Bahia Principe Explore Jamaica: Not as expected

The Grand Bahia Principe is a beautiful resort but to us it felt cramped and very loud. The rooms are comfortable and spacious. The staff is absolutely amazing but it was disappointing to have to ask for little things like coffee in the room or washcloths. It seemed that every day something was forgotten. This is a wonderful resort for families with children as there are many activities for the little ones. Food was very good both at the buffet as well as the a la carte restaurants.

Grand Palladium Jamaica: Amazing trip!

We stayed at this resort January 11-18th and loved it! The staff was amazing, the resort itself was very clean. Our favourite restaurant was by far the Japanese. Book the show table.. by far the best! Room was very big and had an amazing view of the ocean. The only complaint would be the shower that leaked every time so we would end up with a huge puddle in the bathroom and occassionally would smell like sewage... we found if we kept the air conditioning running it would get rid of the smell [... read more]. The pool area was very big and the resort was not busy at all, we never had to wait for anything. The beach areas were very nice... nice sand and the staff was on top of keeping it cleaned of seaweed. Snorkeling off the beach was amazing.. you just had to swim out a bit. Would definitely recommend this resort and would love to go back again some time!

Melia Braco Village: Gem of a hotel

We were pleasantly surprised when we got to Melia Braco, the registration and getting us to our room was speedy and efficient. When they say Oceanfront they mean it, our room was on the upper floor of a two story villa and we had a full view of the ocean which was outstanding. Our room was large and very clean with a good sized bathroom and balcony with very comfy chairs. There is 24 hour room service which we utilized in the morning to have a pot of coffee delivered (which was always prompt [... read more]) that we enjoyed on our balcony. The hotel is not very big and is planned out like a village, the food is very good especially the Jamaican restaurant. The grounds are so beautiful, they remind me of a botanic garden, there is a very old rubber tree that has to be seen to be believed. Every morning we would see a team of gardeners working diligently on maintaining the grounds. If you love to hear birds singing this is the place for you. Our mini bar was regularly stocked with water, beer and juices/pop, and also snacks. The nightly entertainment was enjoyable, they put on smaller more intimate shows with some very good talent, like Michael David (R&B singer) who had us all swooning. The staff was very friendly and accommodating. The beach was not bad, however I wish that they would pay more attention to the portion on the east side (right of the gazebo) as it never seemed to get the maintenance the other areas got, and unfortunately that is where we stayed as it had the most shade and least bit of activity (eg. away from the volley ball court.). It was a bit upsetting to see sea weed and plastic bottles being ignored for 2 days until I complained. Don;t let this colour your decision as this is a lovely property and I believe this was an oversight.

Bahia Principe Escape Runaway Bay: Jem in Jamaica!

We loved this resort from the moment we got there. We were so well taken care of and always asked if everything was ok! Friendly, caring staff always greeting us with smiles! Grounds were beautiful, life guards were awesome and bar staff made sure you had a drink on the go! We would recommend going to Dunns River Falls Tour...best Monday I've ever had!

