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LOVE GAMES Royal Plantation Ocho Rios, Jamaica By Maria Tettamanti The soothing sanctuaries of Jamaica’s Royal Plantation Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Rio Chico Estate set the picturesque backdrop for the fashion spread before you. Upon entering the Royal Plantation Resort, one is rewound to a time where British Colonial character reigned supreme. Grandiose columns, flowing waterfalls and bougainvillea topiaries recapture the subdued grace of days gone by. Nestled alongside the Caribbean Sea, the hideaway boasts 77 luxe suites, impeccably manicured lawns and two private beaches. Just outside Ocho Rios, the Rio Chico Estate is a magnificent six-room villa with an intimate two-bedroom cottage. Situated on a 14-acre sprawling private estate kissed with lush gardens, natural cascades, personal cove beaches, three freshwater pools and a lit tennis court, Villa Rio Chico is ideal for privacy seekers. Both spectacular properties share a common bond as displayed by these images, and that is, they are ideal for lovers. With a piña colada in hand, Royal Plantation guests can’t help but unwind as the tide tickles the shore. Beach butlers are on hand for refreshing drinks, delicious fare and Jamaican hospitality. In fact, the Royal Plantation staff is astonishingly attentive about making your stay a memorable one. From knowing their guests by name to offering friendly advice, crew members prove that they genuinely care. The hotel’s general manager, Peter Fraser, says, “Everyone here is passionate about the property — they truly love what they do and don’t consider this as just another job.” Back at the hidden hideaway of Rio Chico, couples will relish in an intimate escape. Private beaches beckon duos for dips into the azure sea and lover’s games alongside the sugary shore. Sparkling streams running through the estate are the perfect backdrop for a private picnic and sun worshiping. And should the urge to break a sweat set in, pairs can play a game of tennis or snorkel the neighboring water. Come afternoon, guests can saunter over to the Royal Plantation’s terrace and relish in another English tradition — high tea. While enjoying a spot of Earl Grey alongside the crystal-clear sea, it’s therapy at its best. And once hunger sets in, there are many choices for dinner. The Royal Plantation houses three restaurants under one roof — The Bayside Restaurant, Flambé on the Terrace and the award-winning Le Papillon — any of which is sure to suit your particular craving. We were particularly blown away by Le Papillon, which prides itself on white-glove service, exquisite seafood specialties and tantalizing beef selections. In fact, the restaurant offers a Caribbean first — an indulgent caviar and champagne bar aptly named the C Bar. The C Bar serves the finest Iranian caviar, exclusively for the Royal Plantation by Kaviari, and Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Adding even more panache to the night, the staff will happily “saber” a bottle of Clicquot with a special sword — cutting the cork and tip off the bottle in one swift motion. As the bubbly freely flows, so do the spirits within the room. When it’s time to surrender to the Sandman, each property’s suites are conducive toward sweet dreams. As one snuggles into soft Italian-designed Mascioni bedding and listens to the sea’s soothing song, peace and tranquility take over. Somehow — between the dips in the sea, bites of delicious food and swills of fine wine — the Royal Plantation Resort and the Villa Rio Chico Estate have a profound calming effect on their guests. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
LOVE GAMES Royal Plantation Ocho Rios, Jamaica FASHION CREDITS
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