M’Bala is the type of place that you almost can’t believe is real - because of Holly’s taste but also because of the special energy she and Paso have created in the space. The house is perfectly true and authentic to itself (and the original property) - everything feels exactly like it’s supposed to be there.

The house is alive, it breathes the same way that we do. The colours make you feel like you’re living in some sort of dreamverse. Waking up there opened my own eyes to colour; Holly’s love of brightness would rub off on even the most minimalist person. It’s hard not to wake up smiling when you’re living in the pinks and the reds.

Every amenity is exactly what you’d need to feel at home, even so far from home, and the way that the house is designed means that everyone in each room is having a completely unique experience, all tied together by the multiple beautiful communal areas where you can congregate and reflect.

The space is the pinnacle of taste, and you’d almost convince yourself it wasn’t real if you weren’t constantly scrolling back through your photos to show people “the best house you’ve ever stayed in”.

M’Bala is something else! It’s not just a house, it’s a home that truly makes you feel connected to the land. Perched at the top of a hill, you’re surrounded by deep green, birdsong, and silence… it’s the kind of peaceful you can’t find in many places.

Just a 10-minute walk down the hill and you’re at the Blue lagoon, where the water literally glows! Everyone knows the family, and you feel like you belong from the moment you arrive. Head a little further in the other direction, and you’ll find yourself swimming in freshwater river streams that merge into the warm, salty Caribbean Sea.

Days are filled with swims, boat rides, music, and some of the most delicious food. From hidden river restaurants to the best home-cooked Ital meals.

The house itself is full of life, vibrant pinks and warm tones, art, and thoughtful design, so clearly shaped by Holly’s eye and spirit!

The pool is tucked into a garden of fruit trees and towering old giants that feel like they’ve been watching over the land for centuries. It’s a truer version of Jamaica!! One that feels rare to come by in the Caribbean these days. Rooted in community and full of soul!

“My friend and I had the most magical stay at M’Bala. We came by car from. Kingston. After taking in the views of the coast road and the incredible lush hillsides, arriving at the house was a magical delight.

It at once felt welcoming, a perfect balance of homely, unique and eclectically stylish. Everywhere you look the place is both visually stimulating and imbued with a sense of calm and serenity. A perfect place to truly unwind.

The pool area and surrounding gardens with it’s incredible view is perfect. I’m an early riser so it was a heavenly place to spend the morning dipping in and out of the pool, reading on a sun lounger and cooking up a delicious breakfast in the well appointed kitchen - using heavenly local produce - till my travelling partner was up and ready to head out for an adventure..can’t blame her for the lye in, the crisp clean sheets, cloud comfy beds and cooling sea breeze were perfect for deliciously deep slumber.

We were keen to get out and explore but one could just as easily stay and relax at the villa for the entire day. Two of the most wonderful swimming spots, Frenchman’s Cove and Blue lagoon, are a short few minutes drive or an easy downhill stroll away. We did both during our stay. It’s a lovely walk along a quiet road, no cars passed us on our way, shaded by towering palms and incredible lush tropical ferns and accompanied by the sound of birds Bliss… unless you are intent on a good solid glute workout, a taxi back up the hill at the end of the day is a good shout and easy to find.

We hired a car in Portland, enjoying a day in town whilst collecting it and had a great time exploring along the coast. Highlights being Turtle Bay Cove, Boston Beach, Winnifred’s Beach, Reach Falls and a wonderful day meandering down the Rio Grande on a Raft. The nearby village of Drapers is a great place to sip a rum, watch the world go by with the locals and vibe to the pumping sound system.

All in all an unmatched holiday in the lush parish of Portland, a total relax and recharge. I will certainly be booking to stay again.”