Written by Kareem LaTouche
You know I love a good adventure, and lately, my quest has taken me deep into the luxurious embrace of some of our finest all-inclusive resorts. We’re talking about the places where the turquoise waters meet ultimate comfort, where every breeze carries the scent of salt and sunshine. Forget what you think you know about resort rooms; I’m here to give you the real-deal, first-hand scoop on where to lay your head and truly unwind. This ain’t just about a bed; it’s about the feeling, the experience, the slice of paradise you get to call your own, even if just for a few precious nights.
4. Secrets Resorts: A Tale of Two Serene Escapes
Location: Montego Bay, St. James
Montego Bay beckons with one of the island’s most unique peninsulas, and planted on this location are two gems – Secrets Wild Orchid and Secrets St. James. Here at Kareem’s Quest (kareemsquest.com), we’re all about unearthing travel treasures, and these adults-only havens are certainly worth exploring.
Secrets Wild Orchid: This resort exudes a charming intimacy. The check-in area encourages relaxation, with plush seating replacing the usual queue. Upgrade your experience with the ‘Preferred Club,’ granting access to exclusive check-in areas and the freedom to roam all three properties.
Unwinding in Paradise: Indulge in four shimmering pools, each catering to a different desire – infinity pools for breathtaking views, a sunset hot tub for a romantic soak, and dedicated Preferred Club areas for an even more personalised experience. Feeling adventurous? Explore the property on complimentary bicycles – a delightful way to soak in the scenery.
Culinary Delights: As I stepped out of the lobby and was greeted by the inviting Seaside Grill, where I ordered a delectable fish sandwich. This à la carte haven also boasts a buffet-style salad selection, catering to every taste. Beyond the Grill: Embark on a culinary adventure with a diverse range of restaurants. Savour the authentic flavours of Jamaica at Blue Mountain, a must-try for breakfast. Bordeaux offers a taste of France with contemporary French cuisine. Start your day with a caffeine fix and delectable pastries at Coco Cafe or unwind with a drink and soulful melodies at the Piano Bar.
Secluded Serenity: The meticulously maintained lawns create a picture-perfect backdrop, while the Piano Bar’s outdoor dining area offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the beach. Montego Bay’s peninsula location translates to an exclusive beach experience, with only hotel guests soaking up the sands. Beyond the Beach: For those seeking aquatic adventures, a dedicated pick-up point facilitates catamaran tours and boat rides. Explore the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the aquatic life.
Luxury Awaits in Every Suite: Secrets Wild Orchid boasts 350 luxurious junior suites, each adorned with “Old English” décor and featuring a private balcony and a hot tub for a touch of indulgence. Choose from garden views, mesmerising ocean views, or beachfront access for the ultimate seaside escape.
Tech-Savvy Comfort: The rooms embrace modern convenience. Forget analog alarm clocks – a tablet awaits, offering access to menus, room service, spa appointments, and more. A unique feature is the ‘secret box’, which is located next to the entrance door. This allows guests to put in food or any other items that they want to discard, and then room service will check it and remove the items without disrupting the guest. Sweet Treats & Savory Delights: A daily dose of Jamaican hospitality comes in the form of a roving jelly man serving ice-cold jelly and pineapple to guests. This beloved tradition brings a smile to everyone’s face. And for a taste bud tantalising experience, be on the lookout for the jerk chicken man, whose aromatic jerk chicken pan pops up at different locations throughout the day. The smoky scent of pimento wood and spices will lead you right to him.
Secrets St. James: If ultimate relaxation is your priority, Secrets St. James awaits. This resort offers a more tranquil atmosphere, with fewer activities and a focus on laid-back luxury. Discover the idyllic “chill spot” for ultimate serenity, while the spa, gym, and multipurpose space cater to your wellness needs. Romantic Retreat: With 350 rooms and a focus on tranquillity, Secrets St. James is a haven for romance, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Whether you seek activity at Secrets Wild Orchid or blissful serenity at Secrets St. James, these luxurious havens cater to every desire. For expert advice, tailor-made itineraries, and tour options to explore these and other Jamaican gems, head over to Kareem’s Quest (kareemsquest.com) and let us help you craft your dream Jamaican vacation.
