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Summary
Our Studio offers several creature comforts, HGTV styled-living, a characterful room and acoustic bathroom all set on the leafy grounds of an historic tropical urban oasis in the heart of New Kingston and approx 2.5 Kms/5 mins from the U.S. Embassy.
The Space
* 24 hour security
* Complimentary welcome basket of grocery essentials
* Calls to more than 120 countries including land-lines and mobile phones in the USA, Canada, India and China, plus land-lines only in the UK, Brazil and most European and South American countries (**Conditions Apply).
* Free Wi-Fi
* Local mobile phone available (refundable deposit required)
* Safety Deposit Box (billed separately)
* Free, on-site parking
A fully self contained 325 Sq. Ft. Studio Apartment with a 'Bombay Mango Tree' neatly perched...Summary
Our Studio offers several creature comforts, HGTV styled-living, a characterful room and acoustic bathroom all set on the leafy grounds of an historic tropical urban oasis in the heart of New Kingston and approx 2.5 Kms/5 mins from the U.S. Embassy.
The Space
* 24 hour security
* Complimentary welcome basket of grocery essentials
* Calls to more than 120 countries including land-lines and mobile phones in the USA, Canada, India and China, plus land-lines only in the UK, Brazil and most European and South American countries (**Conditions Apply).
* Free Wi-Fi
* Local mobile phone available (refundable deposit required)
* Safety Deposit Box (billed separately)
* Free, on-site parking
A fully self contained 325 Sq. Ft. Studio Apartment with a 'Bombay Mango Tree' neatly perched outside your window frame provides a pictureque back-drop and a cool tropical breeze throughout the day and night with a combination of sea and mountain breeze all year round.
Guest Access
'Choose to Be Happy!' is situated in a gated complex with 24-hour security in the 'Golden-Triangle' - an upscale residential community that is in close proximity to the business district, New Kingston and Liguanea. Shops, restaurants and other amenities are all close by.
Our Studio comes equipped with complimentary in-room coffee/tea, direct dial telephone with voice-mail, 42' plasma television, executive work desk, iron and ironing board, data ports for internet/e-mail access, In-room bolt-down combination safety deposit box (billed separately) and Sony Dolby Pro-Logic Surround Sound. The Studio is ideal for executives, guests, couples, etc who are visiting Kingston for the first time or returning to our beautiful shores to do business or simply relax.
>> Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access is available in-room and within close proximity to the room.
>> Our Studio features a sofa bed and full size kitchenette for added convenience.
>> Maid-Service once per week (**Conditions Apply).
Why 'Choose To Be Happy?' - 8 Reasons Why!!!
1. Every new day is another chance to change your life - If you have dreamed of some things that you would like to have in your life, today is a great opportunity to do even some small things that will take you to the path that will take you to your dreams.
2. This day is an opportunity to be better than yesterday - If you pursuit every day to be better than yesterday, your self esteem and happiness will increase. Don’t try to be perfect, just focus on being a little bit better person in every way, every day, and you will achieve great things and happiness in the long run.
3. You can be who you want to be right now - It doesn’t matter what your situation looks like, you can start being who you want to be today, no matter how your life is at the moment. You don’t have to sell your house to be adventurous or have more money to share it more. Just ask yourself: “How can I be that person I want to be in this moment?”
4. The glass is both half-empty and half-full - Your attitude and thoughts define your reality, so you can choose how you see your life starting today. Finding compassion even for the worst in human behavior, and working to inspire the best will make you happy, too.
5. Happiness comes from your own actions - You can do anything you want today to make your life better if you just decide to do so. You can spread joy around you, even if you don’t have everything you want. Giving joy to other people will make your day happier, too.
6. You have great friends - You have good friends in your life that you can share your inner feelings with. If you don’t have that many close friends, today is a great opportunity to make new friends.
7. You can learn a new thing today - Learning new skills is very rewarding and helps us to proceed in life. It is possible to learn something new every day, so start thinking what you would like to learn today and just find ways to learn it. Now when we have the Internet, it is so easy to learn anything by just asking Google.
8. The summer is coming soon - If the summer isn’t coming in the next months where you live right now, it will always come in one year anyway. Remember the feeling of warm sun on your skin, the smell of coconut sunscreen, not having to wear a coat even at night, sunglasses, freckles, cold beer, the beach, tan lines, the smell of freshly cut grass and the faces of happy people? Thinking about summer and the good times you will have then makes you feel good.
Interaction with Guest
Our guest may interact with us whenever necessary.
Other Things To Note
The apartment complex has a swimming pool.
House Rules
No cigar, cigarette or marijuana smoking allowed. No drugs. No more than 2 persons per apartment. No pets. No children.
House Rules
Pets not allowedKid friendlyNo smoking
1. CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT TIMES - CHECK-IN AFTER 3:00 P.M. & CHECK-OUT BEFORE 11:00 A.M.
