Reviews for Montego Bay Vacation Rental - VRBO 105591 - 2 BR Jamaica House, Jamaican Villa with Car and Driver Included

Fantastic Jamaican Experience

Guest Wes & Dee
Date of stay 03/17/13
Review Submitted 04/15/13

We have stayed at many VRBO's but found that because of the location and "Hubert", Reef Watch was truly a unique experience. Several mornings started with snorkeling with Hubert, who used a spear gun to catch fish, lobster, and octopus which he later prepared as part of the many delicious meals that we shared with him. The experience is what you make of it.....we enjoyed Hubert, and his son Javian's company and spent a good part of our holiday with them traveling to Negril, hanging out at the Burwood beach, visiting Rex, snorkeling, dancing, eating, playing Ludy, or just enjoying a few "Red Stripe" and sharing many stories and laughs. They truly made our trip! Hubert introduced us to family and friends and our 3 daughters made friends with many of the local kids. Thanks so much for sharing Hubert and Reef Watch with us.....Soon Be Back!!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Jamaican Getaway

Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 03/01/13
Review Submitted 03/16/13

This was a perfect getaway for 5 friends. Hubert was absolutely incredible. He took us everywhere we wanted to go. We experienced the Falmouth market days, snorkeling, dancing, Luminous Lagoon, the Chill Out Hut, Flamingo Beach, Birwood Beach, etc. We would never stay at a resort after the local experience. This is the only way to go!! We walked, ran, jogged along the sea on the "old road" with Hubert's son as our guide. He took us through the villages, the bush, and back to the village. If you are an adventurous traveler, this is the place to go. All the people in the village are incredibly friendly and welcoming. The men are charming, the women are beautiful and the kids adorable. Do not pay any attention to those who claim the dogs are a pain. The dogs are part of the whole village experience. Just open your heart and your mind and you will find one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.. it will leave you a changed person. Kristine..Newark, Delaware

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

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Best Way to Explore Jamaica

Guest kat
Date of stay 01/12/13
Review Submitted 01/23/13

From the time we arrived till we left we had the best time. Hubbert is not only a great host but a friend as well. Scarlett Hall is a great community everyone was very friendly. We took morning walks around the village and got beautiful views from the top of the road. We got to experience all the local cuisine and hospitality. My favorite activity was spear fishing with Hubbert, it was a experience like none other. This vacation spot not be for everyone it is very different from the resort experience but in my opinion it was better. We were really given the oppurtunity to explore and see real Jamaican culture. The time flew by and we left feeling like part of a new family.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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VERY COOL!!

Guest Dr G
Date of stay 12/30/12
Review Submitted 01/21/13

Hubert was awesome!!! The folks in the village were characters!! It was very different from a resort--this was a great experience--my boys (22 and 20) had a ball--very clean accommodations--was just an awesome cultural experience--btw, did I say Hubie was the "bomb"!! He totally rocks!!!!! Brett

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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What a great place!

Guest Ken & Amy
Date of stay 12/21/12
Review Submitted 12/30/12

When I first called to make a reservation, Andrew tried to talk me out of it.(I must not have sounded very world traveler-y) I'm so glad he didn't! We love Hubert, Scarlett Hall, Sooey's, Blanka, snorkelling, Rex, the view from the porch, Flamingo Beach, too many things to list. It was a great adventure and a wonderful Christmas! Soon be back!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car.

