Looking for ideas and inspiration for your next trip to Jamaica? You’re in luck! Earlier this month, travel agent Michelle Jaffrey and her husband spent five days in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Below, Michelle recapped the highlights of her recent visit including reviews on the resorts, excursions, and the lively Ocho Rios area as a whole!
We stayed at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa for two nights and Sandals Ochi Beach Resort for three nights. Moon Palace is family-friendly while Sandals Ochi Beach is adults-only resort, so we got to experience two completely different atmospheres!
The beach at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is broken into two areas, a lounge area and then a little cove where the water sports are available. It is a narrow beach but fairly long in length–perfect if you like to take long walks or go for a run along the shore. However, when you cross the property line (which is marked with a security guard) there are some locals soliciting for excursions. The water at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is very calm and safe for kids. It’s also great for paddle boarding!
The main activity pool at this property has the most going on, while there are also a couple of quieter pools with their own swim-up bars. We liked that the beach chairs had so many umbrellas set up at both the beach and pool areas! The restaurants were great and the dress code is casual for the majority of them. We thought that the service was outstanding–everyone was so attentive and friendly.
Sandals Ochi Beach also has their beach split up into a few different sections, with an area for swimming and snorkeling, a calmer middle section with floaties, and a third area for all of the water sports. This beach is narrow and rockier with some noticeable seaweed. While we were there, the currents were pretty strong which made watersports difficult at times. There are so many pools and hot tubs to choose from, but our favorite pool was located on the hillside of the property at the Manor House with the largest swim-up bar.
The food here is amazing and the service is good too. We stayed in the Honeymoon Hideaway Luxury Club Level Villa Room. It is located in a nice, quiet area with views of the brooks and has a cottage feel to it. This property, in general, is very active and has activities at all hours of the day so it is impossible to get bored!
We were in Ocho Rios for a total of five nights, and felt like that was plenty of time to be able to do a wide range of excursions and activities. One more night would have been nice, especially because a couple of the days were partial due to travel time (along with the hour and a half transfer from the airport).
Our favorite parts of the trip were definitely the excursions. We did zip lining, the river tubing and blue hole excursion, and golf at Sandals Golf and Country Club. All of the tour guides were amazing and made everything fun and safe. The blue hole is beautiful and the water is truly blue and crystal clear. This excursion consisted of cliff-jumping, a rope swing, and venturing into the waterfalls. For zip lining, there were five lines at different heights and lengths, starting from the longest and highest and moving down in size. River tubing was relaxing and such a fun experience to be on a river in Jamaica. You can bring drinks on the river, and the guides are always helping along the way. Sandals Golf and Country Club is beautiful and a caddie is required. They are so knowledgeable and really help your golf game!
Our least favorite part was the drive from the airport to the resorts, as an hour and a half in the car after flying makes for a long day of travel. On the plus side, the drivers were very fun, informative, and laid back, making it feel more like a guided tour than a transfer. We learned a lot about the country itself on the drive and got to see Jamaican life outside of the resorts. All in all, we would always do the drive over again to get to the Ocho Rios area!
We learned that tourism and bauxite are the major sources of income for the area. Also, May is generally rainy season but due to the tropical climate, it doesn’t last long. We were worried when we looked at the forecast ahead of time because it said there was 80% chance of rain every day. It ended up being mostly sunny with very short periods of rain.
Have you visited the beautiful island of Jamaica? We’d love to hear all about your trip in the comments!
Call us at 402-281-3022.
Our experienced travel agents trust Island Routes Caribbean Adventures to deliver a great experience and a wide variety of tours for our clients. We book our clients with Island Routes because they take you beyond the resort and into the heart of Jamaica. In addition, Island Routes has received the World Travel Award for “World’s Leading Caribbean Attraction Company” four years in a row. Keep reading to find out which Island Routes tours we recommend for a trip to Jamaica.
Bamboo River Rafting is a truly authentic Jamaican experience. Prepare to board a 30-ft bamboo raft with your captain and cruise through you the Martha Brae River. You will see untouched rainforests at Jamaica Swamp Safari Village where you will get an up-close encounter with crocodiles! You will also be introduced to other exotic animals including the Jamaican Boa Constrictor, the gray fox, and capuchin monkeys. Don’t leave without checking out the ‘Kanaga’ House where James Bond filmed the famous croc-jumping scene in Live and Let Die in 1972.
