Jamaica's Round Hill Hotel Revamps

The new offerings are part of a long history of curated luxury at the hotel, which officially opened in 1954 on a 100-acre former pineapple and sugar cane plantation. Conceived by Jamaican-born entrepreneur John Pringle, the unique concept invited high-profile individuals to build and own their own cottages on the property. The initial group of shareholders included luminaries such as Noël Coward. This set the stage for decades of high-profile guests, including John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy, who honeymooned in Villa 10, Grace Kelly, Alfred Hitchcock, and Sir Paul McCartney. The 1998 film "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" was also filmed on the property. Fashion designer Ralph Lauren is a key figure in the hotel's more recent history, owning two villas and having designed the 36 oceanfront rooms in the Pineapple House. His classic, elegant aesthetic has helped to maintain the resort's timeless appeal. Lauren and his family have been regular visitors to Round Hill since their first trip in 1978. The celebrity chef in residence is James Beard Award-winner Rocco DiSpirito, who will be creating special Italian-American dishes with Jamaican flavors. This continues a tradition of high-end culinary experiences at the hotel, which sources many ingredients from its on-site organic garden. The hotel's Managing Director, Josef Forstmayr, has been at the helm since 1989, steering the resort for over three decades. His long tenure has ensured a consistent vision of luxury and personal service. Beyond the glamour, Round Hill is committed to sustainability. The resort has an ongoing coral reef restoration project in partnership with marine scientists, with a goal to replant 5,000 corals in the surrounding bay. Local fishermen have been trained as "Reef Gardeners" to help maintain the coral nursery.