Montego Bay, Jamaica

[teoconca]

Has anyone been to Montego Bay, Jamaica? Thinking go to there 3rd week in May with family (kids 8, 11). Thinking to stay at Sunset Beach Resort Spa and Waterpark or Grand Palladium Jamaica. Each hotel has its own attractions, pros, cons but price difference is about $400 for us. Please advice your experience. Thanks.

[Nick H]

We stayed at Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton in 2010 and enjoyed it very much. We stayed in the part of the grounds called the Lady Hamilton, would definitely recommend you get a spot in this portion of the resort. If your kids are looking for an adventure take them to Dunns River Falls.

[bigjimmcbob]

I've been to the Lady Hamilton (Grand Palladium)

Its definitely not the 4start is claims to be. The grounds are gorgeous, pool is huge. Most rooms the "chillers"(AC) are not very good, its quite humid in your room. It looks like a 4 star, but only because its fairly new.
The food is a decent 2 or 3 start, buffet breakfast was the best meal of the day.
Their Italian place was their best restaurant. Liquor is the cheapest of the cheap, they also ran out on busy nights of the popular stuff like Vodka, Gin, Rye. One night they didn't have any rum for an hour. No rum in Jamaica, It was pretty funny.
Its a huge resort, and its great for relaxing and doing nothing. Didn't see many kids when I was there.
All in all it was a good trip, it was cheaper than most, but I wouldn't go there again.

For kids that age, I'd recommend the Breezes or Beaches (Sandals) chains.

Beaches Boscobel is far better than the Grand, the food is great, liquor is top shelf (Crown Royal, Black label, Hennesy etc). For the 3rd week in May you're looking at $3950 USD for all 4 of you not including flights.
But well worth it. I was there a few months ago, tons of kids there in those age groups. Lots for them to do, XBOX gaming area, basketball, tennis, and a great waterpark.

Also about the Grande, is that its in Lucea, and in the middle of no where. A trip to Grand river falls would be in excess of 3 hour drive there, and another 3 back.
Negril is about 40 min from Lucea so tours there would be more reasonable.

Breezes is good too, and its close to the airport.

I wouldn't waste money on the Grande.

Flying from buf in that time frame is ~450pp so beaches for ~1500pp is a good price.


I've never been to Sunset Beach but based on the tripadvisor reviews, looks like a really good 3star. I bet its better than the Grand Palladium.
Tripcentral.ca shows ~1000pp from Toronto too in that time frame.

[teoconca]

Thank you for your info and advice. We are leaning of Sunset Beach Resort and Spa due to their reviews and kids activities (water park). I am little bit wary of their old building. I know their rating system are not accurate (4 stars is actually 3-3.5 stars). I am now seeing the other Sunset Surprise, any info and is it related & same network with the other Sunset? thanks.

Update: Both Sunset are connect and same franchise.

[Arrgh]

Also about the Grande, is that its in Lucea, and in the middle of no where. A trip to Grand river falls would be in excess of 3 hour drive there, and another 3 back.

You probably mean the Dunn's River Falls.

[Cisco KId]

I have travelled to Jamaica about 5 times, going back to 1983, last trip was 3 years ago specifically to take our son. It was an all inclusive at Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios, we went in March , we had an excellent time, the resort was fine, I would say a 3.5 not 4 as stated. We did 3 day trips , one included Dunns River Falls. Food and drinks were great and most importantly my son found tonnes of kids to play with and he was 8 at the time. I left the resort 3 times on my own walking into town and speaking with locals, I am comfortable with that and no the routine. The day trip excursions were decent as well, specifically so he could see how people live in third world countries once we got away from the hotel. Dunns River was nice but what a change from the last time I was there, so much more commercialized but thats just the way it is, good for the country

Previous trips were a full on camping trip in 1995 staying with locals in the hills and with locals in Negril area in a home owned by an American but watched over by a local resident, out of the way of the usual tourist routine. Each day we had about a 30 minute walk to the populated beaches or we spent time snorkeling in areas not frequented by tourists at all. Following trip we stayed at a place called "Upper Deck Condominiums" 2 star accomodations we were turned on to by contacts there, very cheap,these trips were not all inclusive and were done before I had my son. Negril is one of my favorite spots as well as Runaway Bay

Jamaica is a great place to visit imho, it is a good time, I would recommend it in a heartbeat. Some complain vendors and street people beg and are very aggressive, that I agree with, some people are intimidated but it is all about RESPECT. I find this can be encountered in any third world country. Once you tell them what you want as far as a deal or where you want to go you can bargain for very reasonable cost/prices.