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The Real McCoy

Guest Layth H.
Date of stay 07/25/12
Review Submitted 11/01/12

Couldn’t imagine Jamaica any other way after experiencing Reef Watch. My wife and I have for years taken a trip with friends, always choosing to find an all-inclusive resort where we could eat, drink and play. While company is always the key, the locations blend over time whether it is Mexico, Jamaica, the DR, or the Bahamas. So when this year came around and it was only 2 couples going we decided to try something new. Reef Watch came recommended by a friend so we knew going in we were not going to be in for the standard tourist stay. That is to say, we would actually be seeing the country we were visiting. From the moment Hubert picked us up to the time we begrudgingly had to leave, we were able to immerse ourselves in a culture we were completely missing on all our other trips. Reef Watch is just right for a couple of couples. Probably could have brought the 2 kids as well, and would have felt fine doing it, but this trip is more about relaxing. I loved the sounds of the village. What I recall most is hanging with Yellow and Hubert, spear fishing (A MUST DO), stopping in at Sueys, and getting to help make some of the best jerk chicken on earth. All with the help and guidance of Hubert, of course. We hit a number of shopping experiences, Dunn’s River falls (do it), some dining at the owner’s recommendations, but by far the best was just returning to Scarlet Hall to veg at Reef Watch! The space was enough for us to comfortably enjoy sitting together inside while cooking or finding our own space to relax after a day at the beach. Of course we spent most of the time on the deck or ample yard listening to tunes. But I have to admit, my favorite time was enjoyed on the deck over the house where one could just sit and listen to tunes while feeling the breeze, and groove, of the tropics. We have found our new spot! Can’t wait to go back next year and would highly recommend! Layth Hussain

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Andrea's blog about her stay with us.

Guest comment entered by owner

Andrea's blog about her stay with us.

Guest Andrea and Andy
Date of stay 04/09/12
Review Submitted 05/29/12

http://www.poshtotsblog.com/2012/04/the-real-jamaica/?fb_ref=poshtots&fb_source=timeline

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The Tour Guide Made The Experience Well Worth It!

Guest JayTee
Date of stay 03/05/12
Review Submitted 03/16/12

Just arrived back from a ten day stay. The community of Scarlet Hall is very friendly. We were able to interact with the people and experience their culture and way of life. We did things that we would not have been able to do if we had stayed in a resort. We were travelling with three children and there wasn't a day that we didn't do something...Hubert took us anywhere we wanted to go! The privacy that the fence gave the yard of Reef Watch was nice, the outside shower was very appreciated, the air conditioning made our nights comfortable and the TV was well used in the evenings by our children. There are many dogs in the village so there is a lot of barking, but with the fans blowing we didn't lose any sleep. When we left yesterday and had to say good bye to Hubert it was like saying good bye to a family member...we miss him already as well as the others we befriended while staying at Reef Watch.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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A memorable trip and a unique experience.

Guest Rick S.
Date of stay 02/07/12
Review Submitted 02/17/12

Myself and wife spent 9 days at Reefwatch. Overall a very nice time. To say Hubert made the stay is an understatement. Touring, driving, help with tipping, places to go, snorkeling, dominoes, cooking. He is wonderful. One must understand that Reefwatch in US terms is more of a cottage, but in Jamaican terms is a very nice home. The other reviews on reefwatch are all accurate, but I do wish we had a bit more info prior to booking. The good things in my opinion are Hubert, the nice collection of reggae CD's, proximity of reef to shore and the village experience. There are some cons though. The barking dogs in the neighborhood were, for us, a major disappointment. However, fans and the AC unit did help dampen the barking, which is frequent through the day and night. This led us to spending significant time away from reefwatch simply because we did not want to go back and hear more barking. When there we kept the tunes playing on the stereo. Increased attention to pest control would also be a plus. Queen bed was comfy, twins beds (slept in there one night when AC was out) were so so.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, tourists without a car.

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Wonderful time spent at Reef Watch

Guest Gary P.
Date of stay 01/13/12
Review Submitted 02/11/12

We had a great time. Went to the village and drank rum and played cominoes and lutie. In fact the last night we were going to stay in the house and get ready to come home. Hubert came over and was playing dominoes withKathy and his phone rang. It was Yellow asking if we were comming down and play lutie with them that night. Hubert was great. Yellow was very nice as all the others at the local gathering places. Chico came and showed us his wood carvings Kathy bought a pinapple and a small pink flamingo (she collects pink flamingos) it wasn't finished so he took it back to his shop to finish it and paint it. When he deliverd it he had also carve a 2nd one that was a little smaller. He said the first one needed a mate. There was no charge for the 2nd one. We can't wait to come back and next time hope to bring along our daughter. People need to be aware that to stay here takes a special type of person. You can't be lookng for big excitement all the time it is just a place to kick back and relax. I read 3 books while there and haven't read a book in several years. Thanks Much Gary & Kathy Pratt Murfreesboro, Tennessee

