Some great things never change!
Trip Start
Jun 01, 1994
1
2
Trip End
Ongoing
Where I stayed
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Some great things never change!
Way back in 1994 my wife Karie and I spent 8 wonderful nights at Sandals Montego Bay for our 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.
Must be something in the Water!
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.
Speaking of rum and 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 swim up 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.
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.
Food and Restaurants
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.
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.
"Watermelon-hued walls and white-wood encased bay windows overlook the ocean spread out right below this air-conditioned restaurant, reminiscent of old colonial plantation houses. Feast on refined Jamaican dishes in a splendid setting, enhanced by our signature white-glove service."
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
Beach grill by day and Tex-Mex restaurant by night, this culinary venue sits directly on the sand and lets you experience true barefoot dining. Great place to eat if you don't feel like getting all dressed up. Barefoot and bathing suits w/cover ups are just fine.
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.
Dine around Montego Bay
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, is the level of service and personal interaction </a>with the staff. You won't get that at those larger resorts and even some of the big Sandals properties.
