Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views - Tower Isle

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Entire home

King size bed in Artist's Cottage great room

wide cedar kitchen counter in great room

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available

Washer

Pool

Barbecue grill

Outdoor space

Kitchen

Explore the area

Tower Isle, St mary

Reggae Beach

5 min walk

Coral Reef

7 min walk

Prospect Plantation

2 min drive

Ocho Rios (OCJ-Ian Fleming Intl.)

10 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Artist Cottage Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Artist Cottage Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Artist studio Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Outdoor showers at pool and beach area

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Dining

Living area

Exterior

About this property

Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views

Four miles East of Ocho Rios directly on the sea, right next to famous Bamboo Beach, the enchanting cottages at Glory Be with fabulous sea views and privacy offer you old world charm ., The property of Glory Be has been the private home of Karen and Ronnie Schleifer since 1984. We share our home with family, friends and congenital people. It is NOT a resort .The whole property is a garden abounding, with lush tropical vegetation . Tropical flowers (hibiscus, helaconia, jasmine,begonias,shrimp plants…), fruit trees (bananas, tangerines, sour sop, pineapple,aloe vera, moringa ackee, noni), fabulous views and direct access to the sea.

THE ARTIST COTTAGE
This spacious seaside cottage (1,500 sq. ft.), formerly Marion Simmons’ art studio. Marion Simmons was a member of the American Water Color Society and had several international shows. She chose to buy the seaside property in 1951 as she was an avid snorkeler and artist. She was most well known for her shell motifs.Her original art and prints are displayed in the Artist Cottage. It is romantic for two, comfortable for four. In the great room there is a king size antique bed, a sofa, arm chairs, a well stocked book case, antiques, original art work and cable T.V. which has radio and music channels as well. A fully equipped kitchen is ideal for self caterers( June's grocery store is in walking distance), although some of Ocho Rios' finest dining is nearby( Glenn's , Toscanini and a jerk pork center are in walking distance . On the veranda are a dining table, chairs and a glider sofa, where you can see spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Adjoining the great room is a separate bedroom with two twin beds, a desk and antique safe. The bathroom with a tropical motif has a solar heated shower, toilet and basin and a view of the pool. Ceiling fans and tropical breezes and the ventilation of cathedral ceilings cool the rooms. Next to the veranda are two patios with a charcoal grill and a hammock. Winding stone steps lead to the beach area.
The Artist Cottage is very private,as the only other buildings on the Glory Be property are the main house where the owners, Karen and Ronnie live, the Calypso Cottage for the owners' family and close friends, and the Sunspots Cottage which is for long term guests(please inquire )
(Listed amenities and pricing in this homeaway listing are for this cottage only).

THE CALYPSO COTTAGE
The adorable cathedral ceiling Calypso cottage (1000 sq. ft.) with an amazing sea view and large outside deck i. It is attractively furnished with a king size bed, 2 small loves eats, and a breakfast bar, all with views of the gorgeous Caribbean sea. The entrance door, depicting an orange tree, is an original work by Danish, artist Jonna Brasch. The decor is tropical with carved pineapples, colorful carved fish, bamboo tiles, bamboo glass panels and cedar shelves and counters. The cottage has an open kitchen with all amenities and a bathroom with walk-in shower and skylight. A stairway at the foot of the cottage leads to the sea.

(Amenities: Kitchen, WiFi, King Size bed, Safe, Shower, Ceiling Fan)

THE SUNSPOTS COTTAGE
This gingerbread cottage decorated with original Jamaican fret work (1000 sq. ft.) is a real Jamaican country cottage. It is ideal for one person or a couple. It has a bedroom with a queen-size bed, a living room with a futon sofa, a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom with bathtub. There is a logia and veranda with comfortable arm chairs and a large dining table, where you can relax and enjoy the sea view.

