On the second day, we were in the lift and an American middle aged guest entered. We nodded and he said, “Good vacations”, lifting his plam level with his chest… “Sandals”, shooting his other arm above his head toward the ceiling.
I think that described perfectly how good Sandals was and did not disappoint for the remainder of the holiday.
The weather in December is hot and a little humid, but the size and airiness of the Beach resort, it doesn’t impede on your relaxation. There is no need to rush down with your towel for the best spot.. as there are more loungers than guests and towels provided.
The seaside activities are free and include, sailing, scuba diving (if qualified), snorkelling, paddle boards, free trips in a glass bottomed boat over the coral.
There are other trips on a large catamaran, and our favourite with Spider and his son
along the white river and visiting banana, yam and other areas which was outside the Sandals experience.
Sandals rightly warn against using the 4 Jamaican Tourist board licensed outboard motor canoes, most likely to cover themselves in this litigious society.
But Spider and his son are polite, knowledgeable, extremely friendly and well known.
We had a great two hours, they will also take you fishing.
It’s more dangerous getting on the tube in London.
Dining and eating in Sandals is a pleasure, they have a good mix of cuisines, some restaurants you need to book for dinner, but again we encountered no problem getting in.
From pizzas, open at 11.00am, Caribbean snacks, buffet seafood through to a la carte French gastronomy, Sandals has it all mixed with the incredible attention to detail and laid back, friendly Jamaican style.
The resort is split into two locations we were in the beachside, but did visit “Hillside” via their on site free mini bus, runs every ten minutes. They have a great spa there and many pools and areas to relax. both sites have shops which take US dollars.
In fact US dollars appears to be the currency of choice, you don’t need any cash on site, but tipping porters and taxi drivers in US dollars is welcomed.
Accommodation, there are a variety of options available, we had a 5th floor room in the Harbour Club, with fully stocked and replenished mini bar, a huge bed and efficient air conditioning. the balcony looked out on the hillside which was a great place to sit before dinner and collect your thoughts.
Throughout the site there are small areas of seating with different views, in the sun and shade, making it seem quite private and personal.
Lastly, the staff were polite, friendly and relaxed, yet worked hard. From Hakeem our concierge, Susan in the breakfast restaurant, and Roberto in Valentino’s nothing was too much trouble, it’s unfair to name three as the standard of all the staff was extremely high.
Would I go again. Yes we will, there are Sandals resorts throughout the Caribbean.
Would I recommend Sandals wholeheartedly.
