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| Island Routes Catamaran |
As a family we have had several beach holidays but usually in the Mediterranean or the Canaries. We never thought it would be worth travelling further than Tenerife in order to experience the fun of a beach resort. Why would you fly nine hours or more just to do the same activities as you would closer to home?
Five days in Jamaica at the Beaches Ocho Rios and Negril resorts has changed my mind completely. A holiday in the Caribbean is worth every one of those hours on the plane and even that wasn’t a chore when you can start the adventure by relaxing in the No1 Lounge at Gatwick airport before a mega movie session on the Virgin Atlantic flight. A vacation with Beaches, the family division of the Sandals ‘adults only’ hotel group, is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
I thought I knew what all-inclusive meant until Beaches revealed their ‘hidden inclusives’. No limits on crèche times, no extra fees for sports and a choice of several high quality restaurants. Granted these are luxury resorts and the upfront cost, including transatlantic flights, is not cheap, but the value for money, if you have a family who will make the most of all that’s on offer, is exceptional. To sit in a smart restaurant, being served premium brand drinks, knowing you don’t have to tot up the bill at the end or think about how much to tip, creates a stress-free environment.
Let me tell you a little more about the resorts.
BEACHES OCHO RIOS
Dougie and I spent three nights at Beaches Ocho Rios on the north coast of Jamaica, about 90 minutes or so drive away from the airport at Montego Bay. There’s an overwhelming feeling of space, its buildings having the look of a Mediterranean resort, not surprising when you note that some of the accommodation is housed in the French and  Greek Villages.
There are 223 rooms in 12 categories, providing several options for families. How refreshing to see ample-sized suites and, joy of joys, interconnecting rooms. Whilst the decor is quite traditional, with dark wooden furniture, the space and storage facilities are second to none. Our huge bed was supremely comfortable, we had both a shower and a bath and there was a big balcony with superb views of the ocean. Decent sized toiletries from the on-site Red Lane Spa and enough fluffy white towels to create a whole ark full of towel animals. A fridge stocked with complimentary drinks, a microwave and a coffee-maker: those extra touches to make travelling as a family that bit easier.
There are six restaurants to choose from, mostly a la carte, including Italian fare in the Venetian, seafood down at the beach at Neptunes and my favourite, authentic Pan Caribbean cuisine in the elegant surroundings of Eleanor’s. The dress code is casual so no need to dress up for the occasion if that’s not your style.
Lounging by the pool is sublime; plenty of space, lots of loungers and a swim-up bar when you just can’t wait a moment longer for that hummingbird cocktail. Meander down to the beach, or take the lift, and you’ll find a private cove to relax or try your hand at a selection of watersports such as scuba diving, sailing and banana boat rides.
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| Pools, waterpark and exterior of Beaches Ocho Rios |
The kids clubs are age-defined with a high staff to child ratio. The link with Sesame Street is a big draw for children. Many of the activities involve the characters – science experiments with Grover and baking with the Cookie Monster. Â Teens have their own den and exclusive time in Liquid nightclub plus there’s a large Xbox Play Lounge for all ages.
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| Kids club facilities in Beaches Ocho Rios |
BEACHES NEGRIL
About 80 minutes drive from the airport, on the west coast of Jamaica, the resort sits on a seven mile stretch of gorgeous public beach. A more tropical vibe here, the accommodation reminiscent of former sugar plantation buildings.
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| Beaches Negril pool, beach and communal areas |
220 rooms and suites in 11 categories, similar to those in Ocho Rios, again with excellent storage facilities, bath tubs and all the amenities mentioned above. I did like the idea of the hand basins being located in a separate area from the bathroom; a clever use of space.
Beaches Negril wins on the number of restaurants with nine on the complex, including the relaxed beachside ambience of Stewfish and the sensational Kimonos where we were entertained by our Teppanyaki chef. On our final night we dined directly on the sand at the resort’s beach party, following on from the hotly anticipated Sesame Street parade.
If Ocho Rios triumphs with its waterslides, Negril scores highly with a fantastic lazy river to complement its extensive waterpark. Adults are also allowed to join the fun which includes being drenched by a massive bucket of water at regular intervals.
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| Getting into the groove at Scratch DJ Academy |
The beach is really is quite breathtaking, the perfect place for a stroll or to just sit and watch the sunset. We tried kayaking here and it was perfect: a fun and safe activity, no time limits and no hassle.
Whilst Dougie was shooting hoops on the basketball court and hunting for some mates to play beach volleyball, I joined the Scratch DJ Academy and was surprised to find I had a flair for it. Having taster activities such as this is what makes the Beaches model work so well.
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| Mastering snorkelling with Island Routes |
On our final morning we waited on the white sand for our fabulously sleek catamaran to take us on the Reggae Catamaran Cruise, organised by Island Routes, a sister company of Beaches/Sandals. Â After wading out to meet the boat, the crew from the Kool Katt Kelly took us away from the shore for a spot of snorkelling and some inflatable fun at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. We would have had to pay extra for this excursion, likewise any of the other tours off the resort or treatments in the spa, but it was definitely a highlight of the week so I highly recommend it.
OCHO RIOS V NEGRIL
During our stay in both resorts we were often heard to exclaim how much Rory would have loved being on holiday at Beaches whether as a toddler, young boy or teenager. He would have spent hours with his dad at both waterparks and doubtless would have tried many of the sports on offer at either resort. I don’t think one would have outshone the other for entertainment and facilities. The Beaches experience is something very special, a testament to the hospitality provided by the staff: friendly yet always attentive with big smiles and a willingness to make your stay as perfect as possible.