YS Falls is an example of Jamaica’s insane beauty. Located on the South Coast of Jamaica, YS Falls has seven waterfalls that plunge into natural pools, surrounded by lush unspoiled gardens. Your YS Falls tour starts with a short open air jitney ride through the Jamaican countryside. Once you arrive, make your way along wooden walkways to the top of the falls where you can enjoy a dip in the natural pools.
Dunn’s River Falls is another Jamaican gem worth seeing, located in Ocho Rios. During the tour, you will experience being part of a human chain as you ascend the slopes of this 600 foot waterfall. Once at the top, soak in the lagoons full of pure waters flowing directly from the mountains. Island Routes also offers many combo packages for Dunn’s River. When you book the Dolphin Swim & Dunn’s River Falls Combo, you will learn about these unique animals and even get the chance to “ride” a dolphin. This package also includes unlimited mini-boat rides, glass-bottom kayaking, and swimming with stingrays! If you are looking for a bit more excitement, book the Jamaica Sky Explorer & Dunn’s River Falls Combo. With this excursion, board the Rainforest Sky Explorer that takes you 700 ft above the tree tops to the peak of Mystic Mountain before taking in the majestic Dunn’s River Falls.
Rick’s Cafe cannot be missed if you are traveling near Negril. Island Routes can get you there! With tours timed perfectly for watching the unbelievable sunset, you will not regret visiting this infamous attraction. You can also expect to see professional cliff divers, and you can participate in the cliff diving yourself if you are brave enough! You will not be surprised that Rick’s Cafe was voted one of the ten best bars in the world by Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine.
This triple-threat Jamaica excursion combines three tours in one. Ride the Rainforest Sky Explorer 700 feet above the trees, then hop aboard Bobsled Jamaica as it speeds along stainless steel rails on a 1,000-meter gravity-driven thrill ride through the forest. Your excursion ends with a zipline over the tropical rainforest. Faint of heart need not apply!
Island Routes offers a variety of eco-excursions at The River Bumpkin Farm in the heart of the Trelawny forests. With everything from river tubing and kayaking down to guided bicycle tours, this is the perfect place to take your family if you are looking for a break from the beach. The bicycle tour takes you past cascading waterfalls along the Martha Brae River, as well as ancient ruins including a once-working aqueduct, a mill house, and a former distilling house.
Blue Hole is a spectacular natural wonder located in Ocho Rios. Let Island Routes’ experienced guides take you through a relaxing three mile journey on the White River that will lead you to the Blue Hole. Along these three miles you will spot a 17th century Spanish Bridge and a historic coconut plantation. Once at your destination, climb the waterfalls, jump off the rocks into natural swimming pools – or use the rope swing – and explore hidden underwater caves.
This Island Routes tour includes a day full of activities at one of Jamaica’s oldest estates,Prospect Plantation. The tour begins with an open air jitney ride with stunning views of the Jamaican countryside. Once you arrive, choose from a variety of activities including a dune buggy or camel ride. You can even prepare your own authentic Jamaican cuisine on the balcony of the beautiful Great House. After a buffet lunch and open bar, stroll through the aviary and feed the birds.
Your Island Routes guide will take you through this old world distillery established in the 1750’s. At the Hampden Estate you will learn the centuries-old rum making process as well as the history of the estate. After the distillery tour, sample the award winning rum – we recommend Rum Fire and Hampden Estate Gold. Lunch is served after the rum tasting, and you can pick up a bottle of your favorite at the gift shop.
This Horse Back Ride and Swim tour allows you to explore the Jamaican countryside on horseback. You will ride along Papilion Cove, which you may recognize from many TV shows and movies in the 80’s. You will also ride through two of Jamaica’s oldest estates, Richmond and Llandovery. And of course, this tour would not be complete without riding your horse right into the Caribbean Sea!
With so many resorts to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Get in touch with an Enchanted Honeymoons travel agent today about all-inclusive packages in Jamaica! You can also reach us by phone at 402-281-3022.
Grab a cold one from Catalonia Bavaro Beach‘s swim-up bar. You will want to stay put because of the entertaining bartenders and delicious fruity drinks. This relaxed property includes a gorgeous beach, a golf course, and room balconies with private hammocks.
Le Blanc Spa Resort is the Palace Resorts brand’s most upscale property and one of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in Cancun. The swim-up bar is situated near the infinity pool’s edge, so you won’t have to leave the cool water or scenic view to grab a cocktail.
