Asked about the renovation process, she says it was done on budget within a mere six months. “I was able to find all the materials I needed for the renovation in Jamaica. I visited often, made all major purchases myself and had them delivered. I had workers stay on site to minimize downtimes and to manage project timelines and stay on budget,” she shared. In her absence a trusted colleague acted as project manager. He also stayed on site during the renovation process. Familiar with the work culture and labour costs, he handled work negotiations and payment of the workers. Capitalizing on the sharing economy, Charmaine now markets the property on several holiday rental sites. “We’ve begun to earn with guests coming in from Europe, North America and even Brazil,” she says with a humble yet satisfying pat on the shoulder. Online guest reviews confirm the serenity of the place and the homely hospitality are hallmarks of their stay. The dream has come full circle for Charmaine who still straddles her time between Canada and Jamaica. The best part of it all she says is sharing it with others. “I think I’m overbooked for Christmas,” she laughed, “I’m not sure where I am going to put my family.” CIJ
TOP: Charmaine gets to spend Sundays at the beach. Charmaine’s refurbished 5 bedroom villa in the hills of Montego Bay is a retreat for family and tourists.
CIJ FALL 2018 17
