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I don't know about you, but I'd never heard about this resort prior to 2019, and from my knowledge, neither did many other Jamaicans. The pandemic had pushed back their reopening date around four times and needless to say...that was a red flag . The uproar on their Instagram page was intense but justified, as persons had unrefundable plane tickets, couples had delayed their honeymoons, and the communication from the hotel was dismal. However, the resort officially reopened in May 2021, so my husband and I took a leap of faith (with two other couples) and booked our stay! Location: Falmouth, Trelawny Date Visited: December 2021 Type: All-Inclusive Resort (Adults Only) Cost: ~USD$335 per night [Discounted] First Impressions Excellence Oyster Bay is located on a very private and secluded peninsula in Coopers Pen, Trelawny. It's so private that if you're not paying attention while on the main road, you'll very easily miss the turn off. From approaching the property gates, one is met by a Security Guard, but also with an aura of suspense, as there is a long strip of road to drive along before having any visual of the resort itself. Along the strip was also where guests park, so parallel parking skills may be necessary if you decide to visit this hotel. Style/Ambience - 9.5 out of 10 Look 'ere nuh ( translation: pay close attention to the next words uttered )...this resort is next to immaculate . I'm not sure how much more aesthetically pleasing the architecture, landscaping and decor could be. Excellence Oyster Bay boasts a modern victorian style, accented by arches and columns, with sprinkles of tropical greens/blues in the decor. The resort oozes luxury, right down to the floor tiles. The grounds are well kept, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that not even a loose leaf was seen floating about. However, I have to dock half a point for this section as, while it's not a primary detail, the surrounding swamp land is still a factor. Not to worry though, as the pungent scent is concentrated during the drive up to the lobby/parking area. Excellence Oyster Bay Lobby Room - 9 out of 10 I'm going to go ahead and make a bold but factual statement. At 800 sq. ft. in size, this is without a doubt the biggest hotel room I've ever stayed in. My husband and I stayed in an Excellence Club Junior Suite Ocean Front room, and it was nice. NICE BAD. The room had a very eclectic design, with bold colours and patterns - reflective of an art-deco style of decor. Excellence Oyster Bay Room Layout Our room category was stocked with top shelf liquor, including Absolut Vodka, Appleton Estate Signature Blend and Beefeater. The bathroom boasted double sinks, a rainfall shower and was outfitted with Bvlgari bath products. The room also has an X-Box, which is a cupboard-like nook inside the room by the door, which staff access from the outside to clear dishes once guests are finished. The room had not one, but two flat-screen TVs, but the channel selection was limited, 31 in total...and one of the 31 being X-rated. Private Jacuzzi and Day Bed However! The pièce de résistance of the room were the private jetted jacuzzi on the balcony, with the adjoining day bed. If you're not already stunned, the fact that every single room category at this resort has these two features might just get you there! Food & Drinks - 8.5 out of 10 The first meal we had was lunch at Oregano - the al fresco italian restaurant, which was quite good. The portions were decent and the flavours were on point. Our first dinner was at Caribbean Grove , whose menu featured elevated local cuisine. I don't know about you, but once oxtail is on a hotel menu, it's a must for me! While it took some time to arrive, the wait was so worth it. I'm reminiscing on that steamy, fall off the bone flavour as I type. Lunch at the Lobster House (another al fresco restaurant) was also good but I don't think the group really got to savour the experience, as we had another activity to rush to. Dinner at The Grill (Steakhouse) was fantastic. The mushroom cream soup was amazing! Everyone's steaks/ribs and sides were cooked to perfection! The Kitchen Table breakfast buffet had a great ambience and many food options. We were seated with a view of the ocean, which was a nice touch. On the matter of room service, our breakfast order took over an hour to arrive. However! The room service team was very, very thorough , so the order was always correct and so tasty! The resort also had cute coffee shops, jerk hut and a juice bar to get lighter eats throughout the day. The downfall of this section was the drinks. Excellence Oyster Bay had a very eccentric cocktail menu, which definitely had an intrigue factor but in actuality were quite awful. In hindsight, the specialty cocktails didn't actually sound that nice on paper, unless a mango and scotch bonnet martini is up your alley. The tried and true cocktails such as the miami vice, amaretto sour and mojitos were a little better, but nothing to write home about either. Customer Service - 9 out of 10 I unreservedly give a round of applause to the staff at Excellence Oyster Bay. They were, for the most part, top notch. While not all staff members had a warm and outgoing personality, they all epitomised going the extra mile - without expressing any hint of feeling bothered. On one occasion, our group (six persons) wanted to sit together for lunch, and a new seating arrangement was designed just to host us, all pandemic protocols observed. In another instance, our group wanted to do a particular resort activity outside of the scheduled time, and we were graciously and happily accommodated! Organising activities was a breeze as the staff attended to every fine detail. From check-in to check-out, everything concerning our stay was well taken care of. Amenities & Entertainment - 9 out of 10 There are so many things to do at Excellence Oyster Bay, that I'm unsure how one will find the time to do it all. The daily activity schedule is available on the Excellence App, and I was enamored by the unique options available. The resort has the traditional water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding, and also has a games area tucked away behind one of the main buildings, outfitted with pool tables, table tennis and a dart board. Excellence Oyster Bay Super Bikes The games area is also home to the indoor Archery pitch, which I highly recommend doing! Another activity that we did was the bike tour, where a group of 10 guests rode to the nearby resort Royalton Blue Waters and back. It was a fun way to do some sight-seeing as well as get some exercise in while on vacation. The Millé spa is gorgeous! Hydrotherapy as a standalone service was USD $40, but is complementary with Excellence Club stays and Anniversary packages. It is a one-of a-kind experience and I highly recommend! Excellence Oyster Bay Millé Spa The resort also had a very modern gym, which was decently spacious and equipped with state-of-the art equipment for those so inclined. A section of the Excellence Oyster Bay Gym There's also a Bank of Nova Scotia ATM Machine in the Lobby Area, which can be a last-minute lifesaver! Nightime activities were nothing short of entertaining either. During our stay, they had an 80's night silent headphone party, which guests really seemed to enjoy! Excellence Oyster Bay Fire Show - Photo Credit: Boncrek Films There was also a fire show, that I'm not even sure I could bring to life with words. That's one you'd have to see with your own eyes. Simply put, it was spectacular! MADD Factor - Rooftop Infinity Pool After all I've shared so far, you'd think I'd have exhausted most things by now. Excellence Oyster Bay is a content creator's playground. There are pictureseque spots all across the property, but in my opinion, the rooftop infinity pool outshines them all. Views on views on views! Excellence Oyster Bay Infinity Pool - Photo Credit: caribbeanwarehouse.co.uk This may be a suitable place to throw in another picturesque spot, the iconic Excellence sea swing. It's located by the exclusive Excellence Club beach area, but guests can swim over and snap a quick pic or two! Overall Rating: 9 out of 10 Our stay at Excellence Oyster Bay was nothing short of well - excellent! To this day, the entire trip almost felt too good to be true. Mere hours after our trip ended, I went to see what the prices were looking like for a 2022 return. Needless to say, Excellence Oyster Bay has already adopted the utterances of philosopher Joseph Cartagena, and "yesterday's price is not today's price". So while a 2022 stay may not be in the works, I will do a return trip as soon as possible! This resort is idyllic for honeymoons, anniversaries and couples trips! Is Excellence Oyster Bay shaping up to be Jamaica's BEST adults only all inclusive resort? Only time (and reviews) will tell. So if you were considering going, I hope this review gave you the push needed. While I've got you here, please click below to like, follow and share Madd About Jamaica 's new Instagram and Facebook pages! Don't forget to subscribe to get exclusive updates on all things Madd About Jamaica! Check out Excellence Oyster Bay: https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/ Disclaimer: All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

