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Way back in 1994 my wife Karie and I spent 8 wonderful nights at Sandals Montego Bay for our Caribbean Honeymoon. A young couple lured in by glossy pictures and glittery advertising, we somehow found our way to Jamaica. What is even more interesting though, is that we found our way back to Sandals Montego Bay 5 more times.
Sandals Montego Bay gets mixed reviews on Trip Advisor and quite a few travel agents don’t recommend it, mostly due to it’s close proximity to to the Montego Bay airport, which is coincidentally just across the street. But there is also a reason this resort boasts the most returning guests of all the Sandals Resorts. Obviously there must be something about Sandals Montego Bay that keeps people coming back, and I’m pretty sure it isn’t the airplanes.
We have close friends that we’ve met at the resort who have stayed there quite a number of times. A few that even leave clothes at the resort so they don’t have to pack as much when they visit for weeks at a time. We even know a few couples who have been there more than 50 times, one in particular over 80 visits. Now many of the other Sandals properties have high returning guest rates but this is pretty much unheard of in the industry.
I’m pretty sure it isn’t anything in the drinking water, because I never see anyone drinking water in Jamaica. More likely in one of the 2 pools, 4 hot tubs, or quite likely in that soothing Caribbean sea water that we’re all so fond of. I used to be a pool junky , but since I started diving you can’t get me out of the ocean.
By the way the water is perfectly safe to drink in Jamaica. In fact I highly recommend that you drink plenty of it. Most people that get sick on vacation, do so from a number of other reasons, most having a lot to do with over consumption and lack of water. Take your time, let your body get accustomed to a new environment and different foods. Go easy on the rum, and drink plenty of water.
My favorite place to relax in Mo Bay, as the locals call it, is in the Piano bar. Piano bar by night, Swim up pool bar by day, makes a great place to relax and take it all in. There is always a party of some sorts going on there, and it is a great place to meet new friends and chill out with your favorite frosty beverage.
In addition to the pool bar, Sandals Montego Bay has two other bars, so you don’t need to walk very far to get a drink. I tend to be kind of a busy body and get tired of lying on the beach. My usual routine is to casually make the rounds between all three, taking in the sites, and chatting with friends along the way.
Exciting entertainment and parties await you at Sandals Resorts!
That is the beauty of this resort. If you want to do nothing but party, there is always a party going on somewhere. If you want to just relax and soak up the sun, you can do that as well. If you want a little romantic quiet time alone you can have that too. There is something for everyone here.
Another of my favorite things to do while on vacation, EAT! Did you ever go to a restaurant and wish you could try everything on the menu? Well guess what, you can here, after all you’ve already paid for it. Don’t be afraid to ask for variations on menu items, or additional entrees, appetizers, etc. They will always do their best to accommodate your request.
Bayside Restaurant
French windows flung open to let in cooling sea breezes make dining indoors for breakfast, lunch and dinner a truly wonderful treat. If you’re more in the mood for a meal under the almond trees and bright blue umbrellas on the terrace overlooking the scintillating sea, just ask to be seated outdoors. While you enjoy your surroundings, don’t forget to indulge your appetite with delicious International cuisine.
The Oleander Room
One of our all time favorite Sandals restaurants. Only the best white gloved service mixed with a healthy dose of Caribbean Flair, makes the Oleander Room a must see while at Sandals Montego Bay.
Cucina Romana
If you enjoy fine Italian food make sure to visit Cucina Romana. The restaurant features authentic Italian favorites served in an upstairs setting with an amazing view. If you get lucky, you’ll have a chance to hear Rory Frankson, an upcoming Jamaican classical music singer, who performs weekly at different Sandals resorts. When I was first told that Sandals hired Rory to perform classical and opera, I was a little skeptical, but it works and the guests rave about him. He’s now a close friend, and I would encourage you to get to know him.
Tokyo Joe’s
Filled with excitement and ambiance, this restaurant combines entertainment with culinary delight.
Built right out over the water, which sparkles in the moonlight and under the stars, this two-tiered restaurant features dramatic red columns and balconies and a covered area under a blue pagoda roof. Tantalize your taste buds with delectable stir fried fare, prepared with flames flying and much fanfare, right before your eyes.
Be sure to introduce yourself to restaurant manager Donovan Gordon. Mr. Gordon has become a fixture at this resort for 15+ years, not only a close friend, but a shining example of the caring, friendly nature of the people of Jamaica. Another reason why guests continue to go back to Sandals Montego Bay.
OK Corral Restaurant
Great place to eat if you don’t feel like getting all dressed up. Barefoot and bathing suits w/cover ups are just fine. Beach grill by day, Tex Mex restaurant in the evenings.
The Cricketer’s Pint
English pub with traditional pub cuisine. This place just opened the end of 2008. I have to say it is amazing. The food and atmosphere are wonderful. Fantastic new addition to this resort.