Monthly rates available on request.
(Amenities: Kitchen, WiFi, Queen Size bed, Safe, Shower,, Ceiling Fan, Washing Machine, Cable TV)

A paradise for artists, snorkelers and swimmers creative spirits, nature-lovers, rest-seekers and photographers, Glory Be is ideal for bird watchers as well. Many types of humming birds and migratory birds make Glory Be their safe haven. The property is very private and has many cozy nooks and crannies. The cottages are situated so there is a true feeling of being alone in paradise. There is a guests-only swimming pool and a private beach area. Many of our visitors enjoy swimming and snorkeling or sunbathing from our beautiful beach side patio.. In walking distance there are an art gallery, restaurants, a jerk (barbeque) center, and a small grocery. Minibuses and taxis make it a short ride to downtown Ocho Rios.

Property manager

Karen & Ronnie Schleifer,Glory Be, P.O.Box 5 Tower Isle St. Mary, Jamaica, W.I.

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Kitchen

Washer

Outdoor space

Parking available

Ocean view

Similar properties

Pool

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 2:30 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Smoking allowed on outside verandas and patios

Travelers arriving with odd behavior due to drugs or alcohol wil not be accepted.Any guests on the property must be approved by the owners.

Lock up valuables. Lock doors and gates for the security of everyone. The owners are not responsible for travelers negligence.

Please take care of appliances and articles for your use.Please replace or pay for anything broken.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tower Isle

Located in Tower Isle, this cottage is in the city centre and on the beach. While the natural beauty of Jamaica Beaches and Dunn's River Falls can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Mystic Mountain. Travelling with kids? Consider Prospect Plantation and Reggae Xplosion Museum. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain biking.

Tower Isle, St mary

What's nearby

Reggae Beach - 5 min walk
Prospect Plantation - 2 min drive
White River Reggae Park - 3 min drive
Dunn's River Falls - 13 min drive
Turtle Beach - 14 min drive

Getting around

Ocho Rios (OCJ-Ian Fleming Intl.) - 10 min drive

Restaurants

‪Pizza King - ‬7 min drive
‪Vista Gourmet / Sky Terrace - ‬5 min drive
‪Kimonos @ Sandals Grande Riviera - ‬5 min drive
‪Le Gourmand - ‬6 min drive
‪Polo Lounge - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Artist Cottage at Glory Be - Charming seafront cottage with amazing views located?

Located in Tower Isle, this beachfront cottage is in the city centre and within a 10-minute walk of Reggae Beach and Coral Reef. White River Reggae Park and Prospect Plantation are also within 3 miles (5 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

7.6/10

Cleanliness

4.0/10

Amenities

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.2/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

8/10 Good

Sondra D.

23 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So Relaxing

If you’re looking for privacy and relaxation away from the tourist crowds this is a great place to consider. Nicely located close to Ocho and other tourist attractions but it has its own private entry into the ocean.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

4/10 Poor

PATRICIA

9 Aug 2022

Disliked: Amenities

This property had an excellent view for pictures only. There's no beach to swim in. I had to pay $500 each to swim at a public beach and was told not to carry even the baby 18mts water bottle or pay $1000.00 . Not one TV to see the news and no AC. One bedroom is in the kitchen and that was hell even with a standing fan and a overhead fan. The last night my daughter saw a huge cockroach by the suitcase and tried to kill it but it went away. During the night with the light from her phone she saw it on her pillow. Not a tiny roach. That's very upsetting. Thank goodness the kids were asleep and didn't see it.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Josef M.

