Hi guys! Thanks for stopping by my article on Rockhouse Hotel in Jamaica. My name is Karo Pacheco and I grew up (and currently live) in Costa Rica. My first trip outside of Costa Rica was when I was 15. Usually Costa Rican girls ask for a big party at this age, but all I wanted to do was to travel. We ended up going to Argentina since my brother was studying there.
It would be safe to say that I barely knew these cousins. However, I knew that I needed some time away. I remember the feeling of loneliness because they were such good friends and I was the random one who they had just met. But at the same time, I felt that I was able to conquer anything and I fell in love with traveling, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures and discovering new places.
Eight Wonderful Days in Jamaica
Since COVID-19 hit, I started to feel like a bird stuck in a cage. So the moment Costa Rica opened its borders I looked for a country that would receive us and Jamaica had everything I was after. I stayed there for eight days. The first two days were complicated (due to a storm that came in) but on the third day the sun came out and I was able to officially start the trip.
I stayed in Negril which has the most beautiful beaches in the country. I had two different experiences: the all-inclusive experience and a regular hotel so I could try different local restaurants (personally, I prefer this second experience). As a crazy idea, we also drove eight hours to Ocho Rios. This place did not disappoint! It was full of nature and great places.
Staying at the Awesome Rockhouse Hotel
Before visiting a new country, I always spend lots of time doing research and looking for “Instagrammable” places. So when I saw pictures of Rockhouse Hotel, I knew I had to stay there. And it was totally worth it! The food, pool and access to the beach – everything was wonderful.
My room was close to the beach and everything else was close by including the pool, restaurant and various other amenities. We didn’t stay in the fanciest room but it was super comfortable and had everything you could possibly ask for. The staff service was awesome too. They were so friendly!
Exploring Negril and Ocho Rios from the Rockhouse Hotel
I think Negril is the best area of Jamaica. We rented a car and did some exploring – trying out different restaurants and visiting Rick’s Cafe along the way. This cafe has the ultimate Jamaican vibe where you can jump off the cliffs into the beautiful ocean below and sip on cocktails in the sun.
Ocho Rios was the other main destination we visited and as mentioned before it was a long drive from Negril. I would recommend doing this trip early in the morning if you are staying at the Rockhouse Hotel. That way you can enjoy nice views and learn a little bit more about the country. There are plenty of activities here like rivers, beaches, waterfalls and hikes.
The Soulful Culture of Jamaica
I found the people of Jamaica to be super friendly, even though I visited during COVID-19. They tried to know more about me and made me feel right at home! I was able to meet Jamaican residents and also Europeans that moved to the island a long time ago. Both groups were really nice.
Since I’m a big foodie, I enjoyed the most iconic dish of Jamaica: Jerk Chicken! I ate it almost every day during my visit and even bought the ingredients and spices to make the dish at home. Jamaicans enjoy their music and dance too – so you can imagine how good their parties were!
Tips for Staying at the Rockhouse Hotel
I think the best advice would be to stay at the Rockhouse Hotel for at least three nights and get ready for a surreal ocean view, especially at sunset. People should try paddle boarding since the water is like a big pool. The spa at the hotel has amazing architecture, so if you enjoy massages and full relaxation then that should be on your bucket list. Enjoy your holiday 🙂
