able to power up while traveling cross country, at this ideal Ocho Rios location, and while they charge, they are able to enjoy the delights of the Jamaica Inn restaurant, Teddy’s Beach Bar and even the newest addition, Teddy’s BBQ Beach Grill. The addition of the two (2) new charging ports at the resort assists in easing this anxiety, which will, in turn, build local confidence in the decision to purchase these types of vehicles.

The move to have these charge ports on property will not only benefit EV owners as they journey along the streets of Jamaica, but also the Jamaica Inn as the resort is guided by the 2025 BEHAG of becoming carbon neutral. Electric vehicles will be acquired for use as a part of the location for operational duties. Also, our guests who visit the island will have the option of renting EVs as they venture off property and will have seamless charging before or after their Jamaican adventure.

The official commissioning launch of the Level 2 Charging Stations was held on Thursday, February 25, 2022, on the grounds of the Jamaica Inn in collaboration with EVPower Jamaica Limited. EVPower, is the largest provider of the most sophisticated network of electric vehicle charging stations in Jamaica. The Jamaica Inn proudly partnered with EVPower as it was identified from earlier years, that both companies have a shared goal of national sustainable development through the transformation of cleaner fuel emissions.

The launch showcased vehicles from leading automotive dealers that are paving the way in the importation of these electric vehicles. Stewarts Automotive and ATL Automotive Group had their array of sleek modern and sophisticated electric cars on display, such as the Porsche, Jaguar I-Pace, BYD and the Mini Countryman just to name a few. Jamaica Inn understands how critical it is to protect our natural environment and as such incorporated several Green Initiatives in its daily operations. This drive transcended to the creation of the Jamaica Inn Foundation which is a non-profit organization with a mandate to provide support to local communities, and functions as a facilitator of education and well-being of the community’s youth to aid with the Inn’s efforts to preserve the surrounding environment.

Jamaica Inn is proud to make its contribution towards a greener future for Jamaica and we look forward to welcoming those with electric vehicles through our gates.

Reducing our Carbon Footprint

The Jamaica Inn has embarked on a mission to reduce our Carbon footprint.

The major contributor to Global warming is as we know, CO2 emissions which directly impact the protective ozone layer. Governments around the world are working feverishly with many different industries in trying to reduce their outputs or at the least, offset them to some extent.
Travel and Tourism are not exempt, and we have our part to play. It is for this reason that we at the Inn have embarked on a mission to reduce our Carbon footprint. So much so that we have a goal of becoming Carbon Neutral by the year 2025.

Approximately eight years ago, we became extremely aware of the declining state of Jamaica’s environment, evident in many aspects of our daily lives. These include waste management, or lack thereof, deforestation, rising oceans, declining marine biodiversity, deplorable reefs, and suffering livelihoods in our communities, just to name a few.

It was at this point we took an internal oath to do as much as we could to combat the growing concerns. As such, we established and sustain many initiatives which are eco-friendly and promote conservation and environmental awareness. These have now been embedded in our ethos and are a way of life at the Inn.

Environmental Initiatives

• The use of renewable energy from our solar farm
• Installing LED bulbs in every area of the property
• Utilize inverter motors in all our pools pumps, fans, air conditions, refrigerators
• Five onsite compost pods have been built to produce fertilizer and mulch from kitchen scraps, seaweed, garden cuttings, dried leaves and other organic matter, for the property’s extensive lush gardens
• We separate and recycle other waste items. Plastics and cardboard is bailed for collection on property
• Grey water from the laundry is recycled to use in our gardens
• There is a very popular and effective Turtle Conservation Program
• The use of eco-friendly chemicals in all departments
• Styrofoam products and other F&B disposables such as plastic straws are eliminated on property
• Each department has established ‘Green Mandates’ and, for a bit of fun, we present the ever unpopular ‘Energy Hog Award’ for delinquent departments
• Every quarter, a team member is presented with the ‘Most Environmentally Aware’ Award

Jamaica Inn Announces Residency with Seascape Artist, Nina Brooke

Caribbean icon, Jamaica Inn, is delighted to announce its collaboration with Nina Brooke: a travelling seascape artist. Nina paints the world from a bird’s eye view, capturing the natural beauty of some of the planet’s most breathtaking coastal aerial views. 