5 Jan 2022

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Disliked: Cleanliness

Awe-Inspiring Views

Glory Be is a very nice place, it reminded me of the cottage I summered on in Nantucket as a kid, where the view outweighs the fact the place is out dated and a little too run down. The owner Ronnie is one of the nicest people you will ever meet, he makes you feel as if you are staying with a good family friend or uncle. His dog Sunny was the highlight of the trip for our 10 year old daughter. Sunny greeted her almost every morning at breakfast and she wagged her tail goodnight as we locked up for the evenings, normally Sunny slept on our porch glider. My wife is allergic to dogs and cats but as the dog never comes into the house it isn’t a problem. The TV was broken, but the Wi-Fi worked well so it was not needed, minus the first night, but I figured it out, it was just a loose telephone connection into the router. Ronnie connected us with a shuttle driver/tour guide Mr. Dean, who was great, he picked us up and dropped us off at the airport. He also gave us a tour of the real Jamaican island, but Mr. Dean is moving off island, so future guests may not have the opportunity to use his very professional services. My family spent a lot of afternoons by the pool or down by the ocean, the ocean was a little to rough for my daughter and wife, but I managed to get in. Reef shoes are a must as the whole ocean floor is reef in front of Glory Be. Glory Be is a unique accommodation, at times it feels like you’re camping, it allows you a safe place to just relax and not feel like a tourist.

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tami H.

15 Dec 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome location! Beautiful sea views

Glory Be is located in a wonderful location, close to local beaches and restaurants. It is off the beaten path, which is exactly what we were looking for. It is secluded, with amazing sea views. There is a ladder for sea access for snorkeling, although the sea was a little rough when we were there and we were unable to enjoy the snorkeling. The host offered contact information for both local drivers, and restaurants that would deliver to the property. Close by there is a local private beach for five dollars a person that was beautiful and secluded. Beyoncé pool was perfect, and had plenty of shade. You can tell Glory Be used to be even more amazing and with Covid shutdowns the property could use new beach chairs and a quick outside power washing. The host could not have been more helpful, both Ronald and Stephen were gems and extremely helpful. I spend a lot of time in Jamaica and this property is one of the best I’ve stayed in. Absolutely loved it! Will be back as soon as we can be. Thanks again for the awesome stay!!

Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Randy S., New York, NY

6 Apr 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Trip, do not miss this one!!!

We had a lovely stay on this exquisite property, it is listed as a self catering ecolodge but do not be fooled, read all the legitimately ecstatic 5 star reviews - this is a rare opportunity to stay as a guest in a a beautiful private home. We stayed in the huge artist studio listed, with ocean views and access for swimming and snorkeling on one side (a marine sanctuary) and a pool on the other. The artist studio sleeps 4, with a king size bed in the main kitchen/living room area, sounds awkward but the room is huge and it works, and 2 twin beds in a large bedroom. There are several cottages on the property that may also be available for larger groups if you enquire. We were greeted and well cared for by our gracious generous host Ronnie Schleifer, his gardener Winston who was always available if we needed anything (coconut water from the coconut trees is a must), Annette the housekeeper who comes in a couple times a week (on site laundry also if needed!), Dean our driver to the airport and back (who arranged for pre flight Covid testing and tours) and Dellie's local restaurant for our food deliveries! Completely spoiled!!! The Wifi is excellent for remote working, but highly recommend doing nothing. We will be back next year!! Thanks for everything!

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl S.

5 Apr 2019

Artists Cottage

Just a wonderful reminder of living in Jamaica as a child. Beautiful open views of the surrounding greenery and the ocean. Comfortable and charming. Wonderful hosts. Kind and hospitable.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

6 Jan 2019

Perfect in every way!

This is a most charming property with such hospitable hosts and a picture perfect location! You are so close to all the action in Ocho Rios and surrounding areas and there is so much to see and explore. You get a real Jamaican feel, total peace and tranquility right along side convenience comfort and perfection!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Jill P.

30 Dec 2018

Idyllic haven

If you want to experience the beauty of Jamaica without the commercialism or amusement-park veneer, GloryBe is the place for you. I just returned with my husband from a 5-night stay at the Artist Cottage. Our stay could not have been more relaxing or beautiful. Although it is located close to major attractions on the north coast, we felt far removed from the hustle and bustle. The sound of the ocean waves and assorted wildlife were hypnotic. The cottage is cozy and unique with its own patio, deck, garden, hammock, access to a pool and more -- a wonderful base for exploring the island or retreating from city life. The hosts -- Ron and Karen -- went out of their way to add personal touches (leaving home-made limeade and a snack in our refrigerator to installing a hand-made bench to view the sunset) and assist us in planning activities. There is an excellent beach and restaurant within walking distance. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The week absolutely flew by.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Leslie M.