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Jamaican Holiday-December 2011

Guest SchPsyEduc8R
Date of stay 12/23/11
Review Submitted 01/13/12

Our visit to Jamaica with our 3 adult children (in their 20's) was a wonderful experience. Hubert, our guide, driver, and now friend, was so helpful and hospitable. The accommodations were modest but very comfortable. As Hubert would say, "don't panic, mon" when you turn into the village and hit narrow dirt roads. We went to Costa Rica last year and stayed in a gorgeous house with HD cable TV and wireless high speed internet so the kids were somewhat disappointed by the tiny TV and no internet, After only one day, however, they agreed that this was going to be the BEST vacation we have ever experienced AND it was! We so enjoyed the music system and listening to Bob Marley while playing dominoes in the screened porch. Warning: Hubert is an expert player but will let you win! Hubert took us any place we wanted to go and cooked two great meals for us. Hubert guided our snorkeling adventure and caught our dinner with a home made spear gun. The restaurants in the area are very good but Hubert's meals were the best! He introduced us to his family and friends and taught us how to dance the Jamaican way. The week flew by and we plan to "soon be back."

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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We LOVE Hubert and Reef Watch

Guest Abbey
Date of stay 08/06/11
Review Submitted 08/17/11

Where to start? Hmmmm....we LOVE Hubert!!! Hubert is Jamaica! Hubert is Reef Watch! The man has the kindest spirit and an infectious laugh!!! Hubert always made us feel safe and cared for. He took us to Dunn's River Falls, Luminous Lagoon, Annie Palmer's Estate, Negril, Doctor's Cave Beach, Margaritaville, Scotchies, Fisherman's Inn, Cool Spot, and MANY patti establishments! Hubert taught us how to play dominoes, cook greens and festival. We enjoyed having him over for breakfast every morning and breaking bread in the evenings!! He also gave us a cooking lesson on fried plantains...yummy! Hubert joined us in the water as well! What a nice man. ALL of it was FUN!! Leaving Hubert was a sad morning for us. We really did grow to love him and I think he feel in love with my kids as well. Reef Watch is located in a small village with BIG flavor. For a week we lived amoung the happy and loving people of Jamaica. Simple livin is easy livin mon! Thank you for opening your home to us and sharing Hubert. The Hershman Family.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car.

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LOVED IT MISS HUBERT

Guest darren i
Date of stay 04/01/11
Review Submitted 01/13/12

This was a wonderful place and Hubert was the greatest guide we could ever have.He cooked he took us everywhere we met his friends it was amazing,cant wait to come back and see this beautiful place,this is not a resort it is a vacation among the people and it is unlike anything we have done before "soon be back Hubert"

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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An experience of a lifetime

Guest Zulu
Date of stay 03/23/11
Review Submitted 04/26/11

We felt we were taking a chance having found this property on-line. By the time we left, our family felt they had experienced something that could not have been attained by staying anywhere else. Hubert and family were awesome. The people of the village embrased our teenage kids, as they included them in their everyday life. This is a place we will definitely come back to. One week was really enough to climatize us the Jamaican life, would have loved more time because we were just beginning to make friends and it was time to leave. If you like adventure and to really get into another culture, you cannot beat this stay.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Best(est) Yet!

Guest redstargirl
Date of stay 02/28/11
Review Submitted 03/25/11

What an experience! Little did we know when we booked RW for 2 nights that we would be longing to stay for the remainder of our time in JA (which was another 5 nights in Treasure Beach). Oh well, we have decided that we must return. The house was exactly as described (although we think the terrace furniture could be upgraded) and the many kudos to Herbert were spot on! Hubert MADE the trip and he had the most kind friends, who treated us very well! The food; lobster, Parent fish and the calaloo...yummy! This is exactly the type of travel we enjoy, the true experience of the people and the culture. We are looking forward to our next stay :-)

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, girls getaway.

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Reef Watch vacation is di best, yah mon!

