Sunshine warms my skin as I cruise down the vibrant coastline of Belmont, Westmoreland. The Caribbean Sea shimmers turquoise beside the road, its colours rivalled only by the bold splashes of red, green, and gold that is painted on the parameter walls – a true Rastafarian welcome. The road narrows, a smooth ribbon winding along the coastline, offering little space for pedestrians but plenty for breathtaking views.
My next stop is the newly opened Blue Ocean Sands Restaurant and Bar, but a chance encounter changes my plans. A Rastaman with a kind demeanor gets my attention. He is pushing a wheelbarrow overflowing with white stones, a spliff tucked behind his ear and a Red Stripe clutched in his hand. Drawn by his infectious positivity, I strike up a conversation.
“You know the owner of this place?” I ask, gesturing to the restaurant.
“Yeah man, that’s my bredren,” he replies, in a gentle manner. As I mention Kareem’s Quest, a travel blog dedicated to showcasing the hidden gems of Jamaica, he nods knowingly, then surprises me further.
“You lookin’ for unique places? I have a spot up in the hills, perfect for the ‘idrens’ seeking peace and nature.”
Intrigued, I inquired about the distance. “Not far, just round the corner,” he assures me. Jamaican time being what it is, that could mean anything from 30 minutes to an hour, but the easygoing vibe compels me to follow him.
He introduces himself as Oral, a jack-of-all-trades, who is primarily a carpenter that dabbles in jewellery making. “You wouldn’t believe what happened a few years back,” he says, a touch of sadness in his voice. “Robbed clean, lost all my pieces of jewellery.” Coupled with the difficulty of finding reliable help, he decided to take a DIY approach to all his projects.
Life’s a journey, not a race, he reminds me with a smile. As he divulges that he has travelled across Europe, building a life in Denmark for a while, but Jamaica’s magic always called him back.
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By the time we reach his villa, it’s clear the journey was worth it. The place radiates rustic charm, its natural beauty sure to appeal to European travellers. The cedarwood entrance gate, adorned with a fish carving with the words ‘gift shop and villa’.
After entering, to the left, is the gift shop overflowing with treasures – handcrafted earrings, intricate carvings (the crocodile on the roof is a personal favourite), and positive-message T-shirts alongside nature-inspired necklaces. All proudly displayed, a testament to Oral’s creativity.
Inside the main house, a group of relaxed women from Denmark enjoy the hospitality.
They sway gently in rocking chairs, savouring slices of juicy mangoes, some nestled in hammocks strung across the breezy terrace.
The structure itself is a vision – cedar wood painted in a calming blue and white, reminiscent of a traditional Jamaican country home.
Elevated on stilts for cool breezes, it boasts a zinc roof and a wraparound terrace edged by an intricately carved wooden barrier.
A communal kitchen beckons with a well-stocked fridge, a two-burner stove, and a bounty of fresh mangoes from the property. Around back, a cylindrical outdoor bathroom made of blocks caters to nature lovers.
Quick Facts
Who is it for:
Budget-friendly travellers seeking a nature oriented and authentic Jamaican experience in a rustic setting.
What it is NOT:
A luxurious resort experience, with modern amenities like TVs.
Tip:
Embrace Jamaican time – things might not run according to a strict schedule.
What stands out:
- The genuine hospitality of Oral, the owner.
- The handcrafted Jamaican gifts and souvenirs available on-site.
- The beautiful location in the hills overlooking the Jamaican countryside.
- The chance to experience traditional Jamaican architecture and lifestyle.
What to carry:
- Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for exploring the outdoors.
- A swimsuit for enjoying the nearby beaches.
- A good book to enjoy on the relaxing terrace.
- Mosquito repellent.
What is it similar to:
Contact: 876-781-0516, Oral
The sleeping quarters are basic yet comfortable, with three rooms offering canopies for mosquito protection. Each space prioritises the essentials – a bed and a chest of drawers – encouraging guests to disconnect and reconnect with nature. The master bedroom, Oral’s domain, boasts a prime location overlooking the lush landscape.
This is a haven for those seeking a break from the ordinary, a chance to embrace the simple pleasures and reconnect with the beauty of the Jamaican countryside. And while relaxation is encouraged, the nearby beaches of Belmont and Whitehouse offer endless opportunities for exploration.
Ready to discover your own Jamaican sanctuary?
For personalised travel advice, connect with Kareem’s Quest at https://kareemsquest.com/contact/. To explore more hidden gems like Oral’s villa, visit our extensive listings at https://kareemsquest.com/places-to-go-2/.
Click to check Jamaica’s Foreign Exchange Rate.
What is the weather like in Jamaica
The climate in Jamaica is very warm, with an annual average of 32 degrees/ 89.6°F. It is usually warm to hot all year round.
What is the time zone in Jamaica
Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)
Immigration/ Custom Form
Every visitor is required to fill out a C5 form before entering Jamaica
This sounds like an adventure.