I am trying to book a trip this year, however from Vancouver it is a real expensive and alot more costly than flying out of TO or Detroit as I had done in years past. If I still lived back that way I would be going back every couple of years, my wife and I have always had a great time there and still have local contacts there

[DiceMan]

I've been to Montego Bay twice. All resorts I've seen are very nice. The beaches are geat and the ocean is not too choppy. Food is fine. Basically, if you stay in the resort, you'll be very comfortable.

As mentioned, the folks outside of the resort can be extremely aggressive. As with everywhere else, you need to be both confident and polite and not get flustered with their style. I'm not saying don't go out but you need to watch your toes when doing so.

BTW, yes, the trip to Dunn's River Falls is worth it.

[vickysf]

Any opinions of the Secrets resorts in Montego Bay? I've started doing some very preliminary research for an anniversary trip in 2013, and I found Secrets St. James. It sounds perfect, but I'd like to get some extra info if I can.

[frugal1]

We're planning to go to the Sunset Beach Resort primarily for the waterpark in a few weeks. From what our travel agent told us, the Sunquest packages get you the renovated tower rooms at the resort. The Sunquest packages also give you free internet and beach towels in the room. This was her top 3-star Jamaican resort pick for families. Hope she is right! It'll be our first trip to Jamaica.

I can report back with my experience if anyone is interested.

Does anyone have recommendations regarding things to do outside the resort (i.e. Montego Bay?). We have a five year old so we're somewhat limited in what can be done.

I'm also planning to buy some rum, but is there anything else to get? Coffee? I don't know much about Jamaican rum or coffee so any recommendations regarding what to get, where to get it and how much to pay would be really appreciated.

[teoconca]

We're planning to go to the Sunset Beach Resort primarily for the waterpark in a few weeks. From what our travel agent told us, the Sunquest packages get you the renovated tower rooms at the resort. The Sunquest packages also give you free internet and beach towels in the room. This was her top 3-star Jamaican resort pick for families. Hope she is right! It'll be our first trip to Jamaica.

I can report back with my experience if anyone is interested.

Does anyone have recommendations regarding things to do outside the resort (i.e. Montego Bay?). We have a five year old so we're somewhat limited in what can be done.

I'm also planning to buy some rum, but is there anything else to get? Coffee? I don't know much about Jamaican rum or coffee so any recommendations regarding what to get, where to get it and how much to pay would be really appreciated.
I am the OP. I am planning to go there with my family also but missed out on the deal. May I ask how much are you paying for your all inclusive ticket? checking for the next deal, based on tripadvisor, lots of positive reviews on the hotel. Please report back your experience and tips.

[creamsoda]

BTW, yes, the trip to Dunn's River Falls is worth it.

What do you think would be the minimum age for kids to take on the Dunn's River Falls excursion? Can you do it with young children?

[teoconca]

Has anyone been to Montego Bay, Jamaica? Thinking go to there 3rd week in May with family (kids 8, 11). Thinking to stay at Sunset Beach Resort Spa and Waterpark or Grand Palladium Jamaica. Each hotel has its own attractions, pros, cons but price difference is about $400 for us. Please advice your experience. Thanks.

Finally, booked this trip to Montego Bay Jamaica for 4 - 2 adults and 2 kids. Staying at Sunset Beach Resort and Spa for < $3100 all inclusive 7 days Air Canada Cabana Beachfront room during mid May. We could have got it for $100 cheaper for few days later departure but picked this because going with other family. We are excited for this trip.

Love to hear from others for their experience with this hotel and Montego Bay.

[frugal1]

I recently got back from the Sunset Beach. Jamaica wasn't on my list of places to visit and our trip was a bit spur of the moment so we didn't do a lot of research before we went. However, I did read the reviews on tripadvisor and I think the good and bad points regarding the resort on that site are fairly accurate. Most of the people who have written really bad reviews seem to have expected a 5-star luxury resort for a 3-star price. The reality is that you get what you pay for. We paid just over $2500 for two adults and a child and were there for part of the March school break so I think the cost was quite reasonable for what we got.

We stayed in Tower A and if I knew better, I'd have paid a little more to stay in one of the cabanas as they are located in probably the quietest part of the resort. If you are a light sleeper, do not book the tower rooms. That being said, the cabana rooms are also the farthest away from most of the resort amenities. And because there is a bar there, the area also tends to attract people who want to drink a lot at the beach (the cheap price attracts a college crowd). Here's what I think are the main positives and negatives:

Positives:

Exceptionally clean
Friendly staff
Good food (although limited selection)
Waterpark and lazy river are guaranteed hits for kids from ages 7 to 11 (kids under 48" won't be able to go down the waterslides, but there is a very small slide in the wading pool for them)
Scotiabank ATM available at the resort


Negatives:

Fairly noisy resort
Kids club activities were limited – some kids looked very bored and many just watched TV or played video games
The wifi that was only available in the lobby, and may cost extra depending on who you book with, was unreliable
Room safe is small (an iPad fits, but barely) and may cost extra depending on who you book with
Rooms only have bar soap, shampoo and body wash – no conditioner or moisturizer