Secrets wild orchid:
Secrets St. James:
3. Royalton Negril: Sunset Views and Modern Comfort
When you talk about Royalton resorts in Jamaica, Negril always comes to mind, especially for those seeking spectacular sunsets and a sophisticated, modern escape. I took some time to explore the rooms at Royalton Negril, and what I found was a clear commitment to comfort and style, with an emphasis on those iconic Negril views.
My first impression of the Luxury Junior Suite was its bright, airy feel. The decor was contemporary, with clean lines and a palette of cool blues, greys, and whites that echoed the Caribbean Sea just beyond. The king-size bed, dressed in crisp white linens, was incredibly inviting, and the large balcony window allowed natural light to flood the space. The subtle scent of fresh linens and a hint of the ocean breeze made the room instantly welcoming.
Each Luxury Junior Suite comes with a private balcony or terrace, and this is where the magic truly happens. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while watching the sun climb higher, or unwinding with a chilled drink as the sky explodes in hues of orange and purple during a famous Negril sunset. The sounds of the waves gently lapping the shore were a constant, soothing companion.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the Diamond Club™ offers a variety of upgraded suites. I got a peek at a Diamond Club Luxury Oceanfront Suite, and the difference was palpable. These rooms offer prime locations with direct, unobstructed ocean views, and they come with exclusive amenities like personalised butler service. I could almost taste the chilled champagne I imagined being served on that spacious balcony. The scent of the salty air seemed even more potent here, a direct connection to the expansive blue.
The swim-out suites at Royalton Negril are also a fantastic option, offering direct access to a pool from your private terrace. I could easily envision stepping right out of my room into the cool water for an early morning dip, or simply lounging poolside on my own terms. The sounds of gentle splashing and contented sighs would surely fill the air here.
Every room at Royalton Negril is equipped with modern conveniences, including a flat-screen smart TV, a minibar that’s replenished daily, and a coffee maker for that essential morning brew. The bathrooms are well-appointed, featuring rainfall showers and luxurious toiletries. What stood out was the attention to detail – from the well-placed outlets for charging devices to the comfortable seating areas that invite you to truly relax.
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable base for your Negril adventures or a luxurious sanctuary to indulge in, Royalton Negril’s rooms deliver. They offer a refined yet comfortable experience, perfectly designed to complement the natural beauty of the Jamaican coastline.
2. Ocean Coral Spring: Views and Swim-Up Bliss
By the time I returned to the lobby, after a quick overview of the hotel, at Ocean Coral Spring, my room was ready. A golf cart whisked me away to my sanctuary, a delightful surprise waiting inside. A welcome note adorned the bed, accompanied by a delightful fruit and wine basket – a perfect touch for my junior suite. Stepping onto the balcony, I was greeted by a breathtaking ocean view.
The room’s design mirrored the lobby’s modern elegance, with wooden floors and pops of white, dark brown, and lime green. But the highlight? A swim-up suite offers the ultimate in poolside indulgence. I even spotted a group who cleverly booked three adjacent swim-up rooms, creating their own private party pad complete with music and laughter every evening. The scent of chlorine mixed with the sweet, tropical air, and the joyful shouts of friends mingled with the gentle lapping of water.
For the ultimate in luxury, the Privilege Roof Top Master Suite beckons. This duplex haven offers a cosy, romantic ambiance with a panoramic ocean view from the rooftop terrace. Imagine unwinding in the Jacuzzi after a day of exploration, or hosting a small gathering in the spacious lounge area.
A Room for Every Dream: Ocean Coral Spring’s Accommodations
With over 500 rooms, Ocean Coral Spring caters to diverse needs and preferences. Whether you’re a family of four or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, there’s a perfect room waiting for you.