Guest Allison
Date of stay 01/25/11
Review Submitted 02/22/11

If you like a vacation that is all about getting immersed in Jamaican culture and having a seriously good time then Reef Watch is for you! We loved the little cottage style house. Very clean and comfortable. The kitchen was quite well equipped and we were able to prepare some awesome meals. Then of course you can't write or talk about Reef Watch without mentioning Hubert. He is your "go to" guy for anything and everything, every time, mon! Snorkeling, sight seeing, shopping, fishing, places of interest, dominoes, or anything else Hubert will make sure it happens, and if he doesn't one of his friends will! Just ask. It was also so relaxing just chillin' at the house on the patio or up on the terrace. I only have one complaint about our Reef Watch vacation; it was too short!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Our best vacation yet - Jan 2011!

Guest Bruce C.
Date of stay 01/02/11
Review Submitted 01/20/11

While planning our vacation to Jamaica I looked at many different options, travel web sites, vacation packages and all-inclusive hotels. By a stroke of luck, I came across Reef Watch. After reading the reviews, looking at the photos and corresponding with Andrew and Sandie, I was sold on this as our vacation choice. I wasn't sure how this would work out (since most of our previous vacations were in all-inclusive hotels / resorts) but it was indeed the best vacation ever. From the moment we stepped off the airplane (visiting the grocery store) until our return a week later (after catching / cooking 10 lobsters and 3 fish all before noon), it was an incredible and wonderful adventure. Reef Watch isn't your typical vacation, no one will make your bed, clean up after you or wait on you hand and foot. What you will get is a personal and intimate experience with real Jamaican people, "raw" as my 16 year old described it. No hotel workers or people trained to be a certain way because you are a paying guest; Just real people and some of the most incredible I have ever met. People willing to share themselves and their lives with you. From the our days in Scarlett Hall to our reggae concert night in Negril, swimming in the luminous lagoon and day trip to Nine Mile (Bob Marley's birth / resting place), everyone and everything was perfect. The most special thing about Reef Watch is without a doubt Hubert James, a man we bonded with immediately and one I will always consider a good friend / my Jamaican brother. He is a most gracious host, tour guide, fisherman, historian and all around man about town, great guy (a fine dancer too). He ensured that we got to do everything we wanted to do / see and also nothing if that was what we wanted. If you want the fancy hotel experience, this isn't the vacation for you. If you want to experience the real Jamaica, maybe have a life changing experience and possibly the best vacation ever, then you may want to give it a go. Thank you Reef Watch, Scarlet Hall, Jamaica and most of all Hubert. Soon Be Back Mon! Respect Bruce, Susan, Bryce and Corina

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

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Exceptionally wonderful and helpful!

Guest Pattie
Date of stay 08/14/10
Review Submitted 08/23/10

WOW! Reef Watch and Hubert couldn't have been more wonderful or helpful to my brother and me. We spent the week trying to get our parents' property on the other side of Montego Bay bushed and cleared. Hubert drove us everywhere. We hired his friends to cut down the brush and trees on an acre's worth in three days. He took us out of the way many times to go to the tax office, pick up a friend, go see an attorney, deal with the title company, and he taught us how to eat the Jamaican way. We felt like Jamaicans and wouldn't have done it any other way! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! We loved everything!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Hubert is the Best

Guest Active Family
Date of stay 08/09/10
Review Submitted 09/08/10

The experience was excellent. Hubert showed us around his town along with showing us locations that you would definitely not have known about if you were staying at a hotel. Hubert took us to see Rex, a local farmer, who grows some of the best bananas ever :). Just ask him and he will take you anywhere. It was a great trip and I would definitely stay at Reef Watch again.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Hubert is the Best

Guest Active Family
Date of stay 08/09/10
Review Submitted 08/22/10

The experience was excellent. Hubert showed us around his town along with showing us locations that you would definitely not have known about if you were staying at a hotel. Hubert took us to see Rex, a local farmer, who grows some of the best bananas ever :). Just ask him and he will take you anywhere. It was a great trip and I would definitely stay at Reef Watch again.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Amazing Jamaican Experience

Guest D Scott F.
Date of stay 07/19/10
Review Submitted 09/01/10

Reef Watch is an incredible Jamaican experience! Hubert caters to you and makes your experience as rich and rewarding as possible. His extensive knowledge of Jamaica and Jamaican culture is invaluable. Avoid the all-inclusive resorts and EXPERIENCE Jamaica, choose Reef Watch!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Without Hubert, don't go to Jamaica

