Coral Cove - Jamaican Paradise
When I learned of plant-based medicines and the health benefits of cannibis, I realized that there was a whole world out there that’s been outside of my radar. While I may not personally be using plant-based medicines including cannabis, I have heard the most amazing benefits and health attributes of how they have helped people who are dealing with all sorts of ailments – including anxiety, depression and disease. Considering cannabis is actually farm-grown and made readily available at some wellness resorts, I thought it would be really important to cover this sort of property and this unique offering.
Coral Cove Wellness Resort in Jamaica is one such resort that really embodies the spirit of good health derived from plant-based medicines set amidst paradise itself. There is an on-site dispensary, and keeping with this theme you’ll find even wellness services that include cannabis in its products (upon request), as well as even cuisine from time to time via infused sauces and herbs with fresh from their farm cannabis. In fact, plant-based healing is at the root of the existence of this property (no pun intended), and this charming discreet resort so beautifully situated on a crystal cove, overlooking the light blue ocean, attracts people from all over the world who are interested in a quintessential, authentic and often transformative plant-based experience.
I flew into Montego Bay and was transported by car through cities and then small, unique villages, feeling that the adventure into Jamaican culture had truly begun upon arrival. Eventually I arrived on a white dirt road that meandered through small homes and fishing villages eventually to the resort. The one thing I loved upon arrival was the warmth of the people greeting me. This is not a typical resort with the bustling lobby and front desk, rather an intimate property where guests tend to meet each other at some point, and the staff feels like friends. “Family style” dining is offered where you are able to share experiences with other guests, and I loved hearing what brought these other guests to such a destination off the beaten path.
The resort’s twenty rooms overlook the ocean’s horizon, a picturesque cove, and the property’s relaxation areas amidst lush trees and water. Stunning views set the stage for your own retreat into whatever it is that you’re looking for. In fact, the founder Steve Zindars feels that the appeal is that this slice of heaven is so remote. And, he added that if you somehow found this destination off the grid, then you are meant to be here and you’ll definitely find what you are seeking.
The wellness classes offered there include yoga, a meditation, and more being added as we speak, and all led by the talented, friendly and passionate Wellness Director Jason. Yoga in the morning typically is by the water, and might even include a beautiful song played on one of the many instruments he has. The whole experience – by the water, hearing his music, relaxing and connecting with nature and my self, transports.
The spa services are offered by the water, a gorgeous setting where you’ll feel the ocean breeze intermixed with the soothing touch of your therapist. I loved the service that included being wrapped in a cocoon of banana leaves, picked and prepared directly from the farm on-site. Read more about that here.
There is also an organic farm on property, and I received a tour by the owner and Jason, understanding more and more about Jamaican culture – and their food. Herbs, vegetables, leafy greens – such as the Jamaican favorite Callaloo, as well as fruits being cultivated with care and attention. I toured the farm and garden, taking in the herbs' fresh scents, pure air, and admiring the bountiful harvest ready for the picking. In fact, what’s available right then and there serves as inspiration for the Chef Kareem Chambers for the night’s meal. The Chef is so talented, having served under a French chef for years before embarking on his own and now creating unique pairings and flavors to complement the fresh Jamaican catch of the day.
In fact, the cuisine features freshly caught fish, herbs and vegetables hand-picked from the garden, and a variety of dishes including chicken, eggs and more. Breakfast offers a type of plantain porridge that’s not to be missed, as well as veggies from the garden and eggs, toast, coffees and juices. The Chef is so talented and open to requests and suggestions as to what would make you happy, as I witnessed when one of the guests wanted cannabis infused butter for the bread, sauce for the meal, and a dessert that included just a hint of it as well. Whether you want wine, beer, or just healthy teas, it is there for your asking.
As well as the smoothies – offered at the bar by the pool flickering in different hues of blues, pinks, yellows, oranges – chromotherapy touches that light up the sky at night. Beautiful to behold from your room or simply walking under the stars.
I also strongly encourage you to embark on the excursions there, including a tour of the cannabis farm nearby that features world-renowned cannabis plants that draw tourists and plant-based medical seekers from all over the world. I joined other guests to meet the farmer who cross-bred a couple of varieties of cannabis to create one of the most popular varieties considered the best among the best. There was also the Blue Hole, offering a chance to dive from heights into mineral waters, also healing and yet daunting to me!
A boat ride with a captain who had as much light in his eyes as the sun, who was a true delight and spirited Jamaican, taking us through the turquoise, crystal clear waters into caves offering a glimpse into history. The fruit bats flew overhead, making us shriek with delight and fear at the same time. We saw fish, and sometimes you can even see the dolphins and sea turtles, jelly fish and other wonders of the sea.
Returning to the resort for an afternoon to chill until dinner – or take a nature walk, spa service or just admire the waves nudging the coastline of rocks is heaven itself. Perhaps a kayak or paddle board while the sun sets is just what you need to feel connected with nature, but for me it was simply observing the night peaking its way through while having my toes in the sand. Knowing that another meal with light conversation with other guests lay ahead was the treat to the end of a beautiful day in paradise. A blazing bonfire under the stars as well would punctuate a day out of a romantic if not adventure movie itself.
Just another day in paradise … at Coral Cove Wellness Resort in Jamaica.
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