FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Tensing Pen (and a Few You Haven’t Thought of Asking…)

1 – Where is Tensing Pen located, and how far is it from the airport?
Tensing Pen is located on the west end cliffs of Negril, Jamaica. We are about a 10 to 15 minutes drive from the famous Negril 7-Mile Beach, and approximately a 95-minute drive from Montego Bay International Airport (MBJ).

The best way to get there? We can suggest independent reputed drivers to transport from Montego Bay airport to our hotel. Alternatively, guests who feel confident about their driving skills can opt to rent a car from Montego Bay airport, but please do so at your own risk, Jamaica is a country with challenging road manners.

2 – What types of accommodations are available at Tensing Pen?
The hotel offers a collection of handcrafted cottages, bungalows, rooms and one 3-bedroom villa. Our units are a mix of ocean view and garden view, and all come with a veranda, balcony or porch. Each accommodation is uniquely designed with natural materials, and decorated in authentic Jamaican style. All are decorated with Caribbean and Jamaican arts and crafts acquired over the years by the owners.

3 – Is Tensing Pen an adults-only or family-friendly hotel? What to Pack?
During high season from December 1 to April 30, Tensing Pen boutique hotel welcomes guests 12 years and older for a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. We welcome families of all ages for full-property buy-outs at any time, or between May 1 and November 30.  

Negril is often referred to as Capital of Casual. No need to over-pack or dress fancy. Just bring a couple of swim suits, some shorts and shirts, and perhaps a dress for ladies or linen pants for men at night for dinner. Most of your day will be spent in your bathing suit! Pack sunscreen and bug spray, even though Tensing Pen often fogs to get rid of pesky mosquitos. Also remember your flip-flops and tennis shoes for that morning walk or jog. If you forget, you can buy these at our Gift Shop.

4 – What dining options are available on the property?
Guests can enjoy open-air breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Lodge Restaurant. Our Lodge restaurant is open to the public and features locally inspired Jamaican creative cuisine, using fresh seafood, and local organic farm-to-table ingredients. Our Lodge Bar is open 10 AM to 10 PM, and serves handcrafted cocktails, a curated wine list, local and domestic beers, and healthy juices and smoothies.

5 – Does the hotel offer ocean access or swimming areas?
Yes, Tensing Pen offers direct ocean access via ladders set into the cliffs, along with a scenic swimming pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. We have an assortment of free water floats and Stand up Paddle boards for our guests enjoyment. Always check with our lifeguard before entering the water for your own safety.

6 – Are meals, activities, or packages included in the room rate?
A daily continental breakfast is included; the resort is not all-inclusive, allowing guests to customize their dining and activity experiences.

7 – What amenities are available in the rooms and cottages?
Accommodations feature Jamaican and Caribbean unique art, handcrafted furnishings. All rooms come with A/C, ceiling fans, in-room safes and irons/ ironing board, premium linens , and mini-fridge/full size fridge. Pillar rooms come with outdoor showers but en-suite toilets and wash basins. Bathrobes, yoga mat, umbrella and hair dryer available upon request for free (require deposit).

8 – Is Wi-Fi available throughout the property?
Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi internet is available in all rooms, and common areas.

9 – Does Tensing Pen offer spa, wellness, or yoga services?

Yes! Our on-site spa huts is where our massages, facial and and holistic treatments take place, with a full service list of treatments by skilled and licensed therapists. Our Seasong Pavilion, our open-air, ocean-facing wellness space hosts daily wellness practices. Classes such as yoga, reiki, journaling, sound bath, meditation, drumming class, paint and sip, meditation, are available in serene cliffside settings. Ask us about our Wellness Retreats, as we often host outside retreats by groups out of New York, Miami, Chicago and Jamaica.

10 – Does the Hotel arrange activities and excursions?
Yes! The hotel can assist with setting up snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, local tours, and cultural excursions throughout Negril and beyond. We arrange full day or half-day trips to wonderful locations such as Benta River Falls, Mayfield or YS Falls, Appleton Rum Factory, Lethe River Bamboo Rafting, Blue Mineral Hole and Cannabis Farm, or RastaSafari ATV rides and zip-lining. We also started our own Art Tour to visit the area’s most prominent artists and artisans. Book through the Front Desk.

11 – What is the cancellation and deposit policy?
Cancellation and deposit policies vary depending on individual vs. group reservations. Guest should review the policy at the time of booking or contact the hotel directly. Generally, cancellations made 31 or more days before arrival receive full refund of deposit; 30 to 15 days prior receive 50% refund, and 14 days or less, no refund.

12 – What is the best time of year to visit Tensing Pen?
The best time to visit is from late November through June, when Jamaica enjoys warm temperatures and low humidity.