It’s a pity we didn’t discover Beaches when Rory was younger but I’m thinking a multi-generational holiday here in the future would be ideal. The appeal of the Caribbean and the Cookie Monster is timeless.
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| You’re never too old for a Cookie Monster cuddle. |
Our trip was courtesy of Unique Vacations (UK) Ltd, representing the Beaches resorts. Here’s more information about the holiday:
These sound like fantastic places to stay – I'm sure that my family would love these resorts. Did you go out to explore at all?
I'm sure you and your family would have loved it, Gretta – we certainly did.
We didn't really have time to explore further afield but did visit a local school which was supported by the Sandals Foundation (more on that later) and the minibus ride between the resorts took 3 hours so we were able to see some of the country out of the window! Dougie and I spent a day at the adults only resort of Sandals in Ocho Rios too – I can't believe how much we did pack in 🙂
Wow, sounds fantastic! It makes such a difference to be all inclusive and not have to keep totting up numbers and worrying about totals and running out of budget.
It was such a quality all inclusive. We have done some on the cheap before and this is on another level – a choice of a la carte restaurants rather than one big hotel buffet.
Great comparison, and really interesting to hear a bit about Ocho Rios – they sound really different! Totally agree with you on the all inclusive – it feels like a lot to pay up front, but never having to think about your costs while you're away is such a lovely addition to a relaxing holiday.
We had a great beach holiday on Portugal a few years ago but the extras with food drink and ice creams etc really added up.
I still can't decide which Beaches Resort I preferred!
Like you, I've been skeptical about all-inclusive, but having just spent a week at a luxury all-inclusive in St Lucia, I'm sold. As a family you can really take advantage of the facilities, food and drink without having to constantly reach for your wallet. These resorts look fabulous!
It's certainly a great option for a family wanting a chilled holiday where you are happy to stay on the resort. When the facilities are as good as these, that's not hard
Looking forward to hearing about your week.
I'm glad you had a wonderful time – I knew you would! We were blown away by it all, like you were I think, especially how the all-inclusive aspect takes away lots of little stresses and makes it something very special indeed. Like the comparison between the resorts too.
I remember how impressed you were by Beaches Negril. It was great to try both of their Jamaica resorts – different feel to each of them but still a superb level of service.
I think I am definitely a long haul convert after experiencing the luxury of Beaches! It was lovely to spend the week with you both
The timings of the flights worked well to make the time difference a bit easier to cope with. We did, as a group, tend to rise early in Jamaica, but all the better for making the most of the daylight.
Lovely spending time with you and your delightful son too.
I am too jealous to type 🙂
It just looks amazing Mrs x
I know! Apologies!
It was amazing. Of course, now I just want to go back.
All the way through, I kept thinking, 'This would be great to try with the boys and their grandparents!' – and there at the end, you pointed out what a great multigenerational holiday it would be. Looks fantastic, especially as at the moment I am sick of rain and grey!
It was ideal for all generations – such a relaxed atmosphere too, no standing on ceremony which is perfect for a beach holiday.
Oh. My. Word! I am planning to take my lot away for my 50th in two years time…..! I'm dreaming of sunshine and happy people now! And look at you Scratch DJ Burgess!
Worth putting on the possible list, Chris. Fantastic resorts for all the family. You would have loved the watersports on offer at both locations.
This looks amazing! I am definitely getting converted to all-inclusive after my recent week in Antigua and this sounds fabulous with kids. Especially Cookie Monster! #mondayescapes
We have been very lucky to try these resorts out. I was very impressed with how child-friendly they were.
I've heard such good things about Beaches resorts, they look like a wonderful place to stay. I agree, sometimes it's worth paying the extra to go for luxury all inclusive. I've only been to Antigua but would love to explore more of the Caribbean. Love the shot of you and Cookie Monster! Thanks for linking up with #MondayEscapes
It was such a great experience – laid back luxury, good food, lots to do – perfect autumn break. And the weather, despite it being the rainy season, was superb.
Great post Trish:) I have visited several Sandals properties during my time working on cruise ships around the Caribbean and I have been very impressed but I did not realise that Beaches were part of the same company. It is fabulous when you stay at a truly 'all inclusive' resort, like you I do not like having to pay for the extra hidden costs – premium drinks etc because they can still add up. I am impressed that the kids club is unlimited and the range of facilities on offer for teenagers are fab! I would love to have a go at being a DJ!! Thanks for sharing
Thanks for reading. You are so right about being truly all-inclusive as costs really do add up if extras are added.
If I'd had longer, I'd have definitely gone back for a second session of DJing: it was fantastic.
We visited Turks and Caicos and loved it so much, so much to do yet done so well. And yes it is worth the flight time most definitely x
That’s great to hear – Turks and Caicos looks gorgeous. I’m definitely a convert to Caribbean holidays. x
Hi. Which one in Jamaica would you recommend with children in their 20’s, 26, 25, and 23, (2) 50’s and an 18month old baby? Did you check out the childcare facilities? I am celebrating my 50th bday and mother’s day and want a memorable experience with the children but have no babysitter at home to leave the infant behind.. Want a relaxing experience as well as the activities. It seems Turks & Caicos may be a little too hectic for what I am looking for and pricier.
There was a young mum in our group who had her baby with her and she was very impressed with the childcare facilities. She preferred Beaches Negril with a baby because everything was accessible with a stroller and the much larger beach was perfect for long morning walks. Here’s a link to her post about the resort – http://www.themummyadventure.com/2015/11/beaches-negril.html
I loved both resorts (I’m in my 50s) and probably preferred the more modern style of Ocho Rios but I have to agree with my friend, at a push, Negril was easier with a baby or toddler. Plus there are more restaurants at Negril.
Hope that helps 🙂