Zimbali Culinary Retreats

“Beautiful scenery in the midst of nature - shame about the wife though.”

Positives: 1. Beautiful accommodation with greenery and wilderness—serene and tranquil 1000%. Fresh fruit was plentiful on‑site, though not all was available for breakfast; Mark (owner) would bring it the next morning if requested. 2. Mark communicated quickly and helpfully before arrival. 3. Mark gave clear GPS directions, though we took a wrong turn (our fault). 4. Staff: Samoya was pleasant, helpful, and funny, acting as a liaison between us and the other owner. GG (the gardener/farm hand) was also nice and supplied us with plenty of fruit, even Noni fruit for my mosquito bites. 5. The accommodation felt like a small home on a family plot. 6. Additional fruit was given free of charge when requested; I was happy to pay but was simply asked to “give something to GG for his efforts.” Negatives: 1. The other owner/wife/chef had abhoringly horrible energy and attitude, setting a bad tone for the whole stay. I had many incidents, but I realized describing them wouldn’t change her, as reviews since 2023 have noted the same. It was a shame because my mother and I would have liked to recommend Zimbali to family who visit Jamaica often, especially those based in the north, central, and east of the island, and to return ourselves. Her sour, sullen face and “renkness” + attitude made us count down the nights we had left. Even my cousins who dropped us off were hesitant to stay because they found her extremely unfriendly and unhelpful after just three minutes of interaction. We were there mainly to relax for a wedding and a memorial, not to do tours. Mark and Samoya handled everything; the owner never introduced herself, asked about our stay, or inquired about the meals she cooked. 1

Nafeesah·Vor einem Jahr

“Wonderful dinner show and a lovely retreat surrounded by nature.”

The place was kept in good shape, but there were occasional dog poops on the walkway that were only cleaned up later; I’d prefer the dogs to do their business in the bushes. The female owner didn’t help when I asked for something to eat outside lunch hours, and I heard her having loud arguments that could have been kept private.

Phelia·Vor einem Jahr

The food was farm‑to‑table, and the staff were great.

Prasade·Vor einem Jahr

The remote, peaceful spot had lush mountain greenery, no big concrete buildings, clean air, beautiful wood and bamboo, and great views—all wrapped in a real Jamaican vibe. I slept well in a comfy bed and the host gave a warm welcome; no regrets. Leaving was the only downside.

Julia·Vor einem Jahr

I loved everything at Zimbali, especially Mark and his crew who were welcoming and accommodating. The dinner is a must‑try, and the sunset turns the surroundings into a natural lullaby. I only woke to a door knock in the morning, and Chef Jeffrey’s breakfast was amazing. I could keep listing the positives, but the place is deep in the jungle and sugarcane fields, so bugs are inevitable. The room I chose felt a bit rustic compared to the more modern pool‑side rooms, but that was my choice.

Gary·Vor einem Jahr