Don’t forget if you visit this fine all inclusive resort, that there more fun, adventure and dining options, available to you at no extra charge, just down the road at either Sandals Inn or Sandals Royal Caribbean. Both If which I highly recommend you try.
By the way, if you haven’t taken the time to introduce yourself to the managers you really need to do so. They want to know that your having a good time, and even more important if you are not. I highly recommend that you do, it is what makes the difference between an Ok vacation and an exceptional one. That is one of the biggest benefits to staying at the smaller resorts like http://www.sunsandandseas.com/?page_id=1047″>Sandals Montego Bay , is the level of service and personal interaction with the staff. You won’t get that at those larger resorts and even some of the big Sandals properties.
Here are some pics of our recent visit:
Related articles: Diving at Sandals Montego Bay,Sandals Royal Caribbean
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Sunset pictures taken at Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica, January 2009.
Click here to read more about our trip to Sandals Montego Bay.
Dunn’s River Falls, located just outside Ocho Rios Jamaica is one of the most well known spots in all of the Caribbean. This may be due to the large numbers of cruise ships coming through the port each year, but most likely just because it is “the thing to do” if you go to Jamaica. Almost everyone who visits wants to climb the falls, and for good reason, it is a lot of fun.
Excerpts from the Dunn’s River website.
Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s national treasures. Globally, it is as well known as reggae and equally stimulating. There are few places where the Arawak name “Xayamaca” – land of rivers and springs – is more apt. The Spaniards called the area “Las Chorreras”, the waterfalls or springs and it is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the island.
A stone’s throw from Ocho Rios, one of Jamaica’s fastest growing resort centres, Dunn’s River Falls is unique. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. This, combined with its location near to the sea, gives Dunn’s River the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world.
The name “Las Chorreras” has degenerated over the years to “Ocho Rios” (meaning eight rivers), although there are actually only four rivers in the area – Cave River, Roaring River, Turtle River and Dunns River. These “Chorreras” are characterized by clarity, unending flow and swift descent, punctuated by rapid cascades and waterfalls which pour directly into the Caribbean Sea. Dunn’s River Falls has an interesting history. It is believed to be the site of the famous battle of “Las Chorreras”, fought in 1657 between the Spanish and the English for possession of the island. The English won, and under British rule “Las Chorreras” was first owned by Charles Pryce. It later became part of the 276 acre Belmont property, which was acquired by Government in 1972, to provide for future development of recreational and park facilities.
Climb the falls in a human chain led by experienced Falls Guides. Pause at the ‘massage parlour’ and experience the soothing effects of the water as it cascades to the sea. For the less brave – live vicariously. View the activities of the more intrepid from the “safe” vantage point of the terrace or deck.
The Cafeteria has savoury delights to please any palate – from spicy jerked chicken, pork or fish and curried goat to… delectable snacks. Or, bring your own vittles and take advantage of the several barbecue pits around the park. Spend a day and do it all.
The tours will usually include time to visit a local craft market. Just a quick note on the craft market at Dunn’s River. The vendors here are very aggressive, and generally overpriced compared to what you might find elsewhere. If you like to barter and don’t have a problem with pressured selling then you’ll want to check it out. Otherwise if you are new to Jamaica you may want to steer clear.
Visit the official Dunn’s River Falls website for more information, rates and hours.
Wow, Can’t say enough about the water sports staff at Sandals. I’ve been going to Jamaica for 15 years and it took me 13 of those years to get over my fear of drowning long enough to take a scuba class. For years, all my friends said I needed to try diving, since I was such a big fan of snorkeling, but I just couldn’t get over the idea of it. I’m not a great swimmer to begin with, but as long as I’m comfortable I’m usually alright.
Well in 2007 at Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, I let a good friend, Rohan, the water sports director at the time, talk me into giving it a try. A little gentle prodding, and a lot of patience and I was well on my way to being a certified diver. These guys are really great at what they do, and many of my best friends are on the water sports staff. You can tell they like their jobs, after all they get to play in the ocean all day, but more so because they stick around. While I was there, I happened to run into an old friend “RoofTop” who I met back in 94, Still working at Sandals, hell I’ve had more than a few jobs since then!
By the way the diving here was great, probably not the best there is, but worth the trip. I would say if you are an avid diver and have experienced some really nice places Ocho Rios might seem a bit dull. St. Lucia would be a better choice. But if you want a great place to learn this is it.
Not much else needs to be said, just want to give a big shout out to some old friends. Hopefully we’ll catch up soon.
My Inspiration:
In July 2008 I found myself at a turning point in my life. Up to that point, I had been what some would call successful in life. Big house, my own business, money, and a happy marriage. Things were going well and I felt as it I could not fail. There was something missing though, something I couldn’t quite put my finger on, but something I knew wasn’t right. I just wasn’t happy in my heart, I had somehow become lost in the mediocrity of life. The daily routine left me with no time for family or friends, and I was really struggling to come to terms with my spiritual life.