Sandals Ochi Beach Resort: Best vacation ever

I would first like to thank Krista Shaver for helping us book this amazing vacation. Definitely made things so much easier for us to decide where we wanted to go when she found this amazing deal with Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in St Ann's Bay Jamaica. With her help she made sure we had everything we needed to make this a vacation right from the start. We had upgraded our seats both ways which I would recommend to everyone traveling. Well worth the extra money. We also were told to upgrade to the [... read more] mobay club. Which upon arrival we were greated right when we got off the plane to by pass the very very long line. She had let us know ahead of time that it sometimes could take 2 to 3 hours to get through. Again well worth the extra money. From there we had no issues coming in. All in all this took us about 20 mins max from getting off the plane to going through the airport to enter Jamaica. From there we were taken to the Mobay club were we right away were welcomed by all staff. They offered us a drink of our choice and food. It was nice to sit back and relax while we waited for our ride to the hotel. I had read in some reviews before traveling about some having issues with having to tip people. (Which to us was not the case we did not find that people demanded tips right from the start.) We were called from the lounge they had already had our luggage and were ready to take us to the private car they had waiting outside for us. The guy that helped us with our bags had let us know it was $1 a bag which we had no idea but nor did we have a problem giving him the $1 per bag. This is his way of making a living. We understood and were happy to give it to him. We had the whole car to ourselves which was very nice. The driver was very polite and professional. We were told it would be about an hour and 45 mins to get to the hotel but we were told to relax and enjoy the drive. He was pointing things out to us along the way which was nice to see him show some love about his home town. He did let us know that the best jerk chicken to try was at scotchies. Although we did not have a chance to stop and try it you definitely could tell it was a great place to stop very busy. We made it to the hotel and we're greated right away they took our bags and right away gave us a glass of champagne. We were taken through the lobby for a short walk through the garden area to the next building were our room would be. Room was very decent nice and clean. Nice little patio area overlooking the hillside. We ended up at the reef Terrance for dinner that night. Amazing food and a beautiful view to overlook the ocean while you eat. That evening we went down to the ocean bar which is were we needed up most nights before heading off to bed. Food review again there was not a bad meal that we had amazing food at all places that we ate at. We had sky terrance and vista gourmet, Valentinos twice it was that good, the southern table which had the best ribs, kelly's dockside seaside bar and grill that was our last dinner on the beach the Monday night before leaving for home on Tuesday. Tapas on the riviera if you want to grab a quick bite to eat this was the place. Dino's pizzeria pool side which you could order and take to go. Everyday we would see people taking pizza boxes to the beach. Nice little treat. By far though my favourite place would have to be the kimonos oriental cuisine where they cook infront of you. So much fun and a very tasty dinner. The jerk shack on the hillside was very nice for their fish sandwich they had different specials everyday. Nice quick lunch. Drinks were all premium labels as well as there own too. They were not shy when it came to pouring you a drink. Doubles all around. Wine selection was nice for the house all Robert Mondavi. Our favourite after dinner spot though was the rabbit hole. Be sure to ask for the password every night. This place did not disappoint. Service show and drinks all amazing. We had gone 5 nights out of the 7 . We did do one excursion on the Friday at Dunn's river falls. Very beautiful place be sure to bring water shoes not sandles. It was only two hours. We are not one for the all day trips so this was just perfect for us. Entertainment nightly with different themes. Something to do for everyone. Beach and a view for days. We loved both sides to the hotel. Again if anyone of looking for a hotel that has a little something for everyone this is the one for you. Best vacation by far we are already looking to plan our next one. Krista we will be calling you for our next trip thank you again for putting this together for us. Shane and Linda

Mangos Boutique Beach Resort: This resort will not be for everyone.