It is extremely difficult to write this review especially since I'd carefully read so many positive and exciting highlights from others prior to booking this quick trip. However, from check-in to check-out, the stay was so underwhelming that I almost don't want to tell you about it. BIG SIGH. But! Since you're already here, let's cut to the chase, shall we? Location: Montego Bay, St. James Date Visited: April 2021 Type: All-Inclusive Resort (Adults Only) Cost: USD ~$300+ per night Aht aht aht...Before we really get further into the details, if you're not already an Insider , click the button below to subscribe to the blog for exclusive updates on all things Madd About Jamaica! Before You Go We plugged our destination into the GPS and were led confidently to an empty plot of land. I mean, if Google Maps is trying to point people away from this place, it must be with good reason, but I digress. The important point here is that following the GPS may lead you past the actual resort, so do keep your eyes peeled. If memory serves me right, there's a filter lane requiring one to make a u-turn, as there's no direct turn off from the main road directly to the resort's entrance. Style/Ambience - 6 out of 10 First of all, the property is MASSIVE. Iberostar Grand Rose Hall shares its square footage with sister resorts Iberostar Rose Hall Beach and Iberostar Rose Hall Suites. Grand Rose Hall is the adults-only section of the resort, and supposedly the more modern. The architecture is quite reminiscent of the rensaissance era. The lobby area boasts massive columns and arches, classical mouldings, floor to ceiling curtains and iconic checkerboard floors [ pictured]. The crisp neutral toned furniture pieces are the only modern accents in the space, but they are overshadowed by a weird mix of paint and curtain colours. I felt like the lobby especially, while grand, is quite dated, and has the potential to make one feel dizzy from all the busy decor elements. Iberostar Grand Rose Hall Lobby Room - 6 out of 10 We stayed in an ocean view suite on the ground floor. While we were told it was an upgrade, it struggled at times to feel like it. Beach and Ocean View from the Patio Pretty view right? What I didn't say earlier was that the photo is strategically cropped, as to the left of the view was a front row seat to a wedding ( congrats to the happy couple! ) and to the right? The back door of the Beach Grill, with staff going to and fro, throwing out garbage and dropping off dirty glassware. Main Interior of Ocean View Suite The main interior of the room is quite large, and maintained a mix of a colonial and modern decor. The room featured a large King bed and had a sunken living/lounge area complemented by dark wood and red accents throughout [ pictured ]. The bathroom is probably the pièce de résistance of the entire room, and where the upgrade is most seen. Iberostar Grand Rose Hall rooms may have the nicest and largest en suite bathrooms I've ever seen. There are separate vanity areas on each end of the bathroom, a rain fall glass enclosed shower and a large jetted tub [ pictured ]. The bathroom truly personified the luxury the hotel claimed to have. En Suite - Part 1 En Suite - Part 2 What the staff failed to tell us however, was that the room had motion sensors. So how exactly did we find this out? Well, just imagine you're taking a shower, only to be standing fully soaped up in pitch darkness after a few minutes. After a call to concierge and some flailing of the arms later, the sensors tripped back in and restored power. We had to be mindful of this for the rest of the trip, and couldn't stay too still while in the room. It was VERY annoying, to say the least! There was also a significant lack of available outlets. We had to unplug lamps in order to charge our devices. Another thing was that WRETCHED SAFE. Oh my goodness, just when we thought nothing else could make the trip worse...the safe started to malfunction and would not open! More on this in the Customer Service section though. Food & Drinks - 5 out of 10 To keep it real with you, the food was a big hit or miss. The most enjoyable food was the room service [ pictured ]. HOWEVER! The spicy wings from the room service menu [ not pictured ] WILL burn your tongue off...or at the very least try to. They should rename it "spicy spice" as I can't recall tasting any chicken. Iberostar Grand Rose Hall Room Service We had dinner at the surf and turf restaurant, Galleon, which was so-so. The plates were huge but the side dishes left much to be desired. The cocktails weren't anything to write home about either. Breakfast at the buffet was the biggest let down by far; as the staff were far from welcoming and the food was either salty or bland. Yuck. Customer Service - 3 out of 10 Bwoy...I'm beginning to wonder if 3 is even too high a score for this section. Let's get into it then tell me in the comments what score you'd give. Firstly, the security guard at the gate detained us for what felt like half an hour THEN proceeded to give us incorrect directions to the Iberostar Grand lobby. We found ourselves driving in a circle before getting to where we actually needed to go. Secondly, on finally reaching the correct luggage drop off/parking area, we sat in the car for what felt like an eternity waiting for someone to acknowledge us and give us instructions for parking, check-in and sanitisation. I believe it was the resting bi...I mean, stark annoyance on my face that caused one of the two security guards stationed on the outside of the lobby to pay us any sort of attention. The fact that I refused to move the vehicle until acknowledged may just have played a part in it too. Thirdly, after going through sanistisation and entering the lobby, a most unpleasant staff member just shoved a cold rag my way then walked off. We had no idea where check-in was and noone seemed to care either. We ended up following behind another group of guests who seemed just as confused as to where to go. I'd get on my soapbox and argue that Management should work on communication and flow of guest traffic, BUT! our North American neighbours of a fairer hue didn't seem to have any trouble with this and the staff seemed to cater to them very well. I'll stop right here and give kudos to the saving graces for this part of the review: We had a most pleasant bell hop and concierge who brought our welcome drinks. Our morning butler was also pleasant and helpful! Did I mention before that we had a personal butler? If not, then yes we did - one per shift for morning and evening! Butlers were accessible via WhatsApp, and were helpful in planning things to do during the stay. Now on to rock bottom. Remember that wretched safe I'd mentioned earlier? Well, we were getting ready to check out and realised the digital safe (with our car key and other valuables) would not open! We were mindful of the time also, as curfew was still in effect for Jamaica and we had a 2+ hour journey home ahead of us. We had to call the front desk on three different occasions to get assistance. Then we waited more than half an hour before someone came to assist. A staff member even lied to us that the safe could not be opened via a manual override. Yet still, a manual override is EXACTLY what the manager did when she finally showed up to assist. To add more fuel to the fire, the manager then suggested that the delay was "a sign to stay another night". I mean... come on, read the room, sis. Amenities & Entertainment - 6 out of 10 The property is gorgeous. There's no denying that. The property has a spacious beach area outfitted with loungers, and boasts a large main pool [ pictured ] which is host to many daytime activities. I don't recall seeing many water sports being conducted. I'm unsure to what extent the pandemic had impacted that being so. Main Pool Area - photo courtesy of Iberostar Grand Rose Hall While I didn't care for it, my husband thoroughly enjoyed the night activities, specifically the magic show - props to Wizard the magician! The Spa/Salon was quite small for a resort that huge. At the time of my appointment, a bridal party was being serviced at the same time, so the already small space felt even more crowded nor did it seem to allow for much social distancing. Notwithstanding, I received one of the best pedicures I'd ever gotten! The gym was closed at the strangest hours so my husband didn't really get to enjoy that facility during our stay. MADD Factor - The Hanging Swing Chair Just outside the suite was a large patio with a hanging swing chair and an outdoor fan [ pictured ]. I've never seen this feature at any other hotel I've been to, though I'm sure they exist. Please tell me in the comments which other resort has them. I thought it was a great alternative to patio chairs/loungers. You see the three minutes it took to step outside, check out the patio and take that photo? Well, that was the sum total of my time spent on the patio, as there were so many mosquitos claiming the space for themselves. Best believe we stayed behind the safety of the screened door from there on out. While it was a unique and nice feature, we weren't fully able to enjoy its use. Overall Rating: 5.2 out of 10 Verdict: Meh, I'll Pass. Will we be back? It's unlikely. While there were sprinkles of pleasant moments here and there, there wasn't anything overall that made us feel like we wanted to be return guests. It may just have been one of those chance poor experiences, as staff didn't seem keen on giving us much regard. Then again, probably if we were of a fairer hue or celebrating a special occasion, this wouldn't have been so. Have you ever been to any of the Iberostar resorts? If yes, how was it? If no, would you go? Let me know in the comments! MADD TIPS: Call ahead and make dinner and spa reservations. Use the app for early check in to avoid hassle. But before you go! Click the links below to follow Madd About Jamaica on social media! Check Out Iberostar Grand Rose Hall: https://www.iberostargrandhotel.com/all_inclusive.asp Disclaimer : All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

