Staying at Novella's house was fantastic the beach was amazing, going to sleep to the sound of the waves and waking up to the sunrise over the ocean was better than I could have hoped for, Mr D. the grounds keeper and Miss J. the cook were so kind and helpful, I can’t wait to be able to come back.

. . . I have realized that this “third world country” has a lot to teach America. In my opinion, [Jamaica's] greatest virtue is their dependence on one another, and how content they are simply sitting and socializing, or sitting and thinking. I would love to see more Americans spending time outside with their thoughts. I think it would make for a lot less stress, violence, and arguments.

The housekeeper is great and anything you need, you can ask her to get sorted. It was our first time in Jamaica and we have enjoyed our first couple of days to the fullest.

After a long day of studying, walking around Yallahs, and swimming in the clear blue ocean, you can find me rocking away on a bed that hangs from a shady tree . . . one time I fell asleep without even trying to. I looked up and woke up to the dark starry sky . . .  I have seen my share of places, but never before have I felt so connected to a place, both physically and mentally. I am amazed by how fast I was able to consider Carleva Bay Villa my home.

Novella's villa is serenity personified. Laze in the shade of a courtyard right on the beach and listen to the waves write their own lullaby. Or relax in quietude on the other side of the villa, in Nelson's hypnotically peaceful garden. Dine in the cool breeze of the inner courtyard, or just put your feet up in the huge homely living room. Novella's place is a home from home.