reggae, running, and relaxation at the caves: a jamaica-style marathon

August 16th, 2012

Runners, unite! Crisp weather and pretty foliage make fall the best time of year to train for a marathon. This year, get some real R&R (running & relaxation) by signing up for the Reggae Marathon in Negril, Jamaica, on Saturday, December 1, 2012.

Every marathoner deserves generous pampering, which is why The Caves has crafted a Reggae, Running & Relaxation package, an all-inclusive experience complete with a pasta dinner, race transfers, pre- and post-race sugar scrubs, and a congratulatory cocktail party.

More into speed than endurance? The Reggae Marathon also offers a half marathon and 10K. Registration is still open, so click here to sign up!

Here’s your race weekend itinerary:

Friday, November 30 – The Warm-Up

Fly into Montego Bay, head down Lighthouse Road, and arrive at The Caves. You’ll be greeted with a signature Cliffhanger cocktail to calm the nerves. (One cocktail can’t hurt before the big day, right?) That evening, The Caves will provide roundtrip transfers to the annual “World’s Best Pasta Party” at Couples Swept Away.

Saturday, December 1 – Up Hill…

Rise early, feel the adrenaline, and get in pre-race mode. Let The Caves worry about the logistics while you get centered for a breathtaking run that winds along the island’s north coast.

26.2 miles later, with endorphins flowing and legs wobbling, The Caves will meet you at the finish line for transfer back to the hotel.  That evening, let loose in the Blackwell Rum Bar – set in a candlelit cave – at a celebratory cocktail party.

Sunday, December 2 – …Down Dale

Experiencing that stiff I-didn’t-even-know-I-had-a-muscle-there feeling? Head to the resort’s spa for a Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub to help ease the tension. Recline in a chaise lounge in the sun, and if you have a little bit of energy left, leap from one of the property’s cliff-edge jumping points (the highest at 30 feet) into the impossibly blue waters, or stay limber with a leisurely snorkeling tour through the limestone grottos.

Monday, December 3 – The Finish Line

Reggae? Check! Running? Check! Rest and relaxation? Check, check! Now it’s time to check out… But for those who can’t tear themselves away from The Caves, extra nights can be booked with a special 10% discount.

For more information, visit www.islandoutpost.com/the_caves or call 1.800.Outpost

smooth beats at sumfest 2012

July 23rd, 2012

Everyone’s abuzz about last week’s Sumfest, Jamaica’s number one music festival whose lineup of star reggae artists has earned it the lofty title of “Greatest Reggae Show on Earth.” The weeklong event, whose musical talent included big names like John Holt, Shabba Ranks, Trey Songz, and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, takes place every July in Montego Bay.

Thursday was “Dancehall Night,” an opening concert that got everyone jumping with hot, new Jamaican talent like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Kiprich. Reggae legend Shabba Ranks gave a moving performance the following night, her first concert in Jamaica in over a decade. Joining the cadre of cool were old-school pros like John Holt, Leroy Sibbles, Yellowman, and U Roy, who commemorated Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence with smooth island beats that made concert-goers never want to leave.

Sound like a good time? We envision the ultimate Jamaica vacation in the making… Next year, the event will take place July 14-21. Book a stay at The Caves, an Island Outpost property located near the westernmost point of Jamaica whose ten acres of lush scenery boast thirteen cliff-side accommodations with panoramic views of cobalt ocean. Featuring an open-air Aveda Concept Spa and a rum and cigar bar set in a grotto, The Caves is ready to turn Sumfest into the perfect summer break. Mark your calendars!

island outpost properties earn tripadvisor certificate of excellence award

May 25th, 2012

All four Island Outpost properties in Jamaica – GoldenEye Hotel & Resort, The Caves, Geejam and Strawberry Hill Hotel, Spa & Gardens have received the 2012 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award.

The highly applauded award honors hospitality excellence and is given only to establishments that maintain an overall rating of four stars or higher (out of a possible five) as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor. Approximately 10 percent of establishments listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

The accolade comes as no surprise as Island Outpost hotels have long been recognized by travelers worldwide as remarkable properties with exclusive accommodations, unsurpassed service and top-notch amenities.

Each Island Outpost property has its own singular sense of style – GoldenEye offers laid-back luxury on the north coast, The Caves in Negril feels like a secluded castle set above a vibrant town center, while Geejam in Port Antonio is a secret hideaway infused with a cosmopolitan vibe and the newly-renovated Strawberry Hill offers a cool refreshing escape 3,100 feet above sea level in the Blue Mountains.

