Written by Kareem LaTouche
Lately, I’ve been on a quest to uncover the stories behind Jamaican-owned properties, fascinated by the unique designs and the inspiring journeys of their creators. My recent feature on Mosaic Luxury Villa in Hanover sparked a wave of interest, connecting me with other owners eager to share their narratives. This led me to the remarkable Villa on the Rocks in Trelawny, a symbol of one woman’s resilience and vision.
Watch my full video of this villa at the end of the article.
Quick Facts
Who is it for: Friends (four or more) or couples.
What it is NOT: A place for those seeking all-inclusive resort experiences.
Tip: Explore the town of Falmouth, it’s about 12 minutes away and it is filled with history.
What stands out: The creative cabana.
Accommodation: Villa 1 – Up to 4 persons, Vila 2 – 2 persons, Villa 2 & 4 – up to 4 persons
What is it similar to: Boutique villas with a focus on local experiences.
Location: Stonebrook Estates, Falmouth, Jamaica (gated community).
Contact: Villaontherocksja@gmail.com
AirBNB link at the bottom of the article
From College dropout to Caribbean Dream
A pregnancy during college could have derailed Farrah Samuels, a Trelawny native, dreams, but instead, it ignited a fire within her. “Out of that situation came my biggest motivation, my daughter Tess, who is a driving force during some of my toughest days,” she confided. The circumstances led to her being kicked out of college in 2001, which led her to seek opportunities in the United States.
This was a hard decision for Farrah’s, whose roots run deep in Trelawny, a place heavily populated by her family. “My grandparents, Annie and Daniel Morrison, were one of the original farmers and settlers in the area… they broke the rocks to make the roadway,” she explained, emphasising the connection to her heritage.
A Home Reborn
Tragedy struck on April 1, 2013, when fire ravaged her parents’ home that they had toiled so hard to build. “My childhood home got destroyed during a fire and I needed to figure out a way to make sure my parents feel some sort of security,” Farrah recounted. Thankfully, her parents were able to recover, but the experience solidified Farrah’s determination. She purchased a lot with the intention of creating not just an Airbnb, but also a safe haven for her parents should they ever need it.
For many Jamaicans living abroad, building a piece of home is a powerful connection to their roots, and a dream of eventual return.
Meticulous Planning Meets Jamaican Hospitality
Before my visit, Farrah and I chatted on the phone multiple times.
“I have a magazine I can send you,” she offered.
“Sure, go ahead,” I replied.
I was astonished to receive a 48-page booklet detailing everything from directions to room layouts and nearby attractions.
“I can see you are a very meticulous person,” I chuckled.
“Yup, this is the service business, you have to take it seriously,” she responded.
Working long night shifts abroad, Farrah understands the importance of efficiency and guest satisfaction. “I did the book so they can fully enjoy the villa and know which attraction to visit when they are by me. In the end, it makes things a little easier on me.” The night before my arrival, a flurry of WhatsApp messages arrived: a Google Maps link, photos of the property’s access points, and security codes.
First Impressions: A Cabana Oasis
Arriving at the gated community, the security process was smooth and efficient. Following the Google Maps directions, I easily found the villa. A large black, panel-themed gate opened onto a spacious three-vehicle driveway, revealing a two-story villa. The perimeter fence, adorned with vibrant flowers and plants, added a touch of nature’s artistry. My eyes were immediately drawn to the idyllic cabana. Built on a wooden deck along the stone pathway, it beckoned with inviting lounge chairs and a wicker coffee table. Sheer white curtains danced in the breeze, offering privacy while filtering the sunlight. A pergola draped with flowering vines added a touch of elegance. The lush greenery surrounding the cabana created a serene oasis, perfect for relaxation, especially if you are going to use the BBQ grill and games.
Nautical Charm and Thoughtful Amenities
I booked into Villa 1 and as I stepped into my living room, I was greeted by a personalised welcome sign and a stylish bowl filled with snacks. My usual routine is to scan the area and head straight for the fridge. Inside, I found complimentary beverages and two coconut jellies!
The “Villa on the Rocks” labeled water bottles were a delightful touch. Another noteworthy observation were the villa’s fixtures, like the manually adjusting dinner table, which were a representation of Farrah’s attention to detail.
Then I went to the bedrooms, which exude a nautical theme, creating a sense of coastal tranquility.
Inside were two full beds and a cozy reading nook. A clothes closet, a 55” smart TV, and an air conditioner ensured comfort and convenience. A private bathroom, stocked with essentials like shampoo, shower gel, and towels, completed the space.
Upstairs, is Villa 2, this bedroom boasted a queen-sized bed and a clothes closet. A 55” TV with Netflix, an air conditioner, and room-darkening shades created a relaxing ambiance. A digital in-room safe, a Bluetooth sound machine, and an Alexa system provided entertainment.
All rooms shared a consistent set of amenities: air conditioning, luggage racks, room-darkening shades, dedicated workspaces with USB ports and outlets, flat irons, blow dryers, ironing boards, a washer and dryer, and the option for paid cleaning services.
Services and Experiences
Villa on the Rocks offers a range of services to enhance the guest experience: self-check-in, luggage drop-off, babysitter recommendations, a mandatory weekly cleaning fee ($45) for long-term stays (with linen changes), and optional daily housekeeping for short stays. Long-term stays of 28 days or more are also welcome.
Beyond the villa, Trelawny offers a wealth of experiences. Nearby attractions include the Glistening Waters Lagoon, the Martha Brae River, and Dunn’s River Falls. My personal favorite is the artisan village in Falmouth, where you can find authentic Jamaican products like ice cream, cigars, pottery, and pastries.
My review of the villa
How long does it take to get to Villa on the Rock, from these central points:
Kingston (Norman Manley International airport) – 1 hour and 56 minutes.
Montego Bay (Sangsters International Airport) – 40 minutes.
Ocho Rios – 1 hour and 4 minutes.
Negril – 2 hours and 3 minutes.
Create your own adventure
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!
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
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