Couples San Souci in Ocho Rios Gets New Lease on Life

Couples San Souci enjoyed movie star status in the early ‘60s as the backdrop for the James Bond thriller “Dr. No.” Now, nearly 50 years later, the Ocho Rios property is ready for its close-up once again.

The five-star, all-suite property recently received a $4.5 million refurbishment that combined Jamaican decor with contemporary upgrades.

“We want to provide our guests with clean, elegant surroundings with a contemporary feel,” said Randy Russell, Couples’ chief romance officer and senior vice president of sales and marketing.

A mainstay of the Ocho Rios hotel scene for more than half a century, Sans Souci is the latest property to join the Jamaican-owned Couples family of all-inclusive resorts, which also includes Couples Swept Away and Couples Negril, both in Negril, and Couples Ocho Rios.

Set atop Jamaica’s emerald hills, Sans Souci (“without a care” in French) is carved into the cliffs, with winding walkways, grottoes and Caribbean vistas.

Details include bronze lobby sculptures by local artist Basil Watson, the resort’s signature colors of blue and white throughout the property and large, open balconies in many guest rooms.

Suites are arranged in blocks on various levels on the cliffs. The Evergreen building is closest to the lobby. Guests book these rooms for unobstructed sea views and proximity to the Balloon bar, which features live music several nights a week.