The 1990s, often portrayed as an era of relentless work in movies like Glengarry Glen Ross and The Associate, received a refreshing counter-narrative in 1998 with How Stella Got Her Groove Back. This film, starring Angela Bassett, granted permission, particularly to Black women, to prioritize self-care and escape. Bassett’s portrayal of Stella Payne, a driven yet emotionally depleted stockbroker, resonated deeply with audiences. Divorced and weary of her demanding routine, Stella, guided by her vivacious friend Delilah (played by Whoopi Goldberg), embarks on a transformative vacation at the luxurious Round Hill Hotel and Villas in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Even 25 years later, Stella’s journey of rediscovery remains profoundly relevant, encouraging us to seek respite and rejuvenation.
Inspired by Stella’s cinematic escape, a personal journey to Round Hill was undertaken to explore if this iconic location could still offer the same revitalizing experience. Just like Stella, the need for a break was palpable. The pressures of demanding careers and the specific challenges faced by women, particularly after divorce, created a yearning for tranquility and self-rediscovery. Re-watching How Stella Got Her Groove Back as adults, the film’s themes of burnout and the desire for personal fulfillment resonated even more deeply.
Image: Angela Bassett’s portrayal of Stella Payne, a sophisticated stockbroker seeking a break, in the movie “How Stella Got Her Groove Back”.
Stepping into Round Hill: A Timeless Retreat
Round Hill exudes an atmosphere of classic, understated elegance. The arrival experience itself is designed to soothe; descending the winding hill towards the white lobby building, glimpses of the turquoise Caribbean Sea peek through the green and white striped awning. The interiors evoke the refined yet comfortable style of Ralph Lauren Home, a fitting aesthetic considering Ralph Lauren’s redesign of the hotel rooms in the “Pineapple House” and the Grill restaurant. Photographs of distinguished past guests, reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy’s era, adorn the walls, reinforcing the resort’s legacy of discreet luxury. It’s a place that whispers quiet indulgence, ideal for those seeking respite from demanding lives and possessing the means to pamper themselves. This is the essence of soft luxury: serene, sophisticated, and utterly restorative.
Image: Cottage 11 at Round Hill Hotel and Villas, illustrating its pristine white exterior and stunning ocean vista.
Indulging in Jamaican Luxury and Leisure
Round Hill offers a range of accommodations, including 26 private villas and 36 rooms within the Pineapple House. The villas, some boasting outdoor showers, provide an extra layer of seclusion and luxury. Following in Stella’s footsteps by choosing a villa, the experience was one of complete immersion in the resort’s offerings. Mornings began with peaceful beach visits, observing the awakening resort from a tranquil distance. Days were dedicated to rejuvenation at the spa, indulging in treatments like back facials and massages. For the more active, the resort’s hilly terrain offered invigorating three-mile runs. Villa life included leisurely breakfasts on the patio, featuring local flavors like ackee and saltfish alongside healthy options like egg-white omelets, all prepared and served with impeccable service. Evenings were a culinary exploration of Caribbean fusion, with dishes like jerk snapper and uniquely spiced scotch-bonnet pepper ice cream, perfectly complemented by the resort’s curated wine list. The vibrant atmosphere of the resort, which also attracts bachelorette parties, added a touch of celebratory energy to the serene setting.
Image: The interior of Cottage 11, highlighting the clean, white décor and sophisticated design that made it a perfect choice.
Exploring Montego Bay with Intention
Beyond the luxurious confines of Round Hill, Montego Bay beckoned with its own unique charm. Exploration was approached with a sense of leisure and purpose, mirroring Stella’s desire to reconnect with herself and her surroundings. A rafting trip down the Great River with Chukka offered a taste of adventure and local culture. Floating down the river, enjoying champagne and fresh mangoes, and experiencing a limestone foot massage from the river captain, Aldean, provided an authentic and sensory Jamaican experience. Evenings were reserved for culinary discoveries, including trying breadfruit gnocchi at the Sugarmill Restaurant and savoring escovitch and rice and peas at the Houseboat Grill, accessible by a makeshift raft. These off-resort excursions provided a deeper connection to Jamaica, complementing the relaxation and luxury found at Round Hill.
Stella’s Enduring Inspiration
How Stella Got Her Groove Back is more than just a romantic comedy; it’s a film about self-discovery, prioritizing well-being, and embracing new experiences. Stella Payne’s journey resonates because it reflects a universal need to escape the pressures of daily life and reconnect with oneself. Round Hill Hotel and Villas, as depicted in the movie and experienced in reality, offers an idyllic setting for such a transformation. Whether seeking a luxurious escape, a romantic getaway, or simply a moment of self-reflection, the spirit of Stella’s journey encourages us all to find our own version of paradise and get our groove back. The film’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless message: it’s essential to take a break, rediscover joy, and prioritize personal happiness.
