Ryzenberg On: From Jamaica with Love
So Memorial Day came and went and Summer is almost here — of course all this sunshine, (even in the city by the bay) BBQs and fun fashions have me thinking of one thing…I need a vacation in a tropical setting.
There is one hidden gem that’s making me crazy because it blends my love of Bond, beaches and bikinis into one incredible setting: The GoldenEye in Jamaica.
This enclave on the Oracabessa Bay in the north coast of the island, plays a special homage to the man that loves shaken, not stirred martinis, beautiful women, fast cars and living life to the fullest.
The history behind this resort is what really captivates me. This used to be the home of Ian Fleming, who spent time in Jamaica during WWII and decided to call the land of rum and reggae home in 1946. It was in this lush property that Fleming created one of pop culture’s most iconic and beloved characters — James Bond.
With guests such as Elizabeth Taylor, Truman Capote and Laurence Olivier among many more, you know this tropical hideaway is chock full of stories. But the legacy continued even post 007 days when Bob Marley got cold feet and decided not buy it deeming it “too posh” for his taste so his producer, Chris Blackwell, purchased the estate in 1976.
It seems Fleming wasn’t the only one expressing his creativity at the GoldenEye. While on holiday, (as the Brits would say) Sting wrote one of the Police’s most popular hits ‘Every Breath You Take’ in 1983.
Now it’s my chance to live my inner Bond girl (a la Ursula Andress, of course) and lose myself in the wondrous 52-acres filled with, cottages, two restaurants, a spa and of course the Fleming villa. All I want is a cocktail, a few bikinis and sunscreen (yup, protection is key) and of course a hot companion won’t be turned away.
This locale sure is made for those who seek rest & relaxation mixed in with a bit of history, adventure and an imagination; Oh if only these walls could talk.
My bags are packed and I am ready to check-in and enjoy sunshine galore. Who is coming with me?
On my bag:
Pacific Sunrise String Bikini – www.quicksilver.com
O’Neill Straw Beach Bag – www.zappos.com
Oversize Tee – www.topshop.com
J Brand Low Rise Cut Off Shorts – www.shopbop.com
Kielh’s Body Lotion SPF 40 – www.kielhs.com
Selma Coral Luxury Rebel – www.heels.com
TOM BINNS Gold Studs – www.net-a-porter.com
CALYPSO St. Barth Embroidered Tunic – www.calypsostbarth.com
H&M Sandals – www.hm.com
Beachy Woven Fedora – www.ae.com
Oliver Peoples Sunglasses – www.oliverpeoples.com
Paisley Scarf – www.jcrew.com
Photos: Into the Gloss