6 Feb 2018

Do nothing but Relax!!

We stayed at Gory Be for an entire month, so I can speak for it's pure goodness. Rain or Shine, it is a beautiful place. The Artist's Cottage was "home" for the month, with the ocean on one side of our cottage and the pool on the other. The cottage's covered back deck is surrounded by lush vegetation, with the ocean as it's backdrop. We walked a few blocks to the small grocery store, and grabbed a bite to eat at an outdoor local dive. Glory Be is 5-10min away from Ocho Rios and our taxi driver was only a phone call away to take us there. Bamboo Beach is a short walk away, if you want the full service beach. Our older kids joined us and brought in the New Year with us. They stayed in the other two cottages on the property & loved them. It is a very good set up overall. You will wake up and go to sleep with the sound of the ocean's waves, and enjoy the sound of the little frogs called Peepers at night, as well as the abundance of birds and butterflies. We planned this month away as a time to "Reset our Busy Meter", find the "Off" button, and do as much of NOTHING as we possibly could. It was great!! Room Tip: The Artist Cottage is the best location on the property. The Sunspots and Calypso are 2 other cottages that can be rented.

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Carol L.

28 Sept 2017

Beauty and tranquility

We loved staying in the Studio with its rustic charm and interesting history. Karen and Ronnie have all the info on that and it's a vacation inandof itself listening to their stories about their Jamaica. We loved the pool and their beach area and even snorkled right by the property but didn't see a lot of fish as Hurrican Irma had played havoc with the sea 2 weeks earlier. Still very lovely just to be out there. Plan your transportation to and fro carefully as getting to Ocho is not very expensive, getting back on the other hand can cost about 20.00. Karen has a lot of info on drivers and where to go, so not to worry, after all you are in Jamaica! Thanks Karen and Ronnie! Can't wait to return to your heaven on earth.

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Christine W.

26 Mar 2016

Truly Memorable Stay at Glory Be!

My husband and I stayed at Glory Be in the Sunspots Cottage for one glorious month! Karen and Ronnie are the perfect hosts. The grounds are gorgeous, the sea beautiful and the cottages very comfy. We went there to relax and that's exactly what we did-- could not have been more content. When we arrived, I had bronchitis and a nasty cold. Karen fixed me some wonderful Moringa tea to help me heal. I am now a believer in the wonders of sorrel juice! Also, we had plenty of fresh key lime juice from the little trees on the property. Ebony and Daisy, the Glory Be doggies, were frequent visitors to our little cottage. Thanks to the graciousness of Karen and Ronnie, we met many of their close friends. All in all, Karen and Ronnie made us feel like family. We plan to make Glory Be a yearly ritual and we're looking forward to our next visit! Christine W.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

brenda a.

6 Jan 2016

No more all inclusives!

We stayed at Glory Be for 7 glorious nights. We rented two of their cottages. My daughter and her boyfriend thought their cottage was the best, but my husband and I believe ours was!! I cannot say enough about how much we enjoyed the privacy we experienced!! Karen and Ronnie were kind enough to have some groceries stocked in our room. The short walk to Glen's restaurant was made several times!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Angus M.

13 May 2015

Absolutely perfect!

One of the most perfect places we have ever stayed. Karen and Ronnie are wonderful hosts, so helpful and kind throughout our stay and before - how wonderful to arrive to groceries and homemade lemonade waiting in the cottage. All 3 cottages are beautiful - all set within the grounds of the main house but all totally private. We rented the Artists Studio as we are a family of 3 - very well equipped, beuatiful private garden with tress, follows, a multitude of birds and butterflies, and then steps down to a small private beach and snorkelling. From our garden we could see the crusie ships arriving in Ocho Rios, the tourists arriving on nearby Reggae Beach - and we had the tranquility of Glory Be. It is so peaceful you feel you are away from everything when in fact you are a short walk from 3 restaurants and a well-stocked grocery store. We loved Glory Be so much that we only left the premises to walk to the store to buy groceries. We will definitely return and would recommend Glory Be to everyone.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

4 Mar 2015

One of the best accomodations we've ever enjoyed!

