your opnion on the sandles beach resorts in jamica??

Question

we are going to plan a trip to the grande ochos rios, what cani expect?we are getting the cheapest room that has a private pool (about 1,500 for 3 nights. do we have to have passports? what about things to bring that will usually be forgotten?

Answer 1

I have stayed at this property. It is on both the beach side and mountain side. If you stay on the mountain side it's either a very long downhill walk or you need to take a shuttle down. This can be a hassle if you forgot something in your room.

There are ups and downs to both really. A lot on which you would prefer depends on what you like to do when traveling. If you are more of a pool person they have an one of the largest most amazing pools that is brand new. If you are really into the beach I would definately stay beach side.

Started Jan 23rd 2007 that all US Citizens need a passport for the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, Etc. Exceptions to this is a cruise IF your airfare is domestic roundtrip or drive in vacations to Canada.

Starting Jan 1st 2008 though with cruises and drive into Canada trips will also require a passport.

Items to bring, 2 suits, sunglasses, aloe (in case of sunburn - even though Sandals might provide this for you), suntan lotion (a stronger one for your face is a good idea), flip flops, extra film, camera, hair clips (for when tanning), a bag to tote all this stuff to the pool/beach, hat (if you burn easy or want just want extra shade), your own beach towel (sometimes the resort ones are smaller), etc. Those of course are basics, there is several other items needed to bring.

The Caribbean sun is quite different than up here in many states. You need to be very careful especially by the ocean because with the breeze off the ocean it is harder to tell if you are burning. So I myself typically sun tan by the pool.

Jamaica is a wonderful country, enjoy yourself!

Answer 2

First of all, let me say, congratulations. that resport is outstanding. We've been twice- once right before it turned into Sandla's Grande, and once after. to be quite honest, we enjoyed it more when it was smaller. but be that as it may, you'll have a GREAT time.

if you got a pool room, you'll be up on the mountain, away from the ocean. we stayed in the main block right on the ocean, both times. do you have concierge service? if not, get it! they help reserve restaurants...which is an issue now with the larger resort.

as far as what you can expect, not sure what you are looking for there. expect to have a completely relaxing time. they take care of everything. as far as things to bring, bring any medicinals you may need (Advil, Tums, Pepto, etc.)...they have a sundries shop, but its pretty expensive. the water there is fine- you can drink the restaurant water, and they provide bottled in the mini bars in the rooms.

make sure you find the private "hut" in the gardens on the main property. its near the shuffle board courts, up the hill a bit in the garden. and at night, its virtually invisible to anyone walking by, just 20 feet away...it's a good, fun place late at night...

i think now, YES, you need a passport. the new travel rules state as much. for 2007 you will need a passport. a lot of resorts though are paying for passports for US citizens (in the form of resort credit), so check with your travel agent on that.

also, you won't NEED any cash, but bring some. tipping isn't allowed ON resort, but if you go OFF resort, its not only allowed, but expected. no, demanded. :) also, they do a good job taking pictures on the resort, and if you want to buy any from your stay, you'll need cash for that.

have fun, and I am jealous! we can't wait to go back. enjoy.

Answer 3

Yes you need your passport. Look around some more for a cheaper deal. Try www.ochoriosonestop.com I know you are going to enjoy your self. Take along with you at less three swim wear. Two for the resort and one for Dunn's River Falls. Cool colour clothing no black or long sleeves. Glasses to protect your eyes from the sun, SPF 30 sun screen. Camera,hat from the sun.

Answer 4

hi, we purely took our first relatives holiday to jamaica this previous Aug. We went to beaches boscobel. Its a marvelous hotel, friendly-great human beings. purely thought the coastline section became slightly small. If we circulate lower back we are able to stay at yet another beaches reosrt, im looking into negril or sandy bay as a results of coastline.

Answer 5

Sounds like you got a great answer on the previous responder but I will suggest you to to TripAdvisor.com for more reviews. You can also see photos from previous travelers as well as ask questions in the forums section. It is a great site for resort research.