Ochi Lovers – You Can Totally Afford This!
I just returned from another 17 days in Jamaica and have decided to do my reviews in the order they happened. Pineapple Court Hotel was where I spent my first three nights back on the island and I don’t have one single complaint about it. I didn’t even know this place existed until a friend of mine stayed here a few weeks earlier and told me about it. Read on for all the reasons why I loved it!
The Location
I usually go out of my way to find accommodations in Jamaica that are affordable to the budget-minded traveler, while keeping convenience and comfort in mind. In my opinion Pineapple Court has it all. It is located in the Pineapple area of Ocho Rios which is not the most touristy part of town. To find it you would drive east through the main part of Ochi and pass the clock tower. Less than 5 minutes down the road you’ll see as sign pointing to turn left to this hotel. It’s set back from the main street which means peace and quiet. And one of the biggest bonuses – the absence of street vendors. You can walk out onto the street and shop without any hassle or high pressure hustling.
By car it’s 5 minutes or less to the town center. On foot, it’s probably a 15 minute walk to the town center. There is lots of shopping and food/restaurants available in the area, but at more local prices because it’s away from the tourist hub.
The Accommodations
Pineapple Court hotel is a smaller hotel with only 14 rooms – some king suites and some double suites. As far as I know all suites are priced the same at a very reasonable $60.00 USD per night! I stayed in a king suite which was perfectly comfortable. Each room has air conditioning, cable TV and full bathrooms with standing shower. Some rooms nearest to the office have wireless internet and management informed me that they will be installing Wifi in all rooms shortly. The rooms are very clean, safe and secure – as usual I had my laptop, ipod dock and all kinds of electronics with me and it was all safe and sound.
Amenities
There is a great sized pool on the property but unfortunately I was there was right after hurricane Sandy hit the island so the pool was empty and being repainted and cleaned. I didn’t take any photos of it.
There is plenty of free parking on site, free coffee in the lobby and extra friendly staff.
After having a chat with Tracy Duncan, the new manager at Pineapple Court hotel I was informed that they intend to upgrade the services at the hotel very soon. Future plans include various spa services, room upgrades and more!
My overall impression of Pineapple Court hotel is GREAT! Definitely affordable if you’re on a budget, super comfortable and a great location. My favorite thing about it is that it’s away from the madness of Ocho Rios, but still close enough to walk to town if you want to. I love going out into the street and not having to worry about who’s going to try and sell me what piece of tourist gear. The Pineapple area of Ochi is underrated for that reason.
If you decide to give it a try and stay please make sure to tell the manager Tracy you saw this review on Jamaica My Way. She has recently taken over as management and has great plans for the place so I would love for her to know my review is doing her some good. I had some nice chats with her and she’s a great lady with a lot of good ideas.
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