I read the reviews so I knew what I was getting or at least I had an idea. And I loved it!! Mangos is not a concrete jungle, it is a quaint resort that offers a personal touch that you are just not going to get at those corporate ones. Were there issues? Yes, but I will list them at the end. As you will see from my other reviews, we travel with another couple and usually go to those large corporate resorts and to be honest, one in particular, I would return to in a heartbeat. But I saw th [... read more]is resort and read the reviews so I thought, let’s try something different. I knew what I was getting, but the other 3 did not and at first they were ready to kill me. But that quickly changed. There were only about 30 people at the resort when we arrived, which was disconcerting, but we quickly realized this was to our benefit. No fighting for pool or beach chairs, no line ups for dinner or the bar and making quick friends (for the most part) with the other occupants and staff. We were not bothered by mosquitoes, actually they spray most nights. The staff is what really makes this resort. Don’t get me wrong, we had some bad ones, in particular, at dinner (when they did not even smile once). But the ones we connected with will be in our hearts for a long time. Nicola at breakfast and lunch, Sherice for dinner (always with the wine bottle ready to pour..lol), Franz at the bar (ask for his specialty “green Friday”), Mama at the bar (makes the best Cosmo and is always singing and dancing), Patrice (get her to teach you some dance moves), Omar & Gary are the entertainment team and kept us laughing. Actually, almost every staff member would stop and talk to you once they recognized your face. The food was also different from the large resorts. Dinner spot and menu type was set by the resort at one of 4 locations. Don’t expect to wander around with your plate to a thousand choices (most of which you do not even recognize). Buffets are simple, more like a banquet buffet, usually with a selection of fish, chicken and pork or beef, vegetables, salad, potatoes, rice and desert. Breakfast had your usual fair, including eggs, bacon, sausage and other items that changed around. You could ask for eggs cooked to order as well, although, this was not offered when we first got there. We had 3 a la carte dinners, Italian two nights with different menus, Steak (or other choices) one night. The rest were varied buffets (Jamaican, Fish & Seafood, International, etc). The food is delicious, they have a talented chef. Lunch is always off the menu at the Pool restaurant. They have good regular options and then they add specials every day so you can have other choices. One day we even had a taco buffet, which included chicken and other choices. My only complaint would be that some of the food was not very hot, especially breakfast, so if this is really important to you, stay away. The rooms (205 & 206) were what we called Muskokian (Muskoka meets Jamaica, you will understand if you are from Ontario), the walls and floors are stained wood and due to the low voltage lighting it can be dark. We traded a lamp with our friends as she could not see and our lamp was bright (had regular bulbs). The air conditioning was very good and quiet. There was ample closet & dresser space and the large safe is free (even though Sunwing advertises it as an extra payment). They re-stock the fridge with water, pop and beer daily. The design of the units is based on history of the property, or at least that was what we were told. The bathrooms were in need of upgrade or just some tlc at the least, there are dispensers with body wash and shampoo and I found the lighting was fine. Our balcony was very nice with a view of the pool and ocean. The Pool is a nice size, yes it seems cloudy, but we indulged (even used the slide) and we were fine. The hot tubs are not working and are uninviting, they had a repair person working on them while we were there, but still not fixed. The Beach was cleaned daily (very nice guy) even though you could not tell because we had high winds, large ocean swells and endless seaweed. The beach was long enough to get a good walk in every day and there are beach vendors just past the Royalton Hotels that will ask you to look at their stuff. Be friendly and they will be happy to joke with you and will not pester you or overwhelm you. Going the other way brings you to a beach area used by the Cruise lines and we did not venture past that as it was natural shore which looked like it would be hard to walk. There are 2 shops, a craft shop ran by Maxine (aka Mama) who will endear you with her knowledge of the property and the history of her family in relation to it. She is very sweet and has a very talented son who carved a custom key hanger for us from a picture. There is also a shop where you can buy regular items like Rum, medicine, snacks etc. The issues we had included before we left. I had contacted the resort to see if we could have an adjoining room with our friends. The response was “I will try my best to accommodate your request unfortunately due to availability there is not enough room change available”. I quickly realized (since there were only 30 guests) that this was just not true. The room (which was adjoining) next to us was available and not occupied until 3 days later. Actually the whole unit was empty except for us. Another issue was the water in the rooms. From no pressure at all, to no hot water, it was a hit and miss. They stated there were reasons, but I had read this in other reviews, so I think this is just something to be aware of as expected. There is Wifi, but again, a hit and miss, kinda like the water. I know this resort is a work in progress, but I have a couple suggestions besides fixing the issues I listed. The towels in the room need fabric softener! The grounds need attention to bring them back to their former glory. Not that it is bad, just overgrown. Replace the Sun lounger cushions that need it, they did not bother us, but makes it appear bad. Get your dinner servers to smile and engage with the guests. Supply some safety equipment to the bug spray guy, a handkerchief is just not enough! Would we return…absolutely!

Sunscape Cove: Only good if have kids

The hotel was ok for kids, if you like to do things on your own and not much organization in events and no music in most parts so you hear the guy chipping concrete on the pool deck all day. Rooms ok, nothing special. Food horrible at Buffett but good at al a cartes. Jerk chicken on the beach and drinks were the highlight. Don't stay here if you want a nice beach! Very rocky and seaweed. Good on a budget.

Riu Ocho Rios: Best Bang for your Buck

Grounds- Large area divided by 2 wings but not too large for you to take forever to walk through. They kept all the public areas clean and you could see alot of workers maintaining the floors, washroom and eating areas Restaurants- great Food! The jerk shack, plantation, Japanese and Sir Richard restaurants were amazing. It was interesting that they didn't take reservations for the a la carte but once you understood the system (wait for the dinner rush to end 6/630pm) it was okay. didn't want [... read more] to long for dinners Rooms: stayed in the Deluxe Wing because we wanted more space, free wi-fi and to be closer the quieter (not alot of kids) pool. The rooms were old school colonial style but were kept clean. The bathrooms could use a major upgrade (tub was peeling and ceiling needed new paint) but it was manageable. Extra towels were delivered daily Pools- Great large pools with a lot of space so they never felt too crowded with alot of people in them Beach- the beach could have used some raking and cleaning up the seaweed but it was managable to walk over to get to the warm ocean. Ample loungers available. The Deluxe section had the better quality clean up of the beach and loungers to relax in Service: Very attentive support workers to attend to your needs.

