PRESS RELEASE - 2008
Blackwell opens boutique hotel in Port Antionio Jamaica Chris Blackwell's Geejam boutique hotel opens at Port Royal recording hideaway originally founded by music producer Jon Baker PRESS RELEASE - 2008
PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICA (March 28, 2008) - Island Outpost, record mogul Chris Blackwell?s boutique hotel collection, announces the opening of Geejam in Port Antonio, Jamaica on March 28, 2008.
Originally founded by music producer Jon Baker as a recording hideaway that played host to No Doubt, Common, India Arie, Bjork and Gorillaz, among others, Baker has now joined forces with fellow music industry veteran, Steve Beaver, to metamorphosize Geejam into an insider escape. The result is a stylish equilibrium between ultra modern technology and the intrinsic grace of Jamaica?s organic island vibe and sensibility.
Located on six acres of the lush San San Estate, the property extends from the foothills of the John Crow and Blue Mountain chains to the Caribbean beachfront.
Within immediate proximity is Frenchman?s Cove -- voted by Cond? Nast Traveler as one of the world?s top five beaches. Just minutes away is the equally enchanting Blue Lagoon, while several other stunning beaches offer ideal spots for exploration.
Guests can choose to take to the sea on a jet ski, scope out the waves on a surf safari, or simply chill out with a Champagne picnic in a private cove while rafting down the Rio Grande.
The property also borders Drapers, which was a little known village until Gwen Stefani gave it props at the 2003 Grammy Awards after recording No Doubt?s multi-platinum album Hey Baby at Geejam.
A 10-minute drive west will find travelers in the historic town of Port Antonio, the capital of the Parish of Portland, located on the northeast coast of Jamaica and shrouded by the Blue Mountains.
Many are unaware that Port Antonio was the birthplace of tourism in Jamaica at the turn of the century.
Geejam features three self-contained deluxe cabins - Ska, Mento and Rock Steady, which are privately arranged among banana trees, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
The spacious Drum & Bass suite boasts 180-degree views. Sanwood, the hotel?s three-bedroom villa, features a private swimming pool and sundeck. All fuse sleek design with a rootsy tropical attitude. Unsurpassed digital amenities and contemporary feel redefine the traditional Caribbean accommodation. Here, Apple iTV comes standard, as does the lush jungle atmosphere.
Hotel amenities include a state of the art recording studio, spa therapies, swimming pool (Sanwood only), fully equipped air-conditioned fitness center with trainer, and the Bushbar, the quintessential meeting place.
The entire enclave forms an exclusive universe nestled within the heart of the bush. Recently nominated by the Jamaican press as one of the "top ten most fascinating places to hang out," the Bush bar follows the overall Geejam mantra of a grassroots approach to relaxation, restoration and reinvention.
A team of international chefs serve a distinctive blend of Jamaican-Japanese fusion cuisine in a forest-to-ocean setting. The dining experience is paramount.
The ongoing mission is for Geejam to continuously develop into a creative retreat for like-minded world citizens whose background in the spheres of music, film, fashion and photography are interconnected through six degrees of separation.
The hotel?s guests are world travelers, not tourists, each with a common creative thread, whether they?re based in New York, Paris, London, Berlin, Rio, Buenos Aires, Moscow, Copenhagen, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Sydney or Kingston. Acting as a concierge for this ?in the know collective?, Geejam is an epicenter where their worlds collide and unify.
"The Geejam philosophy stems from synergizing local Jamaican flavor with a singular approach to service, cuisine and accommodation," said Baker. "The whole vibe is really an ever-evolving feeling synonymous with globe trotting creativity. We want trans-cultural interaction. Our goal is to treat guests to a high-end, original and organic experience that will resonate for a long time to come." Rates range from $495 USD to $1,850 in high season and from $425 USD to $1,650 USD in low season.
Rates are based on double occupancy and include breakfast. All rates are subject to 18.25 percent tax and service.
Created by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and Palm Pictures, Island Outpost properties are known for their interesting character and stunning surroundings and strive to offer their clients a feeling reminiscent of staying at a friend's home. The group includes Goldeneye, Strawberry Hill, Jake's, Geejam and The Caves in Jamaica, Compass Point and Pink Sands in The Bahamas and an exclusive selection of villas.
For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-800-OUTPOST.
+++
In the 17th centruy, Port Royal was the centre of commerce in Jamaica. Port Royal gained a reputation as a haven for pirates and privateers.
Port Royal is located just outside Kingston, Jamaica. In 1692, most of Port Royal was sunk in an earthquake and is now underwater.
Parts of the city remain and are a must see for visitors to Kingston.
HOME >
Kingston
MAIN PAGE >
Kingston
FEATURES >
Kingston
FEATURE STORY
