Calabura is a villa that stands as a tribute to a father’s dream and a son’s dedication. I’m here for Kareem’s Quest, standing on a lush lawn, taking it all in. I can hear the sounds of the sea breeze and the distant chatter of fishermen returning to shore.
Watch my full video of this Villa/Hotel at the bottom of the article
Quick Facts
Who is it for: This villa is perfect for large families and groups of friends (up to 13 guests) seeking a luxurious, private, and modern escape with ample space for relaxation and entertainment.
What it is NOT: It is not a traditional, rustic guesthouse or a crowded, all-inclusive resort.
Tip: Make sure to utilize the fully equipped modern kitchen and spacious dining areas, perfect for preparing and sharing meals with your group.
What stands out: The villa’s uniquely-designed LED chandeliers.
What to carry: You should pack groceries and ingredients for the gourmet kitchen, as the villa is well-equipped for culinary endeavors.
What is it similar to:
Places that are close by:
- Adventure: Jamwest Adventure Park, a must-visit for its various outdoor activities.
- Restaurant: Scott’s Cove, a famous spot for delicious fried fish and bammy.
Location: South Sea Park, Whitehouse, Westmoreland.
Rates & Bookings: https://calaburavilla.com/, for 10% discount, use promo code: KAREEMS QUEST
From Manchester to Westmoreland
The story starts miles away from this oceanfront property, in the hills of Manchester. That’s where George Clarke Jr.’s father, George Sr., was born and raised. After more than 40 years of living in the United States, his memories of Jamaica were tied to that land he bought years ago, a piece of Whitehouse, Westmoreland he held onto with the hope that his children would do something with it.
“My decision was deeply personal and rooted in family history,” George Jr. tells me. “As the youngest of four, I grew up hearing my father encourage us to do something meaningful with the land.”
The idea stuck with him. Years later, George Jr. visited the property and understood his father’s vision. Standing there, he felt a strong connection to his roots and saw the potential. The villa became a way to honor that dream and create something special for his family.
A Software Salesman’s Blueprint
Building a luxury villa in Jamaica while living in Atlanta is no small feat. George Jr., a software sales director, leaned on his project management skills to coordinate everything. The entire construction process, from start to finish, took just one year.
“I made it a priority to visit the site every 4–6 weeks to oversee progress firsthand,” he says. This commitment was balanced with a demanding work schedule and family life, a balance he attributes to his wife’s support. He relied on visual design tools and near-daily WhatsApp communication to keep the project on track.
One of his first decisions was to hire locally. “I made a deliberate decision to hire local Jamaican contractors and artisans,” he explains. He found a reputable firm, Nicole & Company Hardware & Construction Limited, through a recommendation. The collaboration was built on trust and a shared vision. “It felt less like a transactional relationship and more like a true partnership,” he adds.
A Name from the Land
The villa’s name, “Calabura,” is a direct link to the land’s history. Before construction, a large calabura cherry tree stood prominently on the lot. It was the landmark that helped everyone identify the property. “It became the natural landmark for identifying my property, and over time, it came to symbolise the heart of the space,” George Jr. says.
He carried this connection to nature into the landscaping. Inspired by his childhood visits to family in Manchester where fruit trees were abundant, subsequently, he planted noni, orange, dwarf coconut, Julie mango, June plum, and ackee trees on the property.
Inside, the home is a study in modern elegance designed to accommodate large groups. With five bedrooms, eight beds, and six baths, Calabura can comfortably host up to 13 guests. The five spacious bedrooms each have large windows framing stunning views of the Caribbean, along with smart TVs ranging from 55″ to 65″. The two living rooms, each with a 75″ smart TV, provide ample space for everyone to relax.
The architectural design features a multi-level, asymmetrical facade with light-colored stucco and darker accents. Large glass doors and windows are everywhere, ensuring every room has a view of either the sea or the mountains. The open-plan layout flows seamlessly out to the outdoor space, which includes an infinity-edge pool, a private Jacuzzi, and a cabana with a grill.
For modern convenience, the villa has high-speed WiFi, an in-home alarm system, and a remote-access gated entry. Inside, a fully equipped modern kitchen and adjacent dining areas offer a perfect setting for shared meals, complemented by luxurious balconies.
The Ultimate Surprise
The biggest moment of this story came in Christmas 2023 when George Jr. presented his father with a framed photo of the villa and a key. Confused at first, his father’s expression changed to disbelief when he saw the map on the photo. “He was completely taken aback and, overcome with emotion, simply said, ‘I finally have my house,'” George Jr. recalls.
When George Sr. finally saw the villa in person, he was in awe. “He could hardly believe it was the same piece of land he had held onto for so many years.”
A Lasting Legacy
George Jr. hopes guests will experience the authentic character of Whitehouse, an old fishing town with a rich culture. It’s a place where they can enjoy local food and music from the very area where Peter Tosh of The Wailers grew up.
Calabura’s central location makes it a great base for exploring. Visitors can easily access Negril, Bluefield Beach, and YS Falls.
For George Jr., building the villa was a profound personal milestone. It’s a place where his children can connect with their heritage and spend time with family in Jamaica. It’s a beautiful investment in legacy, but the true value lies in the memories. “What is truly priceless, though, are the memories created each time we visit—the laughter, the togetherness, and the fun-loving moments that will define their childhood and remain with them forever,” he says.
As I leave Calabura, I’m left with the feeling of a promise fulfilled. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures are not just the ones we find, but the ones we build, brick by brick, from love and dedication.
How long does it take to get to Calabura Villa, Westmoreland, from these central points:
- Kingston (Norman Manley International airport): 2 hrs, 55 mins
- Montego Bay (Sangster International Airport): 1 hr, 31 mins
- Ocho Rios: 2 hrs, 58 mins
- Negril: 1 hr, 11 mins
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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
