The Real Life Goldeneye

The history of this place pretty much takes the cake in terms of hotel stories. Back in 1942, a young Englishman by the name of Ian Fleming was sent to Jamaica by Britain’s naval intelligence service on a secret mission. He fell in love with the island, bought land, built a house, and spent his life there, writing James Bond; all 14 of them! GoldenEye was in Fleming’s estate until Bob Marley sought to purchase it in 1976, "But then he got cold feet, said it was too posh," recounts the current owner, Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, "So I bought it myself.

The 21-room GoldenEye is hands down Jamaica's hippest and most luxurious resort. Today, the property, which reopened in 2010 after an extensive $50 million renovation, includes stunning cottages and villas overlooking a private beach and lagoon, as well as two happening restaurants, two pools, a tree house spa, and an extensive roster of on-site activities. The rates might cause some to flinch, but those who can afford it will find little cause for complaint.

Pros

• Expansive 52-acre grounds with private beach and lagoon

• Hip beachfront bar and restaurant

• Spacious villas and cottages all feature beach or lagoon views

• Beautiful design procured by a local Jamaican architect

• Stunning tree house spa overlooking the lagoon

• Tons of on-site activities and water sports

• 2 gorgeous oceanfront pools

Cons

• Among the highest rates in Jamaica and they're not all-inclusive

• No fitness center on-site (I for one don’t go on vacation to workout, but others may have different wants/needs)

• Nothing within walking distance and a good drive from any of Ocho Rios' attractions

• Expensive and long drive from Montego Bay International Airport