Finding Your Ideal Haven: A Look at the Room Categories
The Classic Comfort: Junior Suite
Unwind in a bedroom featuring either a king-size bed or two double beds, perfect for families or couples. A separate living area with a sofa bed provides additional sleeping space if needed. Step out onto your private terrace and soak in the tropical views, perhaps enjoying a morning coffee or an evening cocktail under the starlit sky. The ensuite bathroom pampers you with a luxurious hydro-massage tub and a refreshing rain shower, ideal for washing away the day’s adventures. Standard amenities like air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, minibar restocked daily, coffee maker, hairdryer, and safe ensure a convenient and comfortable stay. If you want extra peace and quiet ask for these rooms in the photo above.
Perfect for Families: The Daisy Family Junior Suite
Travelling with little ones? The cleverly named Daisy Family Junior Suite is an option designed specifically for families. Located conveniently close to the waterpark, this room promises to keep your brood entertained throughout your stay. It boasts all the features of the standard Junior Suite, but with thoughtful touches that cater to families. Imagine the joy on your children’s faces as they sprawl out in the dedicated living area, complete with a sofa bed. Parents will appreciate the extra space, allowing everyone to unwind comfortably. The joyful splashes and excited squeals from the nearby waterpark were a constant reminder of the fun just steps away.
There are about four other options of rooms to choose from, but these ones are the most common.
Eden Bay:
1. Princess Grand Jamaica
Location: Green Island, Hanover
Hanover, my friends, is undergoing something special, and Princess Grand Jamaica is right at the forefront. My base for a few nights was a Junior Suite. Its spacious feel, with a generous balcony, offered ample room. Every accommodation here is a suite, so that separate living area is a given. You’ve got options too – a king for yourself or two queens for the crew.
Entering that room was like a soft landing after a warm flight. The air, cooled to perfection, offered an immediate calm. The decor? Clean, contemporary, with shades that mirrored the very Caribbean Sea visible from my window. The king-size bed, dressed in crisp white linens, looked like an invitation to drift away. The balcony doors slid open, and the world truly expanded. A panoramic sweep of turquoise water unfolded before me, the constant murmur of waves against the shore a soothing, natural melody.
The bathroom was a study in sleek design, the rain shower a blissful cascade. A 55-inch high-definition TV was ready, but with that view, who needed it? The mini-fridge was a well-appointed companion, stocked with water, soft drinks, beer, and those irresistible banana chips. Frankly, “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.”
While variations exist, “the standard Junior Suite was a slice of paradise.” And those thick blinds? A true blessing for undisturbed slumber. While the swim-out pool certainly called to me, “honestly, I was too busy exploring to take a dip.”
My curiosity led me to explore further. I braved the beautiful Jamaican tropical heat to find the room that intrigued me 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.”
The Pleasure Suite: An Embrace for Connection
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.” The air in this room seemed to hum with possibility.
One detail did linger in my mind: “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!” The room’s illumination cast a gentle, inviting glow, with a playful dash of pink neon accent lighting on the TV wall adding a dash of romantic mood.
Overwater Villas: Floating Sanctuaries
The Senses side of the resort also offers Platinum Suites, but the true highlight was the Overwater Villa.
Perched gracefully on stilts, these 14 individual villas float above the waist-high waters, each a self-contained haven stretching out into the serene expanse of the bay. “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 heart of the villa holds a king-size bed, dressed in pure white linens. Two plush white robes lay folded, an invitation to unwind. A complimentary beach bag nearby beckoned. A glass panel in the floor offered a direct glimpse into the turquoise waters swirling below. “It’s a space that feels both luxurious and intimate, designed for connection and relaxation.” A complimentary bottle of champagne, chilling on ice, set a sophisticated tone. Grand glass doors framed the horizon, transforming each sunset into a daily, breathtaking spectacle.
The villa boasts two distinct bathrooms, and a furnished terrace, complete with its own infinity pool and direct steps into the bay, seals the deal. Privacy reigns supreme here, with these villas purposefully located at the quietest end of the property. Platinum Club benefits and 24-hour butler service elevate the entire 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.”
Grand Jamaica
Senses Mangrove
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