Guest danmiraclemonroe
Date of stay 05/08/10
Review Submitted 05/17/10

First of all, the people in Jamaica are very nice and willing to help make your vacation one worth remembering. The home sits back deep in a real village and is very charming. If you lay down and look up at night from the roof top deck the stars are awsome. If you are spoiled by a/c, the new unit in the living room will freeze you out of the house. And best of all you have Hubert James. If I was to describe what he means to this vacation, I would need 10 pages to write on. Hubert "IS" the vacation. Without Hubert, "DON'T GO". I mean the house is great but when you get in the car with Hubert, the vacation really starts. I can't say enough about my stay. We will try to come back every couple of years and visit. Have Hubert cook you his fried chicken and greens with rice and peas. This is a trip we will never forget. Thanks so much.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Living in Jamaica

Guest Sherrods
Date of stay 04/03/10
Review Submitted 05/15/10

This was not a typical vacation, but that's not bad! If you are in the market for REALLY learning about Jamaica and REAL Jamaicans this a great way to do it. Understand you are staying in a Jamaican village where getting to know the locals is at least half the fun. Our family including three children (12, 10, and 7) loved Jamaica. Hubert is invaluable in getting around and going to places you'd never hear about in guidebooks. Hubert provided new friend and new food experiences on a daily basis. Where else can you seek your dinner in the ocean by day and then enjoy eating it by night at the villa? Dominos with Hubert proved a great medium for conversation and relaxation for both us and our kids. If we went back to Jamaica, we'd certainly stay here again. Our kids will talk about this for a long time, especially about Hubert, the great things we did (Dunn's River Falls, Durable's Cave, Martha Brae rafting, snorkeling with Hubert, and fishing with Yellow), and the friends we made at church, the beach, and in the village. Oh, and make sure you seek out Cheeko for some wood carvings!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car.

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exactly the experience we wanted for our honeymoon!

Guest Happily Honeymooned
Date of stay 03/22/10
Review Submitted 04/18/10

Reef Watch was everything we hoped it would be! We wanted to go to Jamaica for our honeymoon, but could not stand the idea of a manufactured [commercial resort] experience. We are sooo happy to have found Reef Watch on VRBO! The owners' info sheet about potential daytrips, dining, and local people to meet was very helpful. Hubert made us feel so welcome and comfortable! He is very friendly and attentive and surely the best chef in Jamaica! We had the perfect honeymoon and hope to return to Reef Watch in a year or so with our three children! If you are considering vacationing at Reef Watch, GO FOR IT! I had never booked a vacation on a site like VRBO, but this was among the best travel decisions I have ever made. Keep Jamaica REAL!!!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Reef Watch Experience

Guest Carol & Bob
Date of stay 03/03/10
Review Submitted 03/16/10

Our first Reef Watch vacation allowed us to experience the real Jamaica for less than an all-inclusive and proved to be far more interesting. The website states you get a "driver and guide". Hubert is that and much, much more. Hubert is a warm, caring individual with a great sense of humor and is a wonderful cook. While staying in Scarlet Hall, he introduced us to his family and friends. Every person we met was friendly, gracious and interesting...which allowed us to experience their lifestyles and customs. We were so impressed that we have since visited Reef Watch 3 additional times. We have taken the time to visit the Green Grotto Cave, Luminous Lagoon, Dunn's River Falls, Martha Brae rafting and went horseback riding in the sea. But what we enjoyed the most were picnics on the beach with Scotchies jerk chicken or fresh seafood caught and prepared by Hubert. You can visit Jamaica and never leave your hotel. But to visit the true Jamaica you need to travel into the mountains and visit Hubert's friend Rex, drink a Red Stripe beer, eat a patty or festival, pass children in their school uniforms on the road, sit on the porch and watch hummingbirds or spend the day on an isolated beach. Then you can say you've visited Jamaica. Soon be back!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Guest Art and Phyllis Burns
Date of stay 10/29/09
Review Submitted 10/29/09

