Jamaica No Problem

by Plaza Travel Consultant, Sandra Sparks

This was a first trip to Jamaica and we stayed at Hedonism II July 24-28 (4 nights) in Negril, and one night, July 28-29 at the Ritz Carlton Rose Hall in Montego Bay.

Hedonism II has about 90% repeat guests, more repeat clients then any other hotel in all of the Caribbean. People don't go back for the food or the room decor. Guests return for the relaxed atmosphere and freedom they experience at Hedonism II. This resort is the oldest of the two Hedonism properties on the island. Hedonism III is newer, smaller in size and a little more upscale - with the crowd being a bit more serious (uptight).

At Hedo II, there's a nude pool and a prude pool, a nude beach and a prude beach. We visited both sides, and must say that the nude side had a lot more going on, with an easy, relaxed atmosphere. We met all kinds of career people, from doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, etc... Being the resort is an all inclusive, I didn't have a purse or need to carry money. They had open bars all over the resort; I discovered drinks I didn't know existed! Meals were cafeteria style and it reminded me a lot like Club Med, unless you got up early and made reservations on the day of at the front desk and dined at the Japanese Restaurant, Italian Restaurant or Jamaican Restaurant. We dined at the first two and the food was excellent in both places. After dinner, we proceeded to the Piano Bar, followed by the Disco and ended up at the hot pool at the end of the night. Our trip was very relaxed; we met and made wonderful new friends. The Jamaican people sure make the trip more enjoyable; they are kind and very sweet.

At Sandals Negril, we did a walk through the property. It's easy to see why so many couples get married at the property and choose it as their honeymoon destination. The property was manicured and the public areas were very nice.

The last night was a treat. Although it rained most of the night, we managed to get reservations at Horizon Restaurant - Mediterranean cuisine at the Ritz Carlton. It was the most amazing meal I've enjoyed in a long time. The service and friendliness of the staff was very memorable, Courtney, our waiter, saw my drink and took it upon himself to make and bring me the drink the way he thought it should be. It was my first time trying a Mojito, and his version was simply delicious! The only way to stay at the Ritz Carlton is the Key to Paradise package, as it includes meals and drinks. This was the most incredible one night at any hotel. Our room was ocean view, very comfortable and beautiful. I will send my clients with confidence.

We flew American Airlines from Los Angeles to Montego Bay with a plane change in Miami. The flight was almost three hours delayed in Miami due to mechanical problems. On the return, the flight was almost two hours delayed out of Montego Bay...no real reason given. According to the people we met and asked which airline they choose to fly with - everyone hands down chose Air Jamaica. They operate an overnight non-stop flight from Los Angeles.

Sandra Sparks