The peaceful pool area at Live Aqua Beach Resort has interconnecting pools and a beachfront infinity pool with a swim-up bar. Besides the beautiful pool, guests will love this resort for it’s design and layout. The lobby and rooms are full of Mexican pop culture and traditional Yucatan tiles. Between the building and the beach sits a lush mangrove area with pathways leading to hidden-away restaurants.
The pool area at the Royal Playa del Carmen snakes through the middle of the resort and boasts two swim-up bars. Guests return to this luxurious resort for its downtown location steps away from Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue. In addition, the service and the food at this Playa Resorts property is top-notch.
Formerly known as Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, Sandals South Coast re-launched in late 2016. Most Notably, this resort is now home to Sandals’ first over-the-water bar, Latitudes. Here you can enjoy your drinks suspended above the Caribbean sea in a hammock. Sandals South Coast also introduces “Bar-Tender”, a floating swim-up bar to deliver your cocktails to you in the ocean.
An excellent value resort, ClubHotel Riu Negril offers a low-key beach, fully-stocked minibars, and a solid buffet,.The swim-up bar is likewise more low-key than other resorts’. It is perfect for couples looking for an affordable getaway.
Dreams La Romana is part of the Dreams Moremaculate megaresort. The resort features a large kids’ club, award-winning restaurants, and a great cocktail menu with premium liquor.
As the average cost of a traditional wedding ceremony and reception skyrockets, more and more couples are opting for a personalized and surprisingly affordable destination wedding rather than an overpriced, run-of-the mill wedding. If you and your future spouse like the idea of a relaxing destination wedding but don’t know where or how to start, we can help!
Below are the best tips for making your dream destination wedding a reality.
Enchanted Travel can help you in picking out the perfect destination for your upcoming nuptials. Travel specialists plan excursions for groups of two to 2,000, and ensure that guests of all ages are comfortable and well-accommodated. They handle all of your guests’ travel needs so you are freed from the role of travel-agent-bride-or-groom. Instead you can focus on wedding details and your only role is husband or wife.
Our agents are destination wedding specialists. We have been planning destination weddings for over twenty years! Our agents have visited all of the best resorts and locations for destination weddings in Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Jamaica.
Travel specialists have access to thousands of dollars in group discounts. We will present the options to you upfront to help you anticipate the full cost of your destination wedding with no surprises.
At Enchanted Honeymoons, we also provide free wedding invitations for your big day. You are able to add your picture and design the invitation to your liking. We also provide a wedding registry so your friends and family members can contribute to your big day or your honeymoon. Finally, we provide these and all of our services free of charge!
We are always in your corner, and are reachable by phone, text and e-mail while you and your group are traveling – yes, we are available 24/7 for your entire group from the time they book to the time they arrive back home.
This is one of the most important destination wedding tips. Not only will you want to give your loved ones ample time to check their schedule for your destination wedding date, but you will also want to make sure they have plenty of time to calculate whether or not they can accord the cost of traveling to your ceremony and reception. Working with Enchanted Honeymoons Travel ensures that you and your guests are prepared and have everything you need for the trip.
Ideally, you’d be able to visit your venue once before booking, but this is not always the case for destination weddings. Ask your travel agent at Enchanted Travel about discounts offered by certain hotels on stays before your wedding date. If your hotel doesn’t offer a discount and you are not able to visit your venue, just be sure to arrive a few days in advance of the ceremony and reception. This will allow you to change anything and will relieve some stress for your big day!
The location of your wedding determines not only the mood – whether you are going for sophisticated, beachy, or rustic – but also the travel, time and budget required to pull it off. Your wedding elements should say something about your personal style and your passions. Enchanted Honeymoons can help you choose the perfect setting for you – whether it’s a beach in Maui, a gazebo over the Caribbean, a private garden in St. Lucia, or a beautiful chapel in Jamaica.
Slash both your decor and catering costs by choosing items that are native to your destination. Our agents at Enchanted Honeymoons Travel have been to all of the top destinations so we are able to relay first-hand what may work for your big day. For instance, consider having exotic flowers and plants in the tropics rather than, say, red roses. Serve local specialties at the reception, like jerk chicken in Jamaica or conch fritters in the Bahamas.