Bahia Principe Explore Jamaica: grand bahia principe Jamaica

If you have been to other Bahia s this one really is not up to the same standards. it lacked the entertainment. I upgraded to the Royal Golden, was suppose to have separate check in. Did not happen. no bath towels in room nor a key for safe. Had to give a deposit for the safe. I did not feel this was right at all. The people are very friendly and try there best to please you food and drinks were good. Pool was cool and the hot tubs are no hot tubs Beach was not nice at all  [... read more]I won't return

Melia Braco Village: Wonderful resort

Staff are the mainstay of this resort, always pleasant & smiling. Patric the Food & Beverage Manager is hands on by overseeing that things run smoothly, clearing tables and appears to have a great appreciation for his staff. Everyone works so hard to keep the resort in tip top shape. This is an older resort taken over by Melia and they are working dilligently To better the resort. Food was excellent and lits of variety. Although the beach is not the best due to it being rocky people still w [... read more]ent swimming & snorkeling. I suspect since this is a fairly new aquistion by Melia it can only get better. The rooms were a good size, ours had a walk out patio overlooking the beach. Our only complaint was that the 45 min. bus ride ended up being 1-1/2 hrs by the time everyone else got dropped off at their respective resorts. This was after an 1-1/2 plane delay. The other alternative is a taxi which costs approx. $80.00 U.S. one way. We opted for this on our return to the airport, we were able to share the cost with another couple. The resort does gave a shuttle bus but I am not aware if the cost which might be worth looking into. We would return to this resort as it is quiet and small.

Riu Ocho Rios: Great resort

The resort had beautiful Beaches and main areas . Room could of used a little more updating . As well as room service that was stated they had on there web site. Food was amazing. Staff was friendly and welcoming .

Mangos Boutique Beach Resort: Great staff, but needs work.

Our room was nice and we had a great view, but the shower was weak and only warm. There were no water sports. The hot tubs were cold. Only one restaurant was open at any time. The staff, however, were exceptional.

Riu Reggae: Super Clean Gorgeous Resort

The Resort was beautiful and clean.The staff was courteous, helpful and kind.The food was excellent, i enjoyed the selection and variation. The only thing i would have prefered was at the specialty restaurants a change some sort in the menu, i was vactioning there for 9 days and after the 6 day i had tried all the resaurants and was just a lil disappointed that there was no change to the menu. The food was delious though and I am excited to visit Jamaica again I had a great experience

Dreams Rose Hall: Excellent Vacation Resort

Very clean and well kept resort, from bathrooms, hotel room, dining areas and grounds everything first rate. Staff was all very friendly, courteous, helpful and efficient. Was perfect for grandchildren. I would go to this resort again.

Riu Reggae: Great time at a great hotel

Extremely pleasant and accommodating staff. The wait staff went above and beyond. Food was excellent and a great assortment for everyone. Jr Suite was perfect and worth the extra. Beach cleaned everyday. The entertainment staff made a point to speak to everyone. Didn't bug you if you just wanted to watch. Didn't have to wait long for a drink unless it was busy and then what do you expect. I would've like the pool a little deeper but it was still not a problem.

Mangos Boutique Beach Resort: Hidden Gem

Nothing fancy about this place. Food is excellent, but choices are limited. Rooms are clean and comfortable, but bathrooms are dated. Beach = excellent, pool = fine for a resort with under 100 rooms.

Riu Reggae: Great Resort!

The Riu Reggae is a relatively new resort in Montego Bay. The grounds are beautiful and nicely kept. The Staff were friendly, welcoming and professional. Our ocean view room was wonderful! The food was great in the buffet and all the four other restaurants. The beach was small but kept clean, and you could walk through to the beaches at the other Rius. All in all a great experience. Well done Riu Reggae!

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall: Awesome Resort

Beautiful resort with several pools and private beaches. Staff are constantly walking around to see if you need a drink or anything else. Literally every single staff was friendly and would always great you when passing by. Only issue I had was housekeeping coming to my room at 5ish daily. I would prefer they do it during 1-4pm at least.

Riu Negril: Fabulous Hotel!!!

Been to Jamaica 3 times before but 1st at Negril. The resort is beautiful and exceptionally clean. Reviews we read about a terrible beach with seaweed are totally false. There is natural vegetation in the water which you can walk around and the water is crystal clear and very calm. If you want all sand just walk to the Riu Tropical. The staff here are great and they make sure you have a great time. The 2 problems we encountered were: 1.) No coffee makers in the room but we just managed t [... read more]o go to breakfast early. 2.) First come first serve at the specialty restaurants which make people mad every day when they get cut off after waiting a half hour to get in. A problem they could easily avoid by reverting back to a reservation system.

Melia Braco Village: Love this resort!

If you are looking for a nice place that looks after you then this is it. Not the huge reports that are overcrowded waiting for beach chairs and waiting in line to book a la carte. We loved this place. It was one of our best vacations. Good food and great people. Nice room!