DREAMSCAPES WINTER/SPRING 2022
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and pizza with toppings such as pepperoni, lobster or jerk
chicken. One night we drove to the scenic mountaintop
known as Lovers' Leap for a local dining experience that had
jaw-dropping views as we sipped on Appleton rum cocktails
and dined on garlic shrimp, codfish fritters and oxtail stew.
All was washed down, of course, with the Jamaican iconic
lager, Red Stripe.
Hotel chairman Jason Henzell points out that 80 per cent of
Jamaica's produce is grown in the local parish of St. Elizabeth.
He says, "Buying regionally means we get the freshest and
healthiest ingredients while contributing to our economy."
Rocking Community Tourism
A passionate social activist, Henzell is a mover and shaker
behind the "community tourism" crusade that is proving to
be a model for the rest of Jamaica. This means investing in
local regions to keep citizens employed and engaged. He
adds, "When people feel well-supported by those who can
make a difference, they're eager to share their goodwill with
neighbours and visitors alike."
Today, while Treasure Beach has many facets, much of it
remains an uncut diamond. If Henzell's vision for the area
unfolds as it should, the number of stylish villas will rise,
while delightful B&Bs and charming homestays—even farm-
stays—will emerge. Produce will be more plentiful and
culinary offerings more imaginative. Arts, crafts and
bespoke fashion in both attire and interior design will
beckon. And down the road, Henzell's beloved realm could
morph into the crown jewel of the south coast.
DS
TRAVEL PLANNER
The closest airport to Treasure Beach is Montego Bay
("Mobay")—a 2½-hour drive. Several airlines fly direct
from Toronto, Montreal and Hamilton. Ground
transportation is available through tour operators such
as Paradise Travels. For more information, check out
jakeshotel.com and visitjamaica.com.
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W E L L N E S S