My wife and I had the pleasure of a three night stay in the Artist's Cottage at Glory Be, and it was one of the best vacation rentals we've ever had. We've stayed around the world in places rented on the internet. Sometimes the accommodations match your expectations. Sometimes they are worse than they appear to be from the photos and descriptions on line. Our stay at Glory Be with Karen and Ronnie far exceeded our expectations for beauty, convenience, hospitality and location. The Artists Studio is a beautifully adorned studio with a well supplied kitchen, which had fresh eggs, bread and milk waiting for us on our arrival. The furniture was comfortable, and the veranda, which is spacious looks out at the Caribbean, just below. While there are three cottages on their property, they are all very private. Another family was at one of the other units but we hardly saw them the way the cottages are laid out. We had a relatively short pathway down to a private ocean entry-point, and there's a second access to a beach which is more swimmer-friendly not far away. Ronnie and Karen are wonderful hosts who were as helpful as could be. At one point the gas stove stopped working. They invited us into their home to cook, and had a repairman out to fix the gas in a few hours. They are also a font of great information about local attractions and restaurants, and a pleasure to get to know. Of the maybe 20 places I've rented in the last 10 years around the world, Glory Be is one of the very best, which I recommend without hesitation.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kathy M.

24 Feb 2015

Big Up Glory Be!

I've just returned from my break at Glory Be with Karen and Ronnie, and what a different experience from the impersonal all-inclusive hotels found in Jamaica. Here is a true guesthouse with Old World charm, a Jamaican welcome, a private, exclusive spot in the jungle on the sea. The setting is stunning, set in lush gardens with views of the sea from enormous windows and terraces. You walk down the path to the private beach below the cliff-edge location and you don't have to fight for a chair, they're all yours. There are tables for snacks, an outdoor shower, a stretch of sand and steps into the sea for swimming and snorkeling along a teeming reef. At night from any of the three cottages you can hear the crickets and the waves against the ironshore cliffs, lulling you to sleep, and you awake to the sound of tropical birds greeting the day. The cottages have an artsy vibe and beckon you to outdoor spaces due to the expansive views. I stayed in the Artist Cottage with high ceilings, a big kitchen, covered porch, outdoor terrace, guest bedroom, and strong Wi-Fi available everywhere. I appreciated the big desk for working when I needed to. You can walk to Harmony Hall, the best gallery of Jamaican art on the island, and you can dine in the evening at Toscanini's on the first floor. It's a quick hop to downtown Ocho Rios with shops, bars and restaurants, plus the funky Island Village. In the area is Prospect Plantation, Dolphin Cove, Coyaba River Gardens, and Dunn's River Falls. There are plenty of fun day tours and adventures through Chukka Cove, including horseback riding in the sea, zip lining, downhill bike riding, ATV tours, float trips and more. Hosts Karen and Ronnie make you feel welcome, and will fill you in on all the insider tips and ensure your holiday exceeds all expectations. They know all the doings in the area. You'll feel like you've just stopped in on relatives. This is a secret hideaway that you'll want to tell your friends about. Big up Glory Be!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

STEPHANIE S.

8 June 2014

Fabulous place for relaxation!