Stush in the Bush had been on my radar for quite some time and when the opportunity to attend finally presented itself in the cool month of February 2022, I was already counting down the days! Stush in the Bush is a unique farm-to-table experience in the hills of Priory, St. Ann. Known for its fully plant based, homemade offerings, Stush in the Bush is nestled right in the backyard of the co-founders, a couple who have affectionately referred to themselves as “Stush” (Lisa) and “Bush” (Chris). The Booking Process Here's the kicker, Stush in the Bush is only open twice a week - on Fridays and Sundays at 1:00 PM. As you can therefore imagine, a booking is not easy to come by. While I didn't handle booking for my party directly, the Stush in the Bush website provides clear instructions for reservations and payment. The cost for this organic gastronomic experience is a cool sum of $165 USD per person. Click here to scan the calendar for available dates (Pro Tip: Be sure to read through the detailed list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). If your date of interest is booked out, fret not! There's also a waiting list, so get your reservation in early! Beautiful forestry by the Farm First Impressions It could have been my bubbling anticipation, but as a Kingstonian, it’s a bit of a drive. The hillside property fashions a bit of rough terrain as you head up. As they advised, we parked our vehicle at an area upon the hill where we awaited Chris (Bush) to make trips to and from the property with guests in his comfortable pickup truck. Travelling with Chris to the Restaurant Pro Tip: Pick your shoes wisely y’all. I don't recommend wearing heels or suede! On the Property Chris was pleasant and warm, the view was lovely and before we knew it we’ve arrived at the entrance. They make it clear when booking that they have plenty of dogs and consider them family, in essence, they roam free. Dogs on property at Stush in the Bush If you’re not a dog lover this may be a bit off putting, but for me it was just the cutest thing. They were various hues of brown, very big but very calm and seemingly unphased by the continuous flow of persons arriving. After my attempts to communicate and take pictures with the fur babies I began admiring the beautiful wooden structure that would be hosting us for the afternoon. Lisa (Stush) greeted us as her staff handed us welcome drinks and we found our table marked by a small tabletop chalk board with our groups names on it. Stush in the Bush Guest Welcome Board The windows were almost floor to ceiling and let in warm sunlight, we couldn’t help but stare out of them. The environment is relaxed and we settled into our seats right before being ushered to tour their farm from which all of our meals would be sourced from. Chris, who led the tour while Lisa stayed in the restaurant, shared numerous facts about and history behind the farm, including their love story. After an enlightening walk down memory lane, we were ready to eat! A Table Setting at the Restaurant The Pièce de Résistance - Food & Drinks The food, the food, the food. I still dream of it to this day. Meat where? We didn’t miss her. Each meal was plated and thoroughly described as made with love and care. Everything down to the avocado oil in the dish is made from their farm by them. In terms of allergies, they state that although they have strict cross contamination policies there is still a possibility that it may occur as many of their items include nuts, gluten, dairy etc. but it’s still best to let them know! We started with appetizer platters, multiple courses, straight to dessert. Each dish had complex tastes and textures from savory to sweet and the use of plants in ways I have never seen before. Even the coconut “sugar” we added to our tea was a treat. Aromatic Tea with Coconut "Sugar" I particularly remember the “pizza” topped with sooo many flavour rich toppings and farm fresh herbs. I can still feel the warmth from the oven fresh beignets that were pillow soft and drizzled with a creamy passion fruit glaze. Vegan "pizza" topped with herbs and spices Beignets with passionfruit glaze Every dish left me even more curious for the next. From the homemade bread and “butter” to the jackfruit tacos and then on to desserts like fresh beignets and citrus palate cleansers. Everything was delicious and as good as it looked! Jackfruit Tacos Overall Rating Verdict: 10 out of 10 would recommend! Stush in the Bush Tablescape Stush in the Bush may be a little on the costly side for a restaurant, but it truly presents itself as an experience more than anything. I left feeling ready to return and surprised to be as full as I was. I would recommend experiencing Stush in the Bush at least once. It is perfect for milestone occasions like bridal showers, birthdays (private bookings also available) and can be appreciated by all ages. The experience is best enjoyed in a group and is truly memorable for all who attend. I haven’t met a person who went who did not want to return. Chris and Lisa have truly created something special that is equal parts charm and gastronomic excellence! Do you have any questions about Stush in the Bush? Drop them in the comments section below. Enjoying the charm and gastronomic excellence About the Guest Contributor Born in California, USA and arriving to the shores of Jamaica at the age of 6 years old in 2000 with her Jamaican parents, Khloé Clarke has set her roots into the soil of the island. As a lover of nature, food and random facts, Khloé (28) is always interested in new and fresh experiences. She isn't a fan of the question "What do you do for fun?" but if she were to summarize she'd say laughing deeply, watching movies, hanging with friends and of course, eating. A Marketing/Psychology degree and a few corporate jobs later, Khloé now partners in business, with her Mother/Best friend in their event management and production company, An Elegant Affair, where they have corporate clients and also create their own projects/event experiences (such as CampLuxe - Jamaica's premier glamping experience). Her faith is most important and she has Jesus on speed dial. All in all, Khloé is a lover of life. Disclaimer: This review is not sponsored. All opinions and photos are exclusively those of the Author.

Opened in 1950, the Jamaica Inn is a self-proclaimed "anti all-inclusive resort" , and has hosted the likes of icons such as Marilyn Munroe and Katharine Hepburn. The property boasts a mix of standard suites and standalone cottages, with a private beach and stunning views all around. I've visited Jamaica Inn a total of six (6) times, with the first visit being in November 2020. There's a lot to unpack about this hotel...so let's get right into it! Location: Ocho Rios, St. Ann Last Visited: March 2022 Type: All-Inclusive Optional Cost: USD ~$400 per night + tax Before You Go Where are my Jamaican Residents? This information is for you! Locals get 50% off room rates, 10% off food and beverage and 10% off all Spa treatments. However! One must call the hotel to unlock these benefits, as a special code may be needed to book online. Otherwise, the reservations staff will be happy to make the booking for you over the phone. This hotel is family friendly-ISH. Slightly heavy on the -ish , as while children are welcome, they'll have to be age 10 or older. To families with younger children who may be reading this, please don't shoot the messenger! First Impressions Upon arrival, my first thought was: Ah wah dis?? [Translation: What in the world is this?] This is not your typical all-inclusive. I repeat, THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL ALL-INCLUSIVE. Instead of seeing sprawling lawns, perfectly manicured landscaping and tons of sprinklers with a big fancy sign, you drive into what