Breathable fabrics work best in hot, humid locations such as the beach. Think lightweight lace in Mexico. On the other hand, some destinations were made for something more dramatic. For nuptials set in a villa in France, for instance, an embellished ball gown may be appropriate!
Always carry your dress on board the plane, even if it means having to fold it. Just make sure someone at the other end can press and steam it!
Unfortunately, the best weather in popular destinations tends to be high or heavy-tourist season, when there are typically more crowds, fewer hotels and venues available, and higher prices all around. If you choose to marry during high season, you’ll want to reserve hotel blocks and venues immediately and send out save-the-dates 10 to 12 months in advance so guests can book their flights and accommodations before prices skyrocket. Our agents at Enchanted Honeymoons Travel are all destination wedding specialists, so we will can help you choose the best time for your big day. If you choose the shoulder-season (right after high-season), you may be able to save yourself and your guests some money and still enjoy great weather. While the off-season will mean fewer crowds, the weather can be iffy, and you may find that many stores, venues and vendors close up shop.
The legal side of tying the knot in a different country can be complicated. Many countries have a “residency requirement” (for example, 24 hours in Turks and Caicos and 7 days in England), which means you must reside in the country for a certain length of time before your ceremony. Although this is usually just a few days, it can be longer. France requires you to arrive at least 40 days before you marry! When in doubt, ask your travel agent!
Call Enchanted Honeymoons Travel at 402-281-3022 to start booking your dream destination wedding!
Sandals Resorts truly dominate Jamaica when it comes to the number and variety of resorts they own. Besides our personal favorite, Sandals South Coast, Jamaica is also home to Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Negril, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Inn, and the family-friendly Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios.
Sandals South Coast, formerly Sandals Whitehouse, is a completely reimagined 5-star luxury resort that captures the unique and charming vibe that Jamaica’s South coast is known for. One thing that is especially unique to this resort because of where it is situated on the Caribbean Sea, is that you can watch both the sunrise and sunset on the 2‐mile stretch of pristine white‐sand beach– the longest beach of any Sandals resort!
Even more intriguing are the exotic, thatched roof, palapa-style bungalows perched above the Caribbean Sea. These modern, luxurious bungalows offer a secluded, romantic oasis complete with glass floors, soaking tubs, outdoor showers, over-the-water hammocks, a patio and swim platform, and personalized butler service. No need to shell out thousands for a flight to Bora Bora or Fiji, you can check over-the-water bungalows off of your bucket list at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica!
Right in the heart of Ocho Rios sits Palace Resorts’ newest hotel and first in Jamaica, the Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. We had the pleasure of staying here in October for the Palace PRO Awards Gala (read about Enchanted Honeymoons Travel taking home the award for Top-Producing Store-Front Agency here). This quickly became one of our favorite resorts in all of Jamaica! Everything from the staff to the food were nothing short of superb.
There are also plenty of activities to keep guests occupied. Along with its close proximity to downtown, the Moon Palace can organize a dolphin swim or a sunset cruise. Back at the resort, guests can unwind on the property’s white sand beach, lounge around four pools, or pamper themselves at the Awe Spa or the on-site beauty salon. Kids aren’t left out, either: The Playroom features games and offers supervised activities. Adults, meanwhile, have access to a swim-up bar and a nightclub.
Lastly, The Hyatt Zilara and Ziva Rose Hall are two connected hotels in the Montego Bay area of Jamaica. The lobby of the Zilara is open-air, with a beautiful view of the pool area and the Caribbean. The resort sits on a beach running east to west, with a short walk from room to sand. One side of the resort faces the beach, and the other side has views of the tree-covered mountains.
The primary spa–Zen Spa–is at the Ziva property. The spa offers salon services and includes a bridal suite which adds to the resort’s allure as a wedding site. It is very impressive!
Guests at the Zilara have access to 11 restaurants, while guests at Ziva have access to a subset of these. Our three favorite restaurants are definitely Di RoZa, FuZion, and CalypZo.
Call us today in order to book your dream getaway to Jamaica! 402-281-3022
Get ready to discover the epitome of Caribbean luxury! Introducing our handpicked selection of our top five Sandals Resorts locations, where paradise meets perfection.
From the sun-kissed shores of Sandals South Coast to the vibrant oasis of Sandals Ochi, these resorts redefine the meaning of a dream vacation. Prepare to be enchanted by the exclusive sophistication of Sandals Royal Plantation and the exotic allure of Sandals Royal Caribbean. And let’s not forget the breathtaking beauty that awaits at Sandals LaSource Grenada.
