Hanover, a parish often overlooked, is finally stepping into the spotlight. I’m Kareem, and after a recent stay at Princess Resort, I can attest to the shift. The sheer scale of the development is impressive. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a destination. You’ve got the family-friendly Princess Grand Jamaica, boasting 590 rooms, and the adults-only haven, Princess Senses The Mangrove. My access, thanks to my stay at Senses, allowed me to traverse both worlds, a simple flash of my colour-coded armband—a clever dual-purpose room key—granted me entry. And let’s be clear, on the Senses side, every room faces the sea. That’s a promise, not a suggestion.
Watch my full video of this HOTEL at the bottom of the article
Quick Facts
Who is it for:
- Couples: Especially those seeking a romantic getaway, particularly the Overwater Villas and Pleasure Suite.
- Families: The Grand Jamaica side is well-equipped for families, and the suite options with bunk beds cater to those with children.
- Luxury Seekers: The Platinum Suites and Overwater Villas offer an elevated experience with butler service and exclusive amenities.
What it is NOT:
- A budget-friendly option for backpackers.
- A place for those seeking a rustic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Tip:
- If you want access to both properties book your stay at Princess Senses The Mangrove
What stands out:
- The fact that all the accommodations are suites, meaning there is a room and living space.
What to carry:
- Sunscreen and a bluetooth speaker to use when relaxing at the beach.
What is it similar to:
- For Adults: Ocean Eden Bay Resort, For Family: Ocean Coral Spring
- Overwater bungalow resorts found in the Maldives or Bora Bora.
Places of attraction close by:
Jamwest Adventure Park, Chukka Sandy Bay.
Senses Mangrove
Grand Jamaica
Junior Suite: A Sea-Facing Sanctuary
My home for a few nights was a Junior Suite. At 560 square feet, plus a 130-square-foot balcony, it felt spacious. These are all suites, mind you, so a separate living area is standard. The option of a king-size bed with a sofa bed, or two queen beds, caters to different travel styles.
Imagine this: stepping into a room where the air is cool, a respite from the midday heat. The decor is clean, modern, with a palette that echoes the sea. The king-size bed, dressed in crisp white linens, looks inviting. A plush sofa sits opposite, ready for late-night conversations or quiet reading. The balcony doors slide open to reveal a panoramic view of the turquoise waters, the crashing of the waves a constant, soothing soundtrack. The bathroom is a sleek affair, the rain shower a welcome indulgence after a day under the Jamaican sun. A 55-inch high-definition TV stands ready, though with views like this, who needs it? The mini-fridge, stocked with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks like those addictive banana chips, is a thoughtful touch. If you ask me, the entry-level junior suite is quite sufficient. Use the extra money to pay for an excursion to Jamwest Adventure Park or Chukka Adventures.
Variations exist: hydromassage tubs, swim-out pools with balcony tubs, family suites with bunk beds. But for me, the standard Junior Suite was a slice of paradise. The thick blinds? A gift for those who cherish a good night’s sleep. And yes, the swim-out pool was alluring, but honestly, I was too busy exploring to take a dip.
The Pleasure Suite: Romance Redefined
After settling in, I wanted to see what the other rooms looked like, so I braved the beautiful Jamaican tropical heat to find the room that intrigued me the most, the moment I stepped inside, it was crystal clear why it’s called the “Pleasure Suite.” This is undeniably where lovers come to rekindle their romance, to reconnect in a space designed for intimacy and fun.
A Circular Sanctuary of Romance:
Stepping into the Pleasure Room, you’re immediately drawn to the centerpiece: a plush, circular bed and a ceiling mirror! It’s not just a bed; it’s a statement, setting the tone for a romantic and intimate experience. Imagine sinking into those soft linens after a day of exploring the resort! And to further enhance the romantic atmosphere, you’ll find an Intimacy Kit readily available, a thoughtful touch that’s buzzing with excitement. Plus, guests here enjoy the Exclusive O’ Club Experience, adding another layer of luxury and exclusivity to your stay.
A Lingering Question:
The only thing I regret not asking was if the room is soundproof. With all the romance and intimacy this room encourages, it’s definitely a question worth asking if privacy is a top priority for you!
Lighting and Ambiance:
The room is illuminated by a combination of modern pendant lights and recessed lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The pink neon accent lighting on the TV wall adds a touch of playful romance, perfect for setting the mood.
Overwater Villas: Elevated Experiences
The Senses side also offers Platinum Suites, slightly larger at 603 square feet, with separate seating areas, swim-out options, and furnished balconies. But for me, the real showstopper was the Overwater Villa.
Built on stilts, these 14 villas hover above the waist-high waters, each a self-contained sanctuary stretching out into the serene expanse of the bay. From above, you can see their thatched roofs and wooden exteriors. They look like individual private huts, each having its own small terrace. It is a picturesque view of privacy and luxury all lined up on the beautiful Caribbean waters. For the lovers that really want something special, I would say skip the Pleasure Suite and go for this. The layout is intimate, designed for closeness.
The centerpiece is a king-size bed, dressed in pristine white linens, a soft blue runner adding a touch of color. Two plush white robes lie folded at its foot, a welcoming invitation to unwind. A complimentary beach bag sits nearby, a promise of sun-soaked days. Overhead, woven pendant lights cast a warm, ambient glow, highlighting the textured headboard. Close by, is a sleek wooden cabinet houses a coffee machine, and a glass panel in the floor offers a glimpse of the turquoise waters below. It’s a space that feels both luxurious and intimate, designed for connection and relaxation.
A complimentary bottle of champagne on ice sets the mood. Glass doors frame the sunset, a daily spectacle.
Two bathrooms: one indoor with a rain shower and tub, and an outdoor one with a small window to the sea, a truly unique touch. The furnished terrace with an infinity pool and direct sea access seals the deal. Privacy is paramount here, with the villas located at the far end of the property. Platinum Club benefits and 24-hour butler service complete the experience.
For a new property, the rates are surprisingly affordable for the amenities. And with wheelchair accessibility and covered walkways, the hotel caters to all. Hanover’s transformation is underway, and Princess Grand Jamaica is leading the charge.
How long does it take to get to Princess Hotels & Resorts, from these central points:
Montego Bay (Sangsters International Airport): 1 hr, 21 mins.
Ocho Rios: 3 hrs, 5 mins.
Negril: 32 mins.
Kingston (Norman Manley International Airport): 4 hrs, 31 mins.
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Useful Information about Jamaica
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What is the weather like in Jamaica
The climate in Jamaica is very warm, with an annual average of 32 degrees/ 89.6°F. It is usually warm to hot all year round.
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Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)
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Every visitor is required to fill out a C5 form before entering Jamaica
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