feels like a rainforest. The lobby area is open air, small, intimate and lowkey with a beautiful view of the ocean and the beach. At this point you’re probably wondering what you paid all this money for if you’re used to the opulent, highly stimulating all-inclusive experience. Views from Main Lobby There is no loud music. No loud games. No crowds. No lines. You can see the main resort area from the lobby which consists of a small pool, a lawn and a beautiful beach. The rooms are a few steps away from the lobby (depending on your room category). No elevator or stairs needed, unless you choose a Balcony Suite. You’re met with a ‘Welcome Home’ from the front desk staff who unload your bags. At this point my family started shooting daggers in the back of my head because they were pretty sure we were scammed (and I recommended this place). Up until this point, we’d mainly frequented large family all-inclusive hotel chains and this was not the vibe we were used to. Oh! Before I forget, you may also see the hotel's black Labrador, Shadow roaming around the property. She is so well behaved, and paddleboards and swims with you! For anyone with allergies/fears, take this into consideration. Shadow - Jamaica Inn's Black Labrador Check-In Check-in was surprisingly fast - less than 10 minutes! To access our rooms, we got KEYS. Not keycards. Not armbands. REAL KEYS. Intentionally aged, gold keys that looked like antiques. Unlike most modern hotels, Jamaica Inn took us allll the way back. I had childhood memories of going to Grandma’s house and feeling ensconced in her time. We got a choice of Rum Punch or Blended Fruit Punch for our welcome drinks, which were served in our room. Style/Ambience: 8 out of 10 The owners of Jamaica Inn are really committed to keeping this place looking like the frozen 1950s. Furnished with local antiques, the hotel has an unmistakable British colonial-style Inn feel. It can be an adjustment for many of us who are used to modern minimalism, but I’ve come to see it as unique and iconic. The ambience itself really deserves a 10. In terms of natural beauty, there is absolutely no setting like this one. Extreme relaxation and romance is guaranteed. The Main Building - Photo Credit: www.jamaicainn.com The Room: 7 out of 10 We stayed in a Deluxe Verandah Suite, and my first impression was: "di place SMALL EEH?? " [Translation: This room is really small!] Deluxe Verandah Suite - Photo Credit: www.jamaicainn.com Turns out looks can be deceiving. When we entered there was an entire wall of closed windows and french doors that we figured led to your typical balcony. Umm…It’s a whole VERANDAH. It’s bigger than the bedroom itself! It has sofas, recliners, fans, writing desks, a drying rack, beach towels, a mini fridge, water pitcher and ice bucket with a beautiful picnic dining table. The best part? The room is literally steps away from the ocean. One can watch the waves roll by or hear them from the bed as you drift off to sleep. The Verandah - Photo Credit: www.jamaicainn.com I think I started to buy into this unfamiliar concept of a hotel room when I realized all I had to do was step off my verandah, walk for 15 seconds and I was on beautiful white sand. There was one drawback though. Even though you’re hidden behind banana leaves it feels very exposed. There are no crowds but people do walk by and it can feel a bit weird for someone who is used to more closed off hotel rooms. View from Verandah Suite Have I already mention that there are no clocks nor radios on the property? Also, there are very limited TVs on the property, with one being in the Main Lobby area and the only others are in the Cottage room levels (private 2-4 person Villas), which are located far away from the main hotel building. Jamaica Inn believes that this equipment would disturb the serene ambience. They have amazing WiFi, but I know the no-TV bit may be a dealbreaker for many. The bathroom is on the smaller side. and features a single vanity and a shower/tub combo. The bathroom is also stocked with luxury Molton Brown products, which is serious aromatherapy. The room also has a walk-in closet with lots of hanger and shelf space, so unpacking is easy. There are also have the fluffiest towels and cozy robes and slippers so you feel set for a great night’s sleep. Verandah Suite Bathroom - Photo Credit: www.tripadvisor.com For those who may still crave a bit more luxury, the Cottage room levels have Indonesian-style interiors with private, heated plunge pools, and outdoor showers/bathtubs. View from one of the Cottages Food & Drinks: 8 out of 10 Since Jamaica Inn prides itself on providing an anti inclusive experience, dining is no different. There are various meal plans available, and all are at an added cost per person (in USD) and can which can run pretty expensive. The main dining area is primarily al fresco , with a stunning view of the ocean. There is afternoon tea everyday at 4 PM which offers complimentary tea, sandwiches, pastry and other finger food. I found the food here to be okay but not impressive. Main Dining Area At dinner, the ambience was VERY romantic. There was a live band serenading us and waiters in tuxedos with white gloves waiting to seat us at the candlelit tables. We were over the ocean with lights from the coast reflecting on the ocean. They had everything from steak, to pasta to flourless chocolate cake. The food. was. flawless. Best meals we'd all had. The meals are priced with pasta being on the least expensive end and fish, lobster and steak being the most expensive. Some may question if it is true value for money. There's also the option to order from the ‘All Day Menu’ which is more affordable, and offers a mix of Jamaican and European cuisine. Room Service, which is more like in-room dining, is also available for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks at an added cost (from USD$5-$8)! Customer Service: 9.5 out of 10 Jamaica Inn's staff are warm, welcoming and extremely responsive. My only gripe is that when things go wrong (such as maintenance issues), while they do resolve the issues as quickly as possible, they make no effort to compensate for the vacation time you lost due to the inconvenience. Amenities & Entertainment: 7 out of 10 Where do I start! Jamaica Inn offers the usual complimentary water sports like paddleboarding, wind sailing, snorkeling, kayaking etc. There's also access to the Main Pool, a white sandy beach and a Gym! But they have some unique activities too, for example - Croquet and a glass of rosé happens every evening (it’s old time cricket) as well as garden tours. Croquet Pitch near the Pool - Photo Credit: www.jamaicainn.com On the property is also the Ocean Spa, which is the most immersive nature spa I’ve been to. The infinity saltwater pool by the ocean is honestly tear jerkingly beautiful and the massages over the ocean were amazing too. Ocean Spa Saltwater Pool Although I’ve been to Jamaican Inn six times, there are still more things I want to do. HOWEVER! Compared to most resorts, there isn’t much to do. So if you just want to relax and reconnect by yourself, with family or a partner it is great, but many may feel bored after a night or 2. MADD Factor I got to hold baby turtles! Jamaica Inn is a part of the White River Fish Sanctuary, and is committed to ensuring the survival of the endangered Hawksbill turtle species. You may see the mother come up on their beaches to lay her eggs, but what I got to experience was the hatching of hundreds of baby turtles, cradling them in my arms and seeing them off to the big wide ocean. Truly a surreal experience every time. They have a turtle season calendar here you can use to plan your trips. Dates obviously aren’t concrete but hey you may get lucky. Overall Rating: 7.9 out of 10 Verdic t: I’ll go back til the day I die All in all, Jamaica Inn isn’t a traditional resort experience but it is honestly an unforgettable one. There is honestly so much more I could say but you would be reading forever. If you need peace, if you need centering, if you need romance…this high end eco resort experience is the right place for you. Honestly, this isn’t really a place for people who need to SEE how much money they are spending. If you are a quantity equals value kind of person, Jamaica Inn may not be the place for you. For me, it is absolutely worth it because in all the vacations I’ve had across the country, this is the first place where a glow stays with me for at least 2 weeks after I come home. It’s the first place I’ve wanted to return to again and again, and share with family and friends. It’s the first place that has really made a true impact on me. I'm curious, would you visit Jamaica Inn? Why or Why not? Share your thoughts in the comments! Disclaimer: This review is not sponsored. Opinions and photos are exclusively those of the Guest Contributor, except where otherwise credited. About the Guest Contributor Hi I’m Hillary! I love hospitality and giving people amazing experiences. I actually design those for technology but my dream is to design them for vacations as well.