We visited Reef Watch and Jamaica for the first time in April of 2009. I had heard about the poverty in Jamaica but seeing and observing the people I saw nothing but friendliness, warmth and humor. They are wonderful people. Hubert took us just about anywhere we needed to go (stores, restaurants, sight seeing, etc.). With Hubert knowing so many of the local people we were able to enjoy poolside lunches at places the ordinary traveler would not see. If we didn’t want to eat out in the evening Hubert cooked his wonderful Jerk Chicken. Our day trip to the Good Hope Plantation was one of the most memorable places I have visited. To see and experience this beautiful plantation and home that has been restored by the Jamaican people was an amazing experience. We also did the raft ride on the Martha Brae River, the Luminous Lagoon one evening and even had a fresh caught lunch of fish and lobster (caught by Hubert) cooked right on the beach. We have nothing but praise and admiration for Hubert and all his friends. Go to Reef Watch, meet the people and let Hubert show you the real Jamaica.

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Guest comment entered by owner

Guest N/A
Date of stay 10/19/09
Review Submitted 10/18/09

Well, where do I start? I was a little hesitant to go outside of a resort into Reef Watch. But with a lot of questions answered and much determination of visiting the real Jamaica, we planned our first trip to Jamaica into Reef Watch. Wow, are we glad we did! Thank you so much for giving us the courage to step outside of the normal! Thank you Reef Watch, Scarlet hall and most of all Hubert for the best vacation we could have ever had! We are here in Florida missing Jamaica... Soon be back! Kisses to Jamaica; JennyLea, Brandy & Debra

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Guest Heather Roemer/Gerry Ranson
Date of stay 01/28/09
Review Submitted 01/28/09

Reef Watch Villa was perfect. A very comfortable home that by the end felt like our own. So nice to have the privacy to relax and enjoy when the day was done. It really hit home when we were at the airport waiting to board and the various vacationers were comparing resorts and stories about the lineups and food etc. They had to endure the touist busses and destinations. When they asked us what resort we were at and we told them about Reef Watch and our experience they were awed. Hubert was the best! Having someone to show you the real Jamaica with as much or as little touristy type activities as you choose was excellent. I know we were a bit hesitant about having someone else involved in our vacation before we left but Hubert is truly a wonderful part of this type of vacation. He is so warm and accomodating and truly a genuine person, he just flows right in with whatever you want to do He makes it happen..We are already planning our return to Reef Watch Villa.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Guest Jaime Fry and Sarah Cottier
Date of stay 10/14/08
Review Submitted 10/14/08

We stayed here for a week in October and it was a great, unforgettable experience unlike anything you would get from staying at a resort. Hubert is a great guide, cook, fisherman and new friend, and helped make our vacation even better. If you want to experience Jamaica like a native then this is the way to do it! We met a lot of wonderful people and experienced way more than a normal tourist would get to. We would love to go back in the future and would definitely stay here again.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

Guest Marco3
Date of stay 09/23/08
Review Submitted 09/23/08

This comment is long overdue, I went to Reef Watch while on military leave back in April of 2008. And I could not have picked a better place to relax, enjoy and learn about Jamaica first hand. I was amazed by the people, landscape, music and of course Hubert. As mentioned in every comment, he is very much the expert and best part of it. Thank you Reef Watch, from beginning to end always a friendly, warm and educational experience that I plan on doing again. Sorry for the late comments. I've passed on your information to friends and family and pictures etc. Thanks again!

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Guest Matt Salzberg
Date of stay 06/19/08
Review Submitted 06/19/08

The most wonderful people, the freshest and tastiest food, and comfortable accommodations combined to make my stay at Reef Watch an unforgettable experience. No matter how much fun I had the night before, I always woke up feeling refreshed, rested and eager for more – whether it be snorkeling, exploring the country, walking around and talking to the people of Scarlet Hall or just lounging at the house. I truly look forward to returning to Reef Watch -- to see people whom I consider to now be friends, to recharge my batteries and to just be able to relish and enjoy the best, most pure aspects of life.