Glory Be is a wonderful place to relax. The beauty of its surroundings are amazing. There are three cottages on the property, including the owners home, which are each very charming. We stayed in the Calypso Cottage. It Has everything you need for a peaceful getaway. The property is on a cliff and has beautiful steps that lead down to two separate areas for relaxing and getting into the water. The sunsets were amazing, looking out from the patio, over the water, having our dinner and watching faraway ships pass, will be a memory I will cherish forever. My husband enjoyed snorkeling while I enjoyed the sun reading a good book. The reef is steps away and the area perfect for scuba diving as well. My husband was impressed with the reef's beauty and sea life. The property is surrounded with lush gardens, beautiful flowering trees, and is a bird watchers paradise. Very private with gate and faithful watchmen (their sweet dogs). Restaurants within walking distance. And Karen will take you into town for the necessities. If you want relaxation, beauty and peace this is the place to be. WE will be returning for years to come. Ron and Karen, Thank you both for sharing your wonderful home with us. See you next year! Steph and Mike Sarbora, Delaware, USA

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

5 Feb 2013

Amazing setting and amazing people

My girlfriend and I stayed at the Glory Be on a whim. She actually came across it during an online search as we were looking for a place to stay near Ocho Rios during the Rebel Salute Reggae Festival. We're a young couple, in our 30s, and after extensive travel around Portland Parish, we were looking for a place to relax during our final days in Jamaica. I can say with confidence that we definitely found the right place. We stayed three nights in the Calypso Cottage. Even with our late arrival that Thursday, Karen and Ronnie stayed up to greet us. Karen and Ronnie are great folks, who welcome you onto their property like you are family. The grounds are amazing and well taken care of, the private beach is perfect for sunsets, and Reggae Beach is a short walk, or swim away. This was our first fee/pay beach and we loved it. Clean, friendly, and a beautiful setting. Even with our late evening plans at Rebel Salute, Karen and Ronnie were able to provide us with a reliable driver named Chester. A true gentleman, who also ended up driving us to Montego Bay for a departing flight that Sunday. I can't say enough good thinks about the Schleifer's and what they offer travelers of all ages and backgrounds at Glory Be. It is a perfect destination for couples, honeymooners, the weary traveler, or the traveler that wants some privacy and a relaxing stay in a chunk of paradise with a much smaller price tag than an all inclusive resort that traps you within four walls. Thank you so much Karen, Ronnie, and Olive, for the hospitality, flexibility, and generosity. We will definitely return in the future and we look forward to talking about all of that great music and culture that the best island offers.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

23 Jan 2013

Glorious Stay - A Paradise for the Artistically-Inclined Traveller

A haven to creativity, and a paradise of peace and beauty: I stayed at the Marion Simmon's Artist's Studio this January with two teenage boys, and had an exceptional time. The natural beauty of the landscape is extraordinary. The studio is steeped in history and the aesthetic, creative touches are sublime. My sons and I were treated like family rather than paying guests. Our hosts, Ronnie and Karen, took us under there wing and went out of there way to make our stay comfortable -- at the same time leaving us with all the privacy we could ever ask for. I highly recommend this cottage -- (the other two are smaller but very lovely as well) for anyone who does not care for the artificial and bland visit that the majority of tourists will receive on an "all-inclusive". This is definitely off-the-beaten-track and provides an authentic, old-world experience of the true beauty of Jamaica. Once of the best art galleries on the island is a three-minute walk away!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kelly W.

19 Dec 2012

Perfect location and wonderful hosts

My family was given a trip to Jamaica and we chose Glory Be for its location and affordability as my parents were staying here for a full month while my brother and myself were only able to stay for 2 weeks. The kitchen was fully equipped, and if there was anything that we needed, all we had to do was ask. There were lots of linens and beach towels. The snorkeling was great...there were lots of reefs to explore and you could not ask for it to be more accessible, only a short walk down to the beach. The pool was great to relax in, always was kept clean. The wildlife and birds were an enjoyment to observe and listen too...never knew what we were going to see :-) It was a joy to stay here and would recommend it to all who what to get away and have a nice, quite relaxing vacation.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jenny D.

24 July 2012

Girls Getaway !