2. CARE OF LINENS AND TOWELS - DO NOT WASH WITH COLORED CLOTHING AND USE ONLY FOR THEIR INTENDED PURPOSE.
3. FREE WIFI INTERNET - AVAILABLE IN-ROOM
4. GARBAGE DISPOSAL - LOCATED AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE PROPERTY.
5. DAMAGE ITEMS - MUST BE COMMUNICATED FOR A FAST AND AMICABLE RESOLUTION.
8. CONSERVE ENERGY
9. NO CIGAR, CIGARETTE OR MARIJUANA SMOKING. NO PETS AND PLEASE NOTE MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY.
Bedrooms
1 King
Bathrooms
1 Shower
Meet the host
SHELDON J
Hosting since August 2014
Languages spoken: English, Spanish, Japanese
Response Time: Within a few hours
Interaction with guests: We give our guests space. We are on call right throughout your stay.
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The host, Mr James is the best! I was greeted warmly upon arrival and checked in quickly , the place was nice and clean , with refreshments , I felt right at home , the garden view was nice and the pool was a wonderful way to cool down during the summer heat! Mr James sent me a lot of things to do and restaurants I could visit and if I felt like staying in , companies that did food deliveries or supermarket runs , the location is in close proximity to many places plus transportation is easily accessible, you will definitely enjoy your stay at choose to be happy and certainly the name says it all! Plus security features made me felt even better! I definitely recommend anyone to stay here and will certainly return in the future. Big Up Mr. James 😃
Visited July 2023
Written 9 July 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Chris A
Shepshed, United Kingdom21 contributions
SUPERIOR!
Absolutely fabulous! One could want for nothing more. Excellent self catering apartment. I was met and greeted by Mr.James, the host.
A most hospitable chap and jolly helpful too. I was given a thorough briefing on all the facilities available in the apartment. TV. DVD player. Air con. WiFi. Lighting. Cooker. etc. local amenities.
Spotlessly clean throughout and everything in very good order.
An excellent base for anyone that needs a base in Kingston - for pleasure or business.
Will certainly return.
Visited October 2017
Written 11 October 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lance J
7 contributions
Home from Home
I had the privilege of staying at "Choose To Be Happy!" @ 16, it was either a self catering apartment or a hotel, and I was glad that we made the right choice and stayed at the apartment saving ourselves a lot of money.
The apartment was decorated to a very high standard, it was very clean and very comfortable. All in all, it provided us with a very pleasant and comfortable couple of nights.
I will definitely be choosing “Choose To Be Happy!" @ 16 again and would highly recommend it
Visited April 2017
Written 25 May 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Audrey8799
2 contributions
Warm
Quaint, cozy, comfortable space. Gorgeously tailored to this style conscious traveler. Sheldon thank you being so welcoming and hospitable. I will always appreciate how comfortable and secure you made us felt.
Visited August 2016
Written 31 August 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
345sweetnezz
47 contributions
ONE OF THE BEST APARTMENT WITHIN KINGSTON
BOOK NOW FOR A WONDERFUL STAY FOR A GOOD PRICE !!
Throughout the times we have stayed in Kingston, this is the BEST apartment rental we have booked. The apartment was better in person than in the pictures. The apartment was of Great TASTE in regards to the modern design, very clean , GREAT LOCATION, quiet and a very Secure area.
The highlight of our arrival was that the owner was present to greet us. He provided a range of information about Kingston and was always available to give us support when needed. It was wonderful to meet someone who is so resourceful and humble.
GREAT STAY AND WE WILL BE BACK VERY SOON !!
Visited April 2016
Written 12 April 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ylynch7
Spartanburg, SC1 contribution
The Home you WISH you had back home!
For starters, my flight arrived after 6 p.m,, after check-in. and Mr. James accommodated my late arrival.The apartment was not far from the airport and is centrally located. He was waiting at the apartment when we arrived. He escorted us in and oriented us to the apartment and the property as well gave a short tutorial on how to work the aminities (which are also provided in the apartment written in detail incase you forget). The apartment was just as pictured in the photos! We were pleasantly surprised not to mention very pleased. We all know how deceiving pictuers can be. The decor was immaculate, the art work appeared to be orginal pieces. The appliances and counter tops were high end. All the things you need to perpare a meal were available: pots, pans utensils, dishes. There was a curtsey basket of snacks, teas and etc. provided. The linen closet was stocked with fresh linen, towels, wash cloths, beach towels etc. There was an iron as well as an ironing board. If you think you need it, it most likely was available. There was also a movie library as well as magizines to read. The bed was HEAVEN, very comfy! The bathroom was beautifully done and we loved having surround sound throughout the aprarment. There is a speaker in the ceiling in the bathroom that lets you hear what was playing on the T.V.. What a great feature! We truly felt at home. It's obvious we loved the apartimet and enjoyed our stay, however it was comforting to know and experience that If we had any quesitons or concerns Mr. James was alwasy easy to contact and he responsed very promptly. We chose to be happy and was not disappointed! We extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. James and his family! Thank you for an amazing vacation in Jamaica and we will always Choose To Be Happy!