First things first. It's been well over a year since my last blog post. I know. To my day-ones, I have every intention of winning back your trust and smiles. If this is your first time here, thank you for choosing Madd About Jamaica as your source of truth! Second things second. Am I the only Jamaican that gets confused when you search for a hotel in Jamaica and see that it's listed somewhere other than where it actually is? That was my first reaction when searching for Royalton Blue Waters. Google says it's in Montego Bay. The hotel is named Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay Resort ...but the yaadies (locals) know it's really in Trelawny -- which, mind you, is close enough but not 100% accurate. Unless someone can show me the property line, you can't convince me otherwise. But I digress. Location: Trelawny (near Montego Bay) Date Visited: September 2023 Type: All-Inclusive Resort (Family-Friendly) Cost: USD$425 per night Preface While this review is overdue (some aspects are no longer applicable - I'll indicate where), I still believe the content (my POV) at the time of visiting is still relevant and helpful if you plan to visit! Before You Go Ensure that your tyres are in good condition and/or you have a spare in tow. The road leading up to the hotel is not becoming of a 4-star resort. If you read my review on Secrets Wild Orchid - the sentiment is the same, so I won't belabour my point. My day ones may know that I'd visited Royalton Negril , which was quite the headache. Deciding to give the chain a second chance was years in the making. So let's get into it! Style/Ambience - 6 out of 10 Providing that you arrive with your vehicle intact, the property itself is not bad at all. The lobby is very spacious with mid-century modern styled furnishings. The monochromatic, sandy colourway made my eyes hurt at times. I could only hope that my stay wouldn't be as beige as the decor style. Notwithstanding, the modern beach chic style did evoke a sense of luxury and the neutral tones, will a bit muted, were calming. Although it was densely furnished, the space is just that big, that it still felt sparse. I wouldn't say anything about the decor was particularly eye-catching. In fact, I did prefer how the Negril property was styled! Room - 7 out of 10 The room can gwaan enuh! (translation: the room is alright!) Our room was on the third floor and had nice resort views. You enter the room to the iconic Royalton theme song playing on the TV (my husband hates it [cackles] but I think it's a bop!) and are met with a very spacious environment. Now, the majority of the points given here are for the space and the standalone soaking tub. There's very minimal decor, and what is there is quite abstract and a bit dated. It didn't feel like it tied into the overall theme of the hotel. There were varying textural elements from metal to leather to velvet. The accent pillows and pull out bed in the room are very reminiscent of the matching living room sets at Courts (local furniture store). Having an umbrella in the room was a nice touch! The random unbranded toiletries were probably the biggest let down. It would've been nice to know what would be potentially interacting with my skin, and if the products are locally/ethically made. Just saying! Food & Drinks - 5 out of 10 OOH. SIGH. YUCK. Those were my reactions in rotation throughout the entire stay. If I ate with my eyes then yes, it was amazing. Unfortunately, either the dishes or the ambience were a toss up. The buffet is probably one of the best I've seen. Options upon options. The fruit flies thought so too, cause they were also there in abundance. The tables were also poorly cleaned both on the surface and underneath. The room service menu, while good, was also a hit or miss. The food just suffered from being bland. Having eaten at the likes of Couples Tower Isle , my palette is very spoiled. On the other hand, the drinks and pastries are really good! Customer Service - 6 out of 10 The staff at Royalton Blue Waters were pleasant...for the most part! Our visit happened while there was construction going on, but they didn't let that dampen their spirits nor the overall vybe. At times, they were gathered together just chatting away, so attentiveness could've been better, especially since the place was more or less empty. At times, some of them just looked bored and didn't attempt to flash a smile as you passed. I can appreciate the authenticity! I wouldn't say that they went above and beyond in their service, it was just okay. Amenities & Entertainment - 7 out of 10 Any resort that doesn't give me a key card is already a partial winner in my book. The bracelets doubled as room keys and were waterproof. It's way too easy to forget a room key when you just wanna go have fun! There are more than enough things to do at this resort. However! I believe capacity would definitely impact how that feels. Since we went when not many families with children were around, we did feel as though we had the place to ourselves. The pools, beach and water park were well kept. As I mentioned, we went during a construction period, so the Spa was displaced to the lobby, which was very weird and awkward. The spa staff shared the sentiment but their jobs went on regardless! The gym was small compared to the size of the resort, but it gets the job done for those who (for whatever strange reason) need to exercise on vacation. The evening shows are as you expect - yes, another hotel with a Michael Jackson tribute show. There was a nightclub / dance party one evening which was very loud, so don't expect to get any sleep before midnight if one is happening while you're there. MADD Factor - The Lazy River and the Construction A lazy river may not seem that exciting to you, but it is definitely an eye-catching feature of the property! It's not a popular element at most resorts in Jamaica, so it's always fun to see one! Now about the construction bit. For anyone who had ever been to what was Royalton White Sands, or saw reviews, the construction should've excited you too (#IYKYK). Hideaway at the Negril property was one of my dream honeymoon destinations. So when I saw that they were doing away with the White Sands property and bringing in Hideaway as an adults-only option to Blue Waters, I was intrigued and may have a squealed a little internally. As a point of information , Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters is now complete and open for booking! I have also since yielded to my excitement and visited. So, stay tuned for that review to see if it lived up to expectations [cue dramatic music]. Overall Rating: 6.2 out of 10 Verdict: Maybe for a quick getaway? Royalton Blue Waters is a safe choice for a quick getaway with friends or family. It will neither wow you nor gravely disappoint. I'd definitely be quicker to go back there than some other resorts that I won't dignify with SEO content and keep unnamed. Although my overall score for Royalton Negril was higher, that was primarily due to the luxurious feel, which I'd not drive 4 hours for now. I'd recommend Blue Waters instead of Negril for sure! Disclaimer:  All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

I think it's always a good day once I get the time to write a new review. I'll just cut straight to the chase. My most recent blog post was about the adventure that was Royalton Blue Waters . I'd been to Royalton Negril a few years ago, so I made it my personal mission to resort hop across the entire Royalton Jamaica chain. This brings us to the newly opened, Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, which is the adults-only section of the Royalton Blue Waters property. Fun fact, (which absolutely noone asked for?) Hideaway at Royalton Negril was a top honeymoon destination on my list. So I was sold on the concept of Hideaway at Royalton from as far back as 2017. So when I saw the construction taking place while at Royalton Blue Waters, I was geeked (are the kids still saying this?) [translation: ecstatic] . Location: Trelawny   (30 minutes from Montego Bay) Date Visited: March 2024 Type: All-Inclusive Resort (Adults Only) Cost at time of visit: $445 USD per night   Before we get furth er into the details, if you're not already an   Insider , be sure to subscribe to the blog and receive exclusive updates on all things Madd About Jamaica! Preface For a supposedly luxury hotel chain, the drive upon approaching the entrance to the property is a far cry from opulence. No shade to my beautiful country, but driving on a dust paved road and having a community bar with loud and lude music right across the road from a 4-star resort leaves much to be desired. I'm no real estate expert, so while the price may have been right for the land on which the resort sits, nothing beats location. I think hotel reviews may be one of the few instances where it's okay to judge a book by its cover. What do you think? sound off in the comments section! Style/Ambience - 8 out of 10 Royalton were in their bag with the renovation, I have to hand it to them [translation: they did a great job!] . This property was formerly Royalton White Sands, which, if you've ever seen pictures, didn't do much to leave a lasting impression. The style and decor are very modern and beach chic. there was a beautiful mix of materials which gave the space a lot of dimension. The muted blue hues, with shades of silvery grey and natural tones flowed really well throughout the property, and was very tastefully done to make it eye-catching. The linen, wicker and glass accent pieces add just enough of a luxurious touch. The lobby itself is quite a large space, and with the chandelier as a focal point, I guess not much else was needed in the space. So there were some nooks and crannies which felt awkwardly empty. But, if I were an interior designer, I'm not sure what could meaningfully fit in those spaces either. Room - 4 out of 10 Although my stay was months ago, my nerves get slightly irked any time I think about this room. The modern and chic aesthetic did flow into the room. The decor maintained that