My sister and I have just come back from a fab week at Glory Be ! The Studio is beautiful and comfortable. The garden is also stunning with an array of different plants and flowers. We loved going in the pool which was so warm ! We also enjoyed snorkelling on the reef, the first time we have ever snorkelled, we saw so many fish once we got the hang of it ! Glory Be is an excellent location for enjoying all the other activities going on around Ocho Rhios, such as tubing on the White River, Horse Riding, ATV touring and relaxing on Reggae Beach. Karen and Ronnie are also perfect hosts, so you come away feeling like you have stayed with friends. I would thoroughly recommend staying at Glory Be to anyone. I also would recommend Jamaica as a great holiday destination which has tonnes to offer.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Daphne M.

5 June 2012

Enchanting

To describe my recent stay at Simmons Cottage, Glory Be, I can only find the best description to be, "Enchanting". Once you pass through the gates of Glory Be property and into the Simmons Cottage area, you find yourself in a Fairytale surrounding only found in storybooks! The beauty of the grounds are endless, sunsets to record over the ocean view, with the coral reefs clearly visible even from a distance. The History so rich and the ambience carried throughout the property, I felt the energy every moment in every relaxing place I found myself. Karen & Ronnie, so warm & welcoming. They toured me around the property, showing me the development of the latest addition to their Cottage properties, I will definitely return to see the finished product! Can't wait Karen! :) The personal touches are felt in each Cottage, but yet, individual each to it's own. Security, kindness and cleanliness, all addressed to perfection. I had no concerns for any of the above at any point in time during my stay. If you are looking for relaxation, privacy and the sound of ocean waves to fall asleep too, with nature abundant... this is the place to be. Looking forward to my next stay and "Glory Be", I found this place! Daphne

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

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9 May 2012

Family visit

Dear Ronnie and Karen, Speaking for Lara,Dana,Dalton, and especially Larsen, we all had a marveloustime in your tropical paradise. but it would be impossible to spell out all the joys your hospitality has provided. Yours Artie from New York

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

bOPhahQb7/zlIFPpQClyTaaYi3wCoSofwWbmH75FBpX9wQ5yZxWma2QFjUofhVf1 b.

9 May 2012

"Old Jamaica"

As soon as one sets foot in Glory Be one can tell it was laid out by an artist. What a treat staying in a piece of "Old Jamaica" real island history. We will be back to visit soon. Edie and Henry, fromNew Mexico

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

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9 May 2012

International travel writer

My favorite spot in Ocho Rios! Wonderful hospitality. Catherine Mc Gillivary Fodor's Travel Guide

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

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8 May 2012

Fantastic

Fantastic! Beautiful! Magnificent! Welcoming and oh so memorable ! Staying in your Studio with the ocean, reef,pool, and unique charm,will forever be chiseled into our minds and spirits. Thank you for being so gracious and warm. We have properly been introduced to Jamaica. It has been a trip of a lifetime. The Stones, from Olympia, Wa.

About the host

Hosted by Karen & Ronnie Schleifer,Glory Be, P.O.Box 5 Tower Isle St. Mary, Jamaica, W.I.

The enchanting property of Glory Be was purchased in 1951 by renowned marine artist, Marion Simmons, who designed the main house and the studio cottage. Karen Schleifer is the grand niece of Marion Simmons and is the present owner. Karen is American and lives in the main house with her husband Ronnie Schleifer, who was in the hotel business for 20 years. Together they have renovated and landscaped in the exquisite taste and style of Karens aunt. The whole property is Karen’s continuing work of art! Upgrades and landscaping are constantly being done.

Why they chose this property

Glory Be says it all! When the bush was cleared, the glorious view was revealed. It was Sir Noel Coward, the English playwriter who lived further along the road on the property of Firefly, who agreed with Marion Simmons to name her property 'Glory Be'. Because the view was so spectacular!

What makes this property unique

The tropical light is ever changing. The sunsets are fabulous and always different. It is an oasis from the hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios. Glory Be is the ultimate destination for the discerning traveler looking for an intimate and romantic hideaway right at the Carribean sea.