Even though Columbus didn't find gold on the island, he nevertheless prophesized of the island qualities of Jamaica, “el golfo de buen tiempo.” To those uninitiated with the Spanish language, Columbus’ words might seem a prescient endorsement for the game of golf. But ‘the gulf of good weather,’ as the above text translates, is an accurate subtext for the development, five centuries later, of Jamaica as one of the finest tropical golf destinations to be found anywhere, a purpose for which the famous explorer would likely have had no objection. Used in its early colonized years as a conduit for managing conquests into the Americas, Jamaica was first and foremost a place of occupation, a sunny haven for colonial peoples who, had their intentions not been so motivated by avarice, might have relaxed and enjoyed the grounds in the traditions of leisure that can be found on the island today.

On the north shore of the island, well west of Ocho Rios (one of few place names that recall the Spanish corruption), and on the eastern edge of Montego Bay, the Rose Hall Resort and Country Club is one such haven of luxury, an original refuge of decadence against which all subsequent resorts are measured. Nestled snugly between the clear, turquoise waters and white powdered shores of the Caribbean Sea and Jamaica’s thick Blue Mountains, this 100-acre complex is very accessible from the island’s most popular airport, making it an ideal destination for guests to relax, unwind, and enjoy world-class golf.

The area’s ties to colonial times are obviously not tied solely to Columbus' first reaction. A darker period of slavery is an integral part of Jamaican history, and sugar cane plantations all over the Montego Bay area were once the rhythm of activity that drove the Jamaican imperial economy. Today, Rose Hall is built on the fading memories of these humanitarian indiscretions, and in place of the toil and sweat is the warmth and charm of a resort that has embraced its luxurious setting to provide guests with a vacation experience that is easy to fall in love with.

Guest rooms at the hotel overlook either the ocean or the majestic, dense growth of the Blue Mountains, and all room at the resort feature all the modern amenities one would expect from a luxury resort. 27” television screens, cordless telephones and data ports with voice mail means that even those predisposed to bringing along business duties can squeeze in some work on that rare occasion where afternoon clouds move in. Most of the 488 rooms and 19 suites at Rose Hall also feature private balconies and terraces and coffee makers, freshly picked from farms in the Blue Mountains, providing the perfect drink and setting for the morning awakening. Waking to the sun burning a strip of fog off the mountains, mug of local brew in hand, is an unforgettable experience.

Take a few steps out of your luxurious private enclave, though, and there are plenty of distractions. In addition to the world-class, Robert von Hagge-designed championship golf course, featuring some of the most breathtaking views and hazards found anywhere in the Caribbean. A swim in the Caribbean Sea (perhaps following the path of some errant shots?) is a refreshing way to dodge the hot Caribbean sun, but a variety of other options are also available. Scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are all pursuits best suited to the gentle breezes that sweep across the shores of Montego Bay, while freshwater activities can also be found on the Rose Hall grounds. Dive into Sugar Mills Falls, explore three terraced pools, a meandering river, whirlpool spas, relaxing lagoons and cascading waterfalls. Enjoy the rugged, tropical ambiance of the Jamaican hillsides, and have them lead to the trendy and decadent swim-up bar. The fusion of the convenient and the untamed is seamless here: guests of Rose Hall can equally feel as though they are guests of the island, as it once was, centuries ago. Memories of this heritage are everywhere. An afternoon shopping in nearby Montego Bay sees pedestrians wander by several old estates, and the 11 restaurants, bars and grilles, especially the elegant Three Palms and Luna di Mare restaurants, offer menus featuring both local and Old World ingredients, fused to create exciting international cuisine. Especially of note is the extravagant antipasto bar at the latter, where an impressive array of smoked meats, Mediterranean vegetables and fresh seafood can be found. Appropriate wines can be easily culled from the restaurant's extensive international list of vintages. Whether your purpose is a private, romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a large-scale corporate conference, the Rose Hall Resort and Country Club is a contemporary Jamaican vacation tradition.