Get ready to indulge in unrivaled luxury, breathtaking landscapes, and a world of endless possibilities. Whether you’re seeking blissful romance, thrilling adventures, or simply unwinding in style, these resorts have it all for every traveler. Each Sandals Resort offers a personalized escape where you can truly leave the world behind and immerse yourself in paradise. So pack your sunglasses and leave your worries behind as we embark on a journey through our top five favorite Sandals Resorts, where paradise becomes a reality. Let the Caribbean magic begin!
This 5-star, couples-only, all-inclusive resort in Jamaica is our absolute favorite out of all of the Sandals properties! Located on the southwest side of Jamaica in White House, Jamaica, Sandals South Coast boasts all beachfront rooms.
With stunning white sand beaches and incredible views of the mountains and countryside, this beach resort has something for everyone. Even the drive from the airport to the resort is memorable at this property. Your transfers will take you up and around the mountains, through Jamaican neighborhoods and shop areas. Not for the faint of heart as there is no guard rail on the road to this secluded property!
Another reason we love this resort is that it is located right by Black River Bay, so boats pick you up right from the resort for watersports and cruise excursions.
Sandals Ochi is the largest of all the properties of this brand, located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. It is so huge, it is often described as being like its own town. With 17 restaurants, 103 pools, and two clubs including a speakeasy, this resort couples-only, all-inclusive resort has a lively party vibe but also has areas for relaxation and privacy.
Book a villa set in the mountains with very fast transfers to the main building and beach, or ask your travel agent at Enchanted Honeymoons about the property’s butler suites. This property is perfect for those of you looking for butler service on a lower budget!
Sandals Royal Plantation is the perfect place for relaxation and privacy. This all-butler suite, boutique hotel is all-inclusive and couples only. Since it is on the quieter side, it attracts a bit of an older crowd. If you aren’t the type to make vacation friends with strangers or want a bunch of activities on-property, this is one of the best Sandals resorts locations for you.
This property offers the best of both worlds because it is located very close to Sandals Ochi, and you have exchange privileges with this property (but not vice-versa, so those staying at Sandals Ochi do not have exchange privileges with Royal Plantation). Use your privileges to party at Ochi, then leave the noise and craziness there when you head back to Royal Plantation.
What makes Sandals Royal Caribbean so unique and special are the overwater bungalows! Opened less than two years ago, these bungalows are the perfect place to escape and unwind. This couples-only, all-inclusive property is very relaxed, so if you are looking for nightlife this would not be for you. This resort offers “stay at one, play at all”, meaning you have exchange privileges with Sandals Montego Bay, which is about a five-minute drive from Royal Caribbean.
This property, located on Pink Gin Beach in Grenada, is an adults-only haven for vacationing couples. Expect an exotic, unspoiled hideaway that will take your breath away. Experience the brand’s signature all-inclusive luxury and variety of amenities with five pools and 10 restaurants.
Spend your days lazing by one of two freshwater swimming pools or the three river pools, or challenging new-found friends to a game of tennis perhaps, or beach volleyball. There are also plenty of water sports to tempt you, with unlimited diving for certified scuba divers and PADI lessons for those just starting to venture beneath the ocean!
While our top 5 favorite Sandals Resorts are already incredible, there are plenty more worth mentioning for those looking to discover different Caribbean gems. Here are some additional must-visit Sandals resorts:
When planning your perfect Caribbean vacation, there are countless choices, but Sandals Resorts locations offer something that no other destination can match: the ideal blend of luxury, adventure, and romance in some of the most breathtaking locations in the world. But what makes Sandals Resorts the best choice for your next vacation?
Call us today to speak to one of our Sandals Resorts Travel Specialists. Get started here. In addition, you can email us at info@enchantedhoneymoons.com.
The stunning Caribbean beaches are fairly easy to get to for us Midwesterners and East Coasters. With white sand, turquoise water, and magnificent views, what more could you ask for? We’ve rounded up our favorite beaches in the Caribbean, below, plus where to stay to take advantage of each.
Turks and Caicos is easily one of the most beautiful groups of Caribbean islands you’ll find, with a number of stunning beaches. The beach at Grace Bay, however, is on a whole different level! The snorkeling and scuba diving is unbeatable here, and if you’re not really a water person you can still get your underwater fix at the Coral Gardens snorkeling park.
