My Life's A Trip

The Trident’s infinity Pool stretches into the Caribbean

Port Antonio, Jamaica was the original hot spot on the Caribbean island. The marina is even named after Errol Flynn, who used to vacation here. After the depression, tourism dried up. When visitors started coming back, they did so by plane and the International airports a few hours away in Kingston and Montego Bay have kept those seeking convenience from discovering Jamaica’s true gem: Port Antonio.

Mid-century chic is the vibe at the Trident Villas in Port Antonio

But Portie (as it’s called) is having a moment right now and the cool kids are starting to come back… and stay at sexy and sleek  Trident Villas and Hotel. Recently renovated, this hotel has been the backdrop of multiple photo shoots for good reason– it has stunning lines, fantastic staff, delicious cuisine and great service.

Left: Lawn sheep at a touch of whimsy Right: manicured trees on the grounds of the Trident Villas & Hotel

Food and beverage costs are reasonable by resort standards you’d find on the more developed parts of the island. All this luxury doesn’t take away from all that is special about Port Antonio– the lack of major chains (no Starbucks) and package tourists. The Trident is run by the GeeJam Collection, who have a musical history far too deep to get into this post.

Wicker swing outside the Trident Lobby

As the poshest hotel in Port Antonio, the Trident is where Beyonce and her sister stayed during their girls getaway last winter before Beyonce’s secret album dropped. The location is ideal for privacy or those who want to escape the crowds. Port Antonio is easy to reach via a scenic 20 minute flight over the Blue Mountains to the Ken Jones Airport, which the front desk at the Trident can arrange. The drive from Kingston is about two hours and well worth it.

The modern chic decor of the sitting room in Villa 1 at the Trident

The hotel has it all– a gorgeous infinity pool, a private beach club in a cove, a gym, and great food served on the Veranda. After dark the action moves to the bar and Mike’s Supper Club, a modern speakeasy with top notch cuisine (jerked yellowtail= yum) and live music nightly.

Left: The Eames chair was perfect for reading Right: Orchids in the bedroom

I stayed in Villa 1 and loved it. It had every possible amenity: plunge pool, speedy wifi, huge closets, comfy reading chair, large living room and plush beds. The bathroom even feature a gorgeous outdoor bathtub with a peek-a-boo view of the Caribbean. Sunsets are particularly beautiful on the patio.

The Zen bedroom of Villa 1 a the Trident

The Trident is one of the few hotels where I was planning my return visit before I left– it’s that good. With only 13 villas, service is personalized and top notch. There is a spa and gym on property, as well as a playground for kids.

Villa 1’s outdoor has a peek-a-boo view

The Trident feels like the perfect choice for the destination wedding for founder of a start up that just went public. It has that off the beaten path charm, yet doesn’t sacrifice any of the comforts you’d expect in a luxury hotel.

The Trident’s veranda is perfect for breakfast

The food is delicious at the Veranda, where every morning you can try a different “Jamaican Breakfast of the Day.”

Left: fresh tropical fruit at breakfast Right: Mackerel + boiled banana =the Jamaican Breakfast of the Day

Left: Fish for breakfast Right: an omelette made to order

Waking up in Jamaica with Blue Mountain Coffee

There is no Starbucks, so Blue Mountain French Press coffee is the best way to wake up in Jamaica.

Left: nothing says “vacation” like a paper umbrella in a drink Right: Refreshing Jamaican lemonade

Red Stripe by the in-villa pool at The Trident

While the Trident Port Antonio has everything you could want right on the property, there is a lot to see and do in Port Antonio– from rafting down the Rio Grande to exploring the Blue Lagoon. You can even go surfing at nearby Boston Beach.

The poolside vibe was gorgeous and modern

The Trident is an exceptional blend of modern luxury and old school Port Antonio cool. It’s a great pick for honeymooners who want a refined experience and some interesting surroundings (and options for interesting and cool cultural excursions).

Splashes above the infinity pool at the Trident

The Trident is pure #luxuryrealness.

Left: Photo shoot action at the Trident Right: Killer coastline on the grounds of the Trident reminds me of Big Sur

You can walk to the Trident Castle next door, and Sunday brunch is sometimes served there.

Jamaican sunset as seen from Villa 1 at the Trident

Pool table in the Trident’s Explorers Lounge

The Trident has screening room and conference facilities should you be looking for a hip destination for a corporate retreat or conference.

Left: Trident Bar Right: Art in the Explorer’s Lounge

Jerk hamachi at Mike’s Supper Club

Live Jazz at Mike’s Supper Club

Night lights at the Trident Villas

Trident Hotel

http://www.tridentportantonio.com/