For more information and summer offers visit, www.islandoutpost.com or call 1(800)-OUTPOST.

running + reggae + the caves = marathon, jamaica-style

August 5th, 2011

So you didn’t make it into the NYC Marathon this year? Don’t fret! Forget running in the cold, start thinking about cool runnings instead and head south for the winter for the Reggae Marathon in Negril, Jamaica on Saturday, December 3, 2011. The Caves, a stunning cliff-side boutique hotel located near the race starting line, has it all wrapped up…

The shabby chic Island Outpost resort is offering runners their specially-created Reggae, Running & Relaxation package. The all-inclusive race-weekend package is complete with a pasta party, race transfers, spa treatment, and celebratory cocktail party. And guests who wish to stay on a little longer will receive 10% off any additional nights booked.

Not ready to go the full 26.2 miles? The Reggae Marathon offers a half marathon and 10K options as well. Registration is still open, so click here to sign up!

Here’s your race weekend itinerary:

Friday, December 2 – The Warm Up

Fly into Montego Bay, head down Lighthouse Road, and arrive at The Caves. You’ll be greeted with their signature Cliffhanger cocktail. (Hmm… one cocktail won’t hurt before the big day, right?). That evening, The Caves will provide roundtrip transfers to the annual “World’s Best Pasta Party” at Couples Swept Away.

Saturday, December 3 – Up Hill…

It’s race day, and the adrenaline is pumping through your body!  Rise early for your transfer to the starting line. You’re about to embark on one of the most breathtaking runs of your life – winding along the island’s north coast (on a relatively flat course!)

26.2 miles later, with the endorphins flowing, The Caves will meet you at the finish line for transfer back to the hotel.  That evening, let loose in the Blackwell Rum Bar (set in a candlelit cave) at a celebratory cocktail party.

Sunday, December 4th – …Down Dale

Experiencing that stiff “I didn’t even know I had a muscle there!” feeling?  Head to the resort’s spa for a Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub to help ease the tension. Relax in the sun, and if you have a little bit of energy left, leap from one of the property’s cliff-edge jumping points (the highest is 30 feet) into the impossibly blue waters, or take a leisurely snorkeling tour through the limestone grottos.

Monday, December 5th – The Finish Line

Reggae? Check! Running? Check! Rest and relaxation? Check, check! Now it’s time to check out… But for those who can’t tear themselves away from The Caves, extra nights can be booked with a special 10% discount.

REGGAE, RUNNING & RELAXATION PACKAGE DETAILS:

DATES: Friday, December 2nd – Monday, December 5

RATE:

-          $1,500 per room, based on double occupancy (TOTAL SAVINGS = $300!)

-          10% off rack rate for any additional nights booked

INCLUDES:

-          All food and beverage

-          Tax and gratuity

-          Signature welcome cocktail

-          Round-trip transfers from The Caves to the annual pre-race “World’s Best Pasta Party”

-          Round-trip race day transfers between The Caves and the start/finish lines

-          Post-race celebratory cocktail party at Blackwell Rum Bar

-          Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub at the property’s Aveda Concept Spa

CONDITIONS:

-          Bookings accepted now through December 1

-          Based on availability

-          Airport transfers not included

For more information, visit www.islandoutpost.com/the_caves or call 1.800.Outpost

 

jamaica is for lovers

January 26th, 2011

Here are our picks for the best Valentine’s Day getaways…

Strawberry Hill

LOVEUP AT STRAWBERRY HILL ‐ Heavenly accommodation in a private Georgian‐style cottage with magnificent views ‐ Romantic room decor, including roses and candles ‐ An intimate couples massage in the Living Spa ‐ Bottle of champagne ‐ Romantic dinner on the restaurant terrace under the stars ‐ Breakfast with fresh Blue Mountain Coffee

 

Rates (One night): US $658.00/JM $55,930.00 per night based on double occupancy

LoveUp: OPTION 2 ‐ Heavenly accommodation in a private Georgian‐style cottage with magnificent views ‐ Bottle of champagne ‐ Romantic dinner on the restaurant terrace under the stars ‐ Breakfast with fresh Blue Mountain Coffee

Rates (One night): US $480.00/JM $40,800.00 per night based on double occupancy

 

VALENTINE’S DAY WEEKEND LUNCH AND SPA PACKAGE

Spend the day in heavenly bliss beginning with an intimate couples massage in the Aveda‐concept spa. Stroll through the lush tropical gardens or take a dip in the plunge pool and enjoy a delicious 3‐course lunch on the terrace of the Great House.

Price: US $300.00/JM $25,500.00 Available February 11th ‐14th.