Where to Stay: We recommend staying at the 4.5-Star Seven Stars Resort in Turks & Caicos. This resort does not offer an all-inclusive option, but you can opt for the European Plan for 2 adults for 3 nights starting at $1,493.
Aruba is different from a lot of the Caribbean islands because it’s turquoise water and white sands sit in direct contracts to the desert hills in the background. Eagle Beach is the perfect place to enjoy these unique views. Also unique to this beach are the famous bending fofoti trees, pictured above.
Where to Stay: One of our favorite resorts in Aruba that is also within walking distance of Eagle Beach, is the 4-Star, All-Inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Aruba. 2 adults can stay here for 3 nights starting at $1,763.
The Dominican Republic has become a hotspot for tourists in the Caribbean. In order to take advantage of the best beaches in the DR, you must venture a bit farther north. Many of the best beaches are located in the former fishing village of Las Terrenas. “El Coson”, as it is referred to by the locals, is the most isolated and stunning of all Las Terrenas’ beaches.
Where to Stay: Stay in the Samana area of the Dominican Republic for easy access to Playa Coson. We suggest staying at the 5-Star Luxury Bhia Principe Cayo Levantado Don Pablo Collection All-Inclusive resort. This resort is nestled on it’s very own private island. 2 people can stay here for 3 nights starting at $1,007.
Seven Mile Beach is one of the more well-known Caribbean beaches on this list, but no less stunning. Go to Negril in order to see this long stretch of white sand, and stay for the laid-back, hippie-esque vibe you’ll find on this friendly island. Plus, this beach is home to the famous Negril Cliffs, where adrenaline-seekers can climb 30 feet to the top and dive directly into the Caribbean Sea.
Where to Stay: We suggest you stay at the 5-Star, All-Inclusive Royalton Negril Resort & Spa. This resort is family-friendly, but they also have an adults-only section called The Hideaway. 2 people can stay here for 3 nights starting at $1,256.
Saint Croix itself is fairly secluded, but Buck Island is even more so. It is located 30 minutes by boat from mainland Saint Croix, and the island is a national preserve. It is one of the top snorkeling spots in the world, with crystal clear waters and incredible coral reefs.
Where to Stay: Again, Saint Croix is rather private, and we would actually suggest staying on St. Thomas or St. John for more options in accommodations and more things to do. Then you can take a ferry directly to Buck Island or get there by stopping on Saint Croix first. In St. Thomas, we suggest staying at the 4-Star, All-Inclusive Bolongo Bay. 2 people can stay here for 3 nights starting at $1,419.
Book your next getaway with Enchanted Travel! Call us today at 402-281-3022.
Our Black Friday Air Credit Sale continues, and today we’re highlighting some of the resorts in Jamaica where you can take advantage of this great promotion. Several Royalton resorts throughout Jamaica are included, plus resorts from the Palace and Riu brands. Check out our top picks below, and scroll to the bottom for the link to a full list.
Save up to $300 per reservation when you stay at least 3 nights at the 5-star, all-inclusive Moon Palace Jamaica. This new resort is ideal for families, couples and groups. Located alongside a beautiful white, sandy beach, this new addition to the Palace Resorts family offers many of the signature Awe-Inclusive amenities you’ve come to love, including 24-hour room service, top-shelf spirits, unlimited dining, complimentary WiFi and more. Moon Palace Jamaica features the luxurious Awe Spa, with decadent treatments including massages, facials and wraps; as well as fun family amenities including The Playroom, a state-of-the-art kids club, and Flow Rider wave simulator. Centrally located in Ocho Rios, the Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is near some of Jamaica’s most coveted attractions. Plus, the best attractions are close, like the famed Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain and the White River.
Save up to $600 per reservation when you stay at least 3 nights at the 5-star, all-inclusive Royalton Negril. In addition, save up to $300 per reservation when you stay at least 3 nights in the adults-only Hideaway section at Royalton Negril. Either way you dice it, you’re getting a great deal on a stay at a fabulous property. Adults and children alike will both love that the Royalton has reservation-free dining at seven restaurants, including a Teppenyaki style grill called Zen which also serves sushi. Or the whole family can try something more unique, like the West Indies cuisine at Calypso. In addition to world-class dining, enjoy daily water sports, fitness programs, yoga on the beach, mixology classes, a kids’ water park, and much more.
