True Jamaicans - Is the Ritz "Irie?"
 

Would like to hear from true Jamaica fans (we are looking forward to our 9th trip). All of the reviews and comments about the Ritz (with a few exceptions) are very good. Does the Ritz have a real Jamaican feel (one reviewer positively noted that there was no sound of crickets -- that is one of the reasons we go to Jamaica!)? We love nice facilities, but we also look forward to feeling like we are "in Jamaica"(the people, the country, the culture) and not just "another five star hotel." Will this be the right choice for us in Mo Bay?

Scott,<BR><BR>I'm the one posted the crickets comment. Ritz is a much bigger property & you can't hear any kind of bug noise when you're in the room. I was referring to constant loud crickets noise and/or some other noises that lasted all night long at the other resort. Some like it & some don't? Ahh, people, please don't get mad at me for sharing my experience) :-)

Sandi,<BR><BR>No offense intended! Everyone has an "ideal" when it comes to travel. Just trying to determine what is right for us. Thanks and good future travels.<BR><BR>Scott

So you want to go for the crickets? Well, why not just set up a nice tent in your backyard! (And I thought I had heard everything!!)

Last month we made our 7th trip to Jamaica. We are very humbled each and every time we visit that beautiful island. I understand fully what you are talking and concerned about. Is the Ritz a villa in the hills with dogs and crickets? NO. But is it a different experience on the sea with the same wonderful and beautiful Jamaican people? YES!! I highly suggest you give it a try for a change of pace. We had no problem getting our share of more authentic experiences by making a trip to the local jerk stand/ Rose Hall beach/Birdlady(man) and so on. Then at night it was nice to be able to walk the grounds listen to the entertainment and feel completely at ease. By the way, it's a beautiful property, located only 15 min from the airport.(a big plus) Have fun whatever you do!!

It's indeed 'irie'/good food, service,spa,ambiance;beach is probably its only less-than-top-notch feature. But remember,too,it's a Ritz so the style will be less Jamaican than international.Irie,yes;'rootsy',no.It's stush...