Alright penny, you seem to be the local expert. I am going to Jumby Bay for my honeymoon in Sept, but I am torn on whether to do the Rondavel or just the luxury oceanview.

As it will be our honeymoon, we want a room that is private. I am concerned that the Oceanview room will not be private.

I know everyone says it is a matter of personal preference, but the bottom line is this, knowing that a rondavel costs $800 more for the week. Would you do a Rondavel or the oceanview room?

Hi! I too am hoping for a fall honeymoon to Jumby Bay. I called Rosewood last night and have done some research on the Internet. It seems to me that the oceanview rooms are very private and often more desirable than the rondavels. While the rondavels are more spacious and have outdoor shower, etc., I think they are older and darker. I think for the money you save, I'd stick with the oceanview. They sound so nice!
Now that is what I heard, so if anyone thinks differently, please speak up!
Als, rbt93, what was the deciding factor for you to head to JB? I love what I've seen, but you never know if it is the best!

The standard rooms (oceanview rooms) are in a traditional hotel type building, 2 stories, all rooms side by side. These are the newest rooms and all were being totally renovated or constructed from top to bottom as of last summer (2003).
The rondavel rooms are more private in that they're separated from one another in a grouping up on a hill. There are more windows and more light in the rondavel rooms than in the standard rooms. If you want to get an idea, download the color pictures in the brochure from Jumby.

Is it worth extra $$ to stay in a rondavel? Well, that's difficult to say. Everyone will have his or her own take on value.

The biggest reasons we return to Jumby Bay are the private island privacy, more traditional and elegant (but not stuffy) style of the rooms, nice beaches, lack of bustle, good food and service, and safety.

It's not for everybody, though.
Young people looking for vibrant on site nightlife and lots of activity all around are likely to be bored at Jumby.
It makes a great honeymoon spot if it fits your personality.

Traveleis said it all very well. It really is a personal call.

As far as the oceanview in the Pondhouse,I have never stayed in one of the units. Everyone I have met loves the location, and rooms. Repeat guests tend to rebook in this location. The Rondavels were recently done over-new outdoor showers etc. They are set up farther apart, I believe 2 rooms to each one floor dwelling. Very nice.

Is Jumby the best, for me it is,
but again I do not expect city type hotel in the caribbean. So if the best is your concern-we all have different perceptions as to what is the best!

If you want a nice laid back atmosphere,
wonderful service, great food (in a more formal setting at the estate house)
Nothing to do, no night life, no noise,
more like a private club, in a up market
British style it will suit you.

Thanks for the replies everyone. We know that Jumby is the place for us, just wanted to get some advice on the rooms. I think the OceanView is going to be the way to go for this trip. We can apply the cost savings towards other pursuits while there....Thanks again for all the great information!!

You cannot go worng with your room choice, and Jumby I know you will be very happy.
Hope you give us an update when you return!