great mix of textures, with woven materials softened by wood earthy tones. HOWEVER . If you tell me I'm getting a luxury room, I will believe you. Compared to Blue Waters, these rooms are SMALL - I thought the renovation from the days of White Sands meant that they'd knock down some walls to give more square footage. This was not the case. Plus, for one of the higher room categories, the so called ocean-view was next to non-existent, which was a big disappointment. The wifi was also a bit spotty / weak, and this was the same regardless of where one was on the Hideaway side of the property. There are also many impractical features, such as the hanging lamp next to the bed. If you're not careful, you will bump into it. Thankfully the lamp shade is made from an acrylic plastic material, so it wouldn't necessarily break on impact. There is also no usable outlet to charge devices next to the bed (there are 3 under the TV though - make it make sense!) . The bathroom is equally small - my husband and I are average height and build and the two of us could not comfortably be in the bathroom at the same time. The water pressure from the lovely rainhead shower was also quite low during our stay. Our TV was also entirely in spanish during our stay, with no option to change it to english. While that's great for language immersion, I'm not sure if that is default and intentional on the hotel's part. Food & Drinks - 7 out of 10 The food was much better this time around than when we had stayed at Blue Waters just six months earlier. A big hit for us was the ice-cream at the cafe (banana split and rum cream flavours were so good!). The buffet selection is probably one of the best at any resort I've ever been to - and that's saying something! Pizzas seems to be a crowd favourite and there were a variety of options. As for the drinks? Terrible. I ordered a margarita and got what was essentially iced tequila. If they were trying to get me drunk, they should've just said so. It was very convenient to have the restaurants close to the Hideaway side of the property, so getting a meal was very easy. While we didn't eat at all of the available restaurants, the decor style was consistent throughout, which made the ambience welcoming and expectant for a good meal. The Asian restaurant - Zen - was a stunning piece of architecture, surrounded by a body of water. If I didn't have a shellfish allergy, I definitely would've eaten there. There are also a number of bars and casual seating areas all around, which makes the property really walkable and enjoyable to get a quick bite. Room service was great although the options were limited compared to other resorts. The delivery took longer than they stated it would (45 minutes) but it was worth the wait. Customer Service - 2 out of 10 Let me be very clear. This rating is exclusively for the two room service staff who were very nice and thorough. Everyone else? It seemed as though there was a collective effort to ensure guests didn't come back. When we arrived, the bellmen watched me lug the bags out of the car and didn't once attempt to assist me. Noone in concierge smiled or engaged in a friendly manner. Besides giving us the bracelets which served as a room key and telling us how to connect to the wifi, no additional details about the hotel nor our stay were offered. We also had a very strange and borderline uncomfortable encounters with the staff members overall. Ready for some story times? 1. There was a staff member advertising dinner on the beach packages. Not only did he approach us while we were having a meal, but he continued to say strange things such as "don't smash your vacation, I'm holding you accountable to enjoy it." - All with a stern, straight face. What does it even mean to smash a vacation?! It had the potential to be a nice sentiment, had it not felt like a threat! 2. We went to dinner at the Calypso (West Indian) because oxtail and rice & peas is a must! As usual, I report my shellfish allergy to the server. Having done so, the server's entire demeanour changed, and she proceeded to let me know (with no wasted breath) that I could not be accommodated / dine there. Was an alternative dining option recommended? Of course not. Amenities & Entertainment - 7 out of 10 Since the property is shared with Blue Waters, the amenities are more or less the same. At the time of our stay, the spa was finally up and running! There's also a new casino / gaming lounge with blackjack, slots and other casino games, which didn't seem to be a big hit amongst guests as it was empty all day, every day. There's also a really spacious full sized rooftop tennis court, which is very hidden away unless you're actively seeking it out (no pun intended). MADD Factor - Oh, you mean besides leaving? This section is supposed to be the piece de la resistance of any property I visit. However, I find myself wanting and clutching for pearls, straws and whatever else is clutch-able at this point. After rummaging through the annals of notes and memories, I guess I can say that the clothing store - Amiani - was actually quite nice! Very rarely does a gift shop or clothing store stop me in my tracks, especially at a hotel. The clothing items were very resort chic, fashionable and reasonably priced! I actually found myself browsing and warding off temptation to buy clothes I don't need. It was definitely a step up from the typical Bob Marley t-shirts and "no problem mon" mugs. Overall Rating: 5.2 out of 10 Verdict: Thank you, Next. Now that all the amenities are up and running, if I am ever to return to a Royalton property, I'd probably choose the Blue Waters side of the property. Now, as to the likelihood of returning to this or any Royalton property? Probably as slim a chance as a return to Iberostar Grand or Moon Palace . If you know, you know. As for what reviews are coming next? I'd love if you could help me to decide. My recent adventures have taken me to Ocean Coral Spring here in Jamaica, and on trips to Colombia, San Francisco, Canada, and Mexico. What would you be most interested in reading about first? Let me know in the comments and I'll happily oblige!

I know, I know, I know. It's been MONTHS . At first, you probably wondered if the link leading you to this blog post was a scam - but since you're here that either means you're glad I'm back after a near six-month hiatus...or you're easily scammed *cue side-eye* (please stay vigilant out there folks!) Fun and jokes aside, this review is long overdue. I promised a friend that I'd share the usual unbiased and unfiltered details of my stay and that's exactly what I intend to do! Let's get into it, shall we? Location: Montego Bay, St. James Date Visited: December 2022 Type: All-Inclusive Resort (Family-Friendly) Cost: USD$425 per night Before You Go Now this is a plug I got from a concierge at the resort and it changed the game for my stay. To save money but not skimp on the luxury, when booking a room outside of the Premium categories, request a room on the highest floor available for the lower category. While rooms are typically randomly assigned at check-in, the concierge will do their best to honour the request, especially if the booking was made way in advance. I'll show you why it pays off in a bit. Sidebar: If you want more luxury for less vacation hacks, I've got so many more in the blog post linked here ! Style/Ambience - 8 out of 10 If you're a day one follower of the blog, you know by now that a key sign for me, and a foreshadowing of my entire stay if I can say so, is the experience at the gate upon arrival. Now, upon arrival to Jewel Grande, I was getting Moon Palace Jamaica vybes (you already know my feelings there) . Between the big brass gates, the security guard scrambling to find my reservation in a tattered book and a random parked car with all its doors open...it was shaping up to be a long 4 days. Thankfully that was just the gate, for once we drove through, the opulence was something straight out of a Disney movie. The further we drove in the more the manicured lawns, the tall, white, palatial towers and old English-themed signage just came alive. In other words, the grounds are VERY pretty (pretty bad as we Jamaicans affectionately say). There's underground parking for guests, so we took comfort that our vehicle would be safe from the elements during our stay. Jewel Grande Lobby Area Jewel Grande somewhat tastefully mixes the old with the new in terms of the interior design and décor. There's almost a nauseating amount of shades of brown/beige in the Lobby/Main Building alone but the wooden accents are kept well polished. A fun fact is that the resort was originally built as a luxury apartment complex/vacation timeshare rental. However, it was later converted to the hotel we know today. The property itself is MASSIVE and even has a football field. There are three 12-storey Towers (room blocks) on the property. The Sentry Tower is the newest build, is closest to the main pool and houses the more modern rooms. The remaining towers (Sabal and Silver) feature more antique, Queen-Anne styled furniture, and some have living rooms, kitchenettes and in-suite washer/dryer units. Another fun fact is that the Jewel Grande property is right next door to the Hyatt Zilara and Ziva Rose Hall resort. There's even a useless-for-guests bridge with a security guard at the other end who'll smile and wave at you, since that's all one can do from this point. Room - 8.5 out of 10 I will boldly say that this room was very close to perfection. If I were to do a quick ranking, this room surpassed my feelings of that at Secrets Wild Orchid and claims 2nd place of all the hotels I've been to, and is a few notches below my 1st place choice: Excellence Oyster Bay . Please feel welcomed to grab a friend or cousin and argue in the comments about that opinion. Let me be clear though. This rating applies to the rooms in the Sentry Tower only. If you've ever stayed in the Sabal or Silver Towers, please let me know your ranking of those in the comments. Ocean View from Jewel Grande Junior Suite Every (and they mean every) room