Handmade Calabash Lights

At Jamaica Inn, we craft this fruit into beautiful natural lighting to create a romantic Caribbean ambiance for beach dining You may have noticed on property the soft glow of lights nestled in our almond tree. These handmade creations are made from calabash, which is the fruit that is native to the Caribbean, South, Central and North America. While not grown on property at Jamaica Inn, you can find this round fruit all over the island. The fruit of the calabash is claimed to have medicinal properties, however, it is mostly used for the shell. It is very popular among artists and artisans, who have been turning it into cups, plates, bowls, and cutlery. At Jamaica Inn, we craft this fruit into beautiful natural lighting to create a romantic Caribbean ambiance for beach dining.

'Rum Away' and Celebrate This International Rum Day

Jamaica Inn’s signature drink, Teddy’s Planter’s Punch

What makes a relaxing beach vacation in Jamaica even better? A complimentary chilled rum cocktail delivered to you on your own palapa this International Rum Day, August 16, while soaking up the warm Caribbean sun Jamaica Inn’s signature drink, Teddy’s Planter’s Punch, is served complimentary upon arrival and on the beach at 11 am for all guests. Jamaica Inn’s take on Planter’s Punch is named after The property’s late bartender Herbert “Teddy” Tucker, who worked at the property for nearly 60 years. The simple yet effective recipe includes the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz local dark rum (Myers Rum)
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 2 splash Angostura bitters
• Stir serve in a highball glass with ice, garnish with Orange or Pineapple and Cherry

Melodies of the Inn

Dinner here at Jamaica Inn is a complete gastronomic experience. Captivating tastes, aromas, and sights are complemented by the soft sounds of authentic Jamaican music and popular international songs that are “reggae-nized” to show off the diversity of the Inner Groove Inn house band. Guests from across the world have enjoyed their selections for more than 20 years.

Almost like magic, different leads effortlessly captivate you with their melodies during intimate conversations with your loved ones. Or, you can get groovy! Let the music lead your feet to the dance floor for an experience that leaves you refreshed and cheerful.

Inside Inner Groove

The talents you hear each night are born and bred Jamaican musicians.

The Maestro

Dalton Hickling is the owner, lead singer, and bass player of the band. He’s been a professional musician for over 40 years, performing in opening acts for the likes of Ray Charles and others. Dalton says the warmth of the guests has kept him playing here at Jamaica Inn, sharing that it’s unlike any other environment. He said, “I’ve played at so many different hotels throughout my lifetime, and even on the road. Nothing compares to the feedback you get when performing for Jamaica Inn guests.”

The Band

Merrick Dyer, another stalwart of Inner Groove has been the lead singer here on the weekends for about ten years. He’s worked with reggae stars such as Kultcha and Gregory Isaacs. A true favorite among many guests, his voice and vibe will never fail to enamor and engage you. We’re the home of legends, so understandably his favorite memory here is meeting Harry Belafonte one night while covering some of the legend’s hits.

Our drummer Jeffery Bailey has played for notable reggae acts like Chaka Demus and Sanchez during his 16-year music career. Keyboardist Kadian Russell has been with the band for 9 years, and says he loves playing music that our guests enjoy, which helps him diversify his musical offerings.

Daniel Evans, the guitarist, is quite versatile—also able to play the drums and keyboard. Following his dad’s musical footsteps, the sound engineer, Johnai Hickling guarantees that we have the best experience of the quality sound that is Inner Groove.

The Songbird

Chai, affectionately called The Songbird, is a new guest performer with the band who joins us on Thursday nights. Though she was born autistic, and a childhood accident has rendered her permanently blind, Chai is energetic, diligent, and quite the charmer. Her secret she says, is that, “As a visually impaired performer I don’t pull my crowd, I let them push me.”

