Jamaica's South Coast: A Tale of Two Properties

Jamaica's south coast is a less-visited part of the island. However, this gives it an untrammeled charm of its own and most visitors find it easy to interact with the locals on this side of the island. Standout attractions include the waterfalls at YS Falls, excursions on the Black River to view crocodiles and tours of the Appleton Rum Estate. While there is a  range of accommodations to choose from in the area, there are two properties that really stand out from the pack. These are the all-inclusive Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, and the funky, but chic Jake's, an Island Outpost property.

 Jakes
 
Jakes is a beachfront is a property with 31 vividly designed cottages and 29 rooms. Its colorful, thatch-roofed buildings, comfortable lounging decks and oceanfront views create a cloistered, laid-back vibe. The cottages come in a variety of arrangements: one bedroom; deluxe bedrooms; two-, three- and four-bedroom villas; and honeymoon suites. Highlights at the resort include a mosaic-tiled seawater swimming pool and an al fresco restaurant. Paved pathways between rooms and to and from the beach are shaded by low-slung palm, ackee, almond, coconut and guinep trees. Jake's is run by the Henzell family; the creators of the cult classic film, "The Harder They Come", starring Jimmy Cliff.

Each May, Jake's hosts the popular annual Calabash International Literary Festival, which draws local and international writers for readings, discussions and musical performances.

In celebration of Island Record's 50th anniversary, Island Outpost is offering a complimentary music package they're calling The Roots, Rock & Reggae Tour. Guests who book six nights or more in Jake's Deluxe One Bedroom Oceanfront room will receive a rate of $295 per night. They'll also receive a " Harder They Come" DVD, CD and poster, as well as the opportunity to tour Belmont's fishing village, the birth and resting place of reggae legend Peter Tosh, one of The Wailers' founding members. The package is valid through Dec. 14.

Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa

Until Sandals built Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa on the south coast, there was an absence of the all-encompassing, all-inclusive resort that is so prevalent on the north shore of the island. This 50-acre beachfront resort is set within a 500-acre reserve.

When you arrive, you will feel as though you've been transported to a dreamlike European village in a Caribbean setting. The resort has an expansive Italian piazza reminiscent of St. Mark’s square in Venice, Italy, as well as areas mimicking the architecture of France, Italy and Holland. The resort has a two-mile, private, white-sand beach; three pools, including the largest pool in Jamaica; duty free shops; a three-story, state-of-the-art amphitheater; and five restaurants situated around the grand piazza. All of the resort's rooms have ocean views and top-tier suites include butler service. You will also find it easy to book excursions to south coast attractions such as YS Falls and the Appleton Rum Estate.

Currently, Sandals is extending its Up to 65 Percent Off sale, which extends to Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa. This offer is good on stays of three or more nights in all categories when booked by Oct. 29 for stays from Sept.1-30, 2010, Jan. 1-31, 2011 and Sept. 1-30, 2011.