 

VALENTINE’S DAY ROMANTIC CANDLE LIGHT DINNER WITH HAROLD DAVIS

A Romantic candle light 3‐course dinner on the terrace of the Great house. Gaze at magnificent views of the city skyline and Blue Mountain range with a canopy of stars shining overheard. While you dine on Strawberry Hill’s fabulous international‐Jamaican fusion cuisine, listen to the sensual and soulful sounds of Harold Davis.

Price: JM $5,900.00 + 10 % Service charge and a glass of wine per person.

 

Jakes

BREW LOVE THIS FEBRUARY AT JAKES!

                        Three Nights accommodation in our magical Deluxe Honeymoon suites

                        Two Brew Love bush bath satchels for use in your outdoor bathtub under the stars

                        Two Soothing Welcome Foot Ceremonies and 20% off on all couple’s treatments at Driftwood Spa

                        One bottle of our delicious house red wine

 

Price: USD$1290

Booking Code: BLOVE

Travel dates: February 1 ‐ 28, 2011

 

The Caves

FEBRUARY LOVE HIDEAWAY

Sneak away to sexy seclusion…

Book five nights, and get a special Romance offering of:

                        Two spa treatments ‐‐ either a couples massage, OR two blue mountain coffee scrub body polish treatments

                        A gourmet private cave dining under the stars

                        A breakfast in bed with mimosas

                        A private hot tub experience complete with Champagne and strawberries

                        An exciting snorkeling tour for two with a special tour of the caves and grottoes

 

Geejam

A GEM FROM GEEJAM FOR VALENTINE’S

Book a minimum of five nights, and receive a special Romance offering, consisting of the following: ‐ A romantic turndown, which includes petals, candles, wine and petit fours ‐ A two for one dinner either in your cabin or at the exclusive Bushbar ‐ with a champagne aperitif ‐ A moonlit rafting tour of the Blue Lagoon ‐ A bottle of wine ‐ Transfers to and from Kingston Airport, if required Terms and Conditions: Period of stay February 10th to 25th 2011. Book by February 14th.

tripadvisor travelers’ choice awards name island outpost’s the caves and geejam

January 24th, 2011

TripAdvisor, the bible for curious travelers searching for the best vacation, has announced its 2011 Traveler’s Choice Awards winners. Two Island Outpost properties were lauded in these user-generated honors, The Caves and Geejam.

The Caves dominated the list and was ranked #1 for Service in the Caribbean and Mexico. And was also featured as

  • One of the Top Ten All-Inclusives in the World
  • One of The Most Luxurious Properties in the World
  • One of the Top 25 Hotels in the World

Musically-inclined sister hotel, Geejam, was ranked #8 in Top 10 Hotels for Service in the Caribbean and Mexico.

Island Outpost resorts love their guests, and its plain to see that Island Outpost’s discerning world-traveler guests love them right back!

Find them on Facebook:

Facebook.com/TheCavesResort

Facebook.com/GeejamHotel

Facebook.com/IslandOutpostResorts

 

Follow them on Twitter:

Twitter.com/TheCavesResort

Twitter.com/GeejamHotel

Twitter.com/IOhotels

 

About Island Outpost

Island Outpost is Chris Blackwell’s collection of award-winning hotels and villas in Jamaica. These include Ian Fleming’s retreat, GoldenEye; Strawberry Hill; The Caves; Jakes and Geejam resorts. Each Island Outpost property has its own singular sense of style – with stunning natural settings and locally-inspired architecture and design – and provides distinct, personalized and authentic local experiences. Guests are treated to only the highest levels of service and a host of beauty and fitness amenities and experiential activities. With sustainable and responsible practices at their core, Island Outpost properties operate in support and harmony with the surrounding environment and the communities in which they are located.

For more information about Island Outpost, visit www.IslandOutpost.com or call 1(800) – OUTPOST.

where should the royal lovebirds honeymoon?

November 17th, 2010

These two got engaged on a Kenyan safari, so we’re sure the honeymoon will be equally as cool and unique. Here are our picks for the Royal Honeymoon.

CARIBBEAN 

 Parrot Cay

Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos

The private isle is the ultimate place to hide away from the cameras and unwind after all of the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding.

Royal Treatment: Rent out the COMO Shambhala Cottage for a night of Champagne, spa treatments, and candlelit dining.

 

Rosewood Mayakobá, Mexico 

Let loose after escaping to the beautiful Mexican Riviera hotel and test tequilas recommended by the resident tequila sommelier.

Royal Treatment: With Mayasutra, newlyweds can get intimate with a Moonlight Tantric Yoga class and a couples massage instruction session followed by 30 minutes of “alone time”.

