Destinations Reached Travel Consulting and Services: June 2012

Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort Ocho Rios is an excellent resort and an experience to remember. The accommodations were great and there was never a dull moment. As an agent and guest, I will say there is a need for more timely housekeeping service, and customer service at the front desk could tighten up a bit. Smile...remember, no worries! Yet, those two factors didn't spoil our vacation. The property is well kept and the atmosphere was pleasant and energetic. The entertainment staff was on point. A special shout out to the resort's entertainment MC, Chris. Hands down, Mon!

The main dining hall buffet offered quality cuisine, but the selections could be a bit more extensive. I will say the omelets in the morning were SUPERB, particulary with jalapenos. I love spicy food! Specialty restaurants are available as well. Restaurant types include, Italian, Chinese, and Caribbean. Restaurant reservations must be made a day in advance. Now, let's not forget about the island cocktails. The rum punch with just a bit of Amaretto is quite delightful! The bartenders are extremely generous with the island's favorite: Rum. Be sure to satisfy your palette and senses with a Miami Vice and a Purple Rain. Thumbs up! Just be sure to drink responsibly. Remember, this is a family resort.

As for touring the town of Ocho Rios, it's like they say in elementary school: stay with your group. If you're not one for nagging, it's advised to stay on the resort. But if you're down for some price negotiating and you're not intimidated by crowds, by all means. Just be cautious. Because I warn you: you're no longer in Kansas. Be sure to venture out during the day. Street lighting is not intense and it's extremely dark at night. The resort does offer free ground transportation to Margaritaville for those who want to enjoy the nightlife. And if you're really not down for leaving the resort but going to your room is not an option, wind yourself over to the resort's club, Jamaica Me Crazy. They offer a chill ambience, a full bar, and a DJ who plays reggae, hip hop, and Top 40 dance beats. I did the dance floor no justice! For those planning a wedding, a birthday, and/or a bachelor/bachelorette party, take advantage of the "FREE" lounge sections. You know that's unheard of in the states.

And who can leave Jamaica without participating in an excursion or two. Mystic Mountain and Dunn's River Falls were phenomenal! First, we attacked Mystic Mountain, only to be disappointed with the Skylift being the only option up the mountain. Keep in mind, Mystic Mountain is one of the highest mountains in all the island. FYI: If heights are not your thing, I would not suggest this excursion. But if you can bare it, it's worth the ride. Bobsledding through the trees and ziplining is out of this world! Next, we ventured over to Dunn's River Falls. Water is a true force of nature. While teaming up with a group of approx. 20 people, we stood strong and climbed to the top. Along the way, we enjoyed oasis pools, manmade slides - slippery rocks : ) -, and the true meaning of teamwork. Ultimately, the "land of wood and water" treated us well. Contact me to book your stay and Ocho Rios experience. Everything was Erie, Mon!

The artwork depicts true culture

                                                  Lunch Buffet: Rice w/lima beans, stir fry,
                                                      sweet and sour chicken, and jerk fish.

                                                Dinner Buffet: White rice, curry goat, jerk
                                                             fish, and sweet potatoes.