JLBRN

After spending the last few vacations in TCI, Mexico and the DR, my husband and I would like to return to Jamaica. I've narrowed it down to these two resorts. I'm hoping someone who's been to both of them will respond.

After some research, the PROS of Couples seem to be: better food, better beach
CONS of Couples: long drive from airport, rooms getting tired looking/rundown.

Pros of Secrets: Very clean, new; lots of dining options ; great service
Cons: Beach manmade, on the small side, food mediocre

I'm sure we'd have a fine time at either resort but the ambience/entertainment would tip the scales for me in making a decision. What I really appreciate when I'm on vacation is outdoor eating options with a beautiful view and local entertainment with an island vibe-in this case Reggae. My major complaint with Couples Swept Away was the lack of Reggae music....american music being piped in....and no steel bands in sight.

Secrets St James describes outdoor entertainment nightly with fire shows, local music etc but I've really no idea what Couples Negril offers other than the passing vendors on the beach who will play you a song for a tip.

Can someone whos been to both weight in please? thanks

suze

I've not been to either resort but I'm crazy for Negril. It's no big deal to get there from the airport. There are various shuttle services and private drivers. It's a 90-min. drive. I paid $30 per person with Clives.

Again I don't know what goes on at the resort itself but there is no shortage of reggae, beach parties, bars, fun things to do off-resort in Negril (both on the beach and on the "cliffs").

KVR

The entertainment that Suze is describing though is no where near Couples Negril. Couples Negril is located on Bloody Bay. A good taxi ride from 7 Mile Beach and the Cliffs in Negril where most of the bars, dining and entertainment can be found.

We stayed next door to Couple Negril at the RIU Tropical Bay. We didn't find any nightly entertainment except what our hotel provided. That is why there are AI's in that area. There is nothing else around. People go to Negril because it's laid back and quite. A good place to chill.

From what you described, you would probably like Secrets in Montego Bay better. Take a day trip to Negril on your vacation and check it out.

If I'm not mistaken, I believe the adults only Iberostar in Montego Bay offers a beach party one night with a reggae steel drum band. You might want to check that resort out also.

WWK

If you're a beach slug like me, there's no comparison between the beach in Montego Bay and Negril's nearly 7 mile strand. Also, even though it's a taxi ride away, there are at least a few reggae clubs right on the beach, and several on the cliff ( West End) road.

erik_martin_9678

I stayed at couples negril when it was new about 15 years ago and loved it. Better food and drink options than most Jamaica all inclusives which are generally red stripe , Appleton ,or bust
Negril is the best beach and there is no comparison. Also fewer people bothering you to sell you crap. Nightl sunset cruises over to ricks and other restaraunts. I have been all over Jamaica and negril is the best