category at Jewel Grande has an ocean view. Naturally, the view is better the higher up on is. Our room was on the 6th floor, which is the highest for the non-premium category. The view from the balcony was nothing short of breathtaking! The room itself is quite large at 806 sq. ft., and is simply but tastefully decorated with mid-century modern inspired pieces. There's a standalone soaking tub, breakfast nook and modern ceiling lighting. There's so many storage options in this room, I guarantee you'll not be able to occupy it all. My two complaints are: 1. the wifi was quite spotty in the room from time to time, and 2. the resort doesn't have an app, so one has to rely on the guest portal site for daily activities and room service menu, which is lame. Food & Drinks - 7.5 out of 10 The meals at Jewel Grande were good for the most part, but no one dish was exceptionally memorable. My go-to vacation drink is a miami vice and I must say, they served the best one I've ever had. Of all the restaurants we tried, my husband and I have a toss up between the Mexican (JamMex) and the Italian (Moonstone) as the most underwhelming. The steakhouse however (Le Bouchon) DID. NOT. MISS. and is definitely my top recommendation for an amazing dining experience! Being completely honest, our truly favourite spot was probably the lobby café in our Tower, where we stopped for iced coffee, ice-cream and pastries every day of our stay. Sentry Tower Lobby Cafe at Jewel Grande Amenities & Entertainment - 7 out of 10 The main activity that Jewel Grande seems to be known for is weddings. I'm sure there were at least three during our stay. Jokes aside, as a family resort, there's something for everyone. There's a Games Room (which is exclusively for those 18 and under *hmph!*), the usual water sports, a Gym (with steam room and sauna), a Spa and a sprawling beach. The "party pool" near the main lobby didn't seem to have the most sustained vybes as I've seen at other resorts but it was a very relaxing atmosphere overall. To be fair, we visited the week of World Cup Finals, so most persons were glued to a television somewhere on that occasion. The resort also hosted a Casino Royale themed beach party and a silent Disco party. Wait wait wait!!! How could I almost fail to mention that one evening, the resort hosted a Chocolate Buffet and they brought out a model who was covered from the neck down in nothing but a bikini and (you guessed it) chocolate?!?! She had a pedestal and everything! You just had to be there! Guests of all ages had a whale of a time dancing with and taking photos next to her. I can't make this stuff up! MADD Factor - The Grande Spa Have you ever been to a 30,000 sq. ft. Italian villa inspired Spa? Well neither had I until I set foot into the Grande Spa. Luxury dripped from the doorknobs inside that place! There's a 50% discount for Jamaican residents so be sure to take advantage of that benefit. The Spa houses a Himalayan Salt Lounge, a green smoothie/juice bar and hot/cold plunge pools. One can take a tour for free but be warned, you'll not want to leave once you enter! Leave your purse/wallet behind! Overall Rating: 7.8 out of 10 Verdict: Let's go back together! So...whose car are we taking? mine or yours? Cause I'm for sure going back! Jewel Grande is a great option for family vacations or a staycation with friends. The property is definitely big enough and well-laid out so one never feels overrun by a sea of people. The pockets of luxury are definitely there too for the bougie-inclined. I highly recommend booking at least 6 months in advance of the desired stay to get the best rates possible - they have a book now, pay later option! Until my next post, do keep up with my shenanigans on Instagram and Facebook ! Tell a friend to tell a friend to like, follow and subscribe to the blog! Disclaimer: All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

Twas the night before Christmas... well actually it was a few nights before but that's beside the point. It's been nearly two months since this trip and I'm still trying to discern whether my experience was real or not. The trauma is THAT fresh. I'm still waiting to find out if Punk'd is getting a reboot and I'll be run a cheque soon. Anyways, Let me stop rambling and get into it! Location: Ocho Rios, St. Ann Date Visited: December 2021 Type: All-Inclusive Resort Cost: USD ~$400+ per night First Impressions The property is massive, but upon approaching the resort, you may think otherwise. The entrance is nestled in the the town square, so one may have to navigate some [ unruly ] vehicles and pedestrians before glimpsing the resort's tall brass gates and the vacation bliss sets in. Well, my bliss didn't set in until I was half-way back to Kingston...but we'll get to this later on. Christimas Tree at Moon Palace Jamaica Style/Ambience - 6 out of 10 The resort is modern, with floor to ceiling glass windows, abstract decor in neutral tones, marble floors and the like. My husband and I went the week leading up to Christmas, and just in case we were uncertain of the season, the 30-foot Christmas Tree [ pictured ] quickly solved that problem. However, noone could've prepared me for the SEA of people that had Christmas at Moon Palace on their to-do list. It was jam-packed! Di place did RAM , zeen? You'd have to wonder if a pandemic was still in effect. Chaos was on level 100 and I could barely hear myself think at times. The capacity clearly burdened the facilities, as evidenced by smelly, dirty bathrooms in common areas and long wait times at elevators. Room - 6 out of 10 We had an Ocean View room on the 10th floor and the view (well, depending on the angle) was spectacular. On one side is the beauty pictured below, but on the other side is the lovely scenery of rooftops and traffic in Ocho Rios. The website posits that this room category has a balcony, but the jury is still out on that as it was quite small - you may have to take individual turns to enjoy it. View from Moon Palace Jamaica Ocean View Room The room itself was an awkward shape but spacious enough for two people. The modern decor with neutral tones was maintained in the room. The bathroom had an enclosed glass shower and CHI bath products. However, there was only one sink and the room had towels but no wash rags, which I'm assuming was an oversight. Additional amenities (toothbrush, toothpaste, slippers) could be requested and delivered to the room via the Moon Palace Jamaica App. Food & Drinks - 3 out of 10 Warning: the review goes downhill from here. The majority of the food we had was terrible. If it wasn't hypertension inducing, it was as bland as water crackers. The mixed drinks were no better, and I strongly believe that Moon Palace has ' just pure/pour rum ' somewhere in their mission statement (more on this later). Room service was equally disappointing. While the room service menu is the most extensive of any hotel I've ever been to, the sheer volume surely causes quality to suffer. It was the first time I ever experienced chicken alfredo tasting like cardboard (not that I've ever eaten cardboard but imagine that's how it'd be). The saving grace in this category was the Asian specialty restaurant Momo , where you'll find THE BEST pork belly this side of the world. Customer Service - 3 out of 10 That three is literally for the three staff members who did not royally upset me during our stay. If it wasn't flat out lies , it was omission of vital information; If it wasn't omission, it was very rude responses; If it wasn't rude responses, it was a scowling face or a bad attitude. From the Bell Hop to the Manager ( who, after 4 hours of us waiting for our room, told my husband to get me some rum so I'd calm down ) we were given a raw deal. With every complaint I made, the Manager condescendingly and consistenly reminded us that Moon Palace Jamaica is a family resort, so couples' expectations should be tempered accordingly [ The logic behind this is still being computed... ] Should I do a forum post detailing ALL the issues we had? I'd love to know how you'd have handled some of the situations because, honest to God? I nearly sinned my soul in that place! Amenities & Entertainment - 8 out of 10 The resort is always buzzing with activity, so there's little room to be bored. the Awe Spa is probably the largest hotel spa in the island, but the Salon section was relatively small in comparison. The gym was spacious and well stocked (but who really exercises on vacation?!) Flowrider Surf Simulator The poolside activities were also quite fun, we even caught an epic dance competition among the guests. There's also access to Dolphin Cove from the resort property, if one is so inclined. The flowrider surf simulator ( pictured ) was also a unique and beloved guest activity. There's not much of a beach, so not much to report on where that is concerned. MADD Factor - Wired Gaming Center & Arcade The true saving grace of this trip for us was the games lounge ( pictured ). It was a true place of solace for us amidst all the chaos and frustration. Quite frankly, we spent more time here than in our room, as the thought of waiting for an elevator to get back to our floor was deterring enough. Nevertheless, there were a myriad of TVs, seating areas, arcade and console games. There was also a snack bar inside with ice-cream, chips, soda etc. Wired Gaming Center & Arcade Overall Rating: 5.2 out of 10 Verdict: We will NOT be back! Under no foreseeable circumstance would our hard earned money be used to go back to this resort. Our stay was hardly enjoyable, save for the few moments of solace (emphasis on few ). Moon Palace Jamaica is far too expensive to merely overlook the rotten experience we had (we can talk more in the Forum). I would not recommend this resort for a Couples trip, and apparently neither would the Staff. I left much more stressed out than before I got there, and found myself grieving for many a day after. Beware: Staff Members may try to scam you into buying a vacation package in exchange for 90 minutes of your time and resort coupons/benefits. Don't do it! Check out Moon Palace Jamaica: https://jamaica.moonpalace.com/en Disclaimer: All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

