Villa rentals in the hills offer the advantage of cool breezes and spectacular views of Jamaica landmarks. They're usually cheaper. You'll pay a premium for being down by the beach so expect to pay much, much more. Some Jamaica villa is pre-provisioned with food. It's usual to buy your own food ((costs generally run about US$100 per person per week). Your cook may stock the food for your first dinner and breakfast, and should be reimbursed. He or she normally accompanies you on your shopping spree - a great way to learn about local food items and Jamaican dishes. If you let the cook do your shopping for the villa, be sure to give explicit written instructions, and ask for strict accounting.

Delicious home-cooked meals are prepared by your own villa resident housekeeper and a nanny is available to take care of the children should you need one. This sounds heavenly but terribly expensive, you might say. Not at all. There are hundreds of private villas to choose from. A villa experience offers you the opportunity to experience Jamaica in a personal and different way. You have the freedom to explore the country at your leisure and convenience. With your own personal villa staff to take care of the domestic details, your time is your own to spend as you please.

Several of Jamaica's most elegant resorts offer villa rentals in privately owned homes with access to all resort facilities.  These include Half Moon, Round Hill, and the Tryall Club, all near Montego Bay, and the Trident Villas near Port Antonio.

Usually, upscale villas have a private pool, TV with VCR, stereo and often a tennis court.  They are almost always fully staffed with a maid, cook, and gardener.  Some even include a butler and laundress.