One Voice, One Groove

The Inner Groove members all note that chemistry and humility have kept them growing together. Over the years the band has evolved, with a few members blossoming into other aspects of their careers, making way for fresh talent to join the family.

Get ‘Inn’ the Inner Groove!

At 7pm every evening, fine dining meets fine music under the stars at the Terrace. On Tuesday nights, stroll down to the beach for dinner, then dance the night away under the stars with the Inner Groove band, backed by the melodious waves of the Caribbean Sea.

A Romantic Valentine's Day in Paradise

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, there is definitely a sense of love and romance in the air.

The day of love is a wonderful occasion to express that special one just how much they mean to you.

Here are some great romantic tips that you can use to make Valentine’s Day extra special for your loved one:

An idyllic tone to start the day of love!

Nothing quite sets the day off, than waking up to freshly brewed Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee or tea delivered directly to your doorstep or enjoy a delicious, tropical Jamaica Inn breakfast on a floating tray in your private heated infinity plunge pool. An intimate and romantic start to the day.

CBD Couples Sunset Massage

Valentine’s Day is all about spending quality time together and what better way than by treating yourselves to a couples massage? Relaxing together while being pampered by our expert masseuses will help set the mood for an intimate evening ahead. Enjoying each other's company while taking in the beauty of nature is the perfect way to show how much you care about each other.

Picture Perfect Private Dinner Date Night

After being fully invigorated, take your evening up a notch and proceed to the beach for an unforgettable candle-lit dinner experience. Feel the warmth of tikki torches under the night sky as an enchanting live band serenades you while enjoying a delicious three-course meal together - creating memories that will last forever. This is sure to show your loved one how much you care this Valentine's Day!

Whether it's enjoying a candle-lit dinner on the beach, breakfast in bed, a private plunge pool, or a couples massage, these ideas are sure to bring smiles and happy memories for years to come!

Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with these romantic tips from Jamaica Inn!

Hawksbill Heaven at Jamaica Inn this August

August is the perfect time to visit Jamaica Inn, as it coincides with the peak of turtle season.

Looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, look no further. August is the perfect time to visit Jamaica Inn, as it coincides with the peak of turtle season. With 10 nests already confirmed for the sun-kissed month, you have a unique opportunity to witness the magnificent sight of hawksbill turtles gracefully embarking on their journey to their ocean home.

For additional information on nesting and hatching dates, we invite you to explore our Turtle Calendar for further insights and details.

Jamaica Inn in Condé Nast Traveller: Celebrating Culture & Sustainability

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Jamaica Inn has been featured in the December issue of Condé Nast Traveller, Britain’s leading travel publication renowned for its stylish and sophisticated exploration of travel, lifestyle, and culture.

In an inspiring full-page feature titled "A Jamaican Education," Jamaica Inn is highlighted in the magazine’s popular "Word of Mouth" section. This piece captures the essence of our property, spotlighting our commitment to sustainable luxury and cultural enrichment. It’s especially rewarding to see the magazine recognize our efforts to prioritize the island's people and culture in everything we do.

The article, written by respected freelancer Luke Abrahams, dives into our pioneering partnership with Jacana, an eco-luxe cannabis farm, a collaboration that enriches our guests' experience with a unique look at Jamaica’s cultural landscape. Through curated cultural programming, our guests can connect with local artisans, explore the island’s natural beauty, and gain insight into Jamaica's thriving eco-initiatives.

We’re particularly pleased that the article features insights from our very own Olivia Morrow (Assistant Sales & Marketing Director based in the UK) and Patrice Coombs (Bar Waitress), who discuss our dedication to sustainable travel and community-focused initiatives. Their passion for sharing Jamaica’s heritage and protecting its natural beauty shines through, reinforcing Jamaica Inn’s commitment to responsible tourism.

We are grateful to Condé Nast Traveller for this recognition and to all of you who continue to make Jamaica Inn a shining example of elegance, sustainability, and cultural connection.