When a group of entrepreneurs in the 1950’s decided to invest in their cozy winter home along the idyllic Jamaican north coast, they hadn’t quite imagined that it would become one of the marvels of the Caribbean. Taking its name from the crescent-shaped two-mile beach on which it stretches, the Half Moon hotel adds modern-day sophistication to a legacy that is unmatched, making it the perfect destination for doing just about everything or nothing at all.
It all started with 17 cottages and 30 rooms. Over the years, the resort has seen a number of renovations and expansions although 11 of the original cottages remain on the now 400-acre property. Half Moon prides itself on being the place of stay for many celebrated guests such as members of the royal family, heads of government, celebrities, athletes and dignitaries.
Decor and layout
The beauty of Half Moon is even at first encounter, as the dense Montego Bay city air suddenly transforms into a cool, crisp calmness created by tall palm trees that decorate the property. The lobby is a picture of serenity with precise natural lighting resulting from a roofless garden area that enchants the weary traveler and sets the tone for a tranquil stay.
Pictures of the hotel’s many celebrated guests and their Half Moon experience hang on the lobby walls including a copy of a hand-written will of Mrs. Kennedy, wife of former US President John F Kennedy who stayed at the hotel shortly before his inauguration.
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The overall layout of the property mirrors its earlier Cottage Colony arrangement with the 198 bedrooms and suites spanning two-story beachfront cottages as opposed to the usual apartment-type architecture of most hotels. This, in itself, evokes a feeling of being right at home. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cable television, a refrigerated mini bar, high-speed wifi, among other conveniences. The larger five to seven bedroom villas come with a personal maid, cook and pool attendant.
A family affair
At Half Moon, there’s something for each member of the family to enjoy. A dolphin lagoon, equestrian center, 18-hole golf court, seven impressive dining conveniences and various water sporting activities make for the ultimate teen experience.
To top it off, the resort also features a ‘Hype Zone’ for teens age 13-19 with a gaming lounge, cyber lounge, spa services and more.
For younger children, the resort boasts an elaborate Anancy’s Children’s Village that features an outdoor play area, kiddie pool and playfully-themed recreational ‘huts’. On sites such as Trip Advisor, guests have lauded the resort’s Fern Tree Spa as “a little slice of heaven” with its natural remedies for a rejuvenating experience perfect for moms and dads. All this is orchestrated by a warm and genuine staff, some of whom have been with the hotel for many decades.
Hotel with heart
What’s easily the most impressive thing about Half Moon is its way of giving back to the community. Director of Resort Operations Shernette Crichton was beaming with pride to elaborate on the hotel’s involvement. “Our Foundation’s mission is really to invest in education, community service and environmental protection and preservation.” One of its many acts of charity was opening a library for the Barrett Town All-Age under its Adopt-a-School programme. Chrichton also added, “We invite our guests to pack for a purpose and we divide (the supplies) among the schools.” Through a community outreach effort with the SOS children’s village, the hotel is responsible for a house that accommodates eight children and two house mothers. Additionally, the Half Moon family partners with the Montego Bay Marine Park on a reef protection programme. They have been in the Carinaldi and Success Primary Schools where they educate students on environmental preservation and set up recycling programmes.
Reservation: to visit Half Moon, click the link below.
How long does it take to get to Half Moon Hotel, from these central points:
Kingston: 2hrs 20mins.
Montego Bay, Air Port: 12 mins.
Ocho Rios: 1hr 33mins.
Savanna-la-Mar: 1 hr 28 mins.
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)
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