Relaxation is synonymous with Jamaica. So, it’s no wonder Nadia Koch, proprietor of the bar Home Sweet Home, one of NYC's downtown after-hours staples, jumped at the invitation to experience their luxury resort, Royal Plantation, in Ocho Rios.

Since Home Sweet Home’s advent into New York City nightlife in 2006, Koch and her partner Kristen Vincent have been juggling art gallery gatherings, after parties for bands, and weekly events that bring in a multitude of neighborhood regulars and city notables alike from Chloe Sevigny to Moby.

Miles away, the serenely set Royal Plantation, built in the 1950s, caters to those who crave an intimate experience coupled with white-glove care. With only 74 suites, it offers private enclaves of comfort. Guests can lie on the beach with a cocktail, take a dip in the pool, or frankly, just do nothing.

psychoPEDIA caught up with Koch upon her return to New York City. Here’s what she had to say about her slice of paradise:

What was your first thought when heading out to Royal Plantation?
“Thank goodness! I wish my trip was longer." The idea of taking such a quick trip from New York City–- only three hours away, and you're in a completely different environment–- is fantastic! You didn’t have to make the time commitment to check out and venture far, far away.

How was it upon first arrival?
It was really impressive, because it looked so different than any other resorts we were passing. It’s very Old World in decoration. And it's much smaller and intimate. You don’t feel like there are people everywhere. It’s like your own private hotel. As soon as we stepped foot inside, we were offered a cocktail while signing paperwork. Six people were there immediately to take care of us, and it wasn’t this formal check-in.

What was the experience waking up the first morning at the resort?
I had a cup of coffee and sat out on my balcony and saw the most beautiful beaches and views. They really take care of the special details in the rooms. Our little bar area had everything you could possibly need to make yourself a proper cup of coffee and not have to get room service.

How would you rate the room service?
Our butler comes into the room with white gloves and sets up an eating area wherever you’d like to sit in your room–- either in the dining area, on the balcony-– seats you, places your napkin in your lap, and then leaves. Very formal, but very gracious. They even had a pillow menu! There’s a selection of different pillows to choose from. It was amazing.

What about when you're sitting by the pool or beach?
You have that feeling where you don’t feel awkward sitting on the beach while raising your little flag for either another cocktail or an extra towel. They’re there not to serve you, but simply to make you happy.

Is it exhausting to run your own bar?
It’s an everyday, 24-hour job. There are so many things to do, but there’s a lot of flexibility in it. Lately, we’ve been getting a better handle on the bar, so we’re able to start thinking in new directions on how we better this or something else. We also have a great staff. Things have come together really nicely over the past two years. It’s finding its own space and voice in New York City nightlife.

Having experience with bars yourself, how did the cocktails measure up?
I really liked one specialty called a "mangosa," which is Mango puree and champagne. It was their version of a mimosa, and they had a couple of other specialty cocktails. Their pina coladas were the best ever-- all the time, whenever you wanted, because it’s inclusive.

Did you try any of their spa treatments?
Yes, I had two treatments at Red Lane: the first was an exfoliation and entire body wrap. I typically don’t believe in those treatments working, but it was amazing and my skin was so soft. My manicure and pedicure was great too, but I wish there was a little music playing in the background.

What was your most memorable experience?
Our formal night where we shared the evening with the general manager, Peter Fraser. We started off in their private Cigar Room. He personally prepared steak tartar for us. Caviar, martinis, canapés, the Veuve was flowing. My drink was never empty. You felt like a lady. They also did the sabering with the champagne bottle, where you find the seam on the bottle and then cut off the top. Then it was followed with a lovely dinner where our wines were specially paired with our meals.

Why would you recommend Royal Plantation?
You get a feeling as to what Jamaica is all about, yet your focus to go there is to relax and not think about anything. You’re not there to run into town and dance it up at the dance hall! You’re there to relax and recharge your batteries.

Now that you’re back to the grind, what do you miss most about Jamaica?
That view from my balcony and taking a nap there after being on the beach all day with a lovely cocktail by my side.

~Jessica McMenamin