Monday, March 19, 2012

"Can't wait to get back!" March 2012

My husband and I just returned from a vacation dream at Tingalayas Retreat in Negril. First and foremost, we loved the amazing staff who cared for us like family. A close second, the breath-taking cliff-side pool and access to the ocean. The accommodations are lovely, and all was perfect. Thank you, thank you Jube, Maria, Boss and staff for making our vacation so wonderful.

"A fabulous Jamaican experience" March 2012

"A fabulous Jamaican experience"
We have been to Jamaica many times before. We loved Tingalaya's. If you want a place with a lot of action, parties, etc, this is not for you. It is beautiful, peaceful and relaxing, and Jubi, Maria and Boss just add to the ambiance. We did have a car, so going into town or to a restaurant was no big deal. It is about 3 miles beyond Rick's cafe on the West end. We will be back. The ocean can be rough, but we were able to swim there most days, and use the pool the other days.

"If you want to get away from it all, and enjoy a jungle and ocean" March 2012

The setting was lovely, a jungly acre or two of garden and thatch-roofed cottages, nicely appointed. Quiet, rejuvenating, with delicious breakfasts cooked and served when you want them. Excellent endless coffee, bottled water. On the other side of this country lane, far beyond the noisy Negril, is the ocean, where again you can rest in sublime silence, with nothing but wind, sea air, and crashing surf. Here you are just beyond the cliffs, but along coral reefs, so you enter water that's 20 or more feet deep. Great snorkeling! The staff was absolutely friendly, yet laid back, willing to accommodate your wishes. One night we paid for them to prepare us a lobster and jerk chicken feast! enjoy.

"A sunny, quiet retreat on Negril Jamaica" February 2012

We've just returned from a wonderful, relaxing week at the Rosenstein's Edenic compound on Negril. We absolutely loved the place. We've travelled the world extensively, staying in hotels rated fro five stars to no stars, and I want to tell you that Sea Grape Cottage is my favorite place I've ever stayed. I'm in love! All of the property is beautiful. The ocean side is breath taking. Perfect spot for sun down and Red Stripe beer. We loved the location far from the hubbub of downtown. Caretakers Jube and Maria? My god what treasures they are. They took such good and heart felt care of us, and we already miss their most special and delicious cooking. Jube stole my heart and Maria brightened each morning for us. In short, it's a wonderful place to relax in.

"Restful retreat in Negril"

My family and I had a wonderful time at Tingalayas for our spring break. It was our first time in Jamaica. We loved the beautiful countryside, the snorkeling, the food, and the helpful people. Tingalayas was delightful. We found the staff very friendly and helpful and we loved having them as tour guides for our sightseeing adventures. Breakfast was provided each morning and was delicious. In summary, Tingalayas suited our family perfectly; we would be happy to return.

"Best experience of my life!" May 12 2011

Tingalayas was truly a retreat! The hosts, Jube and Maria were amazing, wonderful people who always wanted to ensure we were having the best time. The property is gorgeous; very rustic and true to Jamaica and the views are spectacular. After spending a week at Tingalayas, I felt refreshed and found myself recommending it to everyone I talked to. It was truly an amazing, one of a kind experience. Breakfast is taken care of in the morning. Maria's french toast is delicious! There are 3 dogs on the property that made me (a non-dog lover) fall in love. The interior and architecture of all the rooms is beautiful... my favorite being the showers in each of the bathrooms! The bungalows have their own distinct look and feel... homey, yet a nice place to get away! All in all, it was a great vacation spot if you're looking to have a chill, fun time in Jamaica. I wouldn't do it any other way (all inclusive resort or hotel) if I were to go back.

"A little slice of heaven in Jamaica" May 10 2011

I just returned from a five day stay at Tingalayas and found it to be the most peaceful, relaxing and enjoyable vacation I've had. The positive experiences began months prior to my trip, however, with Lisa, the owner, who is extremely responsive and informative over email (Thanks, Lisa, for answering my many questions!). My transportation was arranged in advance, and the driver was there to meet me at the airport as planned. The drive to Negril is a pleasant and interesting one up along the beautiful coastline. As soon as I arrived, I was immediately welcomed by Jube- what a fantastic host! I can't say enough about Maria, Jube, and everyone at Tingalayas who helped to make my stay one of my most memorable travel experiences. The location is toward the end of West End Road, so it's a little more quiet and out of the way, especially compared to some of the other places on the cliffs, and definitely compared to the places on the beach. Most places on the cliffs won't have a beach, but Tingalayas does. They also have a beautiful ocean-fed pool which was full for my entire stay. I spent every day sitting in a chair down by the water and next to the pool and saw exactly zero other people walk by. This was my favorite part! The view is fantastic and there are a lot of interesting things to take pictures of- without any other tourists in the background! It's a very natural, down-to-earth place where you can really enjoy the nature and the people of Jamaica. The room was beautifully appointed and quite clean, and Maria's breakfasts are really something to look forward to! I can't wait to return and would recommend to any of my friends without hesitation.