Here are some tips and things to expect when visiting this resort and Jamaica generally:

US currency is widely accepted and most prices at places frequented by tourists are in US - ask for change in US to save from exchange rate hassles
If you want to buy liquor and coffee, buy them at the airport on your way home – unless you buy these items at a grocery store, you are sure to overpay
Expect to pay similar prices for meals and drinks at restaurants and bars in Montego Bay as you would in any large city in North America
If you want real Blue Mountain coffee, be prepared to pay a lot (due to Japanese demand) - make sure you know what you are buying - there are a lot of blue mountain blends
Tipping is unnecessary at the Sunset Beach (and some other Jamaican resorts) and appears to be frowned upon by management, but they are gratefully received
As in other places, tips for drivers are generally expected
If you are not comfortable with people offering to sell you drugs and various “services”, you may want to reconsider going into town (there's not that much to see in town to be honest, but it's an interesting experience)
Flat rates for taxis are posted at the resort ($20 one way from the Sunset to downtown), but you can negotiate with the driver
The shopping excursion (I did the one through Sunquest) is a cheap way to see a little of Montego Bay ($10/person, kids free), but it is like going to a time share presentation - you are expected to go into the shops they take you to and there's some sales pressure to buy something
Tour prices are negotiable - always ask if kids can go for free
The sellers at the craft market are very aggressive and desperate so it may be a turn off if you are not prepared - just be firm and respectful
A lot of authentic-looking souvenirs are made elsewhere - I didn't care myself, but if you care, then you really need to check
If you are planning to buy something in a souvenir shop in Montego Bay, ask whether the prices they are quoting you include taxes as the shop keepers may quote you a really low price and then tack on a huge tax at the cash - and never pay the sticker price!
We went on the Johns Hall tour. I would recommend against it. It was boring and not worth the money.
Don't put valuables in your checked luggage. Upon return, a lot of people found that their luggage had been opened and items missing.


Personally, I would not go to this resort again as I'm interested in tours/excursions off the resort and only use the resort as a base. I just found the tours offered to be of very little interest. Some, such as zip-lining and swimming with dolphins, are hardly unique. However, I would recommend it to those who:

are interested in a good-value, but cheap all-inclusive
want a waterpark for their older kids
are not interested in going off the resort
want to go an English-speaking country
don't want to worry about the drinking water or getting sick eating the food


One last thing. Be sure to see the Silver Birds steel band at the resort. They are fantastic.

[teoconca]

Positives:

Exceptionally clean
Friendly staff
Good food (although limited selection)
Waterpark and lazy river are guaranteed hits for kids from ages 7 to 11 (kids under 48" won't be able to go down the waterslides, but there is a very small slide in the wading pool for them)
Scotiabank ATM available at the resort


Negatives:

Fairly noisy resort
Kids club activities were limited – some kids looked very bored and many just watched TV or played video games
The wifi that was only available in the lobby, and may cost extra depending on who you book with, was unreliable
Room safe is small (an iPad fits, but barely) and may cost extra depending on who you book with
Rooms only have bar soap, shampoo and body wash – no conditioner or moisturizer




Thanks for your detail feedback at Sunset. We are (2 adults + 2 kids) going with another family (4 adults + 3 kids) going there 2nd week of May. I am staying in one of the Cabana room, I was hoping for peace and quiet but from your experience it may be a bad choice.

Thanks again for your positive and negative points, they are very helpful.

Cheer.

[frugal1]

No problem. Just to clarify, the whole resort is relatively noisy, but the cabana rooms are probably the quietest rooms in the whole resort as they are furthest away from everything. Noise may only be a factor at that part of the resort during the day and only if you are particularly sensitive and there are noisy guests (that only occured during half my stay). Like I said, if I did it again, I'd definitely book the cabana rooms. You should definitely have an opportunity to relax staying there.

[rf134a]

If you want real Blue Mountain coffee, be prepared to pay a lot (due to Japanese demand) - make sure you know what you are buying - there are a lot of blue mountain blends
Tipping is unnecessary at the Sunset Beach (and some other Jamaican resorts) and appears to be frowned upon by management, but they are gratefully received
As in other places, tips for drivers are generally expected
Don't put valuables in your checked luggage. Upon return, a lot of people found that their luggage had been opened and items missing.



Any tips on what to look for when buying coffee? The lowest price I've seen is $100/kg at Costco but I don't like dark roast.

Good to know about people rummaging through your luggage. Was this on the way there or back? I'll bring a bunch of zip ties. If they're missing, then I know it's been tampered with but offers little resistance.

