Sometimes it feels as if we’ve forgotten how to vacation, lost the ability to truly relax and disconnect. Technology has essentially both made it easier and harder to find our Zen while away from home. Packed full of must-see attractions and hourly itineraries, our trips have us needing a holiday from our vacations when they’re all said and done. But this frenetic approach to vacationing is not something you’ll find at Sundown Villa in Discovery Bay, Jamaica.
Set in a quiet fishing village on the northern coast, the villa is first and foremost a place of rest, a luxurious sanctuary that feels like the best parts of home. From the airport, the villa is about an hour’s drive. While transfers are not available directly through the property, the staff can arrange for your transport ahead of time upon request.
Surrounded by a 24-hour, security-guarded entrance, the villa sits among a row of other private residences but still feels completely isolated due to its high walls and plethora of beautiful green trees and foliage. Divided among a main house, guest house and staff quarters, the residence can accommodate up to 18 guests among the nine bedrooms. One way Sundown creates a relaxing atmosphere for guests is by having a full staff on-hand to assist with anything you should need during your stay.
Having done plenty of traveling, I can sincerely say the team was one of the best around. Jamaicans are a warm and friendly people, and the hosts here are no different, making themselves available 24-7 without being overbearing.
The main house includes two master bedrooms and three en-suite rooms, with the former boasting terraces and lounge chairs overlooking the bay. All suites include personal air-conditioning units which can be left on throughout your stay or turned on only in the evenings during the turndown service. The four-bedroom, two-story guest house includes two accommodations on each level plus kitchenettes on each floor. The staff can also spray for mosquitoes prior to bed (recommended), so you won’t find yourself bitten up in the morning. Speaking of the little insects, plenty of repellant with DEET is on hand for those of who are prone to bites.
From the entryway, the inner courtyard leads to the lounge area, living and dining rooms and out onto the spacious patio and private beach. Outside sits a 17x28 foot fresh water pool, two large gazebos, outdoor sofas and cushioned lounge chairs for soaking up the sun. But Sundown wouldn’t be what it is without its plethora of on-site watersports facilities.
Thanks to the house’s watersports and grounds host Oral, travelers can choose a new activity each day to try out including stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing and a catamaran excursion. All you have to do is request your sport of choice (all equipment already on property), and Oral will get you out on the water within minutes. This is a really great perk for families traveling with children, especially since it means parents can kick back and sip on a rum cocktail while their little ones get out all their energy. The patio is also stocked with a beach/poolside cooler full of beer, soda and water.
Red Lane Spa, the exclusive spa provider for Sandals Resorts, offers one of my personal favorite ways to unwind at Sundown. Although officially launching in 2016 (we got a sneak peek), the spa is launching a mobile service which allows guests to book in-room spa treatments at the villa. They will send over a private therapist who can set up their table within your suite or even outdoors, should you wish. There’s nothing like enjoying a massage after lounging all day to really restore your body, mind and spirit. Tip: It’s cool if you fall asleep, you’ll be in your room anyway.
Should you wish to explore the area and venture out of the villa, tours and excursions can be arranged through the house. Deep sea fishing, dune buggy adventures, river rafting, ATVing, swimming with dolphins and beach horseback rides are just some of the area’s attractions. However, plan to book maybe a couple excursions and spend the rest of your time relaxing, since it’s what the villa calls for.
Included in the price is also a personal chef and a stocked kitchen based on your preferences and dietary restrictions. Chef Norman is brilliant in the kitchen and will prepare a gourmet feast for every meal. Be sure to allow a night to enjoy authentic Jamaican food. Chef will treat you to items such as juicy Jamaican jerk chicken, fresh seafood prepared various ways and festival dumplings (sweet fried bread), among other local delicacies. Throughout the day, expect light snacks, cocktail-hour canapés and sunset Champagne toasts to come out of the kitchen. Did I mention the full bar? Stocked with your favorite top-shelf liquors, wines and beers, a mixed cocktail or Rémy on the rocks is always nearby.
With the busy holidays coming up, a trip to Jamaica at Sundown Villa might just be what’s needed come January. There are a few ways to book, either partially or fully, with the option of choosing five, seven or nine bedrooms. All meals are prepared by the chef but groceries can be paid for after your stay or prior with the all-inclusive package. Either way, you won’t need to hit the store, they’ll do it all for you before you arrive. Drivers are also available for an additional cost.
An easy way to make it through customs and immigrations quickly is by purchasing an Arrival & Departure bundle from Club Mobay. Upon stepping foot in Montego Bay, guests will be escorted by a concierge from the gate to a fast-track lane and led directly to the Arrivals Lounge. There, complimentary snacks, beverages and Wi-Fi are offered while you await your transportation. Upon your return to the airport, the larger Departures Lounge is filled with even more self-serve snacks and a full bar with bartenders ready to make your favorite cocktails. For only $80 per adult and $40 per child, it’s definitely worth the price.
The rate for the five-bedroom villa starts at $10,500 a week during low season and $12,500 a week in high season. All-inclusive rates for food and beverage options are $840 per adult, per week. When it comes to taking back vacations, Sundown Villa just gets it. It’s the kind of place where lifting a finger is unnecessary and your wish is your host’s command. Basically, paradise.