Save up to $600 per reservation when you stay at least 3 nights at the 5-star, all-inclusive Riu Palace Tropical Bay. Located on the famous Bloody Bay Beach in Negril, this resort is great for families, couples, and groups. Here you’ll find two fresh water swimming pools, a solarium terrace, gym, the “Renova Spa”, and a stunning beach. For adults and children alike, there are endless activities to do as a family, couple or with friends. The complex includes two tennis courts, table tennis, a gym, volleyball, windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, body boarding, diving and other water activities.
There are also many activities for children. In addition, the resort is close to many great excursions throughout Negril like the thermal springs of Rhodes, Hall Plantation, Seven Mile Beach, The Great Morass where you can see endemic birds and American crocodiles, or Roaring River, a cave where you can swim and see bats. If you like to play golf, the nearby Negril Hills course is perfect for enjoying a game.
Save up to $600 per reservation when you stay at least 3 nights at the Royalton White Sands. This 5-star, all-inclusive resort is family-friendly, with a basketball court, children’s program, teen club, arcade, and more. Conveniently located near Runaway Bay, this is the perfect location for your Jamaican beach vacation. Beyond the amazing beach and pool with tons of activities, enjoy world-class dining. Choose from a variety of restaurant styles, like Italian and Japanese. Like Royalton Negril, there is even a water park for kids, and larger slides for the older ones.
Check out the full list of participating hotels here. Don’t miss out on these great instant savings! In order to quality, book by November 29, 2018. If you need help narrowing down your choices, call us at 402-281-3022 or get started here.
This week’s Travel Agent Favorite choice is Moon Palace Jamaica. Read on for everything we love about this stunning family-friendly all-inclusive property.
First, let’s take some time to talk about why we absolutely love sending our clients to Jamaica. First off, the people are some of the kindest you will meet. They are laid-back, friendly, and fun-loving. This is true of the entire staff at Moon Palace Jamaica, as well as anyone you can expect to encounter off of your resort.
One tip we like to share with every client we send to Jamaica is to purchase a Club Mobay pass. A Club Mobay pass expedites you to the front of the immigration and customs lines when you first arrive in Jamaica. You’ll be greeted by a host who meets you from your plane and walks you through customs and immigration. Then they will guide you to the Club Mobay Lounge to wait for transportation to your resort. Here you’ll find snacks, drinks, comfortable seating, and friendly service. They’ll let you know when your transportation has arrived and handle your bags until then. The pass costs $50 per person for arrival only and $80 per person for arrival and departure.
Another reason we love Jamaica is the gorgeous tropical warm weather. With an average temp of 81° F, you can visit the beaches of Jamaica at any time of the year.
Besides the friendly locals and beautiful weather, we also can’t get enough of the Jamaican culture. In fact, hospitality is one of the aspects of Jamaican culture that sets it apart from other countries. In addition, Jamaica embraces amazing food and music. You can learn about the history and culture of Jamaica at many cultural spots included the Bob Marley Museum and Devon House.
We are constantly recommending this property for families because there is so much for kids to do here. The main pool has a huge water slide, for starters. This is known as the “Activity Pool”. You’ll also find tons of daily entertainment here like trivia and dance contests. The property also has a Splash Park that is great for kids ages 1-4.
The beach here is also great for small children. It is quiet and private. In addition, the water is shallow and there aren’t any large waves. There are also tons of water activities for kids at the beach on property. You can take your kids sailing or kayaking, and they can use the water bikes and paddleboards as often as they want – it’s all included.
The Flow Rider is another big attraction for kids. This is a simulated surfing experience for all ages. It’s harder than it looks but once you try it once, you’ll want to keep trying until you master it.
Your kids will also love the Wired Lounge on the property. This is for kids of all ages, and you can drop the kids off here with their staff who are very hands-on. Here you’ll find a snack bar that serves ice cream and slushies all day, video games, air hockey, and a movie room.
Moon Palace Jamaica is home to 7 restaurants. Momo is a Hibachi restaurant that is open for dinner nightly. You do need reservations here and men must wear long pants and closed toed shoes (including children). You will also need to make reservations and adhere to the dress code at Gondola, Moon Palace Jamaica’s fine dining Italian restaurant. Gondola is also only open for dinner.