I'll be the first to admit that Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall was not our first choice for a staycation...but the pandemic came without warning and really blew all other plans out the water. Location: Montego Bay, St. James Date Visited: December 2020 Type: All-Inclusive Resort Cost: ~ USD $600 per night First Impressions The resort is shared between Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall (Adults-Only) and Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall (Family-Friendly). You really could've fooled me, as the property is massive and the separation is both seen and felt, as each side has its own check-in/lobby area. Since we went when travel restrictions were tighter, the resort was nowhere near full capacity. Check-in was smooth and we were issued quaint passports [ pictured ] as the welcome pamphlet; sanitisation protocols were followed to a T; and we got a quick resort tour. At no point was any staff member or guest without a wask/with a mask being worn improperly. Style/Ambience - 7 out of 10 The property has a modern colonial decor style. We were told that renovations had recently occured, which explained the odd mix of really dark wood and drapery with crisp neutral marble/stone. Nevertheless, there are so many picturesque places on the property, including a ginormous chair! [ pictured ] I wish I'd snapped a pic in it, but I was far too cautious ( translation: 'fraid like puss ) to climb up! The resort really lights up at night (pun intended) and I think that's when the ambience of the Hyatt Zilara side comes alive. This is especially evident by the main pool area, with views of the bridges and the fountains flowing into the infinity pool [ pictured ]. Room - 7 out of 10 We stayed in an Ocean View Junior Suite with a King bed in Building 1, which was safety sealed on arrival. The decor was quite minimal, with warm neutral toned furniture - at times it felt quite sterile. Junior Suite King Bed: Photo Credit - Trip Advisor The bathroom? Contractor: "How much marble would you like to add?" Hyatt Zilara: " YES ." Hyatt Zilara Junior Suite Bathroom - Photo Credit: Trip Advisor While the marble added a touch of luxury, it was eh-vuh-ree-where. I'm glad the exposed wood shelving could added some dimension, or my head would've spun everytime I walked in. The bathroom had a rain shower and a separate tub, which were quite nice! Robes and slippers were sent to the room on request. Food & Drinks - 9 out of 10 Fun Fact: All eateries on the property have a 'Z' in its name. We ate at Calypzo, Urban Heatz and Choicez. The menu options were limited, but the execution was top notch! Menus were available via QR code [ pictured ] and sometimes differed to the options advertised on the resort app. There was no lack where dessert was concerned. There were so many delicious options, even the memory has me overwhelmed! Mi haffi gi di Jerk Hut it's own paragraph! Located on the Hyatt Ziva side of the property is the BEST jerk chicken I've ever had. Periodt! ( or whatever the kids are saying these days ). Coupled with the signature sweet sauce?! Chef's kiss! The coffee shopz, Bitez Deli and Pizzeria also had tasty snack options in between the larger meals. Room Service was ON POINT . It came very quickly and was consistently good! The mixed drinks were great. My husband still holds that Hyatt Zilara made the best mojitos he's ever had! Customer Service - 8 out of 10 The staff at Hyatt Zilara are on Chick-Fil-A level service standards. They have their signature ' from the heart ' greeting, where staff members put a hand across their heart and nod as they encounter a guest. On one occasion, we got locked out of our room and it was dealt with in no time. Sadly, there was a bad apple that caused this rating to drop. One evening I had cut my toe and limped quickly to the nearest staff member for help, who was the hostess at the Italian restaurant. She told me I had to file a report, then go to the security to lodge same before I could get a bandaid. I determined that the hostess was out of her mind, so I engaged her no further. My husband then helped me climb ~ 3 flights of stairs to the Hyatt Ziva lobby, where the concierge on duty wasted no time in assisting me, and not only scoured the office for a bandaid, but also nursed the cut herself. Amenities & Entertainment - 7 out of 10 Being mindful of the limitations due to the pandemic, I think the Hyatt Zilara staff did their best to be creative with guest activities. There wasn't much to write home about during the day, but the night-time schedule was a vybe! We went to the silent party held in the Hyatt Zilara lobby. It was an innovative way to get guests together, albeit socially distanced. Our headphones were sanitised before being issued, and had a local and international channel to choose from with live DJs spinning on each. It was lots of fun with no disturbance to guests with nearby rooms. MADD Factor - The Gym I am NO advocate for exercising while on vacation, but hear me out. The Gym on the Hyatt Ziva side of the property is why the expression ' State of the art ' exists. Hands down, this is the best gym we've ever seen, hotel or otherwise. It's opened 24/7, and uses the room key for access! There are two stories of top of the line equipment, floor to ceiling glass windows/mirrors, plush flooring and central air conditioning ~ And to think it's just one of two gyms on property. Overall Rating: 7.6 out of 10 Verdict: Will we be back? It's a strong possibility! While the price alone may be a deterrent, we'd definitely go back if the opportunity presented itself. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is a solid, well-rounded resort. It does well in catering to stays for families, couples or just a group of friends. With restrictions less stringent now than when we went, we'd love to see how they've pivoted the Hyatt experience, if any! If you've made it this far, you may as well subscribe if you haven't already! New blog posts go live on Sundays at 1:00 PM and insiders get the exclusive as to what's coming! Check out Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/jamaica/hyatt-zilara-rose-hall/mbjia Disclaimer: All opinions are my own. This review is not sponsored.

Gloria's Seafood City at Victoria Pier was one of the first places I wanted to visit once the Jamaican Government lifted a few of the pandemic-related restrictions. The Easter holiday weekend presented itself as a great opportunity to do so! I was equally pleased to stay true to the Jamaican Easter tradition of having fish, as well as spending the Easter Sunday afternoon out with family. Location Gloria's Seafood City is located at Victoria Pier in Downtown, Kingston. This location is particularly scenic due to its strategic location by the Waterfront [See my short video below to get a glimpse of the views!]. One can also find the seafood brand at two other locations: the flagship restaurant, Gloria's Rendezvous, is located on Queen Street in Port Royal, Kingston; and Island Village in Ocho Rios, St. Ann is home to the other. Style/Ambience The restaurant is arranged for casual dining, and features wood-toned, rustic decor. Customers have the option to eat al fresco on the terrace, or be accomodated indoors. There's also limited seating by the bar. I visited with a party of five and we inititally picked a table on the terrace. However, the sea breeze proved to be a bit too exciting for us that Sunday afternoon. Gusts of wind would blow the appetizer of soup right out the bowl unto the table, leaving less to be enjoyed. Other guests around us didn't seem to mind at all, and carried on with their meals as the wind danced around their tables. My party, on the other hand, decided to relocate to a table indoors. Inside the restaurant, there's a cute feature wall by which guests can take photos as a memory of their visit. The wall reads "Awesome Experiences - Delivered with love by the Great Seafood People." Food & Drinks On this particular occasion, the restaurant only had fish and shrimp available. That's a bummer for anyone who may have allergies, as one person in our party did. The solution offered was plain alfredo pasta. Nevertheless, the majority of our party ordered fried fish with sides of bammy and festival, and we were pleased for the most part. The side salad was a bit dry, so I'd recommend requesting salad dressing. Customer Service If you've been to Gloria's before, the wait time is a quintessential part of the experience. Pro tip? Don't go to any Gloria's location famished. To ensure this aspect of my review was accurate, I did actually time how long we waited from when our order was placed. The total wait time? 1 hour. Depending on your temperament, that may or may not be a big deal. It was a big deal to us as during the wait, we were neither offered the customary glass of water nor the actual drinks we'd ordered along with the meal. Ridiculous. You're probably thinking, why didn't you beckon to your server for well...service? Well, while our waitress was fairly cordial, she didn't introduce herself by name. As such, unless she was in the vicinity of our table and could assist, it would take giving a lengthy description for another staff member to identify her on our behalf. Final Thoughts Overall Rating: 5 out of 10 I do think one should experience Gloria's seafood at least once. Nothing quite beats the views and crisp sea breeze at Victoria Pier. The food is delicious and filling, which may or may not make the wait worth it. However, one should definitely temper expectations regarding customer service as it's nothing exceptional. Nevertheless, staff are cordial, and it's the company with you that'll tip the scale of the experience for the better. I've been to all the locations in Kingston, so I am curious as to whether the one in St. Ann is any different. Stay tuned to see if I make it there! Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. All opinions are my own.