  

Geejam, Jamaica 

No stranger to celebrities, the luxury property was originally a residential recording studio where the likes of No Doubt and Amy Winehouse laid down some tracks.

Royal Treatment: Stay at the amazing Sanwood villa designed by British architect Anthony Wade in the 60s and relax in the private pool or bask in the Jamaican sun and take in the views on the sun deck.

 Fleming Villa 

GoldenEye, Jamaica 

Next to the man in line for the throne, James Bond might be the most enviable Brit we know, so vacationing at this Jamaican hideaway where Fleming penned all the Bond books would be quite fitting.

Royal Treatment: Stay in the Fleming Villa for a private beach and the spirit of James Bond lingering in the air and compelling the swilling of shaken-not-stirred martinis.

 

The Caves, Jamaica 

Dodge the paparazzi at the romantic Caribbean resort where couple feeling like a dip can leap off a cliff for a private swim.

Royal Treatment: It doesn’t get much more private than a candlelit dinner for two in a hidden cave looking out on the water.

 

Strawberry Hill, Jamaica 

Following in his parents’ footsteps, William would love to vacation at this mountain resort where, besides Charles and Diana, the guests list boasts Mick Jagger and Bob Marley.

Royal Treatment: Get away from the photographers 3,100 feet above sea level and take in the sweeping views from the Blue Mountains.

 

Jakes

 

Jakes, Jamaica

Kick off those shoes and lose the fancy cap; this charming seaside resort is the perfect antidote to structured courtly life.

Royal Treatment: Enjoy a private yoga session by starlight and listen to the waves.

 

NANTUCKET

White Elephant, Nantucket

What’s more fitting for English newlyweds than a trip to New England? This harborside Nantucket hotel is a classic (and classy) spot for postnuptial bonding.

Royal Treatment: Only on Nantucket (at Brant Point Grill) does a Bloody Mary come equipped with lobster.

 

THAILAND

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand

The luxurious Thai resort is tucked away in the beautiful Golden Triangle, away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

Royal Treatment: Take a romantic ride atop an elephant – sure beats a limo!

 

Anantara Phuket Villas, Phuket, Thailand

After the long awaited ‘I do,’ couples can celebrate the occasion with a wide selection of live entertainment – including a seven-piece band at this Thai property.

Royal Treatment: Hidden in the mangroves, the lavish villas have a 355 ft. sq. private pool, outdoor showers, and a terrazzo tub built to accommodate two (and only two).

 

MALDIVES

 Anantara Veli

Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa and Anantara Veli Resort & Spa, Maldives

These romantic spots embody what a honeymoon should be – nothing but sun, water, sand, and a newlywed couple pampered and sunkissed.

Royal Treatment: Answer to only your whims on a private a romantic island getaway with Anantara Dhigu, Veli, Naladhu, and the soon-to-be, Anantara Kihavah Villas opening in early 2011. The best part about Anantara in the Maldives is that at whatever resort couples choose to stay, free transfer is available between islands to enjoy the benefits of all.

 

Cocoa Island, Maldives

The private island resort in the South Male Atoll is just over 1000 feet long and is surrounded by pristine, turquoise water.

Royal Treatment: Honeymooners get a complimentary sunset cruise with vino and an antipasti plate.

 

SOUTH ASIABhutan

Uma Paro,

No tabloid photographers here; the remote mountain lodge is a great spot from which to explore Bhutan’s monasteries and temples and get spiritually in tune before returning to palace life.

Royal Treatment: After trekking through the country by bike or raft, couples can be pampered in the COMO Shambhala Retreat.

 

INDONESIA

Uma Ubud, Bali
The luxurious retreat set in the tangled jungle is perfect for the couple that likes an exotic locale without giving up modern comforts.

Royal Treatment: The COMO Suite allows guests to have spa treatments in private in its private treatment area.

 

High Seas

Crystal Cruises

Couples can sail away on a luxurious cruise to spots around the globe – no need to pick just one. Romantic “must-sees” include Rome, Mykonos, and Casablanca, to name a few.

Royal Treatment: Enjoy a Couples Massage in the Feng-Shui inspired Crystal Spa or cozy up in the back row of the Hollywood Movie Theater and watch a first-run movie while sipping champagne.

what’s new and hot in the caribbean

July 23rd, 2010

Fleming Villa

What’s new in the Caribbean? LOTS! Our hot list includes new villa rentals in Turks & Caicos, a glamorous new hotel, authentic Farm Dinners and Reggaelates (the new fitness craze) all happening in Jamaica, as well as moonlight yoga classes in Mexico, and an exclusive jazz-themed Caribbean cruise itinerary. Read on to find out more…

(more…)

Categories

Archives