Leaving the lively energy of Kingston behind, I journeyed west in search of simplicity. The drive itself was therapeutic – the road through communities like Bluefields and Belmont is one of the most picturesque scenes in Jamaica.
To get to my destination, I had to turn off from the main road onto a more rugged terrain, where goats navigated the rocky paths with a wisdom seemingly innate, their owners nowhere in sight. You get a real sense of community here; folks are busy with their hands, crafting, farming, or heading to the small commerce spots throughout the landscape. Even the cheerful sounds of children drifted from the nearby Basic school, nestled right between the properties I was heading to. My destination? The unique guesthouse that was dreamt into existence by a true yardman, a Rastaman named Oral.
Watch my full VIDEO of this Place at the bottom of the article
Quick Facts
Who is it for: Nature lovers, those seeking a simpler way of living and travelers interested in local culture and craftsmanship.
What it is NOT: A luxury resort, a place with constant activity and nightlife.
Tip: Embrace the outdoor shower – it’s part of the authentic, back-to-basics experience!
What stands out: Oral himself – his artisanal skills, laid-back philosophy, and connection to the land.
What to carry: A good book for hammock time.
What is it similar to:
Contact: 876-781-0516, Oral
Oral the Artisan
Oral is what you call a do-it-yourself man, through and through. He’s got that artistic spark in his eyes, the kind that sees potential in a piece of driftwood or a sea shell. He designs jewelry that catches the light, crafts sturdy furniture with his own two hands, and, most impressively, he builds houses. After finishing his own home, “Oral’s Villa,” he felt the urge to create spaces for others, leading to the birth of another charming cottage and a rather special treehouse.
Spending time around Oral is like stepping outside the relentless tick-tock of the world. He moves at his own pace, seemingly untouched by the anxieties that rush through so many of us. He flows with life, taking each moment as it comes. One minute you might see him intently sawing away at a piece of lumber, trying to catch a rhythm as the blade goes through the wood. The next, he’ll be found in his hammock, his body gently swaying in the breeze, utterly at peace with a spliff in his mouth.
And this connection to nature extends to his land. Mango trees offer their sweet, juicy bounty, and fragrant herbs like Mint grow freely, their aromas mingling in the warm air. Oral lives by the principle of ‘Ital’ – natural, wholesome food straight from the earth – and he encourages his guests to partake in this way of eating, to taste the pure flavors of the land.
Resting My Head
Oral’s craftsmanship is evident in every nook and cranny of his guesthouse. I had the pleasure of experiencing both the cottage and the treehouse during my stay.
The Green Embrace of the Cottage
The green cottage sits amongst the foliage, almost becoming part of the landscape itself. Stepping onto the wide verandah is an immediate invitation to slow down. The wooden furniture beneath my hands felt solid and warm, each piece bearing the mark of its maker. I sat there, inhaling the rich scent of damp earth mingling with the sweet perfume of tropical blooms carried on the gentle air. In the mornings you might get a handful of ripe mangoes, their skin flushed with sunset hues, their flesh offering a burst of sugary sunshine. Another time, it’s the comforting aroma of strong Jamaican coffee coming from the kitchen, a deep, roasted scent that promises a perfect start to the day.
The cottage rooms are straightforward and welcoming. Mine had walls painted in a cheerful yellow, a color that seemed to capture the very essence of the Jamaican sun. The bed, adorned with bright floral linens, featured a headboard made of smooth bamboo stalks. A standing fan to keep guests cool at nights and a mesh canopy to prevent mosquitoes from disrupting sleep. Sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating simple wooden side tables, likely more of Oral’s handiwork. It’s a space that feels lived-in, comfortable, and utterly unpretentious.
Now, let me tell you about embracing the simple life. After my first night, I discovered the shower wasn’t working. Instead of frustration, it presented an opportunity. I used the outdoor shower, feeling the cool water refresh me under the open sky, surrounded by the sounds of nature. This, I realized, is part of the experience here – a gentle nudge back to a more fundamental way of living.
Reaching for the Sky
A carefully built wooden bridge curves through the trees, leading to the elevated haven of the treehouse. Each step on the weathered planks felt like a connection to the natural world. Inside, the air held the clean, woody fragrance of the materials used to build it. Sunlight flooded the small space through numerous glass windows, turning the surrounding leaves into a living, breathing mural.
My treehouse room was a study in cozy functionality. The bed, again a queen-size, had a unique headboard fashioned from gnarled branches. The linens were simple and clean. A thoughtful touch was the inclusion of a small but functional toilet and sink. But the real magic lay beyond the door, on the private balcony.
A hammock, woven from sturdy natural fibers, hung invitingly. As I eased myself into it, a gentle sway began, and the view unfolded. Layers upon layers of green stretched out before me, the canopies of trees giving way to the scattered roofs of the village and, finally, the breathtaking sight of the Caribbean Sea, its blues shifting from deep indigo to brilliant turquoise. It was a feeling of utter peace, a sense of being cradled by nature itself. Even the small bamboo stool beside the hammock seemed perfectly placed for a morning cup of tea, a silent invitation to simply be.
How long does it take to get to Belmont, Westmoreland, from these central points:
- Kingston (Norman Manley International Airport): 3 hrs, 12 mins
- Montego Bay (Sangster International Airport): 55 mins
- Ocho Rios: 2 hrs, 28 mins
- Negril: 47 mins
Video Review of Tree House
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Craving your own Jamaican escape? Head over to our TOUR PAGE to connect with Kareem’s Quest! We can help you plan your itinerary, find the perfect hotels and adventures, and ensure you experience the authentic side of Jamaica. Get ready to fall in love with Jamaica, mon!
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Useful Information about Jamaica
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