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Guest comment entered by owner

Guest Ahn
Date of stay 05/05/08
Review Submitted 05/04/08

On the way home our plane got stuck waiting for customs in Charlotte North Carolina. The airlines put us all up at a hotel because everyone missed their connecting flights. We talked to many of the people who had been in Jamaica. Every one of them had done an all inclusive deal where they were bused into a compound like place that had it's own beach and they never left. Poor people missed Jamaica.

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Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 03/06/08
Review Submitted 03/06/08

My first time in Jamaica turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences in my life. Sure, I was prepared to get away from the daily grind and go to a warm, friendly, unique, non-touristy place, as everyone describes on the website. But what I actually experienced was so much more than that. There were so many things to do, to explore, to take in. But some of the best times we had were at the guesthouse just hanging out. The house is pleasant, comfortable and had everything we needed. The roof deck is a little haven up there, anytime of day....Jamaican coffee in the morning, sunbathing in the afternoon, watching the sunset over the water, star gazing at night. Hubert was a terrific host. He cooked for us on the beach, and twice we had dinner at the house (grilled on the patio and off a fire in the yard.) It's invaluable to find that place where you know you can go (and keep going back!) to clear your head. Can't wait to go back to ReefWatch!

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Guest Carol & Bob
Date of stay 03/01/08
Review Submitted 03/01/08

This was our first trip to Jamaica. Our Reef Watch vacation allowed us to experience the real Jamaica for less than an all-inclusive and proved to be far more interesting. The website states you get a "driver and guide". Hubert is that and much, much more. Hubert is a warm, caring individual with a great sense of humor and is a wonderful cook. While staying in Scarlet Hall, he introduced us to his family and friends. Every person we met was friendly, gracious and interesting...which allowed us to experience their lifestyles and customs. Loved the dominos and dancing! We spent tourist time at the Green Grotto Cave, Luminous Lagoon, Dunn's River Falls and horseback riding in the sea. But what we enjoyed the most were picnics on the beach with Scotchies jerk chicken or fresh caught seafood prepared by Hubert. We miss Hubert's hearty laugh, easy way and joyful smile and are planning a return trip to Reef Watch next year. You could visit Jamaica and never leave your hotel. But to visit the true Jamaica, travel to the mountains and visit Hubert's friend Rex, eat jerk pork or try a patty or festival, pass children in their school uniforms on the road, sit on the porch and watch hummingbirds or spend the day on an isolated beach. Then you can say you've visited Jamaica. Soon be back!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Guest Pat, Chris & Kieran Brown
Date of stay 01/14/08
Review Submitted 01/14/08

We have just returned from 3 wonderful weeks at Reefwatch. Hubert tells us that we hold the record for the longest stay and it was certainly a relaxing and yet action packed experience. This is a totally flexible holiday with all the time in the world to do nothing and just chill or to do it all. Hubert is a delightful character and we have nothing but praise for the way he looked after us and showed us the real Jamaica. We met lots of Jamaican people and all were warm, friendly and full of humour. Notable was Cheeco who was a lovely man. We left a freezing England - enjoyed 3 weeks of warmth and sunshine - and returned to wind, rain and snow. We wish we were still in Jamaica and hopefully will return one day to try and beat our record 3 weeks at Reefwatch. We recommend the experience to everyone of every age. It was brilliant and simply the best. Pat, Chris and Kieran (age 12) Brown, Bolton, UK.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Guest Greg Steed
Date of stay 09/06/07
Review Submitted 09/06/07

Reef Watch was one of the greatest adventures that I and my wife have ever done! Hubert was the best part of the entire experience! He was so great to work with and he did everything possible to make our trip memorable. We were able to really get the Jamaican experience as we visited Dunn Falls, the caves, Negil, Hubert's good friend Rex, Martha Brae, Falmouth Market, down-town Montego Bay and many more. We loved the snorkling and spear fishing! Hubert took us out a couple times and we just loved it! We were especially grateful for Hubert's great nature. He was totally flexible with us. If we wanted to just take a day and relax, sleep in and get some sun, he was totally down with that. Everyone should (at least once in their lifetime) have the Reefwatch experience. We are better people because of it! You will not be dissapointed!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Guest Kelly Perkins
Date of stay 04/10/07
Review Submitted 04/10/07

