talking shop ON LOCATION
“I wasn't that confident selling Jamaica before but now I've been and met the friendly locals I'd recommend it to young groups, couples, and even families”
of four Jamaican locations for Couples. The colonial-style all-inclusive resort is spread across the lush Ocho Rios bay, with fresh seaside-inspired furnishingsç water-side spa cabanas and fine dining. We experience the melt-in-the-mouth beef followed by rich chocolate. BEST FOR: Couples only! But it’s not just for relaxing as activities like scuba diving are included too. “The setting for Couples San Souci was superb – quiet and intimate." Jeff Paulett
The following morning breakfast is hosted by Breezes Runaway Bay, an all-inclusive resort situated along a lovely stretch of beach and cheerfully decorated. Stand-out features include complimentary in-room continental breakfast and an 18-hole golf course with instruction in golf and tennis. BEST FOR: Couples and groups, especially those who appreciate sports and activities. "I'd say it's a lively hotel with adult appeal, great golf facilities and a stunning beach." Alison Sill, Star Travel
With full bellies we don our plastic shoes and climb the spectacular Dunn’s River Falls. Surrounded by green it cascades over a series of steep limestone steps, “It’s the main attraction in Jamaica so it’s easy to sell," said Nikki Stanfield from Premier Travel. “It was exhilarating and exciting but also fairly challenging. Not one for those scared of heights, but they can always just watch from the sidelines.” We head to Chukka Cove, where we
feast on Jerk chicken before the group splits – one for zip-lining and one for horse-riding with a twist. At the beach we hop off whilst the horses are unsaddled to prepare us for a bareback swim. It's a thrilling experience as we 'race' each other out to sea, nose-to-tail through the cool water.
Back at the ranch, with a cold bottle of
the local beer, Red Stripe, we chat to the zip-liners who launched themselves down a series of high wires up in the mountains – by all accounts it is not for the faint-hearted! We retire to the Jewel and freshen up
for a very special dinner which includes a martini with every course! Our last full day and we move to Sandals Royal Caribbean, one of three Sandals Montego Bay resorts (there's also one in Negril). With a dizzying variety of room categories it takes some concentration to keep up during the site inspection! The resort has a British colonial air, with afternoon tea, wandering peacocks, butler service and even a British Pub. There’s also a separate island with a Thai restaurant,77 which we reach by a dragon boat!
We are treated to lunch in the breezy beachside Regency restaurant, where the deck looks over the turquoise sea. BEST FOR: Couples only! Weddings are big business here, with bespoke co-ordinators designed to pander to a ‘bridezilla’s’ every wish. “I thought Sandals Royal Caribbean would be loud and very American-influenced, but it actually had a very relaxing atmosphere.” Charlene Thackeray, Barrhead Travel
Having reluctantly checked out of the Jewel, we check into Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, for our last night in Jamaica. Close to Montego Bay it is part of a three-hotel complex with Iberostar Rosehall Suites and its lovely spa and the even plusher, adults- only Iberostar Grand Rose Hall. The Beach property has a huge
entertainment hall where we watch a 'Miss Iberostar' contest. Its restaurants including Jambalaya, where we taste some Cajun dishes.
JAMAICA The Verdict..
• “It’s not just about the beaches, it’s the variety of activities that sets Jamaica apart. My kids are too old for playing in the pool and were envious of my itinerary!” Jeff Paulett
• “Outside the resorts Jamaica is quite an adventurous destination, good for young couples who want to explore. I’d recommend hiring a car and plan a twin- centre with Ocho Rios and Negril – they are quite far apart but loads of attractions.” Charlene Thackeray
• “I wasn’t that confident selling Jamaica because it has had a bad press for safety. Now I’ve been and met the locals I’m far more comfortable recommending it, to young groups and couples, even families in the right hotel." Jayne Nutall
• “The beaches are fantastic in Jamaica. Clean white sand and crystal clear warm water.” Debby King
• “During my stay in Jamaica I found the people to be friendly and helpful – the customer service was fantastic.” Carol Smith
BEST FOR: Families – it’s set up to entertain all day and night “It's ideal for a family getaway: all-inclusive with the added benefit of the supervised Lucy's Kids’ Club – so mum and dad can relax as well.” Natalie Dimbleby, Thomas Cook Signature
Our last Jamaican experience is the historic Half Moon, where pictures of a visiting young Prince Charles, amongst other celebrities, adorn the walls. This Rose Hall property is like a small city, complete with a shopping village and hospital! The kids’ club looks like a small Disney castle and transport in-between all these points is via golf buggies. Surprisingly, the beautiful grounds feel intimate as they’re so spaced out. There are palatial private villas for large groups, a huge golf course and an impressive spa with different water features and quiet corners. BEST FOR: Anyone and everyone, depending on the room type chosen – Children are welcome. “If clients had enough money I’d sent them to Half Moon every time. It epitomised casual elegance; classy but comfortable.” Jayne Nutall, Travel Counsellors.
Above: The Jewel at Dunn's River Resort
and Spa has a large pool area just above the Caribbean sea, with a waterfall and hot tubs
www.sellinglonghaul.com • June 2011 65
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