Visited October 2015 Travelled solo
Written 1 November 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marielle A
England, United Kingdom8 contributions
Very Comfortable, Lovely experience, will definitely return.
I found this lovely vacation rental while searching online. I consider Jamaica to be my second home, and I usually stay with friends or at a hotel when I visit there. This was my first experience staying at a vacation rental and it was perfect. Sheldon James, the owner is amazing, he greeted me and left few groceries for me as a welcome gift.
The apartment looked exactly as it did in the photos online. The kitchen had everything (microwave, stove, kettle, refridgerator, utensils), which was important to me since I was able to prepare my meals without any fuss. The bathroom was very clean. There was a land telephone available, and of course Internet. I was impressed, the apartment was very cozy. I loved that the apartment is at a great location, close to TGIF, Sovereign Mall, Halfway Tree.
Sheldon also ensured that I had no problems, for the 4 days that I spent there, he was easy to contact and very helpful.
Choose to be Happy was a wonderful experience, it definitely exceeded my expectations. Without a doubt I will definitely stay here again in the near future.
Visited June 2015
Written 14 July 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JillrayO
George Town, Grand Cayman42 contributions
good location and well maintained unit
The place is very accessible to key areas in Kingston like the US embassy, Marley museum, Devon house and the Frankfurt bus terminal. The unit is very orderly and obviously
well maintained thanks to the given houserules which is appropriate and not hard to follow. Every space in the unit is functional, small but complete in amenities and designed with taste. Sheldon was very nice and helpful host. We felt like at home during our 4 days stay. Bonus: we had free mangoes everyday thanks to the big mango trees with delicious mangoes just falling in the field.
Visited June 2015
Written 9 July 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
passportprincess1
Chicago, IL22 contributions
Professional peaceful Kingston stay(cation)
I had the pleasure of staying at this rental May 22nd –May 25th 2015. I can truly say from beginning to end Sheldon was not only professional but also accommodating. The process for booking the rental was a smooth one as well as he continued to keep me informed on the entire process. Prior to my arrival he linked me with two drivers of my choice that would be accessible for any needs I had i.e. trips to the store, rides around Kingston, etc. I not only felt SAFE but I was made to feel comfortable. Due to my early AM flight I wasn’t able to check in but Sheldon came through once again and not only did the driver pick me up from Norman Manley airport but we were able to visit the TUFF GONG studio owned by BOB MARLEY & family, the Coronation market for fresh fruit and then the local grocery store for snacks as well as oxtails and rice for a late lunch. Upon arrival the gorgeous condo was cleaned to perfection and Sheldon had a “goodie basket” to welcome me. He took the time to intricately show me how each remote worked, he also had a laminated direction sheet and was accessible as needed. The phone in the living spaces was available for local calls via LIME as well which was extremely helpful. All in all I would definitely visit again as well as recommend him . I truly miss the huge mango tree out front and the pool as well..and promise to return.
TIPS: Use the same driver via Kingston, make sure to visit Bob Marley museum, Tuff Gong studios, and have fun!
Visited May 2015 Travelled solo
Written 24 June 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Amazinapple
27 contributions
Nice cosy studio apartment in a great location in Kingston
Sheldon was a welcoming host, and was very warm and friendly. He would check in from time to time to make sure everything was okay however this was not overbearing. On the last night of our stay Sheldon took us out to a lovely Jamaican restaurant which was lovely! The property was of true reflection of what I had seen in the pictures. I liked that everything that was needed was in the studio apartment was there to ensure that my stay was comfortable. I had no problems whatsoever. The apartment was of a good location and the pool got cleaned regularly. I would definitely have Sheldon as a host again and would also recommend him as a host.
Visited May 2015
Written 27 May 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
DayTrip545251
It was an absolute pleasure having Maxine and her mom, Beryl stay with us whilst on their working vacation in Kingston conducting business and visiting friends and family. Maxine and her mom were absolutely AWESOME house guests. Prior to her arrival and during the period they stayed at "CTBH"; they communicated exceptionally well with us. She's respectful, observant of house rules and an all-round good 'spirited' lady. I'd recommend her 100% as a house guest to any AIRBNB host. We'd be happy to welcome her back anytime!
Written 28 May 2015. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Residential Homes walking distance from Sovereign Centre, the Unites States Embassy, 100 Bar and Lounge to name a few.
Getting around
Our studio apartment is about 20 minutes from the airport and it is easy to find Transportation from the airport. On Time Taxi Service is our preferred Public Transportation if you opt not to rent a car.
Access
Car not needed
How to get there
Please contact host or your can find us on Google Maps
Things to know
Check in / out timings
Check in after 3 pm • Check out by 11 am
Cancellation policy
100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
50% refund* if you cancel at least 4 weeks before check-in
No refund available once booking is confirmed
About this property
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