I visited Reef Watch on 03/30/07 until 04/06/07. What an adventure! This was my fourth vacation to Jamaica, but this time it was absolutely fabulous. My prior visits I stayed at a local resort and the other times I visited on a cruise ship. I learned so much about the culture and the country. What makes this vacation so special and an absolutely must do is the "Hubert" factor. Hubert is your tour guide, cook, and driver the entire time that you are there. He took us absolutely everywhere. We visited Montego Bay, Ochios Rios, and Negril. Hubert took us shopping in town at the market and took us to the best restaurants to get the best food at the lowest prices. Hubert will take care of you to ensure that you are getting a great deal. He is very knowledgeable about the area and has lived there his entire life. He is well respected and this ensures that you are safe and well taken care of. He will s how you things and allow you to experience things that you will not be able to do at the traditional resorts.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Guest Lissa Y.
Date of stay 04/08/07
Review Submitted 04/08/07

What else can I say about the last 10 days?!? What a great house, location, village, people, country!! I think we will be repeat renters! Hubert is the best! What a difference he makes. The trip would not have been even close to as wonderful without him. He brings the real culture right to you with locals beaches, off the beaten track excursions, best places to shop, and his own Jamaican style. We experienced a Jamaica that most Americans never see -- and we are the better for it. What an incredible experience! Thanks for sharing Reef Watch, Scarlett Hall, Hubert and family, and Jamaica with us! Soon be back!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Guest comment entered by owner

Guest N/A
Date of stay 10/12/06
Review Submitted 10/11/06

"What we ended up with was not just a vacation - we had an incredibly interesting adventure and experience of a lifetime....This was the perfect vacation spot for a family looking for a peaceful and unusual vacation, close enough to restaurants and nightlife to enjoy it when we wanted, but very different from the all-inclusive tourist resorts that often don't reflect the culture, the true beauty, and the kind people of Jamaica." " First trip was an undescribable experience. I had a blast!!! This breaks life down to the important things. Good people in Scarlett Hall." "Everyone I've ever spoken to about Jamaica has warned me of the poverty and culture shock. Those people obviously formed those opinions from the hotel windows, not from the warmth of Scarlet Hall. I would like to convert "Culture Shock" to "Culture Awareness." " I have learned that there truly is more to wealth than just the purchasing power of currency." "All the problems and tension of life seems to melt away. Just what I needed. I just can't say enough."

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Jamaican Villa with Car and Driver Included [#105591] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (39)

Fantastic Jamaican Experience

Fantastic Jamaican Experience

Jamaican Getaway

Jamaican Getaway

Best Way to Explore Jamaica

Best Way to Explore Jamaica

VERY COOL!!

VERY COOL!!

What a great place!

What a great place!

The Real McCoy

The Real McCoy

Andrea's blog about her stay with us.

Andrea's blog about her stay with us.

The Tour Guide Made The Experience Well Worth It!

The Tour Guide Made The Experience Well Worth It!

A memorable trip and a unique experience.

A memorable trip and a unique experience.

Wonderful time spent at Reef Watch

Wonderful time spent at Reef Watch

Jamaican Holiday-December 2011

Jamaican Holiday-December 2011

We LOVE Hubert and Reef Watch

We LOVE Hubert and Reef Watch

LOVED IT MISS HUBERT

LOVED IT MISS HUBERT

An experience of a lifetime

An experience of a lifetime

Best(est) Yet!

Best(est) Yet!

Reef Watch vacation is di best, yah mon!

Reef Watch vacation is di best, yah mon!

Our best vacation yet - Jan 2011!

Our best vacation yet - Jan 2011!

Exceptionally wonderful and helpful!

Exceptionally wonderful and helpful!

Hubert is the Best

Hubert is the Best

Hubert is the Best

Hubert is the Best

Amazing Jamaican Experience

Amazing Jamaican Experience

Without Hubert, don't go to Jamaica

Without Hubert, don't go to Jamaica

Living in Jamaica

Living in Jamaica

exactly the experience we wanted for our honeymoon!

exactly the experience we wanted for our honeymoon!

Reef Watch Experience

Reef Watch Experience