Our ten days in Runaway Bay, staying in Bahia villa, was over and above our expectations. The pictures are accurate, and prepared us for a very comfortable villa, just steps to the ocean. The property has an abundance of trees, including mango and almond, and an abundance of birds, butterflies and vocal insects. We had plenty of shade, as well as two strategically placed hammocks, to spend days reading and napping.
With breezes every day, we only needed the AC at night. There are mosquitoes, but mostly at night. We never even felt the need to use bug spray. We felt very safe in the compound, since the owner, Gary, separates the property from the road with a very tall (ten foot?) concrete wall, with locked wooden gates. At night, an employee patrols the property as an additional layer of safety. There is noise from the road, the villa is located on a busy road, but it didn’t bother us.
What I didn’t anticipate was the level of personal attention we received from the staff, Janet, Yvonne, Cassy, Marlin and Calvin. The ladies prepared our food, breakfast and dinner, every day, always with enough leftover for lunch. We tried local Jamaican favorites, and they were delicious! I have dietary restrictions, and Janet was very careful and attentive to be sure I had what I needed. Marlin kept the grounds beautiful and brought out water “toys” for us (kayak, life jackets) and Calvin guarded us every night, patrolling the grounds.
Our host, Gary, visited us during our stay. He was checking that we were being cared for (Yes!) and gave us a tour of the grounds and some history of the property. In the weeks prior to arriving, he always responded quickly to my many inquiries, and helped us navigate the requirements of COVID. I felt that any concern of mine, was a concern of his.
I admit that I had concerns regarding the safety of visiting Jamaica, but we never felt “unsafe”. The Jamaican people are enthusiastic and welcoming of visitors. There is a strong security presence in all the areas we visited, not police, but security. I don’t know if that was COVID related or if it’s standard, but it all worked for us. We didn’t go out at night and didn’t spend any time in Kingston or Montego Bay.
If you are looking for a beautiful Caribbean experience, with your own beach and grounds, and awesome staff, this is the place for you. If Bahia is too small, Gary has two 5-bedroom homes on the same property! Just send him a message.