Banana Shout Resort

With its laid-back vibe and focus on natural beauty over modern comforts, a trip to Banana Shout can feel like a visit to an artists' colony. The resort is colorful, in a literal and metaphorical sense. Composed of four separate, brightly painted cabins, a thatched-roof hut that serves as a restaurant, and gardens and common areas for lounging, Banana Shout is small but memorable. Local artwork decorate the rooms, and hand-carved sculptures of giraffes, monkeys, and bananas adorn the grounds. Landscaping shows a preference for letting nature have its way -- tropical plants and flowers overflow coral-lined walkways that lead to a rocky courtyard. Tin and thatched roofs, and shutters covering windows without glass panes contribute to the rustic, earthy look and atmosphere. Narrow walkways and uneven paths might present a challenge to some, but the owner is especially attentive and works to accommodate guests' needs.

Banana Shout is located on the cliffs of Negril, along a busy road punctuated by local shops and restaurants. The resort is gated, so guests should call before they arrive to ensure the gate will be open. Restaurants are within a short walk or drive. A commercial district with duty-free stores and large, modern shopping malls is about a 15-minute drive east on Norman Manley Boulevard. Local tourist destinations include the Bob Marley home site and Blue Cave Caverns. Tours to these off-site attractions will pick up Banana Shout guests. Rick's Cafe, a famous spot to watch the sunset, is next door to Banana Shout. Sangster International Airport is about an hour and a half away.

This resort is small and rustic, with only four cottages. Cottages are painted in bright primary colors -- blues, yellows, greens -- and they're decorated with local art. Furnishings are basic. Each cottage has two beds and ocean views, and can accommodate multiple guests. The Red Rooster House, the oldest cottage on the property, was built in 1974; it has two levels and can hold up to six guests. The other cottages can comfortably sleep two or three. Kitchenettes in each cottage have fridges, hot plates, coffeemakers, and dishware. There are no TVs or air-conditioning. Three of the buildings have attached bathrooms, but the Tree House's private bathroom is separate from the cottage itself; guests will have to walk down stairs to reach it. 

At Banana Shout, the focus is on the outdoors and nature. Deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boat rides are offered through the resort, at an additional cost, and a bus driver is available to take guests on tours of local sights. The Dolphin Bar is a cook-to-order restaurant with no specific menu, as meals are tailored to the preferences of each guest, with a choice of pastas, sandwiches, Jamaican jerk cooking, fresh juices, smoothies, and wines from around the world. Food will be delivered to the individual cottages, the garden, or wherever else guests prefer to eat. Airport transportation can be arranged through the resort for an additional fee. Parking is free, but drivers should take care when maneuvering in and out of this small lot. And Wi-Fi is also free, though the signal is less than reliable.