Melanie

I'm planning a trip for my boyfriend and I (we are in our late 20s) in February, and would like to stay in a Sandals resort. I've never been to the Caribbean so I'm not sure which one to pick. I have narrowed it down to Jamaica (Negril, Ochos Rios, or Montego Bay?) and St. Lucia. I am just looking for a romantic, relaxing vacation, so the extra amenities like golf at some of the resorts is not that important for us. Part of the reason I'm considering Jamaica is that there are 6 Sandals there and we could visit any of the 6 properties. Is this feasible for a 4-5 day trip? Any suggestions? I appreciate any advice you could give me!

M

I think I've narrowed it down to Sandals Royal Jamaican and Sandals Negril--any advice/suggestions?

kitty

Well, it depends on what kind of atmosphere you're looking for. RJ is more laid back than Negril. I would think that there would be more people in your age group at Negril. We've been to Negril but not RJ, so I'm just going on what I've heard from other people. My choice - Negril. AWESOME beach!

Julie

I have never stayed at the Sandals resorts but I have been to Jamaica. Negril is a fun spot. Be sure to check out Rick's Cafe for cliff diving and view of the beautiful sunsets. Ocho Rios is a nice spot too. The Dunn's River Falls are great to climb. I am not sure where Sandals Royal Jamaican is, but avoid Montego Bay. I unfortunately stayed there. It's a bit on the seedy side, so you wouldn't want to leave your resort.
Have you ruled out the Sandals in St. Lucia. I recently read a reader's poll in a travel magazine that ranked that Sandals one of the top resorts in the Caribbean.
Best of lucky with your planning.

Kelley

Hi Melanie. I was having many similiar thoughts and share what I have learned. I have been doing a lot of research and think we have finally settled on Negril. We are in our late 20's/early 30's and want nice beaches and romance, but still want to have some nightlife too. We are planning on getting married and honeymooning in the Carribean next year. I have changed my mind on where to go so many time though after finding out things. We have decided to go to Jamacia because it seems like we can get more for our money compared to some of the other islands. While Montego Bay is nice, my understanding is that Ocho Rios and Negril are better, although about 2 hours from the airport each. Ocho Rios is more green and has more things to see. Negril has great beaches and seems to attract a little younger crowd. We are planning to stay at Sandals as well but not sure if we will visit the other resorts - I don't know if will be too much of a hassel rather than relaxing on the beach. Plus, Sandals has a hurricane guarantee and tends to upgrade you to a bettter room if it is available. I have heard St. Lucia is nice as well, but I would go to Jamacia. Maybe if you get married you could go to St. Lucia for a honeymoon and longer trip. I am sure I could go on and on. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me.

cara

We went to sandals Montego Bay last march the beach is great. Royal Jamacian has great decor but an awful beach. Montego Bay is 10 min. from the airport so you don't waste a minute. If you want to drive a little further 1.5 hrs.go to Negril we heard that the beach is great. Were in our early 20s and had a great time in Montego Bay good luck!