Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort--Ocho Rios

WOW! That is my description of the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort Ocho Rios. I was pleasantly surprised.


The Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort is an all-inclusive 3+-star hotel. But from what I saw, you wouldn't think that. I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the hotel and resort area, the friendliness of the staff, and the improvements that are under way. Yes, I was a travel agent visiting for the day, so of course you would think that the staff would go out of their way to be friendly. But I had an opportunity to talk to a couple of guests, and they concurred that the staff was very friendly.


The resort has a great pool and beach area. There are 3 pools--one that is adult only--and the other is a huge pool that has a waterslide going into it--and the third has a fantastic waterfall.








The travel agent tour included seeing 4 different rooms. All of the rooms had a balcony and a view of the water, even the "mountain view" (Wow, what a view that was!). Some of the comments for the first 2 rooms we viewed were about the simplistic, outdated decor. However, the hotel is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation where they are painting the walls, changing the carpets, and installing new contemporary furniture. The result will be beautiful!


Here is a picture of the "old room":




And here is a picture with the new decor:



The Sunset Jamaica Grande also has family suites that have 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living area, and a small kitchenette.

Yes, there are nicer resorts in Ocho Rios, but what is great about the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort is the VALUE. For a budget-minded traveler, this is a great option because of the location, price, and amenities. You would easily feel that you were staying at a 4-star resort. It truly is a beautiful resort and I wouldn't hesitate sending my clients here.

Riu Montego Bay and Riu Ocho Rios

I’ve decided to write my review on the Riu Montego Bay and Ocho Rios together, as the 2 properties are very similar.

At both properties, I was very impressed with the warm, welcoming color scheme and décor in the lobby area. The entire lobby area was well designed, with a seating area, bar, and a board with the daily schedule of events. All Riu resorts are All-Inclusive.

A short walk from the lobby there is a open-air theater, bar and lounge. This is the site for the resort’s nightly entertainment.

The Montego Bay property, which opened in August 2008, is slightly smaller with 681 rooms. It has one very large pool, a beautiful sandy beach, a spa and work out facilities, and a kids club for ages 4-12. Riu Montego Bay has a main buffet restaurant, Rose Hall, as well as 3 a la carte restaurants.

The Riu Ocho Rios Resort opened in 2005. It has 856 rooms in 3 buildings. One building is the “Deluxe Wing”, which has 300 Junior Suites. Riu describes this as a “hotel within a hotel.” The perks include 24 hour concierge service, an ocean view balcony with every room, as well as exclusive access to the on-site Japanese Restaurant.

This Riu property has 2 beautiful pools and a very nice sandy beach. Riu Ocho Rios has a main buffet restaurant, along with 5 a la carte restaurants. At the a la carte restaurants, reservations must be made early each morning (the day you want to eat there).

Although there are no “connecting rooms,” both Riu properties give you the option of having 2 side-by-side rooms turned into a “family suite.” This is a great option for those traveling with small children, and giving parents and kids to have their own room.

My first experience with Riu—in Cancun—made me think this was a “Party Chain” and I have been hesitant to recommend the chain to clients. The reason behind this misconception is I was in Cancun around Spring-break time, and I heard guests of the Riu bragging about the Liquor wells in the rooms. Yes, I saw the liquor wells in each of the rooms I inspected in Jamaica. However, the management will remove it upon request, especially when children are staying in the rooms.

Now, granted I was visiting these two resorts during the slow, hurricane season. The hotels were at minimum capacity, so there wasn’t a “party atmosphere.” Could it be different during high season? Of course. But what really struck me about both Riu properties is that the staff and management sincerely want you to have a good time and enjoy yourself. There was a certain warmth at both resorts. And the grounds are beautiful, well-laid out with lots of activities, beautiful pools and beautiful beaches. I would have no problem recommending Riu resorts to my clients.