[frugal1]

Here's a site if you want more information on the coffee:

http://www.ciboj.org/cib/

I'm not much of a coffee drinker myself so I was happy to just buy a cheap bag to bring home.

As for the luggage, this was discovered when we landed in Canada. A lot of bags with side pockets were actually unzipped with the contents removed. No effort was even made to zip them up again. They actually damaged one of my zippers, but I was happy that nothing was missing from mine - I only had dirty clothes in my checked luggage. This is another reason to just buy coffee and liquor at the airport so you can carry them on board with you.

[Hambone]

Some, such as zip-lining and swimming with dolphins, are hardly unique. However, I would recommend it to those who:

want a waterpark for their older kids



Thanks for your review! Is the waterpark ok for younger kids...like 5 and 8 year olds? Did they offer a dolphin swim excursion?

We're going to Jamaica in September and this was one of the resorts we were looking at, and Breezes Resort Trelawny, still have a long time to figure it out. The main thing for us it to have it kid friendly and have slides at the pool (doesn't have to be a big waterpark).


Finally, booked this trip to Montego Bay Jamaica for 4 - 2 adults and 2 kids. Staying at Sunset Beach Resort and Spa for < $3100 all inclusive 7 days Air Canada Cabana Beachfront room during mid May. We could have got it for $100 cheaper for few days later departure but picked this because going with other family. We are excited for this trip.

Please let us know how this trip went!

[frugal1]

About the waterpark. Kids need to be 48" to use the two slides. However, younger kids can still use the rest of the waterpark. So your five year old can definitely play in the waterpark area and sit in a tube in the lazy river. The nice thing about the waterpark is that there are very shallow areas that you just walk into as if you were at a beach and these areas are suitable for kids of any age.

Swimming with dolphins. This is an excursion that is available in Jamaica. For more information, take a look at this site:

http://www.dolphincovejamaica.com/

At the time I was there, they were giving free upgrades - so if you pay for the "touch encounter", you would be upgraded to the "encounter swim". I didn't ask the cost of the programs, because I thought our son was too young for it. I think you need to be at least 8 years old to take full advantage of this excursion.

[Hambone]

Thanks for the link and info about the height. My 5yr old wouldn't be too happy if he wasn't allowed on the slide.

[Rekognize]

I'm leaving for Jamaica next month and this came in handy. Thanks!




Here are some tips and things to expect when visiting this resort and Jamaica generally:

US currency is widely accepted and most prices at places frequented by tourists are in US - ask for change in US to save from exchange rate hassles
If you want to buy liquor and coffee, buy them at the airport on your way home – unless you buy these items at a grocery store, you are sure to overpay
Expect to pay similar prices for meals and drinks at restaurants and bars in Montego Bay as you would in any large city in North America
If you want real Blue Mountain coffee, be prepared to pay a lot (due to Japanese demand) - make sure you know what you are buying - there are a lot of blue mountain blends
Tipping is unnecessary at the Sunset Beach (and some other Jamaican resorts) and appears to be frowned upon by management, but they are gratefully received
As in other places, tips for drivers are generally expected
If you are not comfortable with people offering to sell you drugs and various “services”, you may want to reconsider going into town (there's not that much to see in town to be honest, but it's an interesting experience)
Flat rates for taxis are posted at the resort ($20 one way from the Sunset to downtown), but you can negotiate with the driver
The shopping excursion (I did the one through Sunquest) is a cheap way to see a little of Montego Bay ($10/person, kids free), but it is like going to a time share presentation - you are expected to go into the shops they take you to and there's some sales pressure to buy something
Tour prices are negotiable - always ask if kids can go for free
The sellers at the craft market are very aggressive and desperate so it may be a turn off if you are not prepared - just be firm and respectful
A lot of authentic-looking souvenirs are made elsewhere - I didn't care myself, but if you care, then you really need to check
If you are planning to buy something in a souvenir shop in Montego Bay, ask whether the prices they are quoting you include taxes as the shop keepers may quote you a really low price and then tack on a huge tax at the cash - and never pay the sticker price!
We went on the Johns Hall tour. I would recommend against it. It was boring and not worth the money.
Don't put valuables in your checked luggage. Upon return, a lot of people found that their luggage had been opened and items missing.

[rf134a]

I'm leaving for Jamaica next month and this came in handy. Thanks!

Any chance you can take a pic of the tour prices? I'm going with a group of 20, so I'd like to see how much it'll cost to arrange for a bus vs letting everyone do whatever they want. I was quoted $25/person to Montego Bay & Kingston, $40 to Port Antonio for 18 people.

[Rekognize]

Any chance you can take a pic of the tour prices? I'm going with a group of 20, so I'd like to see how much it'll cost to arrange for a bus vs letting everyone do whatever they want. I was quoted $25/person to Montego Bay & Kingston, $40 to Port Antonio for 18 people.

Will do!