MoBay welcomes Hotel 39
Published:Thursday | February 8, 2024 | 12:07 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Jamaica’s tourism capital, Montego Bay in St James, has added a new resort to its impressive inventory, Hotel 39, located at 39 Jimmy Cliff Boulevard.
The European Plan (EP) resort, one of the only non-all-inclusive hotels on the ‘Hip Strip’, will offer a Breakfast Plan (BP) to visitors, says general manager Donahue Jarrett. The 82-room facility falls under the umbrella of the Jarrett family, operators of both the Altamont Court in Kingston and Altamont West in Montego Bay.
Located on the property that formerly housed the popular Wexford Court Hotel, Hotel 39 opened its doors last Friday and will welcome its first guests this Wednesday, five years after purchasing the resort from another Jamaican family, the Allens.
As the resort unfolds its charms, it currently boasts 82 rooms, however, the anticipation builds as only 45 of these meticulously designed rooms are ready to welcome guests, says Jarrett, who doubles as director of operations at Altamont Hotels.
Nestled at the back of the resort are standard rooms offering a serene escape with views of the gardens. The tranquility seeps into the room, creating a peaceful place for guests seeking a restful retreat. The décor is tasteful and inviting, providing a comfortable space to unwind.
For those seeking a touch of luxury and an uninterrupted connection with the beauty of nature, the rooms are a haven with balconies that frame the vista of the ocean. These overlook the Old Hospital Park and the One Man Beach.
Like the standard rooms, the interior design is a seamless blend of modern comfort and Caribbean charm, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxing.
Hotel 39 is home to two and a half restaurants, which include a café in the lobby and an infinity bar and grill by the poolside.
Step into the hotel’s lobby, and you are greeted with modern elegance coupled with a distinct Caribbean flair. The space unfolds with an open concept, inviting guests into a realm of sophisticated design and comfort.
The ultra-modern aesthetic is seamlessly blended with subtle Caribbean touches, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Carefully placed furniture enhances the visual appeal, each piece contributing to the overall harmony of the space. The arrangement is thoughtful, providing both functionality and a sense of style.
A refreshing aspect of the lobby lies in its colour palette – tastefully chosen hues that are not overwhelming. The colours gracefully complement each other, adding a touch of warmth without being in your face. The ambiance is one of relaxed sophistication, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel or business.
As you explore the lobby, the marriage of contemporary design and Caribbean influence becomes evident in every detail. It’ is a space that invites guests to experience the best of both worlds – the sleek, modern comfort and the laid-back charm of the Caribbean.
Interior designer Liz Ewart is responsible for the experience that greets you on arrival.
The journey to the opening of Hotel 39 has been challenging, marked by missed deadlines. Yet the rejuvenation it brings to the boulevard is embraced warmly by those reminiscing about the renowned Sunday brunches at the former Wexford.
“We are bringing back brunch, but with a twist. We’re elevating the experience and introducing specialties inspired by Chateau 7 Gourmet in Kingston,” Jarrett shared.
The commitment to the Breakfast Plan is deliberate, recognising a demand for this offering. He points out that in Montego Bay, most hotels are all-inclusive, leaving a gap for high-quality EP properties, particularly on the vibrant hip strip.
Jarrett emphasises the unique appeal of Montego Bay, noting that travellers often seek more than just the typical tourist activities. He envisions changing the city’s landscape, encouraging travellers to rent cars, explore the island, and engage with the local community.
Beyond catering to international tourists, Hotel 39 envisions targeting Jamaican companies that dispatch their employees or agents to Montego Bay for work purposes.
The resort, equipped with four meeting rooms and a ballroom capable of hosting up to 400 people, aims to provide versatile spaces for business events as well. The completion of these facilities is expected by the upcoming summer, adding another dimension to the resort’s offerings.