For daytime, head to Buccaneers Reef. This is a full-service buffet restaurant open to breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll find about 40+ food options for each meal here. This is a great choice for families with picky eaters or different tastes.
Pier 8 was my favorite! This seafood restaurant sits right on the edge of the ocean and they have a great kids menu. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves a variety of seafood, steaks and salads.
Sundeck Grill & Bar also overlooks the ocean. Menu items include pizza, pasta, steaks, salads, and soups.
In addition to the fab specialty restaurants, there is also a snack bar located next to the activity pool. Here you can order hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, etc. For more snacks and sweets, head to Boulangerie. This bake shop and cafe is open 24 hours and a great place to grab coffee in the morning. Gourmet Corner is located across the hall from Boulangerie and serves sushi, pizza and paninis. In addition, there is 24-hour room service here for all guests. You’ll also find 3 bars including the Piano Bar, Loud Bar, and the Noir Dance Club.
In addition to the friendly staff, top notch dining, and kid-friendly activities, there are a few other things to note about this property that set it apart.
The Awe Spa is an incredible spa on the property. I had a great massage here and would highly recommend it. You can use your resort credits to pay for services here – ask your Enchanted Travel expert for more details on this. The fitness center here is also great and open from 6 AM to 10 PM.
The nightly entertainment here is also great, especially for families. They have live shows every night starting at 9 PM.
Want to book your own stay at Moon Palace Jamaica? Call us at 402-390-9291 or get started here.
Our travel specialist Andy Baker recently spent 3 nights at Secrets St. James resort in Montego Bay. He stayed in a Preferred Club Room and highly recommends the property. Read on for everything he loved about the adults-only all-inclusive resort.
No explanation necessary here!
“The staff was super friendly and always there to help,” Andy said. Secrets St. James is part of the AMResorts family, which boasts “Unlimited Luxury”. “Unlimited Luxury” refers to their commitment to providing the ultimate relaxing all-inclusive experience. In addition to the usual all-inclusive amenities such as limitless access to gourmet dining options, 24-hour room and concierge service, and pool and beach wait service, you can expect even more at Secrets St. James. All guests have full access to Secrets Wild Orchid next door, including their restaurants, bars and pools.
Andy stayed in a Preferred Club Room, which means he really got to experience what Secrets St. James has to offer in terms of service and luxury. All Preferred Club suites are set in premium locations with amazing ocean views and have their own soaking tubs and sun beds. In addition, only Preferred Club members have access to a private lounge. Plus, in addition to full access of the restaurants, bars and pools at Secrets Wild Orchid, Preferred Club guests also have access to the nearby Breathless Montego Bay property. Breathless offers seven additional restaurants, five bars, and two pools. Other perks include private check-in and check-out, private concierge service, a private pool, upgraded bath amenities and an upgraded minibar.
With just a short stay, Andy ate most of his meals on the Wild Orchid property next door. “The majority of the restaurants are in one area of the Wild Orchid side so it kind of felt like we were walking around a Piazza” he explained. His favorites include Himitsu, a Pan-Asian restaurant, and the jerk chicken (pictured above) and pork served on the beach which he describes as some of the best he’s ever had (Jamaica is known for their jerk chicken!).
Other restaurants on the Secrets St. James property include:
Also keep in mind that you do not need reservations for any of these restaurants. In addition, Secrets St. James has an extensive 24-hour room service menu.
Secrets St. James is surrounded by a huge white sand beach, making it perfect for a beach, land and water activities. Daily land activities include ping pong, basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, soccer, bicycle tours, jogging trails, tennis courts, yoga, and cooking classes. In addition, guests can enjoy non-motorized water sports free of charge, scuba lessons, sailing, windsurfing and snorkeling. For an additional charge, you can also enjoy the nearby golf course, horseback riding, or a catamaran cruise. Andy also saw a parasailing boat picking people up from the beach each day.
In addition to tons of activities, the Hard Rock Cafe is on the same beach, nearly on property, so you can enjoy some cocktails there if you would like. It is also only 20 minutes from the airport, making it convenient for a quick getaway.
Other nearby activities and points of interest include Rose Hall Great House, Bellfield Plantation, Dolphin cove, five championship caliber golf courses, Dunn’s River Falls, several nearby coffee plantations, Rick’s Cafe, and the Bob Marley Experience & Theater.
Call us today at 402-390-9291 to book your own getaway to Secrets St. James! You can also get started here.