Then on July 14th the world decided to turn upside down and began the economic downturn that we are still facing today. Within a few weeks I had lost 3/4 of the money I had made trading, a years worth of income for many Americans. On top of that we were already dealing with what had been the most costly year for our real estate business. To say the least we were sinking fast. By November 2008, with the threat of loosing several of our rental properties to foreclosure, and the loss of most of our savings, I found myself in a very depressed state of mind. A place I’m sure many people get to at least once in their life, when they hit rock bottom. For me, I was gasping for air while drowning in a sea of debt, with no place to go but down.
My whole life, I have always been a believer. I knew there was a God, and for a while was very faithful. However my so called success and desire to always be right, had pushed me away. The breaking point for me came shortly after. Slowly I began losing faith in my friends, my family and then myself. The only thing I had to hold onto was what little faith I had left in God. Somehow I knew I had to get back in touch with him, I just didn’t know how.
For years I had pushed God away because I was unsure about being in the right church, the wrong religion, doing the wrong things. I thought it was up to me to determine which religion was “the right one”. I was trying to answer questions that I could not understand.
So with no where else to turn, and wondering if my life really mattered, I turned once again to God. I guess some people call it be saved, or born again, but on one cold day in November, God changed my life. It was an experience I will never forget, because in a moment I knew that God loved me, and that all my mistakes and failures meant nothing to him.
A few year ago, someone had approached me with one of those Jesus Saves cards. I kept it in my pocket, because I though I might need it someday. I figured I could read it just before I died. Stupid Idea!
Before to long the Lord led me to a church of his choosing just like I had asked. My family and I have been faithfully attending ever since. We’re still struggling with a mess of financial troubles, but somehow we are not sinking anymore. At least we’re staying afloat, and God is certainly helping with that.
The Christian life is always a struggle. We are constantly battling our own personal demons. The important thing to remember is that Jesus died for us, to pay the price for our sins here on earth.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13
I didn’t know or understand this until I found Jesus. I wish I knew this a long time ago. As Christian Soldiers we need to get the gospel of Jesus Christ out to the world. Too many people are hurting, and have lost all hope, but the truth is there is always hope if you believe and have faith.
The Christian fish is a symbol that has been used to identify Christians for centuries. The story goes that shortly after the time of Jesus’ death, when many Christians were persecuted for their beliefs, the symbol was used as a discrete way of determining whether another person was a Christian. It could be easily drawn by anyone using just 2 curved lines.
One of the hardest things for me as a new Christian has been giving up some of the things I really enjoy like certain types of music. However recently I found a new genre, Gospel Reggae. Take a listen to some of these great performers.
For more Gospel reggae music click here, and don’t forget to check out the artist websites in our links section for more info.
Many people wrongly believe that all Jamaicans practice the Rastafarian religion. In fact this couldn’t be further from the truth. Jamaican’s actually hold the world record for the most number of churches per capita. The majority of which are Christian denominations. Even the legendary Bob Marley was baptized a christian shortly before his death.
If you would like more info on how to be saved contact us on Twitter or facebook. Or leave a reply here. If you have a story or would like to share your own testimony with others please leave a comment below.
Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy, designer of the famous Anse Chastanet Resort, has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature and environment in his creation of Jade Mountain. Jade Mountain is truly one of the most unique resorts I have seen. Notice the incredible view of the famous St. Lucia Pitons. Check out the video below.
Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet, have recently been named as one of the Best Spa Resorts in the World for 2009 by Condé Nast Traveler.
Jade Mountain’s boutique spa Kai en Ciel offers guests a menu of carefully selected spa services comprised of both classical body and beauty treatments, as well as ayurvedic and holistic services. Guests can also utilize the Kai Belté spa located on the Anse Chastanet beach as well as the Kai Mer spa cottage at any time.
Many treatments can be booked to take place in the privacy of their own Sanctuary including:
Aromantic spa ritual for couples to celebrate the gift of being together. The treatment
begins with a play on the roles of giving and receiving in the relationship as the participants
relax in a hot tub containing Body Bliss Elixir Male and Elixir Female Oils, sharing
a variety of delicious treats and poetry. This is followed by a synchronous massage with
Tantra Vibrational Oil as the couple lies side by side. The journey concludes as the man is
annointed with Elixir Male and the woman with Elixir Female on specific energy gateways
on the body.”
Email us for a complete Spa Menu
The concierge is available at all times to arrange guided tours of popular attractions including the Rainforest, Botanical Gardens, Drive-In Volcano and Sulphur Springs which are all within easy reach of Jade Mountain. Other tours include deep sea fishing, shopping trips by boat to the capital, hiking tours up Gros Piton mountain and many more.
*Note: Some Activities and facilities listed are available at neighboring ANSE CHASTANET
